Finally with Columbus Day transformed to Indigenous People's Day we're acknowledging the wise, responsible, and resourceful stewards of this place before we went and stole it.  Some of us are gaining access to their fascinating stories.  Jessica Outram's Bernice and the Georgian Bay Gold is a good introduction for younger readers.  Although fiction it's based on it was based on her Metis great-aunt Bernice's life.

     Bernice and her family live in a lighthouse.  It's a rugged isolated life.  Visits from groups of relatives are special occasions to celebrate with singing, storytelling, and feasting.

     A mysterious stranger visits the lighthouse.  He leaves behind what looks like a treasure map.  It looks like the treasure is on a nearby island.

     Bernice's grandmother needs expensive medical care when she swallows a sewing needle.  Bernice, a big Treasure Island fan, decides to help with the bills by finding the treasure.  She sneaks off in a boat accompanied by the family huskies...

    ...only to be stranded on the island when the sea steals the boat.

   This highly engaging book can sow the seeds for further reading and rich discussions.   

Jules Hathaway