Book - Naaahsa Aisinaki! / Naaahsa Is An Artist!

A powerful story of a young girl who celebrates her grandmother’s art, and the wonderful connection between them. Dual-language edition in English and Blackfoot: Kainai Nation

Hardcover, 2023
24 Pages
8.5 x 8.5
Ages 6-8 / Grades 1-3

By Hali Heavy Shield, and translated by Norma Jean Russell & Faye Heavy Shield

Hali Heavy Shield is a multidisciplinary artist and a member of the Blood Tribe of Southern Alberta. Her first book for children was inspired by the many adventures she’s had with her mom, Faye, who is also an artist. Hali’s work is influenced by experiences in her home community, including Blackfoot stories, significant sites, family, and women as sources of strength and goodness. She lives in Lethbridge, Alberta.

Norma Jean Russell is a graduate of the Native American Studies program at University of Lethbridge, and is a native speaker of Blackfoot.

Faye Heavy Shield has been one of Canada’s preeminent artists within Alberta and the Blackfoot Confederacy for the past 30 years. Currently living on the Blood Reserve in southwestern Alberta, Faye studied at Alberta University for the Arts in Calgary.

Second Story Press was co-founded in 1988 by Margie Wolfe and three other women dedicated to publishing feminist-inspired books for adults and young readers. For 30 years Second Story Press has published books that matter, many of which have been translated into over 50 languages and have been sold around the world. Their list spans adult fiction and nonfiction; children’s fiction, nonfiction and picture books; and young adult fiction and nonfiction. Second Story Press continues to look for stories that feature strong female characters and explore themes of social justice, human rights, equality, and ability issues.