(about writing short stories) It leaves so much room for the reader to come in and take an active role. A great collection of short stories is like w… - Cherie Dimaline

I realized in writing over the years that some of the first readers I’ve ever had, and people who still pick up my books, are a lot of Native youth. It’s such a privilege to have them read my work. And I get it. I remember growing up, there wasn’t Native literature around. It wasn’t common; you didn’t see yourself reflected—certainly not in a good way—in any of the media you had access to, books or movies or TV shows. You didn’t see yourself in a good way in the classroom because the version of history you were being taught was that we were saved, and we were savages, and all of these horrible narratives that really don’t feel good when you’re growing up and this is your community.

Canada would be a much better place for all of us if Canadians read more Indigenous lit. People often ask how they can be good allies, how they can work with our communities, and often feel left outside of the circle. Welcoming you into our stories is the best way we have to welcome you in, and to ensure that when you get there, you have a better understanding of who we are and what your role can be.

For a long time there was this idea I was hearing from teachers and industry people: “How do you explain residential schools to Canadian kids? It’s too difficult.” But our kids don’t have that choice, because they don’t speak their language, their grandparents went to those schools, the last one closed in 1996. This is an ongoing reality. If our kids can get it and be good people and thrive in this society, than your kids can get it. And how about they can get it together by sitting in a circle and saying let’s talk about this – we can do this. So I’m really happy that so many stories have come forward, especially aimed at young readers because that’s where change starts.