Inhabit Media

This Inuit legend, shared by Sanikiluaq Elder Lisi Kavik-Mickiyuk as a bi-lingual story, explains the origins of a unique location outside of Sanikiluaq, Nunavut. 

On a hill outside the community, it is said that ghostly dog growls can be heard. The Inuktitut name for the hill, Qalinguluk, means “a place where you can sometimes hear dogs growling.” In this book, readers will learn about the origin of these mysterious dogs and how they came to be associated with this hill.

Watercolour illustrations by long-time Sanikiluaq resident Margaret Lawrence give the book an authentic feeling of this distinctive place. 

"A lively #ownvoices romp into the power of intention—and the hilarity of trial and error."—Kirkus Reviews 

When the earth was new, words had the power to breathe life into the world. But when creating animals from breath, sometimes one does not get everything right on the first try! Based on a traditional Inuit story passed forward orally for generations in the South Baffin region of Nunavut, this book shares with young readers the origin of the caribou and the walrus—and tells of how very different these animals looked when they were first conceived.

Every solstice, Jupi—just as his father did before him, and his before him—must make a nearly impossible pilgrimage to light an oil lamp at the base of a remote cliff. There he must wait for Kipik, an ancient being who has bound Jupi’s family to a mammoth task: share a story every visit that appeases the fickle Kipik, or suffer unthinkable consequences.

For decades Jupi has made the trek, growing grey and exhausted carrying this burden. Nearing the end of his life, Jupi knows he must name a successor, someone from his bloodline who can carry this weight and pass it on to future generations. But Jupi’s life has not been easy. His three children, one deceased, one incarcerated, one addicted, are not suitable successors. So Jupi must connect with a granddaughter he barely knows, whose language he barely speaks, and convince her to carry the weight of their family, perhaps their whole community, for the rest of her life.

This moving collection explores shifting definitions of what it means to be accountable to others, how family and community are defined, and how the spirits and demons of the past (both personal and legendary) are very much alive today.

Nanuraq and Jeela can’t wait to visit their grandmother at her cabin!

The cabin is cozy with the smell of bannock and a qulliq glowing. Grandma explains how she made the qulliq herself! Before long, the kids are pointing out other neat things around the cabin, like wooden dolls, bone toys, and pincushions. The kids learn that Grandma has made all of these items out of found objects.

Through exploring the cabin with their grandmother, the kids learn about the importance of being creative and not being wasteful.

Piujuq is a kind young woman who loves to take long walks on the tundra and dance by her favourite lake surrounded by butterflies. But one day, she encounters a stranger on her walk. When this person asks a favour of Piujuq, she happily obliges, and that kindness leaves Piujuq stuck in the body of a caterpillar. Alone, and thinking that no one could ever love her because of how she looks, Piujuq does not return to her camp. Instead, she lives a lonely life on the tundra as a caterpillar. Until one day, when another stranger appears . . .
Based on a traditional Inuit story, this tale of inner beauty, kindness, and magic is a perfect addition to any young reader's bookshelf.

This new collection of horror short fiction weaves together contemporary Arctic settings with ancient monsters and mysterious beings that have been said to stalk the tundra for centuries. Featuring authors from across the Canadian Arctic, this new volume of Taaqtumi—an Inuktitut word that means “In the Dark”—reveals just how horrifying the dark can be.

Featuring new fiction from award-winning authors Aviaq Johnston, Rachel and Sean Qitsualik-Tinsley and Jamesie Fournier, as well as new voices in the genre, this collection is perfect for any horror lover.

For thousands of years, Inuit women practised the traditional art of tattooing. Created with bone needles and caribou sinew soaked in seal oil or soot, these tattoos were an important tradition for many women, symbols stitched in their skin that connected them to their families and communities.
But with the rise of missionaries and residential schools in the North, the tradition of tattooing was almost lost. In 2005, when Angela Hovak Johnston heard that the last Inuk woman tattooed in the traditional way had died, she set out to tattoo herself and learn how to tattoo others. What was at first a personal quest became a project to bring the art of traditional tattooing back to Inuit women across Nunavut, starting in the community of Kugluktuk.
Collected in this beautiful book are moving photos and stories from more than two dozen women who participated in Johnston’s project. Together, these women are reawakening their ancestors’ lines and sharing this knowledge with future generations.

Amaruq: The Wolf was one of the first full-length novels ever written in Inuktitut. Out of print for over twenty years, this groundbreaking novel has been re-transcribed, translated, and meticulously edited to produce a commercially available bilingual version for the first time.

Written by Inuit Elder Uvinik Qamaniq, this sweeping novel oscillates between time and place. Alternating between a modern Arctic community, where a teen lives with his family and navigates the challenges of family life, to the world of Inuit stories woven by the teen’s grandfather, who tells the boy of the epic coming-of-age journey of Amaruq, a young shaman, this book highlights the power of stories to teach and inform everyday experiences. With a cover illustrated by renowned Inuit artist Germaine Arnattaujuq.

Utilizing intricately blended visual and written imagery, Arctic Dreams and Nightmares takes the reader on an Arctic journey interpreted through the mythological and contemporary world of an Inuit artist and author. Containing twenty short stories with accompanying pen ink drawings, it is the first publication to exclusively feature the writing and artwork of Alootook Ipellie. At the time of its original publication in 1993, Arctic Dreams and Nightmares was one of the few books to be written by an Inuk in Canada, and became a landmark in the emerging discipline of Inuit literature.

When a poor farming family loses their only cow, Bukolla, the parents send their son to look for it. After much searching, the boy discovers Bukolla and frees her. But, they are soon pursued by ogres! The boy and his cow work to escape the ogres—with some magical help from Bukolla.

USBBY OUTSTANDING INTERNATIONAL BOOK 

"[A] wonderful and touching story" — New York Time Book Review

"A breath of warmth from the far north"— Kirkus Reviews

Susan and her sister, Rebecca, love watching their mother write letters to people in other camps. Their mother has one precious pencil, and she keeps it safe in her box for special things. One afternoon, their mother leaves the iglu to help a neighbour, and Susan, Rebecca, and their brother Peter are left with their father. They play all their regular games but are soon out of things to do—until their father brings out the pencil! As Susan draws and draws, the pencil grows shorter and shorter. What will their mother think when she comes home? Based on author Susan Avingaq’s childhood memories of growing up in an iglu, this charming story introduces young readers to the idea of using things wisely.

In addition to the many types of bird that live in the Arctic year-round, there are about one hundred species that travel seasonally to the Arctic to lay their eggs and raise their young.
In this book, young readers learn about twelve of the birds that call the Arctic home, whether that be for all or part of the year.
With a simple layout and easy-to-follow headings for each bird, this beautiful book is filled with fun, useful facts, including where to look for eggs and nests during the short Arctic summer and how to recognize each bird's call on the wind.
Because migratory birds live in the Arctic for part of the year, many of the feathered friends covered in A Children's Guide to Arctic Birds can be seen at various times of the year throughout North America.

This beautifully illustrated picture books tells the story of the spirit of the sea, referred to as Nuliajuq, Sedna, Takannaaluk, and many other Inuktitut names.
Once a young woman who refused to marry, the lies and deceit of a treacherous bird and her own father's cowardice lead Nuliajuq to a life of solitude at the bottom of the ocean as the powerful, at times vengeful, spirit of the sea.

The Spirit of the Sea provides young readers with an authentic retelling of one of the most important, powerful legends in the canon of Inuit traditional stories.

“A bilingual sampler—cold of setting but warm of spirit.” — ★ Kirkus

Kudlu's children will not go to sleep until he tells them a story of long ago. Before they will shut their eyes, they want to hear about a time long before Kudlu was born, a time when the world was magic. Before they can sleep, they want to hear about giants, animals disguised as humans, little people the size of lemmings, and all of the other wonderful things that existed way back then.

Little Bo is afraid of the dark. When the other troll children run out into the night to play, he doesn’t dare to follow them. One day at sunrise his best friend Glowy doesn’t return to the cave. If trolls are outside when the sun shines they turn into stone! But even though the sun is about to rise above the distant mountains, Bo runs out to rescue his friend. . . .

After his snowmobile breaks down halfway across the sea ice on a trip back from a fishing camp, Serapio Ittusardjuat recounts the traditional skills and knowledge he leaned on to stay alive.

This harrowing first-person account of four nights spent on the open sea ice—with few supplies and no water—shows young readers the determination and strength necessary to survive in the harsh Arctic climate, even when the worst occurs.

Akuluk is not excited about visiting her grandparents in Nunavut. She would rather head south for summer vacation, somewhere with roller coasters and cotton candy. There can't be much to do way up there, Akuluk figures. But as soon as she steps off the plane and sees all the exciting animals that the tundra has to offer, Akuluk forgets all about her dreams of going south. On her first full day in Nunavut, she can't wait to travel out on the land with her grandfather to hunt for wild eggs.

As she learns about the different types of eggs, how to collect them properly, and the delicious meals that can be prepared with them, Akuluk knows that this is just the beginning of the exciting things she'll learn about the Arctic.

Based on an Inuit traditional story passed down orally for generations, The Cannibal tells the horrific tale of a family experiencing starvation when the animals they rely on for survival disappear. While the wife stays alive by eating plants she gathers daily, the husband does the unthinkable, resorting to murder and cannibalism. Horrified, and terrified for her life, the wife eventually finds herself alone in camp with her husband. She knows what will happen to her if she does not find a way to escape. Hatching a plan, the exhausted wife embarks on the journey with her murderous husband in pursuit. After safely arriving at a nearby camp, she shares the story of what has become of her camp, and her own children. Soon the husband arrives, and the camp must decide how to deal with the cannibal. Both horrific and poignant, this cautionary traditional story provides a window into the at times harsh realities of traditional life.

In this complex, at times dark, poetry collection from Inuk author Jamesie Fournier, readers are taken through the recesses of a character struggling with inner demons whispering into his mind. As he attempts to overcome his inner turmoil within a Colonial and contemporary system that oppresses him, the speaker guides readers through verse both ethereal and imagistic. Echoing artists as varied as Margaret Laurence and The Velvet Underground, this sweeping collection of bilingual verse deals with erasure, resilience, and—above all—resistance through the voice of one complex protagonist.

As Owl swoops down and blocks the entrance to a lemming den, he is sure that he has a tasty meal in the little animal he has cornered. But this lemming is not about to be eaten! This smart little rodent will need to appeal to the boastful owl's sense of pride to get away.

All Inuit know about the qalupaliit, strange creatures that live under the sea ice and carry away unsuspecting children on their backs. But when one bright young orphan strays too close to the ice, he soon learns that while qalupaliit may be very scary, they are also easily tricked.

A “kunik” is a traditional Inuit greeting, often given to loved ones, in which a person places their nose on another’s cheek and breathes them in. Where the Sea Kuniks the Land extends that gesture of love to the Arctic landscape, in a suite of poems that celebrates the interconnectedness of people and place, past and present.

The importance of land, culture, and identity play key roles in these poems, and the collection will move readers to think deeply about colonization, intergenerational trauma, and grief.

This collection paints beautiful pictures of Arctic landscapes, love stories, and growth. It will take readers on a journey through the seasons, from fierce snowstorms to a warm field of Labrador tea flowers.

Akagaq, the youngest brother of three, is confident but forgetful. When he gets caught in a blizzard he makes a tent, but it is no match for the powerful winds. Trapped in the cold, Akagaq is helped by his brother Tiriaq. Tiriaq digs into a snowdrift for shelter, but the wind is still too strong and blows out their lamp. Akkiutaq, the eldest brother, arrives to save them, and brings them to the iglu he has carefully built. The wind threatens to destroy the iglu as well, but the shelter proves strong, and the brothers are safe. The brothers learn an important lesson about paying attention to their Elders, and taking care in what they do.

Lorsque Jake reçoit enfin son propre chiot, il ne pense qu’au chien de traineau rapide et fort que celui-ci deviendra. Mais Kamik est encore loin d’être obéissant. Il n’écoute pas et répand de la boue partout dans la maison . . . Élever un chien est très exigeant, beaucoup plus que ce que Jake aurait pu croire! Mais lors d’une visite chez son grand-père, qui a lui-même élevé de nombreux chiens, Jake apprend que les Inuits élèvent des chiots depuis des générations afin qu’ils deviennent des chiens obéissants, ingénieux et serviables.

Inspiré des souvenirs d’un ainé d’Arviat, au Nunavut, ce livre parle d’élevage traditionnel des chiens de traineau, à l’époque où les Inuits comptaient sur les chiens pour se déplacer et pour survivre.

"Spare and beautiful."—★ Kirkus

In very early times, there was no night or day and words spoken by chance could become real. When a hare and a fox meet and express their longing for light and darkness, their words are too powerful to be denied. Passed orally from storyteller to storyteller for hundreds of years, this beautifully illustrated story weaves together elements of an origin story and a traditional animal tale, giving young readers a window into Inuit mythology.

In the fifth volume of the In Those Days: Collected Writings on Arctic History series, Kenn Harper shares tales of European explorers who came to the Arctic seeking adventure, riches, and the elusive Northwest Passage, and Inuit they encountered there. Inuit were invaluable in adding to Western knowledge of the Arctic, serving as guides, clothing-makers, and interpreters. But not every meeting was friendly. This collection sheds light on Inuit who played a pivotal role in the expeditions of some of the most famous Arctic explorers, including the unfortunate John Franklin. This volume also includes dozens of rare, historical photographs.

Ukaliq is a fun and informative activity book about Nunavut, designed for readers aged two to four. It's jam-packed with comics, stories, games, facts, photographs, and illustrations, providing young readers with entertaining and engaging opportunities to practice their independent reading skills.This book features everything kids could want to know about snow bunting, complete with full-colour photographs, a beautifully illustrated version of a traditional myth, and a lively and exciting array of educational activities, from mazes to colouring pages!

« Rêve un peu, Kulu, ce monde te louange avec la plus magnifique des chansons. »

Dans cette magnifique histoire poétique à raconter au coucher imaginée par la chanteuse de gorge de renom Celina Kalluk, les animaux de l’Arctique viennent offrir leurs plus beaux présents à un nouveau-né.

Raconté de façon lyrique et tendre par une mère parlant à son petit « Kulu », mot inuktitut pour désigner affectueusement les bébés et les jeunes enfants, ce livre superbement illustré est empreint des valeurs inuites traditionnelles de l’amour et du respect envers la terre et sa faune.

Jake a bien hâte que son oncle rencontre Kamik et voit à quel point il est devenu un chiot obéissant!

L’oncle de Jake est un excellent meneur de chiens. Il a gagné de nombreuses courses. Aujourd’hui, Jake espère que Kamik est suffisamment bon pour avoir la chance de courir au sein de l’équipage!

La série de livres : Kamik, le chiot inuit, Le premier traineau de Kamik et Kamik rejoint la meute nous permet d’accompagner Jake et Kamik dans leur apprentissage, au contact de leurs ainés, de tout ce qu’ils doivent savoir pour former un jour un équipage de chiens gagnant.

Kaakuluk is an exciting, fact-filled magazine about Nunavut for all curious kids, north and south! Each issue includes activities, traditional stories, and articles about life in the Arctic. This series is printed in full colour with photographs and illustrations throughout that will be sure to capture the attention of young readers.

As Owl swoops down and blocks the entrance to a lemming den, he is sure that he has a tasty meal in the little animal he has cornered. But this lemming is not about to be eaten! This smart little rodent will need to appeal to the boastful owl's sense of pride to get away.

L’aventure commence lorsque grand-maman part en expédition au lac avec ses deux petits-enfants! Après que grand-maman ait montré aux enfants comment se préparer à une expédition de pêche, ils partent tous ensemble pour une journée de pêche à la dandinette sur glace. Grand-maman leur montre tout ce qu’il faut savoir pour réussir un voyage de pêche : que ce soit les vêtements à porter, la manière de creuser et de dégager les trous dans la glace ou la façon de fabriquer une canne à pêche inuite traditionnelle. À la fin de la journée, les enfants se régalent d'un délicieux repas d'omble chevalier, en plus d’avoir appris tout ce qu’il faut savoir pour faire leur propre voyage de pêche

Sukaq loves to drift off to sleep listening to his mother tell him stories. His favourite story is the tale of how a raven created the world. But this time, as his mother begins to tell the story and his eyelids become heavy, he is suddenly whisked away on the wings of the raven to ride along as the entire world is formed! This traditional legend from Inuit storyteller Roy Goose is brought to life through co-author Kerry McCluskey's jubilant retelling, and illustrated with photographs of Soyeon Kim's signature three-dimensional dioramas.

Kaakuluk is an exciting, fact-filled magazine about Nunavut for all curious kids! Each issue includes activities, traditional stories, and articles about life in the Arctic. Printed in full colour with photographs and illustrations throughout, Kaakuluk will be sure to capture the attention of young readers. Available as English-Inuktitut tumble.

Kaakuluk: Wolverines! includes loads of fun facts about wolverines, like how they scavenge to get their meals and why they smell so bad! This issue also includes a traditional story called The Orphan and the Little Folk, a maze, and a spot-the-difference activity.

In each new adventure, Putuguq and Kublu learn about an element of Inuit mythology from their Elders, sometimes using what they learn to get the best of each other!

Putuguq and Kublu are at their grandparents’ house for lunch—caribou stew, Putuguq’s favourite! Putuguq’s worn out (and stinky!) kamiik remind his grandparents of the story of the amautalik and the orphan, a traditional story about a little orphan who outsmarts a child-stealing ogress. Grandmother’s storytelling over lunch starts Putuguq’s imagination running wild . . . . 

After lunch, Putuguq and Kublu decide to act out the story their grandmother has just told. But, for Putuguq, this is no ordinary play. He is determined to prove his fearlessness to an unsuspecting Kublu . . . with a little help from his stinky socks!  

Kaakuluk is an exciting, fact-filled magazine about Nunavut for all curious kids, north and south! Each issue includes activities, traditional stories, and articles about life in the Arctic. This series is printed in full colour with photographs and illustrations throughout that will be sure to capture the attention of young readers.

Young Nukappia can't wait to get out to his family campsite on the shoreline. After spending all year in the south with his adoptive parents, Nukappia always looks forward to his summer visits with his birth family. After spending one night in town, Nukappia and his uncle Angu begin the long walk down the shore to the family summer campsite, where all of Nukappia's cousins and aunts and uncles are waiting for him. Along the way, Nukappia learns that the shoreline is not just ice and rocks and water.

There is an entire ecosystem of plants and animals that call the shoreline home. From seaweed to clams to char to shore grasses, there is far more to see along the shoreline than Nukappia ever imagined.

Le chiot de Jake grandit rapidement et Jake s’aperçoit vite qu’il devient difficile à contrôler. Tout ce que Jake souhaite c’est d’élever son chiot pour qu’il devienne un chien de traineau fort et rapide, mais Kamik est loin d’être prêt à tirer un traineau au sein d’un équipage de chiens. Avec un peu d’aide et quelques conseils de sa grand-mère, Jake apprend les principes de base sur la manière de commencer à entrainer un chien à tirer. Kamik reçoit enfin son premier traineau et, avec Jake, ils peuvent aller explorer la toundra ensemble. Mais Jake et Kamik sont encore inexpérimentés et, lorsqu’un blizzard se lève sur la toundra, Jake doit se fier au flair de son chien pour le ramener à la maison. Inspiré des souvenirs de la vie d’une ainée d’Arviat au Nunavut, Matilda Sulurayok, ce livre raconte les admirables techniques de dressage des chiens de traineau que même les plus jeunes amoureux des chiens peuvent essayer de mettre en pratique

Une des créatures les plus terrifiantes que l’on retrouve dans les histoires traditionnelles inuites, est le nanurluk. C’est un ours géant, de la taille d’un iceberg, qui vit sous les banquises. Son énorme corps et sa fourrure couverte de glace font de lui un adversaire invulnérable. Mais lorsqu’un chasseur solitaire aperçoit l’aglu d’un nanurluk près de son iglou, sa présence d’esprit et son habileté à la chasse lui permettent de déjouer ce dangereux adversaire.

Jose Angutinngurniq, conteur exceptionnel et aîné très respecté de Kugaaruk au Nunavut, nous rapporte l’histoire du grand nanurluk. Dans la région de Natsilik, cette légende est transmise depuis plusieurs générations.

In this new collection, Kenn Harper shares tales of Inuit and Christian beliefs and how these came to coexist—and sometimes clash—in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. During this period, Anglican and Catholic missionaries came to the North to proselytize among the Inuit, with often unexpected and sometimes tragic results. This collection includes stories of shamans and priests, hymns and ajaja songs, and sealskin churches, drawing on first-hand accounts to show how Christianity changed life in the North in big and small ways. This volume also includes dozens of rare, historical photographs.

The only Inuinnaqtun-language dictionary in Canada, this indispensible reference compiles nearly two thousand terms in Inuinnaqtun and English. With definitions and terms in both languages, this dictionary will be a reliable resource for both native speakers of, and newcomers to, the language of the Kitikmeot region of Nunavut.
Originally published in 1996, this version has been revised and updated by the original editor.

Pakak is in a new foster home, with new people, new food, and new smells. Feeling alone and uncertain, Pakak finds comfort in a secret shared with him by his anaanattiaq, his grandmother, and in the knowledge that he is loved no matter how far away his family may be.

Written as a gift for Inuit children in care by foster parents Kevin and Mary Qamaniq-Mason, this book is lovingly imbued with cultural familiarities that will resonate with children who, like Pakak, are navigating the unknown.

Pakak is in a new foster home, with new people, new food, and new smells. Feeling alone and uncertain, Pakak finds comfort in a secret shared with him by his anaanattiaq, his grandmother, and in the knowledge that he is loved no matter how far away his family may be.

Written as a gift for Inuit children in care by foster parents Kevin and Mary Qamaniq-Mason, this book is lovingly imbued with cultural familiarities that will resonate with children who, like Pakak, are navigating the unknown.

When Elisapee’s father brings home a baby seagull, Elisapee falls in love with the bird right away. She feeds and cares for her new friend, named Nau, and even helps Nau learn how to fly!
Nau grows, and grows, and grows some more, until she’s big enough to fly all over town and play with the other seagulls. Soon, it seems like Nau is ready to leave home for good, and Elisapee has to learn how to say goodbye.
Based on the author’s childhood experience, this charming story about learning to care for animals will delight young readers.

Ukaliq is a fun and informative activity book about the animals of Nunavut. Each issue focuses on a different animal and is filled with activities, games, and puzzles. Vibrant photographs and illustrations, including an illustrated traditional story, will engage and delight all little Nunavummiut! Available as English-Inuktitut tumble.

Ukaliq: Narwhals! includes full-colour photographs and true-to-life illustrations, featuring a circumpolar traditional story: The Blind Boy and the Loon. This issue also includes a maze, a colouring page, and fun facts about narwhals!

Selected for CCBC Annual Best-of-the-Year Book List 2014!

In the time before animals were as they are today, Raven and Loon were both white. Their feathers had no colour at all. Raven spent his days swooping through the sky trying to fight off his incessant boredom, while loon spent her days in her iglu working away on her sewing. One day, too bored to even fly, Raven visited Loon and suggested a sewing game that would give their feathers some much-needed colour. The results—not at all what the two birds expected—led to Raven and Loon acquiring their now-familiar coats.

"Folklore invitingly told and presented for a young audience." - Kirkus Reviews

"With its significant potential for generating discussion, this is a perfect book for school and library settings." - Quill & Quire

“Food is life. Food is the key to vitality, goodness, happiness, and a strong body and mind.”

Compiled by five women living in Igloolik, Nunavut, this collection of recipes brings together healthy traditional country foods—like seal, Arctic char, and caribou—with store-bought produce to create delicious meals that can be an alternative to pre-packaged foods. With details on food safety and storage, as well as information on how to build a healthy, nutritious diet, this book will help even novice cooks feel empowered to begin cooking from scratch at home.

With tasty recipes from land and sea—from Arctic char pizza to caribou chilli—this beautifully photographed cookbook provides wholesome, hearty meals that will become family favourites for years to come.

Kaakuluk is an exciting, fact-filled magazine about Nunavut for all curious kids! Each issue includes activities, traditional stories, and articles about life in the Arctic. Printed in full colour with photographs and illustrations throughout, Kaakuluk will be sure to capture the attention of young readers. Available as English-Inuktitut tumble.

Kaakuluk: Greenland Sharks! includes facts about the Greenlandic Shark from its bite to its habitat and traditional knowledge from Greenland about this unique animal. The traditional story in this issue is the version of The Legend of the Amautalik from the Natsilik region.

Ukaliq is a fun and informative activity book about Nunavut, designed for readers aged two to five.

It's jam-packed with comics, stories, games, facts, photographs, and illustrations, providing young readers with entertaining and engaging opportunities to practice their independent reading skills.

This book features everything kids could want to know about Arctic hares, complete with full-colour photographs, a beautifully illustrated version of a traditional myth, and a lively and exciting array of educational activities, from mazes to colouring pages!

Jake and Kamik are finally ready to run their first dog sled race with a full team! But there is a lot to do to prepare, and Jake must follow his uncle’s lead if he and his dogs are going to be ready for the early spring race.

Kamik Takes the Lead is the fourth installment in the Kamik series of books following Kamik: An Inuit Puppy Story, Kamik’s First Sled, and Kamik Joins the Pack. Books in this series share traditional dog-rearing practices and dog-training techniques from the remote community of Arviat, Nunavut, through the life memories of community members. These books preserve the rich history of working dogs in Nunavut and celebrate the traditional bond between Inuit and their sled dogs.

Building on the dog-training practices outlined in Kamik Joins the Pack, Arviat, Nunavut, author and dog musher Darryl Baker shares with young readers the basic information needed to prepare a dog team for a race.

Larry Audlaluk was born in Uugaqsiuvik, a traditional settlement west of Inujjuak in northern Quebec, or Nunavik. He was almost three years old when his family was chosen by the government to be one of seven Inuit families relocated from Nunavik to the High Arctic in the early 1950s.They were promised a land of plenty. They were given an inhospitable polar desert.

Larry tells of loss, illness, and his family’s struggle to survive, juxtaposed with excerpts from official reports that conveyed the relocatees’ plight as a successful experiment. With refreshing candour and an unbreakable sense of humour, Larry leads the reader through his life as a High Arctic Exile—through broken promises, a decades-long fight to return home, and a life between two worlds as southern culture begins to encroach on Inuit traditions.

During the short Arctic summers, the tundra, covered most of the year under snow and ice, becomes filled with colourful flowers, mosses, shrubs, and lichens. These hardy little plants transform the northern landscape, as they take advantage of the warmer weather and long hours of sunlight. Caribou, lemmings, snow buntings, and many other wildlife species depend on tundra plants for food and nutrition, but they are not the only ones...

A Walk on the Tundra follows Inuujaq, a little girl who travels with her grandmother onto the tundra. There, Inuujaq learns that these tough little plants are much more important to Inuit than she originally believed.

In addition to an informative storyline that teaches the importance of Arctic plants, this book includes a field guide with photographs and scientific information about a wide array of plants found throughout the Arctic.

The Arctic is not a barren, frigid landscape filled with only ice and snow. It is a complex ecosystem that contains many thriving habitats, each supported by dozens of ecological relationships between plants and animals.

From the many animals that live and hunt at the floe edge, to the hundreds of insects that abound on the summer tundra, this book gives a detailed bird's-eye view of the fascinating ways that animals, plants, and insects co-exist in the Arctic ecosystem.

Written by Mia Pelletier, a biologist and wilderness field researcher, and complete with a glossary to clearly explain biological terms to young readers, this book provides a sound informational basis to understanding the Arctic ecosystem in all its facets.

“Taaqtumi” is an Inuktitut word that means “in the dark”—and these spine-tingling horror stories by Northern writers show just how dangerous darkness can be. A family clinging to survival out on the tundra after a vicious zombie virus. A door that beckons, waiting to unleash the terror behind it. A post-apocalyptic community in the far North where things aren’t quite what they seem. With chilling tales from award-winning authors Richard Van Camp, Rachel and Sean Qitsualik-Tinsley, Aviaq Johnston, and others, this collection will thrill and entertain even the most seasoned horror fan.

Akuluk is not excited about visiting her grandparents in Nunavut. She would rather head south for summer vacation, somewhere with roller coasters and cotton candy. There can't be much to do way up there, Akuluk figures. But as soon as she steps off the plane and sees all the exciting animals that the tundra has to offer, Akuluk forgets all about her dreams of going south. On her first full day in Nunavut, she can't wait to travel out on the land with her grandfather to hunt for wild eggs.

As she learns about the different types of eggs, how to collect them properly, and the delicious meals that can be prepared with them, Akuluk knows that this is just the beginning of the exciting things she'll learn about the Arctic.

One of the most terrifying creatures to be found in traditional Inuit stories is the nanurluk, a massive bear the size of an iceberg that lives under the sea ice. Its monstrous size and ice-covered fur make it an almost impenetrable foe. But when a lone hunter spots the breathing hole of the nanurluk on the sea ice near his iglu, he uses his quick thinking and excellent hunting skills to hatch a plan to outsmart the deadly bear.

Jose Angutinngurniq, a gifted storyteller and respected elder from Kugaaruk, Nunavut, brings to life a story of the great nanurluk that has been told in the Kugaaruk region for generations.

Well-loved and respected community member, Mark Kalluak, has collected stories from around Arviat since the 1970s, including stories he grew up hearing his mother tell. In this delightful book for audiences of all ages, Mr. Kalluak shares his favourite versions of traditional and personal tales, lovingly illustrating and translating them himself.

This adventurous tale follows three boys from Pangnirtung, Nunavut, who after discovering an old oil drum on the beach embark on a journey they'll never forget! Their magical trip to the moon is brought to life by interpretive illustrations by several young artists.
Written and illustrated by youth living in the Pangnirtung area, this vibrant, imaginative, community-driven publication showcases the talents and ingenuity of local youths.

In Uumajut, volume 2, readers will get acquainted with more arctic wildlife.

Picking up where Uumajut: Learn About Arctic Wildlife! left off, Uumajut, Volume 2 will introduce the youngest readers to the diets and habitats of more arctic species including the Siksik, Ermine, Wolf, Muskox, Eider Duck, Ringed Seal, Harp Seal, and Walrus. They will also learn about traditional Inuit uses for these animals, from traditional food preparation to clothing and household uses.

Uumajut, Volume 2 is brought to vivid life by award-winning illustrator Romi Caron's whimsical illustrations.

Which Arctic mammal has the largest litter of any mammal in the world?

Who is the "canary of the sea?"

Learn all about the fascinating wildlife of the Arctic! This book is full of scientific facts and Inuit knowledge about the animals that live in the complex ecosystem of the Canadian Arctic.

Discover the rich and varied world of Nunavut's many fishes in this comprehensive guide. 

Covering a broad range of information about Northern fish species, each section includes identification and appearance, habitat and range, relationship to humans, life cycle and reproduction, feeding habits, and other fascinating facts. This book also includes photorealistic illustrations of each species and traditional knowledge about fish collected through interviews with Inuit elders. 

Common Fishes of Nunavut will introduce readers to the stunning range of fishes that live in Arctic rivers, lakes, and oceans. 

Unikkaaqtuat is the Inuktitut word meaning "to tell stories."

This definitive collection of Inuit legends is thoughtfully introduced and carefully annotated to provide the historical and cultural context in which to understand this rich oral tradition. Fascinating and educational, this little-known part of Canada's heritage will captivate readers of all ages. As a work of historical and cultural preservation, this textbook will be invaluable to those studying Inuit.

This beautiful compendium of tales shares eight classic Inuit creation stories from the Baffin region. From the origins of day and night, thunder and lightning, and the sun and the moon to the creation of the first caribou and source of all the Arctic’s fearful storms, this book recounts traditional Inuit legends in the poetic and engaging style of authors Rachel and Sean Qitsualik-Tinsley.

Compiled from writing, poetry, and illustrations created by young Nunavummiut, this anthology explores diverse aspects of the theme of weather from Inuit mythology to traditional knowledge, climate change, and daily survival.
These creative works, created as part of an Arctic Weather Centre contest in the mid-1990s, are gathered here for the first time, and are accompanied by helpful information about each community represented.
Through full-colour illustrations and engaging poetry and stories written both in Inuktitut and English, learn more about the vital force of Arctic weather as seen through the eyes of children.

A book of fables like no other!

Learn why the raven is black or how a little boy was transformed into a bird. Find out why a walrus used to have antlers and how an earth spirit pulled the first caribou from the ground. These fascinating stories will capture the imagination of young readers and introduce them to the rich mythology of the Canadian Inuit.

Anthony Brennan's illustrations are like nothing you've seen in children's books. Edgy, vivid and dynamic to the extreme, the images enrich the reading experience.

Ukaliq is a fun and informative activity book about Nunavut, designed for readers aged two to five.

It's jam-packed with comics, stories, games, facts, photographs, and illustrations, providing young readers with entertaining and engaging opportunities to practice their independent reading skills.

This book features everything kids could want to know about Arctic puppies, complete with full-colour photographs, a beautifully illustrated version of a traditional myth, and a lively and exciting array of educational activities, from mazes to colouring pages!

Explore the fascinating world of Nunavut's diverse terrestrial mammal populations in this richly visual, informative book.

Through beautiful photographs and a broad range of information, readers will learn about the appearances, ranges, and behaviours of eastern Arctic non-marine mammals. With detailed information on more than thirty species, this book provides an in-depth look at Arctic terrestrial mammals.
Far from a barren land of ice and snow, this book will introduce readers to the vibrant natural life of Nunavut through its distinct mammalogy.

Huuq is a young Inuit boy who has never fit in to camp life. One day, fleeing yet another attack from the camp bullies, Huuq finds himself alone and far away from camp, with only his dog Qipik as company. On a lonesome hill, they find an egg. But this is no ordinary bird's egg. It's big. And almost looks like a stone. When Huuq breaks this mysterious egg, it unleashes a series of events that turn Huuq himself into a monstrous half-human creature. As Huuq tries to figure out why he has been turned into a monster, what the egg and its contents mean, and how he can return to his natural self, he is thrust into a world of fearsome creatures, mystical powers, and an evil the likes of which Huuq has never encountered.

"Dream a little, Kulu, this world now sings a most beautiful song of you." This beautiful bedtime poem, written by acclaimed Inuit throat singer Celina Kalluk, describes the gifts given to a newborn baby by all the animals of the Arctic.

Lyrically and tenderly told by a mother speaking to her own little Kulu; an Inuktitut term of endearment often bestowed upon babies and young children, this visually stunning book is infused with the traditional Inuit values of love and respect for the land and its animal inhabitants.

A perfect gift for new parents.

This is Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (Inuit traditional knowledge) in the flesh, co-editor and translator Jaypeetee Arnakak writes in his introduction to this volume of traditional Inuit stories. The underlying events of a story are perfect spots to encode advice, explanations, and landmarks: the medium is the message. Inuit legends and stories are not mere superstitious musings. What they contain is far richer and more profound than what a superficial glance can grasp. This rich volume contains thirty-three versions of traditional stories, transcribed and edited from oral recordings of ten Inuit elders from two High Arctic communities, Arctic Bay and Igloolik.

In this adventurous novel - set in the ancient Arctic, but narrated for modern readers by an inquisitive and entertaining contemporary narrator - a young, wandering Inuit hunter named Kannujaq happens upon a camp in grave peril. The inhabitants of the camp are Tunit, a race of ancient Inuit ancestors known for their shyness and meekness. The tranquility of this Tunit camp has been shaken by a group of murderous, pale, bearded strangers who have arrived on a huge boat shaped like a loon.
Unbeknownst to Kannujaq, he has stumbled upon a battle between the Tunit and a group of Viking warriors!
As the camp prepares to defend itself against the approaching newcomers, Kannujaq and a Tunit shaman boy named Siku discover that the Vikings may have motivations other than murder and warfare at the heart of their quest.
This lush historical fiction is steeped in Inuit traditional knowledge and concepts of ancient Inuit magic. The unique time and place brought to life in this exciting novel will delight young fans of historical and fantastical fiction alike.

The Shadows that Rush Past introduces young readers to some of the creepiest, scariest stories from Inuit mythology. These tales, told by critically acclaimed writer Rachel Qitsualik, bring to life four creatures from Inuit mythology: the amautalik, akhla, nanurluk, and mahaha.

These tales are filled with child-stealing ogresses; monsters that are half-man, half-grizzly bear; ice-covered polar bears ten times the size of normal bears; and a smiling creature that surprises unsuspecting campers and tickles them to death!

Written in a playful, conversational, sometimes funny style, The Shadows that Rush Past will keep young readers anxious for the thrilling frights that might lurk on the next page.

Winter can be cruel in the Arctic, and food quickly grows scarce for those who cannot hunt. In these difficult times, the grandmother of an orphaned boy wishes aloud for the qallupaluit - strange, monstrous creatures that live under the sea ice - to take her grandson away forever.

The old woman soon regrets her hasty words when the little boy is snatched and carried away to the creatures' underwater lair. After enlisting the help of her fellow villagers, the old woman learns that her grandson may be happier with the qallupaluit than he ever was with her.

Written for contemporary audiences by acclaimed Inuit author Rachel Qitsualik-Tinsley and illustrated in a quick comic book style, this tale is sure to thrill middle grade readers.

This teen novel, written by Iqaluit-based Inuit author Aviaq Johnston, is a coming-of-age story that follows a young shaman named Pitu as he learns to use his powers and ultimately finds himself lost in the world of the spirits.
After a strange and violent blizzard leaves Pitu stranded on the sea ice, without his dog team or any weapons to defend himself, he soon realizes that he is no longer in the word that he once knew. The storm has carried him into the world of the spirits, a world populated with terrifying creatures---black wolves with red eyes, ravenous and constantly stalking him; water-dwelling creatures that want nothing more than to snatch him and pull him into the frigid ocean through an ice crack. As well as beings less frightening, but equally as incredible, such as a lone giant who can carry Pitu in the palm of her hand and keeps caribou and polar bears as pets.
After stumbling upon a fellow shaman who has been trapped in the spirit world for many years, Pitu must master all of his shamanic powers to make his way back to the world of the living, to his family, and to the girl that he loves.

Putuguq and Kublu are a sister and brother who cannot get along. They love to pull pranks and one-up each other every chance they get! When one of Putuguq's pranks does not go as planned, the feuding siblings find themselves on the land with their grandfather, learning a bit about Inuit history, between throwing snowballs, that is.

Ravens appear in mythology and folklore the world over. Few other birds have inspired such simultaneous dread and fascination, or given rise to so many forms of artistic expression. But in the Arctic, ravens are not only mythological and artistic figures, but also brilliant scavengers, fascinating communicators, and daily nuisances.

The result of ten years of research and interviews, Tulugaq examines the raven's place in Canadian Arctic society and reveals a bird that is at times loved, maligned, dreaded, and even revered. With dozens of photographs and first-person stories from communities across Nunavut, the Yukon, and the Northwest Territories, Tulugaq is a visually stunning examination of one of the animal kingdom's most complicated figures.

When young Donald and his friends head down to the water to play, they have no idea that they are soon to encounter a mermaid, one of the creatures that his elders have told him about. Terrified, the boys run back to their camp, ready to tell everyone what they have just seen. But what did they see? They can't seem to remember it clearly. It is up to Donald's grandmother to explain to them the magical creature they just encountered.

Leslie is new to the Arctic, and no one told her there would be so much snow, and so many interesting animals to see. Along with her new friend, Oolipika, Leslie soon discovers one the Arctic's most unique and breathtaking natural wonders, the northern lights.
Having never seen such lights before, Leslie is understandably shocked by them. Oolipika, on the other hand, knows that the ancient lights are more than just colours, and that the mischievous, playful spirits that the northern lights hold can be dangerous.
This contemporary narrative introduces young readers to an Inuit legend about the northern lights, followed by an epilogue that explains the science behind this amazing natural phenomenon.

Stories of Survival and Revenge presents three action-packed Inuit folktales: the stories of Nuliajuk, the mother of the sea mammals; Kaugjagjuk, the mistreated orphan who seeks revenge; and the Nanurluk, an enormous polar bear many times the size of a regular bear.
Written at a reading level of approximately grade three, and an interest level suitable for the 12+ age group, this book is a perfect pick for reluctant and struggling readers.
With comic book-inspired illustrations, this book presents these folktales as they were meant to be experienced, with all of the heart-pounding action and awe-inspiring creatures that Inuit mythology has to offer.

A sweet and simple introduction to Inuit hunting practices and the proper treatment of game.
Nutaraq and Simonie are eager to go on their first hunting trip with their father. As they load up their snow machine and sled for the trip, Nutaraq hopes that she will be able to catch her first caribou that weekend, with some help from her dad. But when the trip nears its end and Nutaraq still hasn't caught her first caribou, she tries her very hardest to follow all of her father's advice about how Inuit traditionally hunted on the land.
This book focuses not only on basic, practical hunting techniques, but also on traditional values around the treatment of animals and the sharing of food.

Follow Moe and Malaya as they make fascinating discoveries at the nurses' office.

Moe wants to play with his best friend and cousin, Malaya. But before they can go exploring, Malaya has to visit the nurse for a checkup. What seems like an ordinary visit is going to be a funfilled learning experience with Moe coming along.

What does a nurse do?

Can you become a nurse?

What do they do with all their crazy tools?

With a keen eye for what captivates young readers, this book will teach curious children about nurses and their strange instruments, including that funny looking necklace, the stethoscope. On their visit the children learn about the unique career options nursing has to offer. While joining Moe and Malaya on their visit, children will learn how cool nursing can be and how they can become a nurse too!

Siuluk is a very strong man. He’s so strong that people tell him he must be the last of the Tuniit, friendly giants who once lived in the North. Just like those giants, Siuluk is so strong that he can carry an entire walrus over his shoulder.
But not everyone believes that Siuluk is strong. One day, when a group of men tease Siuluk about his size, he has to find a way to prove his strength once and for all—but how?
Based on traditional stories from the Chesterfield Inlet area of the Kivalliq region of Nunavut, this tale of Siuluk and his legendary strength will captivate young readers.

Germaine Arnattaujuq (Arnaktauyok) is one of the Canadian North's most prolific and recognizable artists. In this book, she tells the story of her life in her own words: her "very traditional Inuk life" growing up in Nunavut at a camp near Igloolik, and her experiences later in a residential school in Chesterfield Inlet; her education as an artist in Winnipeg and Ottawa; and her return to the North, where she continues to create drawings, etchings, and illustrations that have been featured in museums and galleries worldwide. She also provides commentary on several of her works, offering a seldom seen perspective on her inspiration and process. Featuring over one hundred full-colour reproductions of Germaine Arnattaujuq (Arnaktauyok)'s fascinating pieces from throughout her career, this beautiful book provides an in-depth look at one of the world's most important artists.

In this traditional Inuit story, a simple walk on the tundra becomes a life-or-death journey for a young man. When he comes across a giant who wants to take him home and cook him for dinner, the young man's quick thinking saves him from being devoured—and in the process, releases fog into the world for the very first time.

Written by Cape Dorset elder Qaunaq Mikkigak and Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award-nominated author Joanne Schwartz, this action-packed picture book brings a centuries-old traditional tale to life for modern readers.

Sanikiluaq, a small Inuit community in the Belcher Islands region of the Far North, has a long history of artistic output. But as the demand for stone carvings grew, grass basket sewing—once a traditional skill for Inuit women—faded from the community consciousness. That was until a group of women, including educator and artist Margaret Lawrence, came together to renew the lost art of basket sewing.

In Our Hands Remember: Recovering Sanikiluaq Basket Sewing, Lawrence guides readers through creating their own grass baskets in the unique style of the Sanikiluaq region with step-by-step instructions and photographs. From tips on preparing the grass and forming even coils to the different types of embellishments, this book is accessible to all skill levels.

Kaakuluk is an exciting, fact-filled magazine about Nunavut for all curious kids, north and south! Each issue includes activities, traditional stories, and articles about life in the Arctic. This series is printed in full colour with photographs and illustrations throughout that will be sure to capture the attention of young readers.

Kiviuq's Journey retells the legend of Kiviuq, one of the most important and well-known legends in all of Inuit mythology, just as it has been told in the Kivalliq region of Nunavut for centuries.

Late Kivalliq-region Elder Henry Isluanik lovingly retells this legend of a lost Inuit hunter who must pass through many obstacles, using his own knowledge and quick wit to outsmart many foes, in order to find his way home.

With black-and-white line illustrations by acclaimed Inuit artist Germaine Arnaktauyok, this book is a definitive and authentic printed account of an important Inuit traditional story.

Intended for adult readers, this is a perfect selection for Inuit studies students.

This colouring book features dozens of line drawings by renowned Inuit artist Germaine Arnattaujuq (Arnaktauyok), followed by information on Germaine's own artistic process and her unique drawing style inspired by pointillism. Perfect for art lovers and avid colouring fans alike.

Adoption among Inuit families, known as Inuit custom adoption, is a unique and age-old practice that sees families within Nunavut placing children with adoptive parents in the community as they see fit. This tradition remains a celebrated part of Inuit culture and identity to this day.
Nala's Magical Mitsiaq tells the story of how Nala and Qiatsuk became sisters through Inuit custom adoption. This story, lovingly based on the author's own family, explains the unique process of custom adoption and introduces kids to the importance of adoption within Inuit culture. Adorable illustrations and heartfelt text bring this tale of family love to life for readers both familiar and unfamiliar with this unique cultural tradition.

Kappianaqtut provides readers with an in-depth academic examination of two mythological creatures from Inuit mythology. It examines Inuit myths from an ethnographic perspective and fosters discussion on the variations and multiple representations of the myths and creatures in question.

This volume, which explores the giants of the North and the mother of the sea mammals, has been fully revised and updated.

Kappianaqtut represents the first book-length study of Inuit mythological beings written from a Northern perspective.

Kaakuluk is an exciting, fact-filled magazine about Nunavut for all curious kids, north and south! Each issue includes activities, traditional stories, and articles about life in the Arctic. This series is printed in full colour with photographs and illustrations throughout that will be sure to capture the attention of young readers.

Joy is ten years old, living in Apex, Nunavut-a small town outside of Iqaluit-and loving life. Her little sister Allashua may be annoying, but all in all Joy loves living at the top of the world in Apex, or Niaqunngun as it's called in Inuktitut. She's doing well in school and even has a crush on a boy.

But Joy begins to notice her parents fighting a lot more than usual. Her mom is staying with her sisters in Iqaluit more than she is home.

And Joy's perfect life soon becomes a lot more complicated.

As Joy navigates her parents' separation and its affect on her family, she learns some valuable lessons about how to cope when life gets tough.

Told in the wry, funny voice of a smart and savvy ten-year-old girl, this book will appeal to young readers everywhere who have ever wished that things would just stay the way they are.

Kaakuluk is an exciting, fact-filled magazine about Nunavut for all curious kids, north and south! Each issue includes activities, traditional stories, and articles about life in the Arctic. This series is printed in full colour with photographs and illustrations throughout that will be sure to capture the attention of young readers.

Ruben Anton Komangapik is one of the Arctic's most gifted sculptors.
His work has been exhibited across Canada with pieces on permanent loan to the Museum of Nature and Culture in Montreal. In Isuma, Ruben's vibrant, provocative sculpture, and his artistic process, are brought to life by photographer Estelle Marcoux Komangapik's arresting images.
Part autobiography, part art object, this book will introduce Canadians to one of the Arctic's most talented artists.

Nivi has always known that her names were special, but she does not know where they came from. So, one sunny afternoon, Nivi decides to ask her mom how she got her names. The stories of the people Nivi is named after lead her to an understanding of traditional Inuit naming practices and knowledge of what those practices mean to Inuit. How Nivi Got Her Names is an easy-to-understand introduction to traditional Inuit naming, with a story that touches on Inuit custom adoption.

Arctic historian Kenn Harper gathers the best of his columns about Inuit history, which appear weekly in Nunatsiaq News, in this exciting new series of books.

Each installment of In Those Days: Collected Columns on Arctic History will cover a particularly fascinating aspect of traditional Inuit life. In volume one, Inuit Biographies, Harper shares the unique challenges and life histories of several Inuit living in pre-contact times.

The result of extensive interviews, research, and travel across the Arctic, these amazing short life histories provide readers with a detailed understanding of their specific time and place.

Kaakuluk is an exciting, fact-filled magazine about Nunavut for all curious kids, north and south! Each issue includes activities, traditional stories, and articles about life in the Arctic. This series is printed in full colour with photographs and illustrations throughout that will be sure to capture the attention of young readers.

Inuit Inngiusingit: A Collection of Inuit Choral Music includes contemporary and traditional Inuit music from Canada's Arctic region.
Inuit pop classics from Susan Aglukark, Inuit folk music from Paul K. Irksuk, and traditional Inuit a-ja-ja songs and throat songs are a part of this collection.

Traditionally, Inuit played games in order to be physically and mentally prepared for freezing weather, strenuous hunts, and other grueling conditions that made survival difficult.
In this book, Arctic Winter Games champion Johnny Issaluk explains the basics of agility, strength, and endurance games, from the one foot high kick to the head pull and the airplane. Through straightforward descriptions and vibrant photographs, this resource brings to life this vital aspect of Inuit knowledge and culture.