Benjamin, au rythme du tonnerre

Benjamin loves the rain. He loves splashing in puddles with his bright yellow boots and watching the rainbow colors ripple beneath his feet. But most of all, Benjamin loves thunder. To him, thunder—piyêsiwak—is like the sound of his grandfather’s drum. The music calls to him, like the songs his grandfather plays while his father and other powwow dancers twirl and move to the beat. As Benjamin hears the thunder rumble overhead, he imagines himself a powwow dancer. He twirls, stamps his feet, and lifts his knees. He spins faster and faster, thrilled and filled with the rhythm of the piyêsiwak.

This story, written by the talented, award-winning author Melanie Florence, celebrates both the joys of playing in the rain and the connections to family traditions that center and ground us. Elements of Cree powwow culture and Cree words for colours and weather are woven into the story, along with a pronunciation guide. Hawlii Pichette’s vibrant and eye-catching illustrations, inspired by the landscapes of Northern Ontario, enhance the book’s appeal.

This engaging picture book is perfect for rainy days and a great introduction to Cree cultural traditions, local communities, and exploring nature.

MELANIE FLORENCE is an award-winning writer of Cree and Scottish heritage based in Toronto, Ontario. She was close to her grandfather as a child, a relationship that sparked her interest in writing about Indigenous themes and characters. Her picture books Missing Nimâmâ and Stolen Words received award attention and stellar reviews. Visit her at https://www.melanieflorence.com/.