Masiana Kelly

June is National Indigenous History Month. And while it is important to understand our past, it is also important to celebrate our present, which brings forward more joy and glimpse of a brighter future.

As part of Indigenous History Month I’d like to recognize one of my favourite authors ~ Monique Gray Smith.

Monique is Cree and Scottish and has been sober and involved in her healing journey for over 34 years. She is well known for her storytelling, spirit of generosity and focus on resilience.

She has 12 books ranging for readers across the life span. Her books are used to share wisdom, knowledge, hope and the important teaching that love is medicine.

Have you read one of her books? Who is your favourite Indigenous author?

June is National Indigenous History Month. A great way to celebrate is to learn about Indigenous artists and their amazing work. Anishinaabe artist Daphne Odjig has captured my attention, interest, and imagination for many years. Who is your favourite Indigenous artist?

Artwork image shared from https://artsudbury.org/en/whats-on/exhibitions/daphne-odjig/

Exciting day! I was able to finally visit the bookstore in Toronto today 😊 I wish I could have a copy of each book in there, they are a serious treasure trove! They have books, DVD’s, kids games, classroom games & resources, puzzles, gifts, t-shirts, hoodies, bookmarks, and more! I also got to meet the Inhabit Media staff, some of whom have worked on my books 🤩 what a dream!

Congratulations to the Blue Spruce winner “The Great Dinosaur 🦖 Sleepover”! I am so honoured to have my book Bannock in a Hammock nominated with such amazing books and talented authors & artists!

Today I had the opportunity to visit a local bookstore where I was able to browse through new releases, best sellers, with room to sit and enjoy the moment in such a cute space! I was SO happy that I was finally able to purchase two books that I can’t wait to read. If you’re in Toronto, be sure to stop by, say hi, and find a book or two to enjoy 😊

I made it to Toronto! Landed at 5:05 and finally made it to my hotel at 6:30. Trying something new. I can’t wait to see everyone at the Forest of Reading Festival tomorrow 🥰

We are here at the JBT gym from 12-2 today. While you are out and about doing errands, checking out the thrift store or visiting the greenhouse, make sure you stop by to see the amazing gifts for yourself or a special someone 😊

Come stop by and say hi to all of the amazing vendors that will be at the JBT gym today from 12-2 PM. There will be beautiful handmade local pieces that will make lovely gifts for your special someone ♥️

Need some Mothers’ day gift ideas? Come to the JBT Spring Market tomorrow (Saturday May 9th) in the JBT gym to buy a gift for that special someone, or to treat yourself! The student leadership team will also have goodies to purchase as part of their fundraiser. See you tomorrow from 12-2 😊

While winter continues up here, we are all looking forward to Spring weather. What happens when the sun starts to melt the snow? It begins to uncover litter from the Fall & Winter before. This is a great reminder that with Earth day coming up, it’s a great time to read a book like mine, The Dancing Trees, and talk about why and how we can look after our environment. If your school is with Connected North, you can sign up for a special Earth Day Premium session on Wednesday, April 22nd where I’ll be reading my book & doing an activity with students that join us 🌎