Book Review: Two Tricksters Find Friendship by Johnny Aitken and Jess Willows (children's book)

photo by ldyck

Two Tricksters Find Friendship is a year in the life of a new mutually supportive friendship between Jessie, a white girl, and Johnny, an Indigenous boy.

Two Tricksters Find Friendship

Johnny Aitken and Jess Willows

Orca Book Publishers

Recommended for ages 6 to 8

first book of a series

2025

Jessie is new to the island. Her family moved there after her father became the new fire chief. Johnny lives on the reserve, and Jessie meets him in the summer when she is beachcombing. They bond over their love of nature and mutual interest in the Indigenous culture. When Jessie finds a feather, Johnny identifies it as a raven feather. Inspired by their mutual apprehension about returning to school after the summer break, Johnny invites Jessie to participate in a smudging ceremony, an Indigenous healing ritual. The friends are guided through their year of discovery by Jessie's aunt Chris and elders Grannie Annie and Steven.

In June, during the National Indigenous Peoples Day ceremony, Steven gives a short speech...

"'Johnny and Jessie clearly demonstrated support, caring, friendship and the importance of listening to each other. I've witnessed these two friends work through challenging times with love and respect.'" (p. 84-85) 

He's clearly proud of the friendship Johnny and Jessie have begun to build.

Two Tricksters Find Friendship is a cleverly written book. Authors Johnny Aitken and Jess Willows employ various techniques to bring the reader into the story, such as engaging the reader's sense of sound, sight, smell, and taste. Choosing to have the main characters walk into the story is an inviting way to begin the story. Additionally, Aitken and Willows have left threads throughout this story that they can use to recast and knit another installment to this series.

Illustrator Alyssa Koshi has significantly enhanced reader engagement. I loved searching for Raven on the pages of this book. Mayne Islanders will appreciate seeing Johnny and Jessie in front of "our" welcoming figure.

Huy ch q'u, Johnny, Jess and Alyssa for this finely crafted book.

 

photo by ldyck

 On this blog in June...

Sunday, June 29

Book Reviews: Canadian Reads (list)

a list of my book reviews of my favourite books written by Canadian authors

photo by ldyck

My fingers

on my keyboard

My head 

in the clouds

I relish

my days

Guest Post Author Donna Shepherd

Ava’s Secret Tea Party

BLURB:

Has your child dreamed of meeting Tooth Fairy, Santa, Sandman, or Easter Bunny? Ava wants to invite them to tea, but how? The answer lies with one special character who knows them ALL! In the style of classic fairy tales, Donna Shepherd has written "Ava's Secret Tea Party." Enjoy the tale, look for hidden teacups and chocolate chip cookies in the Bella Sinclair’s sweet illustrations, and have fun making the recipes and crafts included in the book!

How/why did you start to write?

I started writing devotionals and inspirational articles in 2003. One day a silly poem came to mind, and then another. I started submitting and had several poems published in places like Wee Ones and Guideposts for Kids. I joined a couple of critique groups and began my journey into writing picture books, Hidden Pictures Publishing released my first book for children, Topsy Turvy Land in 2005.

What inspires you?

I thank God every day for the joy of writing, and for allowing me the pleasure of seeing my words come to life with the help of many talented illustrators. Each time I finish a book or article or poem, I think I don’t have one more idea, but sure enough, the ideas come. I’m inspired by a picture, a phrase, something I hear a child say, and in so many other unexpected ways. I love writing for both children and grownups, and feel it’s a blessing to write. And as a children's writer, sometimes I'm really blessed, and the words I write are illustrated with wonderful, whimsical, beautiful pictures.

Please share one of your successful author platform building techniques.

I teach a workshop called “The Seven Planks of Your Platform.” I stress that it’s not enough to simply toot your own horn, but to offer to those with whom you connect something of value. Help someone. Offer freebies. Be generous with advice. Then you’ve earned trust and the credibility to offer something to buy.

Parting words

I hope everyone will visit the blog for my latest book at A Secret Party where you will find coloring pages, puzzles, more recipes, and of course, information on how you can purchase your own copy of Ava’s Secret Tea Party. 

On the Facebook Fan Page, I post helpful information, tips, links to freebies, and updates about my books for children and grownups. 

Thanks so much! 

Thank you for visiting with us, Donna.

Book Review: Mayne Island Skeletons by Amber Harvey

Mayne Island Skeletons is not only a fun read for children 9 to 12 years of age but it also teaches many valuable lessons—such as how to be a good friend.

Mary Magdalene Sommers’ mother is attentive and reliable; whereas, Brent Green is the son of a neglectful parent. Despite these differences, Magda values Brent’s friendship. She continues to believe in his good character even in the face of negative public opinion. In fact, she works tirelessly to prove his innocence and to secure his safety.

Through Magda’s example children are empowered to solve their own mysteries and resolve their own problems.

Thank you Amber Harvey for this uplifting read.

Author links

Amber's website:  Tree with Roots