Christmas at Wapos Bay

Ellie Contursi is a children’s librarian at the London Public Library.

The cold climate of northern Saskatchewan is the setting for this
adventure story. Siblings Raven and Talon and cousin T-Bear are visiting
their grandfather (Mushom) for Christmas. What is usually a happy
occasion proves to be worrisome for their family. Because of the
previous summer’s forest fire, hunting has become poor and food is
scarce. When Mushom with his ailing eyesight has trouble hunting a deer,
the children decide to take matters into their own hands and go hunt on
their own. Not knowing that a terrible winter storm is approaching, they
leave without telling the adults, determined to be successful in their
hunt for food. Instead of hunting, however, the children are forced to
make camp to wait out the storm. It is Mushom who finds them and as

a result of the effort becomes sick. Now it is the children’s turn to
save their grandfather and make their way safely home in time for
Christmas.

This inspiring, well-written novel about three Cree children, who
greatly believe in themselves and act on their desire to provide for
their families, would make a fine read-aloud story for teachers looking
for a Canadian adventure tale. Recommended.