Stand Like a Cedar

Engaging, lyrical, and informative, this thought-provoking story highlights the notion of environmental stewardship and the reciprocal relationship we have with the Earth and all living things. Indigenous principles of learning are woven through the story as readers are taken through the seasons while learning about the practices, traditions, and ways of life of the Interior and Coast Salish First Peoples. The story may inspire elementary-level students to reflect on our connection to and reliance on living things, making it a suitable resource for introducing a classroom unit on outdoor education, environmental awareness, and sustainability. Teachers may read it aloud to the class and present it as a sample of poetic writing or lyrical storytelling. The colourful illustrations could be shown to students during a lesson on colour theory or First Peoples artwork.