Discovering Words by Neepin Auger – Book Review

From the Publisher:

Neepin Auger’s books for children contain original, brightly coloured images and early education level concepts familiar to everyone. Playful and bold, this dynamic series will educate and entertain preschoolers, parents, and teachers alike.

In addition to the English words presented, the French and Cree equivalents are also given, making these some of the most dynamic and useful board books on the market, perfectly suitable for the classroom, library, and nursery.

Description:

This multi-language book (English, French, Cree) has one word (English first) for each letter of the alphabet (A – Z).  The French and Cree words for the initial English word are provided next, each in its own designated font, which makes it easier to keep track. No pronunciation guides are provided for the French or Cree words, which would be helpful for readers. The illustrations are clear and easily recognizable.

My Experience:

All three of my kids (aged 3 and 2 year old twins) enjoy this book.  It is very fitting for them, as all three have Metis/Cree in their background.  This has been part of our attempts to make connections to their heritage and birth culture.  They love the illustrations and have fun repeating the words that I pronounce (the English and French are fine for me, but I would have loved a pronunciation guide!  I’ve been ‘googling’ the words for help).

This is a worthwhile title to add to a toddler library to promote diversity and an introduction to other languages.

     Likes:

• love that each language is clearly represented in a recognizably different font for clarity
• the illustrations are simple enough for even the youngest readers to recognize
• words presented follow the alphabet (though this is not emphasized)

     Dislikes:

• I wish there were more words!  We need a sequel!
• I need a pronunciation guide for the Cree (for French, too, if you don’t know it)

Why/How Use it with kids:

• learn the alphabet using words from three languages!
• If you or your kids know another language, copy the example of the book to come up with English words for objects (A-Z) and translate into other languages
• learn a bit about Metis and Cree culture from the words and images

 

About the Author:

Neepin Auger is a Cree artist, educator, and mother. Originally from the Bigstone Cree Nation in northern Alberta, she has been painting for over ten years, having studied art under her father, Dale Auger, a renowned First Nations artist and author of the award-winning children’s book Mwâkwa Talks to the Loon: A Cree Story for Children. She lives in Calgary, Alberta.