Summary
Katherena and her mother move to a small town. Moving from the countryside to a small town can be lonely and isolating for a young girl. She’s sad and misses all the people and things she’s left behind. She soon meets an elderly woman named Agnes next door who shares her passion for arts and crafts, birds, and nature. The two of them meeting changes Katherena’s world around. As the seasons of the year go by, Agnes gets sick and can’t go outside any more. What can Katherena do to help?
Theme(s):
Life, Friendship, Love
Personal Response
I thought that this story was extremely inspiring. Throughout the book, the author celebrates the passing of time and intergenerational friendships. In my opinion, I don’t think Agnes dies at the end, but it’s unclear; either way, the story celebrates life and friendship. Various uses of imagery were used throughout this story that improves a reader’s experience of the text. The author is Cree-Mêtis and deftly inserts some Cree words which was interesting and different to read.
Teaching Ideas
We will read the story together as a read-aloud. Before reading, we will look at the cover and discuss what we think the book will be about. After reading, the class will have an open discussion if they have ever stayed in a place that was new to them. Maybe they have moved to a new home, slept over at a friend or family members house, stayed overnight on vacation, etc. They will then draw two pictures, one where they live now and one of the place that was new. They will state the differences.
Recommended Reading Level
Grade 01, Grade 02
