We are thrilled to announce the release of The Brothers' Reunion, an inspiring new book written by Indigenous Child Author Sydnee Wynter Nisyok and illustrated by Celia Tian.
The Brothers' Reunion follows the journey of young Jimmy from the Nisga'a Nation as he uncovers his grandfather's painful separation from his brother during the Sixties Scoop. Motivated by a deep sense of family and justice, Jimmy embarks on an adventure with his friends to reunite the brothers. Along the way, they explore important themes of human rights, children's rights, and Indigenous peoples' rights, piecing together the past while strengthening their own community bonds. As Jimmy navigates this journey, he discovers his calling as an advocate for his people.
A Valuable Educational Resource
The Brothers' Reunion, can be an invaluable resource for education on topics regarding human and children's rights.
It provides a narrative that introduces readers to the Sixties Scoop, a historical injustice where Indigenous children were forcibly removed from their families and communities. By presenting this story in an age-appropriate manner, young readers can understand the impact of these actions on families and communities, fostering historical awareness and empathy.
Through the experiences of the characters, key concepts of human rights and children's rights and themes of family, identity, and belonging can be explored, while appreciating the importance of cultural heritage and the role of community in shaping individuals' lives.
The book can be integrated into various subjects, allowing educators and learners to draw connections between historical events and contemporary societal issues.
We invite readers of all ages to dive into The Brothers' Reunion and join Jimmy on his inspiring quest. Together, we can foster understanding and awareness of the historical and ongoing impacts of the Sixties Scoop while celebrating the resilience of Indigenous communities.
““The Brothers’ Reunion is a heartwarming story of enduring love and determination. A clear and thoughtful exploration of the Sixties Scoop and an important addition to Indigenous literature.””
For more information and to download your free PDF, click here!
About Sydnee Wynter Nisyok:
Sydnee belongs to the Ganada (frog) Clan and comes from the house of Ksim Xsaan from the Nisga’a Nation. She also belongs to the ‘iksduqwi’inixw (eagle) clan from the Haisla Nations in Northern British Columbia. Sydnee is grounded in her culture and learns her role with her Nox (mother) Loretta and supported by her Nigwoot (father) Walter to ensure she has teachings that support her in every stage of life. Sydnee is passionate about learning. Science and English are her favourite subjects and she plays the guitar and piano for fun.
She is also a dedicated basketball player and helped her basketball team win the Championship at the Jr. All Native in 2024. Her awareness around the history of Indigenous people and the rights of the child has inspired her to write her story, as the Sixties’s Scoop has had a direct impact on her family. Sydnee’s story was encouraged by her family’s resiliency, and she wants to inspire Indigenous youth to advocate for their rights and the rights of their communities and to be a beacon of hope and light for older and younger generations.
This book was made possible thanks to the generous support of the National Sixties Scoop Healing Foundation of Canada (NSSHFC), whose commitment to healing and reconciliation has helped bring this important story to life.