Author Background: David A. Robertson
David A. Robertson is a Cree author from Winnipeg, Manitoba, known for his impactful children’s literature. His book When We Were Alone won the 2017 Governor General’s Literary Award, highlighting his ability to address difficult historical themes with sensitivity and clarity. Robertson has written over 25 books for young readers, focusing on Indigenous experiences and residential school history, making him a significant voice in contemporary Indigenous literature.
1.1. Biography and Literary Contributions
David A. Robertson is a Cree author from Winnipeg, Manitoba, known for his impactful storytelling and contributions to Indigenous literature. He has written over 25 books for young readers, focusing on residential school history, cultural identity, and empowerment. His work bridges generations, preserving Indigenous culture while addressing historical injustices, making him a vital voice in contemporary Canadian literature.
1.2. Other Notable Works
David A. Robertson has written several notable works beyond When We Were Alone, including The Reckoner trilogy and Strangers. These books explore themes of identity, justice, and Indigenous experiences, further solidifying his impact on children’s literature. His work continues to be widely recognized and celebrated, contributing significantly to the genre.
1.3. Impact on Indigenous Literature
David A. Robertson has significantly influenced Indigenous literature by sharing stories that highlight Cree culture and history. His work, including When We Were Alone, has brought attention to residential school experiences, fostering reconciliation and cultural understanding. Robertson’s contributions have made Indigenous voices more prominent, enriching the literary landscape with authentic and meaningful narratives;
Illustrator Background: Julie Flett
Julie Flett is a renowned Indigenous illustrator whose work blends traditional and contemporary styles. Her evocative visuals in When We Were Alone enhance the emotional depth of the narrative, creating a poignant connection with the story’s themes and characters.
2.1. Artistic Style and Contributions
Julie Flett’s artistic style is a blend of traditional and contemporary techniques, creating evocative, emotionally resonant illustrations. Her use of soft colors and minimalistic compositions in When We Were Alone enhances the story’s emotional depth, making her a vital contributor to the book’s visual narrative and its impactful storytelling.
2.2. Collaboration with David A. Robertson
Julie Flett’s collaboration with David A. Robertson on When We Were Alone brought together their shared passion for Indigenous storytelling. Flett’s illustrations complemented Robertson’s narrative, creating a visually and emotionally compelling book. Their teamwork resulted in a powerful exploration of residential school history, blending text and art to convey resilience and cultural strength, ultimately earning the Governor General’s Literary Award.
Publication Details
When We Were Alone was published by HighWater Press and Portage & Main Press, released on December 1, 2016; It is available in PDF, EPUB, and Kindle formats.
3.1. Publisher and Publication Year
When We Were Alone was published by HighWater Press and Portage & Main Press. The book was released on December 1, 2016. This collaboration brought together Robertson’s storytelling and Flett’s illustrations, creating a powerful narrative about residential schools and cultural resilience. The publication marked an important contribution to Indigenous literature, earning widespread recognition and acclaim for its historical and emotional depth.
3.2. Editions and Formats
When We Were Alone is available in multiple formats, including hardcover, paperback, and digital versions such as PDF, EPUB, and Kindle. A unique edition includes text in both English and Swampy Cree syllabics, highlighting Indigenous language preservation. These formats ensure accessibility for a wide range of readers, making the story accessible in schools, libraries, and personal collections. The book’s versatility caters to diverse reading preferences and educational needs.
3.3. Inclusion of Swampy Cree Syllabics
When We Were Alone features a unique edition with text in both English and Swampy Cree syllabics, translated by Alderick Leask. This inclusion highlights the importance of Indigenous language preservation and cultural identity. The dual-language format allows readers to connect with the story in its original linguistic context, enriching the narrative and fostering cross-cultural understanding. This edition is a celebration of Cree heritage and linguistic diversity.
Plot Summary
When We Were Alone follows a young girl and her grandmother tending to their garden. The girl’s curiosity about her grandmother’s past leads to a heartfelt story of resilience, love, and survival during the residential school era.
4.1. Story Premise
When We Were Alone centers on a young girl who notices her grandmother’s colorful clothing and long braided hair, sparking curiosity. Her grandmother shares stories of life in a residential school, where Indigenous traditions were suppressed. This heartfelt conversation bridges generations, offering a poignant yet empowering narrative about resilience, cultural identity, and the impact of history on family and community.
4.2. Key Characters and Their Roles
The young girl’s curiosity about her grandmother’s colorful clothing and long braided hair sparks a meaningful dialogue. The grandmother shares her residential school experiences, embodying resilience and wisdom. Their interaction bridges generations, illustrating the impact of historical injustices and the importance of cultural preservation. Through their bond, the story highlights the strength of familial connections, the transmission of history, and empowerment through shared experiences.
Themes Explored
Empowerment and resilience shine through the grandmother’s strength in overcoming adversity. The story highlights the impact of residential schools and the importance of cultural preservation, celebrating Indigenous identity and heritage.
5.1. Empowerment and Resilience
The story underscores the grandmother’s quiet strength and resilience, as she maintains her identity despite the oppressive residential school system. Her long braided hair and colorful clothing symbolize her refusal to surrender her culture. The girl’s curiosity and connection with her grandmother highlight the intergenerational transmission of resilience, showing how empowerment arises from preserving one’s heritage and identity.
5.2. Residential Schools and Historical Context
The book addresses the traumatic legacy of residential schools, where Indigenous children were forcibly assimilated. The grandmother’s story reveals how their hair was cut, languages silenced, and cultural practices erased. This historical context highlights the systemic oppression faced by Indigenous communities, providing a poignant backdrop for the narrative while making the story accessible to young readers.
5.3; Cultural Preservation
The book emphasizes the importance of preserving Indigenous culture through language, traditions, and family bonds. The inclusion of Swampy Cree syllabics and Roman orthography highlights linguistic heritage. The grandmother’s colorful clothing and long braided hair symbolize cultural pride, while her storytelling bridges generations, ensuring history and traditions are not forgotten, fostering resilience and identity.
Awards and Recognition
When We Were Alone won the 2017 Governor General’s Literary Award and was a finalist for the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award, recognizing its impactful storytelling and cultural significance.
6.1. Governor General’s Literary Award
When We Were Alone received the prestigious 2017 Governor General’s Literary Award in the Young People’s Literature – Illustrated Books category. This honor highlights the book’s profound storytelling and its role in addressing Canada’s residential school history with sensitivity, making it a landmark work in children’s literature that bridges the past and present for young readers.
6.2. Other Nominations and Accolades
Beyond the Governor General’s Award, When We Were Alone was a finalist for the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award, recognizing its impactful storytelling. The book has also been praised for its gentle yet powerful introduction to residential school history, making it a highly recommended resource for educators and a cherished read for children and families alike.
Cultural Significance
When We Were Alone holds profound cultural significance by preserving Indigenous history and language, while fostering reconciliation. It introduces young readers to residential school experiences, blending tradition and resilience.
7.1. Representation of Indigenous Culture
When We Were Alone authentically represents Indigenous culture through its portrayal of Cree traditions, language, and resilience. The inclusion of Swampy Cree syllabics and cultural practices highlights the richness of Indigenous heritage, offering readers a window into the history and strength of Cree communities while addressing the impacts of colonialism with sensitivity and clarity.
7.2. Role in Reconciliation Efforts
When We Were Alone plays a vital role in reconciliation by educating young readers about residential schools and their legacy. Through its gentle yet powerful narrative, the book fosters empathy and understanding, encouraging dialogue about Indigenous experiences and the importance of healing and justice in building a more inclusive society.
The Grandmother’s Character
The grandmother in When We Were Alone embodies strength and wisdom, sharing her residential school experiences to preserve cultural identity and empower her granddaughter with truth and resilience.
8.1. Symbolism and Strength
The grandmother’s colorful clothing and long braided hair symbolize her resilience and cultural identity. Despite the oppressive residential school system, she retains her heritage, showcasing strength. Her presence embodies survival and the preservation of Indigenous traditions, inspiring her granddaughter to embrace their shared history and identity with pride and determination. Her story is a testament to enduring cultural spirit and familial bonds.
8.2. Historical Insights Through Her Story
The grandmother’s narrative provides a poignant reflection of the residential school experience. Her story reveals the forced assimilation, cultural suppression, and emotional trauma endured by Indigenous children. The vivid details of her past, such as the cutting of her hair and the suppression of her language, offer a powerful glimpse into this painful history and its lasting impact on Indigenous communities and identities.
The Girl’s Character
The girl’s curiosity drives her to uncover her grandmother’s past, fostering growth and a deeper connection to her heritage. Her questions bridge generations, revealing resilience and strength.
9.1. Curiosity and Growth
The girl’s curiosity about her grandmother’s past sparks her growth, as she uncovers the history of residential schools and the strength of her heritage. Her questions reveal a desire to understand, fostering a deeper connection to her roots and bridging generations through storytelling. This journey of discovery highlights her evolving perspective and emotional growth.
9.2. Role in Bridging Generations
The girl acts as a bridge between generations by engaging with her grandmother’s stories, preserving her heritage, and fostering intergenerational understanding. Her curiosity and the grandmother’s shared experiences create a bond, ensuring cultural traditions and resilience are passed down. This connection highlights the importance of family ties in maintaining identity and historical awareness, enriching both their lives.
Historical Context
When We Were Alone reflects on Canada’s residential school system, which forcibly assimilated Indigenous children, suppressing their culture and language. This system, central to the story, highlights a painful, transformative era in history.
10.1. Residential Schools Overview
Residential schools were institutions designed to assimilate Indigenous children into European-Canadian culture. Children were forcibly taken from their families, forbidden from speaking their languages or practicing cultural traditions. These schools, operated by government and religious entities, aimed to erase Indigenous identities, causing profound intergenerational trauma and cultural loss, as depicted in When We Were Alone.
10.2. Impact on Indigenous Communities
Residential schools caused profound, lasting harm to Indigenous communities, erasing cultures, languages, and family structures. The trauma inflicted continues to affect generations, as seen in When We Were Alone, which highlights the resilience of Indigenous identity and the strength of cultural preservation despite systemic oppression and forced assimilation. This historical pain remains a vital part of Canada’s reckoning and reconciliation efforts.
Language and Translation
When We Were Alone incorporates Swampy Cree syllabics alongside English, preserving Indigenous language and culture. This bilingual approach honors the Cree heritage and makes the story accessible to a broader audience while respecting linguistic traditions.
11.1. Use of Swampy Cree
The inclusion of Swampy Cree syllabics in When We Were Alone is a testament to the preservation of Indigenous language and culture. This bilingual representation allows young readers to connect with the Cree heritage, while also making the story accessible to non-Cree speakers. The use of Cree language enriches the narrative, providing cultural authenticity and depth to the grandmother’s story.
11.2. Translation Process and Significance
The translation of When We Were Alone into Swampy Cree syllabics was a meticulous process led by translator Alderick Leask. This bilingual edition ensures the story’s cultural authenticity while bridging language gaps, making it accessible to Cree and non-Cree readers alike. The translation underscores the importance of preserving Indigenous languages and fostering cross-cultural understanding, enriching the narrative’s emotional and educational impact for diverse audiences.
Relevance to Young Readers
When We Were Alone is tailored for children, offering a gentle yet impactful introduction to residential school history. Its accessible language and emotional depth make it an invaluable educational tool for young learners, fostering empathy and understanding while preserving Indigenous culture and resilience.
12.1. Tailoring for Children
The narrative is crafted to resonate with young readers, using simple yet profound language to explore complex themes. The story’s emotional depth and relatable characters help children connect with the experiences of others, while the grandmother-granddaughter dynamic provides a gentle and accessible entry point for understanding historical injustices and cultural resilience.
12.2. Educational Value
When We Were Alone serves as a vital educational tool, introducing young readers to Canada’s residential school history. The book fosters empathy and understanding, encouraging discussions about identity, culture, and resilience. Its accessible narrative makes it an invaluable resource for educators, helping to integrate Indigenous perspectives into school curricula and promote reconciliation efforts through informed dialogue and reflection.
Availability as PDF
When We Were Alone is available as a PDF file, accessible through various digital platforms. Published by HighWater Press and Portage & Main Press, the book can be downloaded in English and Swampy Cree syllabics, offering readers convenient access to this impactful story.
13.1. Access and Formats
When We Were Alone is available in multiple formats, including PDF, EPUB, and Kindle. The PDF version can be accessed through digital platforms like Amazon, Google Books, and OverDrive, ensuring easy readability across devices. This format preserves the original illustrations and bilingual text in English and Swampy Cree syllabics, maintaining the book’s cultural and linguistic integrity for readers worldwide.
13.2. Digital Platforms and Accessibility
When We Were Alone is accessible on major digital platforms such as Amazon, Google Books, and OverDrive. The PDF version ensures compatibility with various devices, including e-readers, tablets, and smartphones. Enhanced accessibility features like adjustable font sizes and screen readers make the book inclusive for readers with visual or reading challenges, promoting widespread accessibility and engagement with the story.
Educational Use
When We Were Alone is integrated into school curriculums to teach children about residential schools, fostering empathy and historical understanding. Its accessible PDF format and discussion guides make it a valuable educational resource for teachers and students alike.
14.1. Integration into School Curriculum
When We Were Alone is widely used in schools to teach children about Canada’s residential school history. Its accessible language and emotional depth make it suitable for younger readers, helping them understand this difficult period. The book’s PDF format and accompanying discussion guides provide educators with tools to foster meaningful conversations about identity, resilience, and reconciliation in the classroom.
14.2. Teaching Tools and Resources
Teachers can access PDF guides and lesson plans for When We Were Alone, offering structured activities to explore its themes. These resources include discussion prompts, historical context, and reflection exercises, helping educators address Indigenous history and cultural preservation effectively. The book’s digital format facilitates easy distribution and use in classrooms, enhancing its educational accessibility and impact for young learners.
When We Were Alone is a poignant story of resilience and cultural preservation, leaving a lasting impact on readers. Its accessible PDF format ensures widespread educational reach, fostering empathy and understanding of Indigenous history among young learners and beyond.
15;1. Summary of the Book’s Importance
When We Were Alone is a vital story that educates young readers about the residential school system, emphasizing themes of empowerment, resilience, and cultural preservation. Its accessible PDF format makes it a valuable resource for schools, promoting reconciliation and fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous history and identity. The book’s gentle yet powerful narrative ensures its lasting impact on readers of all ages.
15.2. Lasting Effects on Readers and Literature
When We Were Alone leaves a profound impact by fostering empathy and understanding of Indigenous experiences. Its accessible PDF format ensures widespread educational use, contributing to reconciliation efforts. The book’s literary acclaim, including the Governor General’s Award, highlights its influence in children’s literature, inspiring further exploration of Indigenous stories and histories, while promoting cultural awareness and healing for future generations.