Uncovering Identity and Connection: A Magical Journey Through Sarah Ponakey, Storycatcher and Âhâsiw’s Forest Powwow

The Hooked on Books series is back to celebrate more Canadian authors, and this time, we’re diving into Sarah Ponakey, Storycatcher and Âhâsiw’s Forest Powwow by Sita MacMillan. This inspiring book, published by Annick Press, takes young readers on a journey into the heart of Cree culture and the power of storytelling. Through the eyes of Sarah, a young Cree girl, author Sita MacMillan beautifully weaves a narrative of self-discovery and resilience. As Sarah dreams of a magical powwow in a forest of animals, readers are introduced to Indigenous traditions and the importance of cultural connection. Nominated for the 2025 Forest of Reading Silver Birch Express Award, this book is an engaging way for children to explore themes of identity, belonging, and community. Keep reading for an exclusive interview with East Coast author Sita MacMillan from Prince Edward Island, where she shares the inspiration behind the book and its impact on young readers.

Forest of Reading Silver Birch Express nominees offer valuable educational opportunities for young readers in Grades 3 to 4. The in-person and online tutoring team at Teachers on Call encourages exploring these thought-provoking books, which spark meaningful discussions about culture, heritage, and empathy. Sarah Ponakey, Storycatcher and Âhâsiw’s Forest Powwow is an ideal resource for parents and educators looking to incorporate Indigenous perspectives into their classrooms. CBC named Sarah Ponakey, Storycatcher and Âhâsiw’s Forest Powwow as one of the 50 Canadian kids books to read in fall 2024. This beautifully illustrated book fosters cultural awareness, encourages self-confidence, and promotes empathy among young readers. It’s a perfect addition to any library, especially for children who are curious about learning more about the world around them

Branching Out: How the Forest of Reading is Cultivating Canada’s Next Generation of Book Lovers

The Forest of Reading program is actively engaging the next generation of Canadian readers by encouraging a love of literature through interactive and inclusive reading experiences. Organized by the Ontario Library Association (OLA), the program offers a wide range of age-appropriate awards and activities, helping children, teens, and adults explore Canadian authors, illustrators, and diverse literary genres, in both French and English. Through school and library participation, readers engage with nominated titles and celebrate the joy of reading at the annual Forest of Reading Festival, held along the Toronto waterfront at the Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8). This vibrant event, Canada's largest annual literary festival for children, brings together thousands of elementary and high school students for an unforgettable celebration of books and creativity. With its focus on Canadian content and fostering community engagement, the program is shaping a new generation of readers who are connected to their culture, creativity, and literacy.

About the author Sita MacMillan and Illustrator Azby Whitecalf

Sita MacMillan is a registered member of the Zagime Anishinabek Nation, with Cree and Scottish heritage, and she currently resides in Prince Edward Island on Canada’s East Coast. As an author and storyteller, Sita is passionate about sharing Indigenous experiences and perspectives, particularly in children's literature. Her debut book, Sarah Ponakey, Storycatcher and Âhâsiw’s Forest Powwow, was inspired by her desire to see more representation of urban Indigenous voices in literature. Sita’s work emphasizes cultural connection, resilience, and the importance of storytelling in preserving traditions and fostering identity.

Azby Whitecalf is a Plains Cree character designer and illustrator based in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, within Treaty 6 Territory. They hold a Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication from the Alberta University of the Arts (1407 14 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4R3). Azby’s artistic practice centres on creating engaging stories with memorable characters, emphasizing accurate and positive representations of Indigenous peoples and cultures. They enjoy working with bright colours, strong contrasts, and dynamic shapes. Their published works also include Buffalo Wild! and We Belong to the Drum.

Get an Inside Look: Our Exclusive Interview with Author Sita MacMillan

Sarah Ponakey’s journey from feeling isolated in the city to finding her place in the magical forest powwow is both emotional and inspiring. What inspired you to write her story, and how much of Sarah’s experience mirrors your own?

I have lived in various First Nations territories but never within my own. I was inspired by the way my children and I have grown up, so I wrote a book for others who may be growing up away from their communities and wanting to reconnect wherever they may be. There are a lot of Sarah's experiences in my own, such as the nervousness and discomfort of getting it wrong, feeling unsure, and nervous about speaking my language. I am grateful that I have met many who have helped along the way and provided teachings. I think they are magical - just like Âhâsiw’!

The concept of "nervousness" plays a significant role in Sarah’s character development throughout the story. Could you speak more about how nervousness is portrayed in the book, and what you hope young readers learn about dealing with anxiety or uncertainty?

I based it on my own feelings of nervousness and how I see it as a mother to three young girls. I am hoping young readers can understand that even though we feel nervous about something we can also be brave. Like Sarah, she was nervous and didn't know what to do but she was able to accept the butterflies in her belly and be able to join her friends in the new experience. I hope young readers are able to learn that they have a lot of strength inside of them too, just like Sarah.

Sarah’s transformation from feeling disconnected to embracing her Cree heritage is central to the narrative. What do you hope young readers, especially those who may feel disconnected from their own cultures, will take away from Sarah's journey?

Look for the helpers. There are people we meet along the way that help guide us. I found many when I was ready. Sometimes I am still nervous and unsure, yes even as an adult. I hope a takeaway from Sarah's journey is an understanding that we are never alone on our journeys. At times it might feel like a lot and that we are, but there are people who want to help us reconnect. Like Sarah, I hope we can remember to be kind to ourselves, patient, have fun, and ask questions along the way!

As a former teacher, you likely have a unique perspective on how books can be used as tools for learning for parents, teachers, or tutors working to bridge cultural gaps or discussing themes of identity. How do you think they can use Sarah Ponakey, Storycatcher and Âhâsiw’s Forest Powwow as an educational tool?

I wanted a book for those who may be growing up away from their communities. Similar to my experiences as a student in an Indigenous Education Program, where I have been living away but still found people and places for cultural connections. I spent most of my life in British Columbia and my adult years living in Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc territory, Kamloops, situated within the unceded ancestral lands of the Secwépemc Nation, and at UBC in Vancouver which sits on the traditional, ancestral, unceded territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) First Nation.  One of the biggest teachings that has followed me has been about relationships to people and places. Now I reside in Epekwitk (PEI) in Mi'kma'ki with my family where I continue to learn and grow by the water on this beautiful island.   

As an educational tool, this book can be used in a variety of ways, looking at what reconciliation means, importance of relationships and community, language and understanding our feelings. I am grateful that Annick Press includes an Educator's Guide with this book, too!

The use of Cree language and culture is a wonderful touch in the story. How important was it for you to include these elements, and how do you envision young readers engaging with them?

Part of reconnecting for me is using Cree language when and where I am able. I was very nervous including the Cree language throughout this book because I am only starting to learn myself. It was through writing that I had to take some notes from Sarah! I may be nervous but it's important to be brave and do it anyway. I know I will make mistakes in both the writing and pronunciation of the language, but it was very important for me to have my children see the language in the book and for us to try learning together. When we see the words in the books we have an opportunity to pause and connect. We can do that with others or on our own. We can be scared and brave together! Luckily today there are many online resources for us and online Cree language courses to take. When I was younger it would have been much more difficult. I am hoping that the use of Cree words will spark a conversation and an interest to learn more and build relationships.

Is there anywhere in Prince Edward Island that inspires your creativity? Do you have a favourite writing location?

I love being by the ocean! The smells and sounds are so relaxing and inspirational. My favourite beach is Stanhope (828 Gulf Shore Pkwy E, Stanhope, PE C0B 1E0) which was hit hard by Fiona (a very large storm) but we are now once again able to visit there regularly. I love to walk along the water in every season. I am grateful our house sits on a bay so one of my favourite writing spaces is now at the kitchen table. But, when I can get away,  I love writing in coffee shops and will head to The Gallery (82 Great George St, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4K4), a cozy and welcoming spot in downtown Charlottetown (they make their own chocolate...so hot chocolate/mochas are extra delicious). 

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Sarah Ponakey, Storycatcher and Âhâsiw’s Forest Powwow is just one of the incredible books featured in our Hooked on Books series, where we celebrate the best in children’s literature. As a nominee for the 2025 Forest of Reading Silver Birch Express Award, it’s a perfect example of the kind of engaging, educational stories we love to share with young readers. This series aims to inspire and foster a deeper connection to the world of books, encouraging important conversations about culture, identity, and personal growth. Don’t miss our previous Hooked on Books interviews, including our insightful chat with Vancouver’s Danny Ramadan about Making Waves: A Growth Mindset Journey for Young Athletes and Readers in Salma Joins the Team or an exploration of Edmonton-based Marty Chan’s Unlikely Friendships, Dragons, and Life Lessons: A Dive into Dragon on the Loose. Stay tuned for more exciting author interviews, book recommendations, and updates on the Forest of Reading program!