I Would Give You My Tail

A story of a journey and gratitude, I Would Give You My Tail by Tanya Tagaq and Qavavau Manumie reminds readers to be thankful and kind.

Kalluk’s mother is in labour so he must journey to his grandmother’s camp. On the way he crosses paths with hares, the water and foxes and asks them what makes them happy. He receives many different answers which remind him of what makes him happy as well. The journey concludes with a new baby sister to share all of his newly discovered kindness and gratitude.

Tanya Tagaq gifts readers with a story that is a straightforward reminder to look up and notice, to be curious and kind. Through Kalluk and his questions, Tanya Tagaq reminds readers that curiosity is what helps us to be the best versions of ourselves. I love that this story is not overly descriptive or metaphorical. Tanya Tagaq keeps the narrative blunt and honest which ensures the message can be received and honoured.

I love the respect that is built into the story and the gratitude shown to all of nature's wonders. In our fast paced, instant gratification lives, it’s a wonderful reminder to readers and their adults of the importance of stopping and recognizing the beauty and the wonder all around and to be grateful. By taking that gratitude and passing it along to our friends and family, we too are giving our tails to those we love and appreciate.

Qavavau Manumie’s illustrations are impeccably reflective of the text in the story. The illustrations are beautifully simple and incredibly relatable, reflecting the lifestyle and the landscape of the Arctic.