While out picking evergreen needles, 9 year old Zoey’s grandmother tells her the story of Bear Heart, a man who lived long ago. A beloved member of his community, Bear Heart was known for his kindness and generosity. As he grew old, he worried about his people. He asked the Great Spirit to help his people even after he was gone.
The Great Spirit turned Bear Heart into an evergreen tree, so that he would stay green and vibrant all year long. His people gathered around him and shared laughter and stories. To this day, they communicate their prayers and hopes by burning the needles of the evergreen tree.
"A lovingly rendered early elementary picture book, this piece is a love letter to Indigenous spiritual practices wrapped in a simple story told from grandmother to child." — School Library Journal
Author: Alfreda Algeo Beartrack
Illustrator: Alfreda Algeo Beartrack
Size: 8x10 inches
Pages: 32
Ages: 6-9
Cover: Hardcover
Language: English