I'm Finding My Talk
by Rebecca Thomas
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Pub Date 31 Oct 2019 | Archive Date 3 Apr 2020
Nimbus Publishing | Nimbus Publishing Limited
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Description
I'm finding my talk
And it may take some time,
But I'm learning to speak
In a language that's mine.
A response to Rita Joe's iconic poem "I Lost My Talk," and published simultaneously with the new children's book edition illustrated by Pauline Young, comes a companion picture book by award-winning spoken-word artist and Mi'kmaw activist Rebecca Thomas. A second-generation residential school survivor, Thomas writes this response poem openly and honestly, reflecting on the process of working through the destructive effects of colonialism.
From sewing regalia to dancing at powow to learning traditional language, I'm Finding My Talk is about rediscovering her community, and finding culture. Features stunning, vibrant illustrations by Mi'kmaw artist Pauline Young.
Advance Praise
"Published as a companion to the picture book I Lost My Talk, featuring the famous poem by Rita Joe, both volumes explore the legacy of Canada's residential schools. They feature vibrant illustrations by Pauline Young that bring the words alive with emotional nuance. This remarkable pair of books possesses the rare ability of being suited to readers of all ages: three to six-year-olds, the traditional intended audience of picture books, will be captivated by the bright, lively illustrations; elementary and middle school children will find their Social Studies curriculum enriched by experiencing these important concepts rendered creatively; teens and adults will gain insight and empathy by enjoying these beautiful poems." —Canadian Review of Materials (Winnipeg, MB)
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9781771088114 |
| PRICE | CA$22.95 (CAD) |
| PAGES | 32 |
Featured Reviews
Isabelle W, Reviewer
I'm Finding My Talk by Rebecca Thomas is a great companion book to I Lost My Talk by Rita Joe. It tells the story of a native American girl whose father grew up in the residential school system of Canada and was robbed of his chance of growing up with his true traditions and language. The poem "I Lost My Talk" by Rita Joe inspired her to learn more about her culture and language and to speak up about it. Fittingly, the illustrations in this book are also done by Pauline Young but the colors are more vibrant and uplifting, fitting to the theme of learning to live as your true self.
Jennifer H, Educator
I’m Finding My Talk is a beautiful story of a girl, who grew up on a reservation with her father and learned very little of her heritage. Mi’k maw life was portrayed through art as she grew up, but as she grew up she wanted to know more. The schools held her up from learning her language, but as a young adult she is meeting her family and learning the importance of her dress, the rituals, the land, the community, and the elders. She is finding her talk as she combines all of the pieces that make her who she is. The author, Rebecca Thomas grew up on a reservation and did not know much about her culture, so she writes from her own experiences.
An absolutely beautiful story I will share with my class as we discuss identity. The illustrations match the beauty of the story! #netgalley #ImFindingMyTalk
Alexandra R, Reviewer
A nice look at her gaining back her language that her dad was taken away from. Learning back her heritage. Nice to teach kids with.
Elizabeth K, Reviewer
I finally read both I Lost My Talk by Rita Joe and I'm Finding My Talk by Rebecca Thomas, both illustrated by Pauline Young. These works of accessible poetry in picture book form were intended to be read as companions to one another, so that's how I read them. They make for a gentle introduction to the topics of losing culture and language in the Residential School System in Canada (in I Lost My Talk) and trying to find culture and language that your family has lost before you were even born (in I'm Finding My Talk). The poetry is beautiful and the art is stunning. I could see them both making excellent education resources either in schools or at home.
I would definitely recommend both, especially together!
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