New books provide ways of connecting youth to language, culture

2 new books provide educators with valuable resources to connect Indigenous youth with traditional language and culture. Community members in Lutsel K’e, Northwest Territories, welcomed a new Chipewyan dictionary, launched by the South Slave District Education Council (SSDEC). The dictionary was developed in consultation from community members and students, who contributed more than 500 words to the dictionary. Its creators hope that the dictionary will help stimulate use of Chipewyan both at school and at home. In addition, a Nunavut throat-singer has released her first children’s book, Sweetest Kulu, which uses animals from the Arctic to impart traditional values and lessons to children. The book was named “Best Bedtime Picture Book” of 2014 by Huffington Post for its beautiful illustrations and poetic narrative. Northern Journal | APTN | Nunatsiaq Online