I Dream of Yesterday and Tomorrow: A Celebration of the James Bay Cree

by Michael Gnarowski (Editor)

This volume of legends, excerpts from the written historical record, essays, photographs, interviews, and reminisces, is a unique assemblage of materials that present the lives of the James Bay Cree from the early times of the spoken word as legend to the astounding contemporaneity of their present-day dot.com world. Touching on the various communities, from those washed by the waters of James Bay to the inland settlements of a distinct people who call themselves Eeyou, this collection of words and images is built around the ideas of past-value origins, present-day adaptation to contemporary values and needs, and future dreams and challenges. The true scope of this volume is lodged in the successful connections it makes with all aspects of Cree life. This is a record that not only includes first contact, but is strong in its emphasis on the evolving patterns and present-day institutions that co-function effectively with traditional ways. There is everything here from respected oldsters' telling of the way life was lived, to an account of the great battles with Hydro Quebec, to the flooding of hunting grounds, to the forward-looking triumph of the creation of the Douglas Cardinal-designed community and cultural centre of Oujé Bougoumou.

200 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2002

Reviews

[T.R. Ormond · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a relatively small number of pages, this book manages to give the reader a thorough account of how the Crees have navigated through the challenges of the later 20th century with the development of the James Bay Hydro Project. Particularly informative was Grand Chief Dr. Ted Moses's account of the trial, appeals, and agreements that led to and followed that project.

Additionally, the book gives a good overview of Cree values, stories, and history.

Though the book is edited by Michael Gnarowski, most of the content comes from Cree authors.

This book also provides the background on the Cree School Board, Cree Health and Social Services and other ways that the Crees are ensuring their way of life continues into the future.

It also gives the background on the repeated relocation of the Oujé-Bougoumou Cree over the course of the 20th century and their final home on the shore of Lac Opemiska. The heating system for that town sounds very interesting!

Written in 2002, obviously a lot of the information in I Dream of Yesterday and Tomorrow needs to be updated. Nevertheless, it is a very good place to start if you want to get an introduction to the recent history of the East James Bay Crees.