Plains Cree Author Shelly Nelson Shares Seven Grandfather Teachings Through Children’s Book

Chevi RabbitLocal Journalism Initiative ReporterAlberta Native NewsPlains Cree author and knowledge keeper Shelly Nelson, from Onion Lake, Saskatchewan, is sharing Cree teachings with the next generation through her newly released children’s book, My Name Is Kona. Released last year, the children’s book is rooted in the Seven Grandfather Teachings, a core value system embraced across many Cree communities. Nelson has already begun reading My Name Is Kona at schools and community events, where the book has resonated strongly with young audiences. Her education in Indigenous knowledge systems and Cree teachings has helped shape her work as a writer and part-time knowledge keeper. Much of her work focuses on author visits, community events, and sharing knowledge through storytelling.