I Is for Inuksuk: An Arctic Celebration

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About I Is For Inuksuk: An Arctic Celebration

Product Description Presented in the form of an acrostic, I is for Inuksuk highlights the traditional way of life of Inuit people. Each letter of the word "Inuksuk" is represented by another Inuktitut word — I is for Inuksuk, N is for Nanuq, U is for Umiak, and so forth. Dazzling full-spread illustrations begin each section, and opposite the first page, the words are written in Inuktitut symbols. Readers then learn more about each Inuktitut word and how it represents the people and natural environment from which it comes. Throughout the book, small vignettes showcase Wallace’s love and knowledge of the Arctic landscape, its people, and its culture. From School Library Journal Grade 1–5—This book doubles as an acrostic poem and a rich exploration of Arctic life. The introduction explains that Arctic people have built Inuksuit, stone towers, as guides for thousands of years. They can mark directions, or food caches. They aid hunting, or mark memorials. Each letter of the word "Inuksuk" is given two pages. The first spread shows a boldly colored and textured painting and explains the term. Then each letter is associated with an aspect of Arctic life, e.g., "N is for Nanuq." The word appears in English and in Inuktitut syllabics. The following page gives more information. "N is for Nanuq, the powerful polar bear of the North." A few smaller paintings illustrate sentences about the subject. The back matter includes a reference to the Inuksuit in the book and a pronunciation guide to Inuktitut words. This book succeeds wonderfully as a simple alphabet book and as an exceptional exploration of Arctic life and culture. Older readers who want to learn more about Inuksuit and Inuit culture will appreciate Mary Wallace's The Inuksuk Book (OwlKids, 1999).— Amelia Jenkins, Juneau Public Library, AK Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Review The Olympic inuksuk is likely to have people across the world wondering about these noble symbols of Canada, and so Canadian families are going to enjoy discussing I is for Inuksuk and Wallace's evocative artwork. ( CM Magazine: Canadian Review of Materials) Wallace’s illustrations are truly a celebration — hauntingly beautiful and evocative of bygone days…A stimulating look at an oft-overlooked culture. ( Kirkus Reviews) This book is a great introduction to Inuit life and the Arctic environment…Wallace’s beautiful paintings are a joyous celebration of the majestic Arctic landscape. ( Resource Links) This book succeeds wonderfully as a simple alphabet book and as an exceptional exploration of Arctic life and culture. ( School Library Journal) Clearly a work of love, this translates the north for young children. ( Toronto Star) I learned something new on every page of this book...So, so fascinating! ( Silly Eagle Books Blog 2011-06-30) About the Author MARY WALLACE has spent almost 20 years teaching arts and art education to children and adults. She has written and illustrated over a dozen books for children and has received many awards and nominations, including a National Outdoor Book Award for The Inuksuk Book. She lives in St. Thomas, ON.