
Written by Danielle Daniel
Part of the Sometimes I Feel Like series
Discover the magic of totem animals as children explore their identities through animal masks.
In a world where animals guide the spirit, children don masks to reveal their inner selves. Each child connects with a creature—be it deer, beaver, or moose—unveiling a poetic journey of self-discovery. Through vibrant illustrations and simple verses, this tale introduces the Anishinaabe tradition of totem animals, offering young readers a glimpse into cultural wisdom. As they explore these connections, children learn to understand themselves and others, guided by the spirit of the animals they admire. What animal will guide you on your journey?
Children’s love for animals and disguise come together in this award-winning introduction to the Anishinaabe tradition of totem animals.In this introduction to the Anishinaabe tradition of totem animals, young children explain why they identify with different creatures such as a deer, beaver or moose. Delightful illustrations show the children wearing masks representing their chosen animal, while the few lines of text on each page work as a series of simple poems throughout the book.In a brief author’s note, Danielle Daniel explains the importance of totem animals in Anishinaabe culture and how they can also act as animal guides for young children seeking to understand themselves and others.Key Text Featuresauthor’s noteCorrelates to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.K.7With prompting and support, describe the relationship between illustrations and the story in which they appear (e.g., what moment in a story an illustration depicts).CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.1.4Identify words and phrases in stories or poems that suggest feelings or appeal to the senses.CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.2.4Describe how words and phrases (e.g., regular beats, alliteration, rhymes, repeated lines) supply rhythm and meaning in a story, poem, or song.CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.3.7Explain how specific aspects of a text’s illustrations contribute to what is conveyed by the words in a story (e.g., create mood, emphasize aspects of a character or setting)CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.4.2Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details in the text; summarize the text.CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.5.7Analyze how visual and multimedia elements contribute to the meaning, tone, or beauty of a text (e.g., graphic novel, multimedia presentation of fiction, folktale, myth, poem).
Surprise a reader with their next favorite book.
Spotted a mistake or something missing? Improve this page.
Are you the author or illustrator? Claim your book.