A first conversation about the importance of Orange Shirt Day - Every Child Matters and what little ones can expect to see and do on Orange Shirt Day - The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. An authentic, touch-and-feel board book designed for ages 0-3 written by the founder of the Orange Shirt Day movement and author of the bestselling book Every Child Matters.

Orange Shirt Day is a day recognized annually on September 30th to honor the experiences of Survivors of Indian Residential Schools, their families, and the children who did not come home. It is a day that offers space for healing and Reconciliation across Turtle Island, honoring the truth that Every Child Matters. Orange Shirt Day was recognized in Canada as a Federal Statutory Holiday in 2021, as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Medicine Wheel Publishing is committed to sharing diverse voices and perspectives, creating a platform for stories that celebrate Indigenous cultures and inspire understanding and respect among readers of all ages.

About the Author
Phyllis Webstad (nee Jack) is Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) from the Stswecem'c Xget'tem First Nation (Canoe Creek Indian Band). She comes from mixed Secwepemc and Irish/French heritage. She was born in Dog Creek and lives in Williams Lake, BC, Canada. In 2018 Phyllis Webstad launched her children's book called "The Orange Shirt Story" to share her story in her own words. The Orange shirt story tells the story of young Phyllis having her orange shirt taken away on her first day of Residential School and never to see it again. A simple orange shirt has become a conversation starter for all aspects of Residential School across Canada and beyond. Phyllis has inspired thousands and thousands of people to honour Residential School Survivors and their families and share the call on September 30th of each year that "EVERY CHILD MATTERS." Phyllis is well respected for her work as an ambassador for the Orange Shirt Day, her courage and for striving to heal our communities and Nation through speaking her truth. Natassia Davies is a professional artist, graphic designer, and illustrator living on British Columbia's vibrant West Coast. Interweaving her Coast Salish heritage with a multi-disciplinary skillset and a passion for storytelling, Natassia amplifies the voices of Indigenous peoples through transformative visual communication. She has illustrated several children's books, including White Raven, written by Teoni Spathelfer, which was shortlisted for the Indigenous Voices Awards and the City of Victoria Children's Book Prize.

Reviews

"Bright colors and imagery associated with Indigenous culture fill the pages, inviting young children to explore and discover each one... An accessible way for families to celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of every individual, and to support the ongoing memory of those who experienced life in Canada's residential school system."

-School Library Journal

"Webstad's inviting picture book for very young children offers an introduction to Orange Shirt Day. T his story opens up many opportunities for discussions about the devastating and far-reaching impacts of discrimination and how we can work together to create a more inclusive and peaceful world."

-Publishers Weekly, Booklife Review

Awards
Winner of IBPA Book Award 2024 (United States).



Book Information
ISBN 9781778540363
Author Phyllis Webstad
Page Count 24
Imprint Medicine Wheel
Publisher Medicine Wheel