Learn about the rhythms of the seasons with Joshua in this captivating read-aloud story for ages 5 to 8.

Joshua loves being on the land. When the weather is warm, Joshua and his dad gather mint from the shores of Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek (Lake Nipigon First Nation) in northeastern Ontario. But when will that be? It’s not when the leaves are changing colour. It’s not when the snow falls from the sky. It’s not when the flowers are budding. When is it time to gather mint from the land?

In the back of the book, find a glossary and pronunciation guide for the Omushkegomowin (Swampy Cree language) and Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe language) words featured throughout the story.

Cheerful cartoon images. Gently rhythmic narrative. Refreshing in its uplift of Indigenous languages.

With clear, vibrant illustrations...[a] picture book that draws you in thanks to Joshua's evident delight in learning with his family. A fun addition to any child's library.

For teachers of young students who are just learning the way seasons work, Dad, Is It Time to Gather Mint? would be a fabulous and sensitive introduction, with an Indigenous emphasis on language–two languages in fact–and traditional practices of hunting, fishing, gathering and more.

Swampy Cree…and Anishinaabemowin words are interwoven seamlessly into the simply stated sentences. Dao’s vibrant illustrations radiate warmth and connection. Sharing land-based Indigenous knowledge, this is an informative picture-book-series opener.

Tyna Legault Taylor (she/her) is a member of Attawapiskat First Nation located on the Traditional Territory of the Omushkego James Bay Cree of Treaty 9 in Northern Ontario, Canada. She lives in Thunder Bay, Ontario, with her son, Joshua, and husband, Darryl. She is pursuing her PhD in Health Sciences at Lakehead University, with a focus on water justice and water sovereignty in Indigenous communities. Tyna also received her bachelor's and master's degrees from Lakehead University. Her master's research explored food justice and ongoing healing through stories of Cree food knowledge and land-based practices, as well as Indigenous food sovereignty in Attawapiskat First Nation. Michelle Dao (she/her) is a Vietnamese Canadian illustrator based just outside Toronto, Ontario, who has primarily worked in animation. She is a graduate of Seneca College’s Illustration program, specializing in children’s illustrations and media. Michelle has a passion for creating enthralling worlds, charming characters, and dreamy colour palettes.