We All Play by Julie Flett: Celebrating Indigenous Children's Literature

In recent years, there has been a resurgence in the appreciation of indigenous stories and voices in the literary world. One such voice is that of Julie Flett, an award-winning Cree-Métis author and illustrator. Her book, "We All Play," not only showcases Flett's talent but also provides an essential contribution to children's literature by offering a glimpse into indigenous culture and emphasizing the importance of community and play.

"We All Play" explores the theme of joyful play in the lives of young indigenous children. Flett's vibrant illustrations bring these children to life as they engage in various activities such as traditional games, storytelling, and connecting with nature. Through her beautiful art and concise storytelling, Flett captures the essence of childhood and the universal joy that comes from playing together.

One of the highlights of "We All Play" is Flett's ability to seamlessly incorporate indigenous words and cultural elements into the narrative. This not only enriches the reading experience but also serves as a bridge between indigenous and non-indigenous readers. Flett's inclusion of Cree words, for instance, fosters an appreciation for the linguistic diversity and cultural heritage of indigenous communities.

We All Play

by Julie Flett (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5619 KB
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE

Furthermore, Flett's emphasis on community and interconnectedness is another compelling aspect of "We All Play." The book showcases children playing together, highlighting the importance of social interactions and collective experiences. This aspect of the story resonates with readers of all backgrounds and serves as a gentle reminder of the value of togetherness.

Another noteworthy feature of Flett's work is her meticulous attention to detail in her illustrations. From the intricate patterns on clothing to the subtle expressions on faces, each element adds depth and nuance to the story. Flett's illustrations are not only aesthetically appealing but also offer a rich visual narrative that complements the text.

"We All Play" also contributes to the diversification of children's literature by highlighting indigenous characters and their experiences. By providing representation and authentic storytelling, Flett's book helps to create a more inclusive literary landscape. This is crucial for young readers to see themselves and others reflected in the stories they encounter, fostering empathy and understanding.

In , "We All Play" by Julie Flett is a remarkable addition to children's literature, celebrating indigenous culture and emphasizing the joy of play. Flett's expert combination of storytelling and illustrations captivates readers, drawing them into a world that is both captivating and inclusive. This book serves as a reminder of the power of diverse voices and the importance of cultural representation in literature. "We All Play" is a must-read for children and adults alike, offering an engaging and educational experience for all.

We All Play

by Julie Flett (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5619 KB
Print length	:	48 pages

FREE

A BEST CHILDREN’S BOOK OF THE YEAR: New York Times, Washington Post, New York Public Library, Kirkus Reviews, Globe and Mail, Horn Book, and Boston Globe

STARRED Reviews in Kirkus, Publisher’s Weekly, The Horn Book, School Library Journal

A 2022 Best Book for Babies 

From Julie Flett, the beloved author and illustrator of Birdsong, comes a joyous new book about playtime for babies, toddlers, and kids up to age 7. 

Animals and kids love to play! This wonderful book celebrates playtime and the connection between children and the natural world. Beautiful illustrations show:

• birds who chase and chirp!
• bears who wiggle and wobble!
• whales who swim and squirt!
• owls who peek and peep!
• and a diverse group of kids who love to do the same, shouting: 

We play too! / kimêtawânaw mîna

At the end of the book, animals and children gently fall asleep after a fun day of playing outside, making this book a great bedtime story. A beautiful ode to the animals and humans we share our world with, We All Play belongs on every bookshelf.

This book also includes:

• A glossary of Cree words for wild animals in the book
• A pronunciation guide and link to audio pronunciation recordings