When I'm a Moshom

This is a sweet story about a child imagining what kind of a moshom (grandparent) he will be when he grows up, based on his own moshom's attention to his grandchildren, his way of being, and what he taught them by example. It's not heavy-handed. It's lyrical and broken into sections that read like poetry ("he looks around"; "teacher"; "Cree language"; "love"; "he tells a story"; "your home"). Woven throughout are Cree words with a glossary at the end. The earthy tones of the illustrations are a perfect companion to the understated, beautiful text. This is a celebratory story for all grandparents and grandchildren.

In exchange for an honest review, I received a copy of David A. Robertson's new book, 'When I'm a Moshom' from LibraryThing.com. This beautiful book is written partly in grief and healing. Robertson lost his father shortly after writing, "On the Trapline" and this, he explains, is an accompaniment to that book. It is narrated by a child who is realizing his grandfather/moshom set a very good example of how to be in the world as a grandparent. Robertson (Norway House Cree Nation) uses Swampy Cree words to group the actions: to look around and be present; to teach; to transmit traditional language; to love; to tell stories; to be at home. All of this, to say, demonstrates how to live a good life: mino-pimatisiwin. The illustrations by show more Corrie Hill (Haudenosaunee from Six Nations) have the soft sombre hues of watercolours that reflect colours found in nature. This lovely book emphasizes the importance of intergenerational knowledge being transmitted authentically, accurately, and appropriately. Highly recommended for readers and listeners from Kindergarten to grade three. show less

This Early Reviewers children's book has a lot of lessons to give to the reader. Told from the point of view of a young Indigenous child, the narrator describes the importance of a grandfather. Activities that the child takes part in such as hockey, fishing, swimming and dancing are cheered on by the grandfather. Indigenous teachings about heritage and customs are important lessons to learn from the grandfather. The illustrations fit beautifully into the narrative. Readers also learn Swampy Cree words that are integrated into the story. This is a great story to give to and read to a young child

Such a lovely crafted book! So full of love and acceptance and warmth. It made me feel good while reading it and looking at the pictures, and pulled all my heartstrings. The illustrations are so beautiful and i love that all the faces are happy and smiling. This story will be much loved and enjoyed over and over again! Suitable for children of all ages and I am sure grandparents would love reading this to their grandchildren.

Cute story AND cute art? Can't get any better!

such a cute book. my daughter loved it.