Carol Daniels is an accomplished woman. A member of the Cree First Nation – of Cree and Chipewyan decent – Daniels is a professional writer, singer/drummer, artist, and storyteller from Regina. Her work was recently featured at the First Nations University of Canada as well as the Elsie Scherle Art Gallery. While her first novel, “Bearskin Diary,” which was recently published has received nominations for three awards last week as well, and she is planning on publishing children’s books in the future.
Attending the Manor Library, Daniels presented and performed for the grade seven and eight class from Manor School. Daniels spoke of First Nation culture and myths, while relating to students of varying backgrounds.
Daniels explained the importance of tobacco, how the Round Dance is a celebration of community, and of varying musical instruments including drums and shakers, before singing/drumming “O Canada” in a mix of English, Cree, and Chipewyan.
She then began telling stories, emphasizing the importance of imagination and that everyone has something important to say.
“Everything in your world is magic,” Daniels told the students. “When you’re writing, nothing is too silly, that’s why we have fiction. When you write, you have permission to bring your ideas out of your imagination.”
Daniels went on to tell a short story about Little People, whose purpose within First Nation culture is to ensure children are always safe. Likening them to guardian angels and explaining that many cultures have different versions of Little People, such as the famous Leprechauns of Irish folklore.
The next story Daniels told to the class involved a girl named Nahanni and her kokum – grandmother – which was enjoyed by the students. The story followed the young girl learning how to bead from the grandmother and touched on important themes such as learning from your mistakes, the importance of patience, the importance of respecting the land, and listening and speaking with your grandparents and elders because one day they will be gone so to treasure the time you do have with them.
