From beloved Indigenous icon Buffy Sainte-Marie comes a chapter book inspired by oral histories and traditions. On a prairie reserve, Tâpwê receives a mysterious gift from Kokhom (grandma)—and finds himself on an unforgettable adventure. 

Tâpwê can’t wait to spend a week with his cousins on the other side of the Cree reserve—especially since Kokhom, his grandma, has given him the most amazing gift: a Magic Hat with bluebirds and grass snakes that come to life! Tâpwê is so excited that he soon forgets Kokhom’s advice: Watch out for tricksters!

Tâpwê’s adventure is everything he imagined. He meets his cousins, takes part in a powwow, and sleeps in a tipi. But soon he’s reminded of Kokhom’s words. Is his new friend Wâpos leading him astray with mischief?

Tâpwê and the Magic Hat draws on a rich Indigenous tradition of storytelling and features:

• A memorable cast of characters from both imagination and legend. 
• A glossary and pronunciation guide of Cree words used in the book. 
• A note to parents and teachers from Buffy Sainte-Marie about trickster stories. 
• An important message for young readers about being yourself, and learning to dance to the beat of your own heart.
• Features black and white illustrations throughout.

• Written by an Indigenous icon: Cree singer-songwriterBuffy Sainte-Marie has been writing and performing her music for decades. She was the first Indigenous person to win an Academy Award (for an original song), the first person to breastfeed on TV (on her recurring role on Sesame Street) and is widely recognized for her activism on Indigenous rights and her powerful folk ballads.
• Based on Cree storytelling traditions: kids follow Tâpwê as he navigates tricksters, takes part in a powwow, and delights in his Magic Hat.
• Indigenous voice: Written by Buffy Sainte-Marie, who is Cree; the book is dedicated to the Piapot and Obey families of Piapot Reserve.
• Award-winning illustrator: Michelle Alynn Clement’s stunning illustrations bring Tâpwê’s world to life.