The Story Of My Totem

Remembering a special summer at her grandmother's lakeside cottage, Mrs. Bodach writes, "Grammy taught us about the ferns and wildflowers, about the Mohawk people…and gentle solutions for everyday problems." She continues, "There was one summer in particular when I was about six years old…" providing a context and perspective. She recalls the aroma of blueberries in the kitchen, the daily play of swimming, fishing, rowing and paddling, reading, collecting salamanders in the rain, and visiting a talking parrot. She tells of imaginary play, and the teasing of older siblings and neighborhood children, but it is the event she describes of one moon-filled night that will leave the reader wondering. Was it just a dream? Originating from the oral traditions of one part of Mrs. Bodach's mixed ancestry and illustrated in basic silhouette cutouts, this is a story of an early memory that came to define a strong faith and understanding of the world. It holds a message of a powerful connection to the natural surroundings on which people depend. For children today, many of whom, have never had a chance to, 'chase through a pine forest,' this story is an opening, an opportunity to glimpse a different time, a planting of the seeds of appreciation for their environment and the importance of caretaking the woods, lakes, and wildlife, as these truly nurture and support the people.