A mother — the author of this story — shares Lakota cultural experiences with her daughter, introducing her to waci (dance) as a way to celebrate life. Wacipi (powwow), where the dancing occurs, is a setting for Indigenous song, dance, regalia, food and crafts.
A warm, family story for all ages, Waci! Dance! visually embraces the joy of being together and caring for each other. (A glossary and author's note are included.)
Sage Speidel is an Indigenous educator who comes from the Standing Rock Hunkpapa Lakota Nation and the Sapotaweyak Swampy Cree Nation. She holds a degree in Education from the University of Saskatchewan, and continually seeks unique opportunities for culturally responsive teaching. Her lived experiences and the inherited teachings of the Lakota & Cree culture have shaped her philosophy to share and create a harmonious environment for holistic Indigenous ways of knowing. Her love of teaching was inspired by her Kunsi Darlene and Michunski Wakiza.
Leah Dorion is a Métis artist raised in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. A teacher, painter, filmmaker and writer, Leah views her Métis heritage as providing her with a unique bridge for knowledge that connects all people. She has numerous creative projects to her credit, including books for children, gallery showings of her art works, and numerous video documentaries that showcase Métis culture and history. Leah's paintings honour the spiritual strength of Indigenous women and the sacred feminine.
Finalist for the 2024 Saskatchewan Book Awards in the Indigenous People's Writing Award category
Listed it the 2024-2025 Children's First Nation Communities READ Award
"An exuberantly illustrated tribute to the powwow tradition of waci."
— Kirkus Reviews
"A warm, family story for all ages, and brilliantly illustrated in Leah Dorion's trademark impressionistic beadwork style, Waci! Dance! visually embraces the joy of being together and caring for each other."
— The Lakota Times
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