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The Boy Who Walked Backwards

Elementary

Description

After returning home for a Christmas break, Leo, a young Ojibway boy vows to never go back to the residential school that had isolated him from his family and culture.  A simple childhood game of "ngiigazoo" inspires the idea that will help him get away.  As Leo disappears into the forest by walking backwards in the snow, he also walks away from the institution that threatens his heritage and traditions.  This touching story provides young students with an introduction to the despair felt by First Nations children forced into residential schools, while also describing the hope and joy of those who were able to safely escape.

General Assessment

Recommendation of how and where to use it

This book provides an excellent introduction to Grade K-4 discussions surrounding "Orange Shirt Day" and the importance of recognizing the legacy of Canada's Residential School system.  The story also supports Social Studies outcomes exploring cultural diversity and the traditional beliefs of First Nations communities.  English Language Arts skills are used to analyze the book and describe personal feelings about Leo's determination to remain with his family.

Traditional outdoor games such as "ngiigazoo", or hide and seek, have always been an important aspect of First Nation's culture.  To help celebrate National Indigenous History Month, a class could organize a school recreation event that uses games to promote outside play and teach others about the connections between historical activities like lacrosse and current sports such as hockey.  Here are 5 Indigenous games to play with your children.

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Themes Addressed

Human Rights (1)

  • Cultural Diversity

Indigenous Knowledge (1)

  • Rituals, Spirituality and Worldviews

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