Photo: Writer Dre Erwin hopes the story will help young readers develop a stronger connection to their surroundings / Courtesy of Dre Erwin
By Nicole Goldsworthy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SaskToday.ca
Photographer and youth advocate Dre Erwin is sharing a new way to connect with young people through storytelling.
Erwin has released When the Sky Danced, a children’s book inspired by northern Saskatchewan, the northern lights and the stories that connect people to the land. Written for children aged 4 to 8, the book follows a young boy named Kai and his kokum as they spend time together beneath the aurora borealis.
Erwin told SaskToday the book builds on years of work encouraging young people to recognize the strengths, beauty and opportunities within their own communities.
“I wrote it for much the same reason I started the photography work with youth,” Erwin said. “To help children see that there is beauty around them, even when life feels difficult.”
“Young people in northern and rural communities don’t always have the same access to activities, positive mentors and supports as children in cities,” Erwin said. “I wanted to create something they could see a little of their own world in, with a message of curiosity, connection and hope.”
The book is the first title in Erwin’s Under the Northern Lights children’s series and draws heavily on the landscapes, culture and experiences of northern Saskatchewan.
Erwin said a central theme of the project is creating greater visibility for First Nations and Métis youth and the perspectives they bring to their communities.
Erwin said the story was developed over an extended period and included collaboration with First Nations people to help shape the story and its interpretations.
Erwin also said artificial intelligence was used to help develop some illustrated scenes while working toward imagery that reflected northern children and the environment represented in the story.
The project also carries a personal connection. The book includes a dedication to Sandy Bay and to the memory of a young person from the community who passed away.
“That connection is part of what makes it personal,” Erwin said.
Readers can access free companion activities designed to encourage learning, creativity and engagement with the themes explored in the book.
When the Sky Danced is available through Erwin’s website, which includes ordering information and free companion activities.