Learning to Carve Argillite (Sk'ad'a Stories Series)

by Sara Florence Davidson, Robert Davidson, Janine Gibbons (Illustrator)

Based on Haida artist Robert Davidson's own childhood experiences, this beautiful story highlights learning through observation, as well as the role of Elders in sharing knowledge and mentorship.

Learning to carve is a lifelong journey. With the help of his father and grandfather, a boy on Haida Gwaii practises to become a skillful carver. As he carefully works on a new piece, he remembers a trip to Slatechuck Mountain to gather the argillite, as well as his father’s words about the importance of looking back to help us find our way.

Written by the creators of Potlatch as Pedagogy, this book brings the Haida Sk'ad'a Principles to life through the art of Janine Gibbons.

Genres: Indigenous, Picture Books, Canada, Art

32 pages, Hardcover

First published September 28, 2021

Reviews

[Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful artwork and very comforting kids story about an incredible skill passed down generation to generation and learning through your elders.

[Lisa · Rating 2 out of 5]

A young artist is carving a piece of argillite rock into an eagle. He has been taught by his father and grandfather to carve and remembers walking with his father all the way to Slatechuck Mountain to collect the special rocks. But when he shows his carving to his grandfather, he still has a lot of work to do - and his tsinii makes some changes and then they work together.

Based on the story of master artist Robert Davidson, and an indigenous artist from Canada. I appreciated the story told by his own children. The perspective of the illustrations was too close. I wanted to love this, but am afraid I will pass on this purchase. The characters are of the Canadian Ts'aahl (Eagle) Clan in Massett.

Cross posted to http://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com

[Tina Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy reading this series of books. Reading them feels like a mindful practice. As I read the descriptive words while it tells a fairly simplistic story. I am transformed into the story and I feel like I am apart of it.
" I know he laughs because he is proud of my work, but I am still disappointed that my eagle is not yet complete."
Such beautiful story-telling.
I am looking forward to the rest of the series coming out in 2022.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Learning to Carve Argillite is an interesting introduction to the art of argillite carving through the eyes of a young Robert Davidson as he learned from his father and grandfather. The art is gorgeous. Recommended!

[Jennifer · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received an eARC courtesy of HighWater Press.