Wisdom Weavers: Explore the Ojibwe Language and the Meaning of Dream Catchers

Wisdom Weavers introduces children to the Ojibwe language and the culture of dreams from an Indigenous perspective.

Themes: Indigenous language, dreams, dream catchers

Remember: Purchase this book from an Indigenous bookstore. Or ask for it at your local library. 

James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw
Photo Source: Author's website

About the Author

James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw, a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Ojibwe, is a renowned international speaker, digital creator, and author of ‘The Seven Generations and the Seven Grandfather Teachings.‘  

– from the author’s website. 

About the Illustrator

“My name is Marcus Trujillo (He/Him) and I am a tribal member with the Pueblo of Laguna.  I began Graphic Design and Illustration with the vision to give back to my People through creative expression. Merging design with passions for social and environmental justice, I move forward to use my skill sets to embody solidarity with Indigenous communities and communities of color at large. I contribute my work for the Office of Laguna Learning in Laguna Pueblo; along with graphic design for Indigenous Educators. This work is meaningful to me because I believe that change and sustainability begin with collaborative efforts done by organizers, educators and leaders within the movement.” 
– Bio from illustrator’s website.

Discussion Questions

  1.  What did you already know about dream catchers? What is one thing you learned about dream catchers? 
  2.  What new words did you learn in Ojibwe?
  3. Think about your daily routine. What activities do you do? Are they the same or different from the characters in this book?

Learning Activities

  1. Talk to a friend about your daily routine.
  2. With an adult, search “The Ojibwe People’s Dictionary” for words you might use to describe your daily routine.
  3. Try playing the “Growing Up Ojibwe” game created by GLIFWC, available on Wisconsin First Nations.

Explore More

  1. Watch this wonderful interview with the author from Read Your World.
  2. Explore University of Minnesota’s Ojibwe Dictionary.
  3. Watch and listen to an author talk with James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw on Books are Good Medicine.