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Description: 

My Little Ogichidaa is inspired by Indigenous motherhood. It invites readers to explore the compelling dreams and hopes of an Indigenous parent for her soon-to-be-born warrior. This heartwarming and empowering story is a celebration of Indigenous love and the powerful legacy that it creates.

The word Ogichidaa itself means Warrior in Anishinaabemowin, and this beautifully illustrated book is a tribute to Indigenous families everywhere who are proudly raising their children to carry forward their culture, language, and love with resilience, strength, and kindness. 

Willie Poll (Métis): 

Willie Poll is a Métis author from the Robinson Huron Treaty Territory (Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada) and a proud member of the Metis Nation of Ontario. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies and a Master of Arts in Archaeology. She grew up with a close relationship with her Métis grandpa who filled her with stories that connected her to her ancestors and culture.

Willie has worked in Indigenous education across the Nation for over 10 years. Her stories are her feelings, emotions, and her tribute to the youth in her life. Willie currently resides on Prince Edward Island as a guest on the traditional lands of the Wabanaki and Mi'kma'ki people; however, she lives a nomadic lifestyle and has had the opportunity to be a guest in many places across Turtle Island.

Illustrator: 

Hawlii Pichette of Urban Iskwew is a Mushkego Cree (Fort Albany FN, Treaty 9 ) urban mixed-blood artist and illustrator who currently resides in London ON. Born and raised in the small community of Cochrane, located in northeastern Ontario, her work is deeply influenced by her culture, upbringing, and reflects the beautiful interconnections of the natural world.

Her practice includes illustrations, digital artwork, paintings and murals. She graduated from Fanshawe College’s advanced Fine Art program with Honours in 2017, receiving the Satellite Award exhibition. She is also known for a series of Indigenous colouring pages that she illustrates and shares on her website.

Age Range: Suggested for ages 6-10

Author: Willie Poll (Métis)
Illustrator: Hawlii Pichette (Cree)
Size: 8.5" x 11"
Pages: 36 pages
Cover: Hardcover
Language: English
ISBN: 978-1-77854-030-1

School Library Journal Review:

“The empowering narrative and stunning artwork combine for a lovely tribute to a future child.”

Feb 1, 2024

Booklife by Publishers Weekly Review:

“[Willie] Poll’s heartfelt picture book for young children serves as a testament to the enduring power of indigenous families and culture.”

Apr 1, 2024

Quill & Quire Review:

"Willie Poll’s My Little Ogichidaa is a celebration of matriarchs past, present, and future"

Apr 10, 2024