Dancing on Wild Rice

By Elizabeth Albert-Peacock

"Dancing on Wild Rice" is a heartfelt story that follows the journey of Savana, a young girl who learns the profound significance of her Ojibwe heritage through the tradition of wild rice harvesting. At the beginning, Savana is a city girl attending a Native charter school where she learns about mahnoomin (wild rice) and its cultural and spiritual importance. Her life takes a meaningful turn when her mother takes her to visit her grandparents on the reservation instead of spending the day as she planned. Initially resistant and longing for the comforts of home, Savana's perspective begins to change when she is invited by her cousin, Bineshiinh, to participate in the traditional process of dancing on wild rice to separate the grain from its chaff.Through this immersive experience, Savana gains a deeper appreciation for her roots, the simplicity and richness of reservation life, and the value of community and giving back. The process of harvesting, dancing, winnowing, and selling the rice becomes a transformative experience, teaching Savana about the importance of contribution, connection to the land, and the joy of living in harmony with nature and tradition.As she grows, Savana commits to enhancing the lives of her community on the reservation, advocating for Indian education and the preservation of culture and language. The story culminates in Savana's realization of the Creator's presence in the acts of kindness, love, and stewardship of the environment and each other. "Dancing on Wild Rice" celebrates cultural identity, intergenerational bonds, and the lessons of generosity and belonging, leaving readers with a message of hope and the importance of preserving traditions for future generations.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1736949365
• ISBN13: 9781736949368
• Release Date: February 2024
• Publisher: Black Bears & Blueberries Publishing
• Length: 28 Pages
• Weight: 0.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.5" x 0.1" x 8.5"