Children's Books
Building a Home
Building a Home tells the tale of six children from Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Mexico, and Syria who moved to Nogojiwanong-Peterborough, Canada. The story weaves together the stories of the six children, learning a new language and navigating a new life in a foreign place. Casandra worked with each of the children to record their stories. The children created beautiful artwork during the process. The book is commissioned by the New Canadians Centre and is available in 7 languages.
The Sun Dance
The Sun Dance is a love letter about the dance between the Earth and the Sun. The twirls and warmth between these two in the cosmos is a miracle. Any closer and Earth would burn. Any further and Earth would freeze. Our existence is incredible. The love for Earth's dance around the Sun is kind and full of gratitude.
The wind bristled the plants beyond the path. My heartbeat remained steadfast. Legends have it, all those who walked in this forest left unscathed. The woods and the creatures within them were indeed safe. Morning was ahead. Sunlight would filter down the canopy forest to sit gently upon the foliage. There is a beautiful word for this in our language. Growing up in these parts, I loved the moments where sunlight fell through the treetops. It was a sight I adored. Light scattered gracefully on the forest floor. My inner voice calmed me. Soon, I would reach the sea.
"Hi! You are back!" I shouted to Dad and Uncle on the deck below. Beyond them, the sun rise put on a vibrant show. Finally after long weeks on a rocky sea, Dad arrived home, safe and relieved. At every fishing trip's end, Mom and I walked the path to embrace his return to land. Mom always said, "Let us be together as much as we can." Today was the first time I was able and allowed to go alone. After Dad and Uncle cleared their boat and sold their catch, we would walk home.
