This year, three books by Indigenous authors are being honoured by the annual First Nations Communities READ program. 

The program, run by the Ontario First Nations public library community under the Ontario Library Service (OLS), and sponsored by Periodical Marketers of Canada, encourages family literacy and intergenerational storytelling. Each year during First Nation Public Library Week, winners of the PMC Indigenous Literature Award are announced. The books are chosen by a jury of Indigenous librarians across Ontario.

In the children’s category, two picture books have been named this year’s winners – a first for the award. We Dream Medicine Dreams (HighWater Press) by author, artist, and bioethicist Lisa Boivin, a member of the Deninu Kue First Nation, honours the relationship between a child and her grandfather. Little Bear in Foster Care (Indigenous Education Press) by Anishinaabe Algonquin author S.P. Joseph Lyons is a story of healing and resilience that encourages young readers to find their voice. 

In the young adult/adult category, Indigenomics: Taking a Seat at the Economic Table (New Society Publishers) by Carol Anne Hilton, of Nuu-chah-nulth descent from the Hesquiaht Nation, was named the winning title. Hilton’s book explains the tenets of the Indigenous economy and calls for a new model of development.

The award comes with a cash prize.