I’m Finding My Talk by Rebecca Thomas (Author) and Pauline Young (Artist)

I’m finding my talk
And it may take some time,
But I’m learning to speak
In a language that’s mine.

A response to Rita Joe’s iconic poem “I Lost My Talk,” and published simultaneously with the new children’s book edition illustrated by Pauline Young, comes a companion picture book by award-winning spoken-word artist and Mi’kmaw activist Rebecca Thomas. A second-generation residential school survivor, Thomas writes this response poem openly and honestly, reflecting on the process of working through the destructive effects of colonialism.

From sewing regalia to dancing at powow to learning traditional language, I’m Finding My Talk is about rediscovering her community, and finding culture. Features stunning, vibrant illustrations by Mi’kmaw artist Pauline Young.

Rebecca Thomas is an award-winning Mi'kmaw poet. She is Halifax's former Poet Laureate (2016-2018) and has been published in multiple journals and magazines. She coordinated the Halifax Slam Poetry team from 2014 to 2017, leading them to three national competitions with the Canadian Festival of Spoken Word. I'm Finding My Talk is her first book.

• 32 pages, softcover