Taan’s Moons: A Haida Moon Story by Alison Gear, Illustrated by Kiki van der Heiden with the Children of Haida Gwaii
Please order you copy via PayPal or contact us for orders of more than one copy, trade, bulk, or school market orders: orders@mckellarmartin.com.
“This amazing story is a fine example of authentic Allies & representing Aboriginal knowledge. This book…is an amazing collaboration of children, Elders, community leaders, local artists, and educators. This beautifully crafted book is a wonder to read.”
—Leona Prince, Fireweed Canada
“This really is a wonderful book that will surely be a BC classic. It’s published by the small New Westminster publisher McKellar & Martin who have aptly demonstrated that small publishers can put together stunning books. Congrats to all who were involved.”
—Mark Tworow, Speedee Interior Stationery and Books
“Absolutely gorgeous.”
—Gloria Marcarenko, Host, BC Alamanac
Taan’s Moons: A Haida Moon Story has also been selected for the Welcome To Kindergarten program by The Learning Partnership!
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“There’s a moon in the sky. It looks like a drum, which guides the earth where Taan is from.”
So begins a year in the life of Taan, which means “bear” in the Haida Language.
Alison Gear has based this wonderfully engaging and thoughtful story on one version of the Haida Moon cycle. It follows Taan as she experiences the wonder of the unfolding seasons.
Kiki van der Heiden worked closely with the children on Haida Gwaii to create the absolutely stunning felted artwork that gracefully complements each page of Taan’s story.
This is a story woven together by the community on Haida Gwaii.
Alison and Kiki worked closely with elders, teachers, children, parents, and caregivers to produce this unforgettable book. The title of each moon cycle has been translated into both Skidegate and Old Massett Haida, honouring language and wisdom. The children involved in this project, under Kiki’s gentle guidance, were hands-on each rendering of the felt pieces until they became the sculpted illustrations currently featured in Taan’s Moons.
When award-winning, best-selling author Richard Van Camp visited Haida Gwaii, he had the opportunity to read the manuscript for Taan’s Moons. He graciously agreed to contribute the heartfelt Foreword, which begins:
“Welcome to Taan’s Moons, one of the most beautiful books I have ever witnessed.”
We agree, Richard. We certainly agree.
We also want to give sincere thanks to Joanne Yovanovich, Tawni Davidson, Beng Favreau, and ArtStarts in Schools for their contribution to and support of this important book.
Ordering information:
Release date: December 1st, 2014
Order via PayPal here.
School market, trade, and bulk orders are eligible for our discount structure. Please contact orders@mckellarmartin.com.
Price: $19.99 (plus GST, shipping, and handling)
Age level: All ages
ISBN: 978-09916-7824-2
Format: 48-page picture book (full-colour, jacketed, hardcover). Trim size is 10 inches X 10 inches.
ALSO AVAILABLE: A free teaching guide!
Acknowledgement of First Nations Territory:
McKellar & Martin Publishing Group is located on the traditional and unceded territories of the Qayqayt First Nation and Coast Salish peoples. We strongly respect, recognize, and honour the people, the land, and the history of these territories.