Aamo-binashee = Hummingbird

The picture book, Aamo-binashee = Hummingbird teaches self-resilience, love, and connection, particularly when the Windigo—an entity symbolizing darkness—occupies our hearts. Presented bilingually in Anishinaabemowin and English, the story begins with a girl playing outside her grandmother's house in Saskatchewan during the summer. The grandmother cautions the little girl about the Windigo, warning that it can consume her. The girl recalls the Windigo chasing her, knowing everything about her past, and enveloping her world in darkness. She begins to lose herself, doubting her worth and forgetting her identity.

However, the girl’s grandmother intervenes, encouraging her not to lose hope and to believe in her own value and brilliance. She reminds the girl of her ancestors' constant presence spiritually and their support. At the end of the story, a hummingbird appears at the girl’s window, symbolizing persistence and the beauty of life, teaching her to look forward and keep going.

Jennifer Leason, who is both the author and illustrator, integrates beautiful illustrations in an Indigenous style, conveying her life story and reflections on the trauma experienced by Indigenous peoples, particularly relating to residential schools. The trauma hinted at in the illustrations ties back to her early life experiences and her journey toward self-resilience. At the book's conclusion, Leason shares her personal reflections, the inspiration behind the hummingbird, and she dedicates the book to her mother whose wisdom and love shine through this profound narrative.