In the last lesson we were introduced to Verb Type 4. We learned that a Verb Type 4 verb is when one of the seven pronouns is doing something with a direct object of the animate (a’aw) category. This means that there are actually two pronouns involved. Let’s learn a few Verb Type 4 verbs and animate nouns that we will use throughout this lesson.

Verb Type 4 – “a” “i” “m” “n” and “zh” endings

waabam – to see something/someone
minwenim – to like something/someone
zaagi – to love someone
miigwechiwi – to thank someone

Animate Nouns

animosh(ag) – dog
bineshiinh(yag) – bird
makwa(g) – bear
mitig(oog) – tree
abinoojiinh(yag) – child
nookomis(ag) – my grandma
opin(iig) – potato

We also learned a condensed version of the Verb Type 4 – “a” “i” “m” “n” and “zh” endings chart. We understand that the one of the seven pronouns can do something to someone else.

For example: I thank you all, I love him, Just us see them.

But what if one of the seven pronouns does an action to an animate (a’aw) object? If the object is singular, the object would be considered the “wiin” category. If the object is plural, the object would be considered the “wiinawaa” category.

For example: All of us see with the dog (wiin). Just us see the birds (wiinawaa).

When using the complete Verb Type 4 (vta) – “a” “i” “m” “n” and “zh” endings chart, find the pronoun representing who is doing the action in the far-left column. Then find the pronoun representing who is having the action done to them (the object of the action) in the top row.

Let’s use our previous examples to practice. When trying to say “All of us see the dog” we would find “giinawind” in the far-left column. Then we would find “wiin” in the top row. When you meet these sections together, you will have your conjugation formula. Your formula will be “(gi) + (verb) + (aanaan).” = giwaabamaanaan animosh. OR animosh giwaabamaanaan.

Original story by Monique Gray Smith
Translated by Angela Mesic and Margaret Noodin
Illustrated by Julie Flett
Copyright: Orca Book Publishers 2021

(Nijiikendam) My Heart Fills with Happiness is a book that reminds us to reflect on what brings us joy. Aaniin apii jiikendaman? What fills YOUR heart with happiness?

The sun on your face. The smell of warm bannock baking in the oven. Holding the hand of someone you love. What fills your heart with happiness? This beautiful book, with illustrations from celebrated artist Julie Flett, serves as a reminder for little ones and adults alike to reflect on and cherish the moments in life that bring us joy.

International speaker and award-winning author Monique Gray Smith wrote My Heart Fills with Happiness to support the wellness of Indigenous children and families, and to encourage young children to reflect on what makes them happy.

Listen to the audio read by Margaret Noodin

Nijiikendam

Original story by Richard Van Camp
Translated by Angela Mesic and Margaret Noodin
Illustrated by Julie Flett
Copyright: Orca Book Publishers 2021

Gidagaashiinh (Little You) helps us celebrate the bundle of joys in our life. Nagamotaw (sing to) or agindamaw (read to) the little ones special to you.

Richard Van Camp, internationally renowned storyteller and bestselling author of Welcome Song for Baby and We Sang You Home, has partnered with award-winning illustrator Julie Flett to create a tender picture book for babies and toddlers that honors the child in everyone. With its delightful contemporary illustrations, Little You is perfect to be shared, read or sung to all the little people in your life—and the new little ones on the way!

Listen to the audio read by Margaret Noodin

Little You Audio

Original story by Monique Gray Smith

Translated by Angela Mesic and Margaret Noodin

Illustrated by Danielle Daniel

Copyright: Orca Book Publishers 2021

Gimanaadenim (You Hold Me Up) is a book that teaches us how important it is to build meaningful relationships with others. Gimanaadenim teaches us apiitendimowin (respect), gizhewaadiziwin (generosity), and zaagidiwin (love).

Consultant, international speaker and award-winning author Monique Gray Smith wrote You Hold Me Up to prompt a dialogue among young people, their care providers and educators about reconciliation and the importance of the connections children make with others. With vibrant illustrations from celebrated artist Danielle Daniel, this is a foundational book about building relationships, fostering empathy and encouraging respect between peers, starting with our littlest citizens.

Listen to the audio read by Margaret Noodin
You Hold Me Up Audio