In The Secret of Your Name, David Bouchard – prolific author, literacy advocate, and Member of the Order of Canada – delivers a succinct but powerful account of personal discovery. Although much of his writing has a strong Aboriginal focus, Bouchard had always believed his ancestry was European. In recent years, however, he learned that his grandmothers were native, and he is, in fact, Métis, the only mixed-blood nation recognized by every level of government.

Bouchard begins his book with a foreword that outlines the manipulation, deception, and theft of land, pride, and culture the Métis  have experienced. He also tells of humiliation devastating enough to cause mixed-blood families to reject their native roots in favour of “more acceptable European bloodlines.” With context established, Bouchard moves on to 27 four-line stanzas that poignantly reveal his family’s secret, the discovery’s emotional impact, and his commitment to seeking out and sharing his lost heritage.

Bouchard’s book is a unique celebration of Métis language, art, and music. It includes a translation of Bouchard’s text into Michif (the Métis language). It also features 18 paintings by Métis artist Dennis J. Weber. Perceptively interpreting Bouchard’s cri de coeur, Weber’s portraits, peopled scenes, and still-lifes introduce Métis heroes, elaborate on Métis culture, and subtly juxtapose spiritual and temporal worlds. The book also comes with a CD featuring English and Michif readings bookended by a toe-tapping delivery of the “Red River Jig” by John Arcand, Métis master fiddler.

In 1885, Métis leader Louis Riel, Jr. reportedly predicted, “My people will sleep for one hundred years. When they awaken, it will be the artists who give them back their spirit.” Bouchard has experienced such an awakening, and his passionate, artistic collaboration with Weber and Arcand will be a wake-up call and rallying cry to others. The Secret of Your Name is a must-have title for Canadiana and Aboriginal collections, Métis communities and families, and libraries providing support for Aboriginal curricula at all academic levels.