The Inuksuk Book

Lorraine Douglas is the youth services co-ordinator at the Winnipeg
Public Library.

Inuksuit (the plural of inuksuk) are traditional Inuit stone structures
that for centuries have been used as a communications system in the Far
North. This attractive, well-organized, and eminently readable book
takes a fascinating look at these mysterious symbols and their unique
place in Inuit life and culture.

The book begins with an introduction by Norman Hallendy, who explains
the meaning of inuksuit. This is followed by a desciption of Nunavut and
its people. Subsequent chapters discuss different kinds of inuksuit
(e.g., aulaqut channel caribou to a place where they can be killed by
hunters, niugvaliruluit act as directional markers, nakkatait indicate
fishing places); describe the modern-day inuksuk satellite-communication
systems; and provide step-by-step instructions for creating an
inunnguaq—a stone that is shaped like a human. These chapters feature
beautiful silk paintings depicting the various inuksuit in haunting
Arctic settings as well as archival and contemporary photographs of the
Far North.

Author and illustrator Mary Wallace, who as spent more than 17 years
teaching art and crafts at the Haliburton School of Fine Arts, consulted
with Inuit elders in creating this valuable work. The Inuksuk Book is
highly recommended for school and public libraries.