The drum represents the heartbeat of Mother Earth. We all belong to the earth and we all belong to the drum.
Nikosis grew up going to powwows with his family, happily immersed in music, dance and the sounds of the drum. But when he starts going to daycare, he doesn’t feel like he belongs. Nikosis cries every time his mother leaves him in the unfamiliar environment until, one day, she and the teachers use drums to help Nikosis find connection and comfort.
Inspired by her son’s experience—and her family's love of powwow music and dance—Indigenous educator and champion hoop dancer Sandra Lamouche shares this uplifting true story of the transformative effects of culturally safe and inclusive early childhood education.
“Bold watercolor illustrations clearly capture Nikosis’s many moods and energy of the drum…Recommended.”
“This title exemplifies the importance of inclusion and belonging and offers a sense of community, whether it be with family, at cultural events or at daycare. The illustrations are bright, vivid, and joyful and they serve as a wonderful supplement to the text. Recommended for school, home and public libraries.”
“An uplifting story of the transformative effects of a culturally safe and inclusive learning environment for children. This is a story that looks at early childhood development and the importance of acceptance for all cultures. Teaches young children about powwows and drumming while being very colourful and full of wonderful illustrations for all to enjoy.”