Pass the Feather: Walking Lake Erie
by Carol A. Trembath
Lakeside Publishing MI


"We will now walk Lake Erie to safeguard water for our children and grandchildren. Soon it will be time to pass the feather."

Trembath's illustrated children's book is about the Ojibway people's modern-day trek around Lake Erie to raise awareness for the need to protect the Great Lakes. It is the fourth book in the Water Walker series that depicts the courageous acts of the Mother Earth Water Walkers. The journey around Lake Erie is told from the perspective of Mai, a young Ojibway girl. As she walks around the lake with her family and tribe, Mai learns about her ancestors' journeys and relationship with Mother Earth. Additionally, she is told about the Four Sacred Medicines. Through her walk, she gains a greater respect for Mother Nature and the responsibility she shares with the rest of nature to care for the "sacred water."

This book is the impressive result of careful research and respect for modern-day Native Americans. The beautiful artwork throughout the story by David W. Craig is based on real depictions and sculptures of the Ojibway people. The story is very dialogue driven, told from the perspective of a young girl learning from her elders. The reader will feel a renewed sense of wonder and respect for Mother Nature while reading it. Each line is filled with detailed imagery and awareness of the traditional practices and beliefs of the Ojibway people. At the back of the book, the author includes additional notes and resources for the reader to dive deeper into the subject. This gorgeous children's book will warm the hearts of any nature enthusiast who wants to learn more about the modern-day practices of Native Americans and how to make a difference in the condition of the Great Lakes.

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