The Cedar Mother - (Mothers of Xsan) by Hetxw'ms Gyetxw Brett D Huson (Hardcover)

About the Book

Step outside to explore the cedar tree life cycle in this beautifully illustrated non-fiction book for young scientists ages 9 to 12. This book invites young readers to discover the life of a tree that is much more than meets the eye, offering lessons in interconnectedness, and in wisdom passed down through generations.

Book Synopsis

Discover the western red cedar tree's life cycle in The Cedar Mother, a captivating children's non-fiction picture book from the award-winning Mothers of Xsan series.

Perfect for young scientists (ages 9-12), this latest release invites readers to explore the life cycle of the majestic western red cedar through a beautiful blend of STEM concepts and the traditional Indigenous knowledge and science of the Gitxsan.

Meet Nox Sim Gan, the cedar mother. Her story spans centuries and anchors the very landscape. As the seasons shift, readers will observe the vital environmental changes that define her existence:

• Spring & Summer: Watch as she breathes life into the forest, creating oxygen and offering her soft, green leaves for medicinal tea.
• Autumn: Discover the "salmon forest" connection, where Nox Sim Gan nourishes herself through the surprising nutrient cycle of local rivers.
• Winter: See how she provides refuge for small creatures beneath her bark and shelter for birds within her massive limbs.

This book delves deep into the secret web of life thriving beneath the soil, teaching readers about ecosystem interconnectedness. From the way she anchors the earth to the final cultural gift she leaves for the Gitxsan at the end of her long life, Nox Sim Gan's story is a profound testament to the wisdom passed down through generations. Perfect for elementary classrooms, STEM curricula, and home libraries, this story offers a powerful lesson in how to respect and protect our natural world.

Review Quotes

The Cedar Mother is the newest offering in Brett D. Huson's award-winning Mother of Xsan series, which now consists of eight beautifully illustrated books that share his Gitxsan culture, nature and knowledge. The story of The Cedar Mother emphasizes her "importance to the surrounding ecosystem....Her bark allowed the Gitxsan to create clothing; her trunk was used to build homes and craft tools; her roots became ropes; and her sapling made teas and medicines.