Indigenous artist and storyteller Andrea Fritz tells a tale of a salmon and a sea otter who learn it's ok to say "I don't know" and to ask for help.
Thuqi’ the sockeye salmon knows it’s time to spawn, but she is lost in the Salish Sea and doesn't know the way to Sta'lo’, the river. When she asks Tumus the sea otter for help, he doesn’t exactly know either, and he dismisses her questions. But when Tumus becomes lost in some weeds, Thuqi’ shows him that it’s okay not to know something—you can still find a way to help a friend in need.
In this original story set in Coast Salish Traditional Territory, author and artist Andrea Fritz uses Indigenous storytelling techniques and art to share the culture and language of the Hul’q’umi’num’-speaking Peoples.
“A welcome contribution to the shelves of First Nations literature, as well as a starting point for learning more about Coast Salish art and traditional storytelling techniques.”
“Fritz (Lyackson First Nation) has crafted a heartwarming tale that encourages readers to persevere despite uncertainty…A gem of Coast Salish storytelling”
“Deftly works cultural information into an entertaining read that young children will certainly enjoy…Otter Doesn’t Know is not only a celebration of language and culture, it is also a fun and beautiful picture book that explores the evergreen themes of friendship and forgiveness. This is a strong first purchase for school and public libraries and would make a great read-aloud for children of many ages. Highly recommended.”