Significance of Indigenous Children's Literature

Use of picture books by Indigenous authors and illustrators inspires empathy, compassion, healing, and wellness, particularly when teachers select books representing local Indigenous communities. Indigenous publishers consult Elders throughout the publication process to ensure respectful portrayals of Indigenous languages, cultures, and worldviews, and to reflect strengths of Indigenous families and communities. Four themes found in Canadian picture books are featured: respectful relationships with the land, local plants, animals, and non-living things; intergenerational sharing of knowledge and importance of family relationships; the intergenerational impact of residential schools; and Indigenous language revitalization through dual-language books.