Book Review: Nibi Emosaawdang/The Water Walker

By Kelly Crawford

The book, Nibi Emosaawdang/The Water Walker, is the story of Nokomis Josephine-ba Mandamin’s universally recognized fight to protect the water. This story is craftly written and illustrated by Joanne Robertson, and translated by Shirley Williams and Isadore Toulouse.

The book creatively weaves Anishinaabemowin with English, setting Anishinaabemowin in a prominent position. This speaks to the importance of our language. As declared by the United Nations, this year is the International Year of Indigenous Languages. It is refreshing to see real life stories with a focus on Anishinaabemowin.

Robertson shares the story of bringing the waters together to Lake Superior. She allows the reader to realize the sacrifice that was made as Nokomis Josephine-ba Mandamin went through three knees and eleven pairs of shoes. The illustrations invite the reader in to really think about next steps. The Water Walkers are depicted with no mouths which to me signifies is their voice is being heard.

The story is extremely important for all citizens of the world. Water is the lifeblood of Mother Earth. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) final recommendations and the United Declaration of the Right of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) support the need to protect the water.

Classroom teachers from a range of grades (primary, junior and intermediate) can utilize this book around topics such as geography, history, social justice, language, art, Anishinaabemowin, civic responsibility, roles and responsibilities, environmental science — the list of connections is quite extensive. The book is a great opportunity for educators to challenge their students to be activists and protectors of the water.

“Wegensh gegii waa-zhi-chigeyan iwi san ji? What are you doing about it?”

I would recommend this book for any classroom to learn from this inspirational story. It really is an Anishinaabe Call to Action to challenge everyone to contribute to this vital cause.

“Nibi, gzaagi’igoo. Gi-miigwechiwenimigoo. Giminaadendimigoo. Water, we love you. We thank you. We respect you.”

Robertson, Joanne. Nibi Emosaawdang/The Water Walker. Toronto: Second Story Press, 2019. ISBN: 9781772601008