08. Storytime with Nature

Settle in, get cozy, and enjoy readings from three celebrated children’s writers who instill wonder for the natural world—and the communities we can become part of. Andrea Fritz uses Indigenous storytelling techniques and art to share the culture and language of the Hul’q’umi’num’-speaking Peoples in Crow Helps a Friend and Raven Gets Tricked. Award-winning Candace Savage has spent decades studying the natural world, and helps youngsters understand how it all began in Always Beginning: The Big Bang, the Universe and You. Monique Gray Smith shares a heartwarming story, Circle of Love, demonstrating that there is always room for others in our lives. Grades K–3.

Themes: Picture books, indigenous storytelling, nature, science, evolution, family, STEM
Curriculum Connections: English Language Arts K-3, Arts Education K-3, Science 1-10

Presented in partnership with Vancouver International Children’s Festival.

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Event Participants:

Andrea Fritz

ANDREA FRITZ is a Coast Salish artist and storyteller from the Lyackson First Nation of the Hul’q'umi’num'-speaking Peoples on the West Coast of Canada. Andrea strives to express her People’s history and all our futures using her art. She has had numerous gallery shows and participates in community-based art pieces. Andrea lives in Victoria, British Columbia.

Monique Gray Smith

MONIQUE GRAY SMITH is the award-winning and bestselling author of nine books for readers of all ages. She is Cree, Lakota, and Scottish and the mother of teenage twins. An inspirational, sought-after speaker and consultant, she lives in Victoria, British Columbia.

Candace Savage

CANDACE SAVAGE is an award-winning writer, community organizer and grandmother based in Saskatoon, Treaty Six territory. She has written more than two dozen books for children and adults, including Always Beginning: the Big Bang, the Universe and You and How to Know a Crow: the Biography of a Brainy Bird.