TORONTO: The first Aboriginal Literature Award has been presented by Periodical Marketers of Canada to Julie Flett of Vancouver, author/illustrator of Wild Berries/Pakwa che Menisu, a picture book for children published in English and Cree.

Winner of the $5,000 award was chosen from a five-title short list by First Nations Communities Read. A jury of librarians from First Nations public libraries in Ontario hailed it for its “underlying themes of intergenerational relationships and teaching, respect for Mother Earth, and use of Aboriginal languages and dialects.”

In making the presentation at the All Ontario Chiefs Conference in Toronto June 9, Rob Smith of TNG said PMC members “feel privileged to fund this award which recognizes the creators of outstanding Aboriginal literature and supports the objectives of our Foundation for the Advancement of Canadian Letters.”