Amazing L’nu’k: A Celebration of the Peoples of Mi’kma’ki highlights the accomplishments and contributions of Indigenous people from Mi’kma’ki in eastern Canada. It explains the history and geographical locations of the Mi’Kmaw territories, which include Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and parts of Maine in the U.S. The book includes original colour illustrations, informative sidebars, a map of Mi’kmaw territories, a history of Mi’kma’ki, an index and a glossary.

The beautifully illustrated book is divided into six parts, each offering a short biography of an influential Mi’Kmaw person. These include historical and present-day activists, athletes, educators, Knowledge Keepers, scientists and entrepreneurs across a range of ages, from children to Elders.

The book also includes an introduction to the concept of etuaptmumk, or two-eyed seeing, which is the integration of Indigenous and western knowledge. Each story considers how people have supported their own communities locally, provincially and globally.

There are a number of Language curriculum connections with Amazing L’nu’k. In Language, grades 1-8: “Demonstrate an understanding of the contributions, lived experiences and perspectives of a diversity of individuals and communities, including those in Canada, by exploring the concepts of identity, self and sense of belonging in culturally responsive and relevant texts.” Also, A3.3: “Explain themes explored in First Nations, Métis and Inuit cultures to demonstrate an understanding of the varied identities, perspectives, relationships, legacies, truths and ways of knowing, being and doing.”

Amazing L’nu’k is a great resource for your classroom or school library. Students will enjoy this engaging and informative text as they learn about the Mi’kmaw people and the contributions they have made and continue to make.

Kristan Osborne is a member of the Peel Elementary Teacher Local.