Métis Nation area director Laura Burnouf, Elder Myles Charles, Miriam Körner and Kim Nagyl. (Submitted photo/Miriam Körner)

By Derek Cornet

local authors

New children’s book recalls memories of LLRIB Elder Myles Charles

Jun 1, 2023 | 3:27 PM

A new book called Seagull Island: kiyāsko-miniscikos has been released by Lac La Ronge Indian Band Elder Myles Charles and local author Miriam Körner.

Although a book launch was held in March at La Ronge’s Alex Robertson Public Library, a printer error delayed distribution of the book which finally began last week.

“The idea came from the story Myles told me one time about picking seagull eggs with his late wife and his grandson, and then going to have a shore lunch and cooking up the eggs then going home and later sharing some eggs with his auntie,” Körner said.

“I could just picture him going out on the boat and landing on the island and being surrounded by seagulls, but also all of the things he would see on the way to the island.”

Körner, who did all the illustrations in the book, explained the first sketches were completed two years ago. She noted she also successfully applied for a grant through Creative Saskatchewan, which paid for 50 per cent of expenses and allowed the duo to print the book as well.

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Seagull Island is printed in English with Cree translations. Minnie McKenzie translated the book and Laura Burnouf, Minnie McKenzie, Christine McKenzie, Kin Nagyl, Christine Ravenis, Soloman Ratt, Edie Venne and Quincy Miller also contributed with proofreading and the pronunciation guide.

This marks the third time Körner has been involved in a book like Seagull Island. She has previously collaborated with late Elder Ida Tremblay on When We Had Sled Dogs: A Story from the Trapline: ācimowin ohci wanihikīskanāhk, as well as Bernice Johnson-Laxdal on When the Trees Crackle with Cold: pīsimwasinahikan. Both books have been Saskatchewan Book Awards winners.

“I never really planned any of these books,” Körner said. “It just came to be because it was a really compelling story that struck me, and I could picture it. If that ever happens again, I’d say sure, but I’m not planning to.”

Seagull Island can be purchased at all major bookstores, online or at Robertson Trading Ltd. In La Ronge.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno