Indigenous education teacher-librarian Michelle Chabot recommends Little Shoes by David A. Robertson to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
David A. Robertson’s words in Little Shoes help us understand the lasting impacts of residential schools through the experiences of James and his family.
When James has difficulty sleeping at night, he goes to his mother for comfort. They talk, cuddle, and fall asleep.
One day, James joins his kōkom (grandmother) at a memorial filled with little shoes. He learns about the children who never returned home from residential schools. One of these children was his grandmother’s sister.
That night, James again turns to his mother for comfort. She tells him that when his kōkom felt alone at residential school, she had her sister to cuddle, just like they do.
I love how David A. Robertson shares such a difficult part of our history in a gentle way. This story reminds us of the importance of remembering the children, listening to survivors and their families, and recognizing the lasting impacts of residential schools. It is also a beautiful reminder of the love, strength, and connection found within families.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30 recognizes the tragic legacy of residential schools and honours the children who never returned home, the survivors, and all the families impacted. It coincides with Orange Shirt Day, which was started by the non-profit Orange Shirt Society to raise awareness of the individual, family, and community intergenerational impacts of residential schools.
Little Shoes by David A. Robertson is available in SD42 libraries.
