Citation: Dodge, S. L. (2017). Minegoo mniku: The Mi’kmaq creation story of Prince Edward Island (G. Francis, Trans.). The Acorn Press.
Minegoo Mniku: the Mi’kmaq Creation Story of Prince Edward Island is a picture book retelling of a classic Mi’kmaq folk tale about the origin of both the Mi’kmaq people and the island sometimes called Minegoo (also known as Epekwitk).
Presented in both English and Mi’kmaq, this origin story is intended for preschool-aged children, and is beautifully illustrated and presented so that any child will enjoy this vivid creation story. The repetition of the English phrase “the Great Spirit decides to do a thing” may grate on some readers who prefer more expressive language, and does little to contribute to the figures’ possible motivations for their actions, but this story nevertheless provides a nice introduction to the rich culture and language of the Mi’kmaq people. The watercolour images are evocative and beautiful, completed by lovely border designs based on Mi’kmaq quill patterns; all in all, this traditional story is worth a read.