Bridges in Spirituality: First Nations Christian Women Tell Their Stories

Sheila Martindale is poetry editor of Canadian Author and Bookman and
the author of No Greater Love.

This book is great in concept, but less successful in execution. Five
women, all First Nation Canadians, all leaders in their communities, and
all extraordinarily spiritual in both Christian and Native terms, talk
about their lives and their beliefs.

Joyce Carlson and Alf Dumont recorded the women’s stories on tape,
and reproduced them, adding their own linking commentaries.
Unfortunately, they failed to properly edit and organize the material.
The result is much repetition and disjointed narrative, particularly in
the first two sections. However, the content is interesting, and one can
certainly admire the strength and tenacity of these women, none of whom
had an easy life.

Gladys Taylor Cook’s story is by far the most cogent and articulate.
She describes life in the notorious residential schools, where she lived
from age 4 to 16, and where she was repeatedly raped and mistreated;
these and other horrific events in her life are recounted with a
surprising lack of rancor. Vi Smith’s account begins as a fascinating
glimpse into tribal customs, but ends as a polemic. Sarah Simon and
Jessie Saulteaux talk about the importance of preserving the old ways
while at the same time embracing the Christian faith. Gladys McCue
Taylor’s story is largely taken from her own writings, including some
thoughtful poems.

Bridges in Spirituality has all the ingredients of an excellent
read—interesting stories and inspiring themes—but would have
benefited from more careful editing and proofreading.