Two new books have been released in the NorthWind Book series that the Department of Education and Eagle Crest Books partnered to develop. The nine books in the The Early Reader Book series focus on Yukon First Nations culture.

A Time for Bear Roots features Elder Jimmy Johnny of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun and the Grade One and Two Students of J.V. Clark School, Mayo. Bear Root is an edible tap root found throughout the Yukon that is harvested in the spring when it is sweet and juicy.

Rabbit Stew for Grandma features Elders Mrs. Martha Buyck and Mr. Walter Peter, of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun, and the students of J.V. Clark School, Mayo and includes Setting a Rabbit Snare in Winter by Fran Etzel.

The early reader books feature adults and children from Yukon communities, and reflect the lives and culture of Yukon First Nation people. This was a collaborative effort involving elders, students, school administrators, curriculum staff at the Department of Education and the publishers at Eaglecrest Books. The nine books are available in French and English, for now. Yukon First Nation language translations are underway.

* Copies of the Eagle Crest early reader books are available through the Department of Education.

1. Making Tea at Grandma’s	Level 4/5
	Chief Zzeh Gittlit School featuring Percilla Charlie-Tizya and Shae Han Garrett-Charlie and elder Helen Charlie, Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation
2.Kaska Day at School	Level 8/9
	Ross River School featuring Melodie and Monica Johnny and Henry Nukon
3. The Snowsnake Game	Level 15/16
	Ross River School featuring Melodie and Monica Johnny and Henry Nukon
4. Raven Brings Light – A Play	not leveled
	Elijah Smith Elementary School featuring Kerri Peters’ grade two students
5. Finding A Medicine Tree	Level 15/16
	J.V. Clark School featuring the grade one and two students and Elder Betty Lucas, First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun
6. Ice Fishing Fun	Level 16/17
	St. Elias Community School featuring Mariah MacDonald and Jesse McCuaig and Elders Mary Shadow and Rosalie Washington, Champagne and Aishihik First Nations
7. Fishing at Simpson Creek	Level 17/18
	Johnson Elementary School featuring Aaron Chaput and Denetia Stone, Mr. Aaron Kalles and Elder Leda Jules and Kaska instructor Phoebe Lewis
8. A Time for Bear Roots NEW	Level 18/19
	Special thanks to Elder Jimmy Johnny of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun and the Grade One and Two Students of J.V. Clark School, Mayo, Yukon
9. Rabbit Stew for Grandma NEW	Level 19/20
	Special thanks to Elders Mrs. Martha Buyck and Mr. Walter Peter, of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun, and the students of J.V. Clark School, Mayo, Yukon

Photo © A Time for Bear Roots, Northwind Books.