This affectionate memoir is a welcome and discussion-provoking addition to the growing body of native literature for children. Set in 1944, it recreates the summer Lawrence Loyie was 10 years old, the last summer he spent with his Cree family before a Canadian government program forced him to attend residential school.

Almost 60 years later, Loyie is a playwright, short story writer, and recipient of a 2001 Canada Post Literacy Award for Individual Achievement. In collaboration with author-editor Brissenden and supported solidly by the deft portrayals of illustrator Holmlund, he documents “a way of life that is fast disappearing.” It’s a way that revolves around love of family, appreciation of nature’s bounty, respect for land, and acceptance of an obligation to care for that land.

Loyie engages readers with a story format. His first three chapters weave facts about traditional Cree summer life into a narrative about Lawrence and his family. His kokum (grandmother) is a particularly fascinating woman. The fourth and final chapter concludes with four crying siblings loaded into a truck that’s taking them away from home. A four-page epilogue, with nine black-and-white photos, comments briefly on residential schools and Lawrence’s experience.

As Long as the Rivers Flow features 30 vibrant watercolour illustrations on double- and single-page spreads. A collection of more than 20 smaller pictures creates the feeling of a family photo album.

This book is a valuable curriculum resource and a good read. In addition, the cover will appeal to reluctant male readers