Indigenous People’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the strength, brilliance and excellence in Indigenous identity. In fact, our world wouldn’t look like it does today without the work and impact of Indigenous people from across Turtle Island. This week, we’re highlighting #IndigenousImpact across “Scientists & Inventors”, “Authors”, “Athletes”, and “Leaders”. We're sharing stories that aim to acknowledge their legacies and inspire future generations to continue in their path.

As some of you may know, NNDDC is a company stock full of readers. Whether it's through dynamic storytelling or informative non-fiction, there is always something rich to be learned from these incredible authors.

Richard Van Camp is a prolific Indigenous author from the Dogrib Tłı̨chǫ Nation in the Northwest Territories. Van Camp has made significant contributions to literature through novels, short stories, children's books, and graphic novels. His work often reflects his cultural and upbringing in the NWT and explores themes of identity, community, and resilience. An award-winning author and storyteller, Van Camp is celebrated for his ability to capture the spirit and traditions of Indigenous life with authenticity, empathy, and a lot of humour.  

 Moccasin Square Garden Moccasin Square Garden is a vibrant collection of short stories by Richard Van Camp that delves into the lives of contemporary Indigenous characters in Fort Smith, a small town in the Northwest Territories. The book captures the essence of the community through humor, warmth, and keen observations. Each story introduces unique personalities and situations, from the comedic to the poignant, all reflecting the challenges and joys of life in the North. Through vivid dialogue and rich cultural references, Van Camp paints a lively and affectionate portrait of his hometown, celebrating the resilience and spirit of its people while addressing universal themes of love, loss, and the quest for belonging.

Jessica Johns is a talented Cree author from Treaty 8, Alberta, Canada, whose debut work  explored themes of Indigenous identity, heritage, and the supernatural. A member of Sucker Creek First Nation, Johns brings her community to her writing, creating narratives that resonate deeply with all readers. Her work  intertwines contemporary life with Traditional Cree beliefs and practices, offering a unique and compelling perspective on what exactly goes bump in the night. An emerging voice in Indigenous literature, Johns has quickly gained recognition for her contributions to fiction and poetry, highlighting the resilience and vibrancy of Indigenous communities.

Bad Cree Bad Cree is a gripping debut novel by Jessica Johns that blends horror and mystery with Indigenous spirituality. The story follows Mackenzie, a young Cree woman, who is haunted by vivid and disturbing dreams that begin to manifest in her waking life. As Mackenzie seeks to understand the connection between her dreams and a family tragedy, she is drawn back to her home and her Cree roots. There, she confronts the lingering impact of grief and trauma while reconnecting with her cultural heritage. Bad Cree masterfully weaves elements of the supernatural with real-life struggles, creating a powerful narrative about healing, identity, and the enduring strength of female relationships, community, and tradition.

Niigaan Sinclair is an Anishinaabe author, scholar, and activist, currently serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Indigenous Studies at the University of Manitoba. Renowned for his insightful contributions to Indigenous education and social perspectives, Sinclair's work focuses on Indigenous rights, culture, and history. Sinclair is a dedicated activist as he is involved with a number of Winnipeg organizations focused on uplifting communities at all levels. Sinclair’s academic and literary endeavors have made him a prominent voice in advancing the understanding Indigenous perspectives in Canada.

Wînipêk: Visions of Canada from an Indigenous Centre Wînipêk: Visions of Canada from an Indigenous Centre is a powerful  work by Niigaan Sinclair that explores the role of Winnipeg (Wînipêk) as a central hub for Indigenous culture, politics, and identity in Canada. Through a collection of essays and reflections, Sinclair examines the historical and contemporary significance of the city from an Indigenous viewpoint. The book delves into the challenges and triumphs faced by Indigenous communities in Winnipeg, highlighting their resilience and contributions to the broader Canadian society. By presenting a nuanced narrative of Wînipêk, Sinclair invites readers to rethink the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, envisioning a future grounded in mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration.

Cherie Dimaline is a celebrated Métis author from the Georgian Bay Métis community in Ontario. Acclaimed for her compelling storytelling that weaves together Indigenous history, culture, and contemporary issues, beginning with her groundbreaking debut work, “The Marrow Thieves”. Dimaline has garnered numerous awards and accolades for her work, including the prestigious Governor General's Award for English-language children's literature. Her writing often explores themes of identity, survival, and resistance, resonating deeply with readers. Dimaline's novels and short stories are known for their lyrical prose and strong, memorable characters, establishing her as a significant voice in Indigenous literature.

VENCO VENCO by Cherie Dimaline is an enthralling novel that blends elements of fantasy and Indigenous Traditional Knowledge within a gripping contemporary world. The story follows a young Métis woman named Lucky St. James, who discovers a mysterious witch coven known as VENCO. As Lucky becomes entwined with the coven's members, she uncovers hidden truths about her heritage and the powerful magic that runs through her bloodline. Set against the backdrop of a modern urban landscape, VENCO delves into themes of empowerment, community, and the fight against systemic oppression. Dimaline crafts a captivating tale of resilience and transformation, inviting readers into a world where ancient magic and modern struggles intersect.