The Animal People Choose a Leader

The first in a new series bringing the unmistakable voice of revered Ojibway author Richard Wagamese to children, this engaging fable of wisdom, kindness, and respect is beautifully illustrated by award-winning Anishinaabe artist Bridget George.

In the Long Time Ago when animals of all kinds shared a common language, they gathered to choose a leader from amongst themselves. The candidates-swift Horse, strong Buffalo, wily Cougar, and stealthy Wolverine-were about to begin a race to determine the winner when they were joined by an unlikely contender: gentle, earnest Waabooz the rabbit.

During four eventful laps around a foreboding mountaintop lake, the competitors discover the limits of self-reliance and the power of humility, empathy, and loving attachment to the land. Wagamese's powerful storytelling and George's evocative artwork bring this poignant story to life with the piercing clarity and lyrical richness of all great legends.