The Song That Called Them Home

Lauren, James and their moshom [grandfather] go on a trip to the countryside. Moshom falls asleep, and the two kids, starting to get hungry, decide to take the canoe and go fishing. The kids have never been in a canoe by themselves, and they drift far from the shore. As they start to fish, there is strange movement in the water, and the boat is suddenly capsized. The children fall into the water, and, in the ensuing chaos, James is taken by small, pale, human-like creatures called Memekwesewak. Lauren pursues her brother through the water and finds him on an island, dancing and singing with his captors. Lauren joins them, pulled in by the fire and the music. But then, from far away, another song is heard, and the children stop to listen. The Memekwesewak flee, and James and Lauren take their opportunity to escape and travel back through the water and towards the sound which turns out to be their grandfather who is playing his drum on the shore and calling them home.

Robertson’s text and McKibbin’s illustrations are in perfect harmony here. The words are engaging and build the tension, providing just enough detail while letting the illustrations fill in the rest. The pictures are eye-catching and colourful; there is no white space here but full backgrounds on every page that beautifully capture the environment whether that is on land or in the water. The Memekwesewak, depicted with long white hair, tattooed, transparent skin, and haunting faces, are suitably menacing and may frighten younger or more sensitive readers. The younger side of the recommended age range (4-8) may find this story and its contents a little frightening, and even the concepts and themes seem more suited for an older audience.

The author’s note at the end offers helpful information about the Memekwesewak: mischievous little people who like to capsize canoes and are more likely to be seen by children. Robertson’s including his father’s childhood experience with the Memekwesewak adds a touch of extra spookiness as readers discover that the Memekwesewak may be more than just a myth.

The Song That Called Them Home brings Indigenous mythology into the contemporary world and speaks to the importance and power of family. The exciting story and the beautiful visuals will make this a wonderful addition to anyone’s collection.