REVIEWS


Teaching Tough Topics is an invaluable re- source for educators looking to navigate complex social issues in the classroom. Te book is thoughtfully structured around chal- lenging themes such as race, the immigrant and refugee experience, Indigenous iden- tities, the Holocaust, physical and mental challenges, poverty, death and loss, gender identity, homophobia, bullying and kind- ness. Each chapter delves into these topics with expert perspectives, practical strategies and model lessons that leverage children’s literature to foster deeper understanding and empathy among students. Author Larry Swartz is a veteran class-


TEACHING TOUGH TOPICS: How Do I Use Children's Literature to Build a Deeper Understanding of Social Justice, Equity, and Diversity? by Larry Swartz Pembroke Publishers, 2020 166 pages, $28.95 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ Reviewed by Iyanuoluwa Akinrinola


room teacher and an instructor at the Ontar- io Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) at the University of Toronto. His approach is practical and grounded, providing educators with concrete tools and techniques to intro- duce and explore these complex issues with sensitivity and care. Te inclusion of book lists and detailed lesson plans helps educators seamlessly integrate topics into their curricu- lum, making the book a practical companion for everyday teaching.


Treaty Words: For as Long as the Rivers Flow, written by Anishinaabe/Métis author Aimée Craſt and illustrated by Anishinaabe artist Luke Swinson, is a non-fiction picture book that explores the significance of treaties from an Indigenous perspective. Trough the tender relationship between a girl and her Mishomis (grandfather), readers are trans- ported to the banks of the kitchi sipi, where the river flows with the memories of Misho- mis and his experiences on and with the land. Te book delicately weaves moments of


TREATY WORDS: FOR AS LONG AS THE RIVERS FLOW By Aimée Craſt Illustrated by Luke Swinson Annick Press, 2021 60 pages, $16.95 ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ Reviewed by Jane Ranson


46 ETFO VOICE | WINTER 2024


reflection, as Mishomis shares tales of his youth, with the rhythms of nature, from the songs of birds to the whispers of insects in the grass. Each memory serves as a thread connecting the past to the present, remind- ing his granddaughter of the bond between land, water, stories and relationships. As the narrative unfolds, Mishomis gently


and peacefully gives lessons of respect for the earth, teaching his granddaughter that trea- ties are the bonds of reciprocity and renewal that endure for as long as the sun shines, the grass grows and the rivers flow. Te book’s illustrations complement its


narrative beautifully, with a gentle colour palette of soſt blues, greens and browns. Te


Tis book aligns well with curriculum ex-


pectations across multiple grades. It supports the Language curriculum by encouraging reading comprehension and critical thinking using children’s literature texts that deal with social justice themes. It also connects with the Social Studies curriculum by addressing historical and contemporary social issues such as race, immigration, and Indigenous identities and by promoting an understand- ing of diverse perspectives. For Health and Physical Education, the book’s discussion of topics like bullying, gender identity and mental health align with the curriculum’s focus on personal safety, physical and emo- tional well-being, and respect for diversity. Overall, Teaching Tough Topics is a highly


recommended resource for educators com- mitted to fostering a more inclusive and socially aware classroom environment. Its practical strategies and curriculum connec- tions make it an essential tool for addressing complex social issues through literature.


Iyanuoluwa Akinrinola is a member of the Durham Occasional Teacher Local.


earthy tones evoke a sense of connection to the natural world and the tranquil setting of the surrounding landscape. For teachers planning to introduce the


topic of treaties, this book offers a perfect starting point. Its language and heartfelt sto- rytelling provide a narrative that helps cre- ate an understanding of the significance of treaties from an Indigenous perspective, as well as how treaties should be anchored in relationships built upon respect and respon- sibility. It could also be used as a read-aloud or with the class as a shared reading activity followed up with questions. Treaty Words deſtly fosters a deeper ap-


preciation for the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of honour- ing our responsibilities to the land and to each other.


Jane Ranson is a member of the Limestone Teacher Local.


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52