Vancouver’s Lifeguard Legend

“Ruby Smith Diaz (l.) examines the life of Joe Fortes, a Black lifeguard in Vancouver, during a time of rampant racism, exploring his legacy and identity through research, personal reflections and poetry.FULL STORY

 

Andrea Fritz

April 22nd, 2024

Indigenous artist and storyteller Andrea Fritz writes the story of Smuy, a kind-hearted little deer, and Spaal’, a cunning raven. As winter approaches and food becomes scarce, Smuy hopes Spaal’ will share, but the raven only has tricks up his wings. Undeterred, Smuy devises a plan, mashing his remaining berries into the snow, creating a tempting treat. Spaal’ notices the yummy-looking red snow and asks to taste some. Smuy, prepared for Spaal’s tricks, is equipped with a little trick of his own – one that ensures both animals are warm and fed for the winter. Through Raven Gets Tricked (Orca $21.95), Fritz showcases Indigenous storytelling techniques, art and the rich culture and language of the Hul’q’umi’num’-speaking Peoples, building on her previous works Otter Doesn’t Know (Orca, 2023) and Crow Helps a Friend (Orca, 2024). 9781459836273

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