About This Resource
Mashkiki Road: The Seven Grandfather Teachings was written by Elizabeth S. Barrett, (Red Lake Ojibwe), a Dartmouth graduate and educator, and was illustrated by award- winning digital artist Jonathan Thunder. Mashkiki Road tells the story of three Ojibwe cousins (Lily, Ogimaa, and Ellie) who walk into the forest to gather sage and cedar for their Grandma Mindy. Along the way, they meet seven animals, who each of whom shares one of the Grandfather Teachings—courage, honesty, respect, humility, wisdom, truth, and love. These values are part of the Ojibwe world view passed on to future generations as guidance for living well and in balance with others and the natural world. The Ojibwe (Anishinaabe) are one of the largest Indigenous groups in North America, with communities across the Great Lakes region, Canada, and the northern United States. Through the children’s encounters with animal knowledge keepers, the story connects young readers to this heritage, showing how Ojibwe (Anishinaabe) teachings continue to guide daily life, relationships, and care for the earth.
