The former Prince Albert resident wants to educate his readers about Metis culture and Northern Saskatchewan in a new, 10-chapter book aimed at middle-aged audiences.
The book is titled “Maddy’s Sash” and is written by Marion Gonneville. Gonneville, now 70 years old, was born Prince Albert and moved to Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. At the age of 12.
Gonneville is currently resident of Vancouver and is part of the BC Metis community and has been around for over 40 years.
The story of “Maddie’s Sash” follows the adventures of Maddie, a young girl who connects with Metis’ roots while visiting her grandparents in northern Saskatchewan. Maddie is accompanied by her dog Max, named after Goneville’s childhood friend, along with her throughout the book.
Adventures that Maddie experiences experience throughout the book include learning to pick Berry, canoe trips and dance in the barn.
In an interview with the Daily Herald, Gonneville explains that each of the ten chapters of the book represents a part of the Metis culture.
“Each chapter is about this little girl who frequently does not reach North Saskatchewan to see her Metis’ grandparents. She learned all the chapters about Metis’ ancestry and Metis culture, and eventually reached its peak by getting a sash from her grandma.”
The book was illustrated by Kate Boyer. Goneville says she doesn’t know Boyer personally, but she loves the way her work has made the story come to fruition.
“I was really pulling for Kate (and) I’m so happy. I had no say in the GDI (Gabriel Dumont Institute), but I’m absolutely thrilled with Kate’s work. It’s just beautiful, really whimsical. I couldn’t be happier than being paired with Kate.”
Maddy’s story contains several elements of Gonneville’s own personal life experience. After her family left Prince Albert, she often returned to visit friends and family, especially her grandmother, where the book is dedicated.
“The whole purpose was to educate people other than Metis about who Métis is and about pride in our culture,” says Gonneville. “Our culture is really different from other cultures, it’s a homemade culture. It’s a blend of two cultures into a beautiful culture that is completely different from any other culture.
“Every chapter shows it, it shows it, and I hope that readers learn a little more about us, especially the youth.
-Jason Kerr/Daily Herald files
editorial@paherald.sk.ca
