How the Birds Got Their Songs

The Great Spirit challenges all the birds to a contest, and the result helps to
explain bird behavior--and where humans should go to hear the prettiest of
birdsongs.

The
Great Spirit held a contest so that each bird could earn the song that was just
right for its species. He called together all the birds, from the smallest
sparrow to the largest hawk, and told them the plan. Each would fly as high in
the sky as it could, and when it returned to Mother Earth it would receive its
song.

Eagle
was certain his strong wings would help him fly highest of all and earn the
prettiest song. But he did not know that, while the Great Spirit was talking,
the tiny hermit thrush had snuggled into eagle’s feathers to take a nap.

All
the birds flew and flew, higher and higher, each descending when it was time to
return--and each receiving its own special song. But which bird flew the
highest? Which one received the prettiest song?

This
treasured story, handed down through Travis Zimmerman’s family, features
traditional knowledge from the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. Grand
Portage descendent Sam Zimmerman’s vibrant illustrations showcase his stylized
artistry and deep appreciation for feathered creatures. And Marcus Ammesmaki’s
retelling in Ojibwemowin brings the story full circle, encouraging language
learners to explore this age-old depiction of our natural world--and inviting
all readers to cherish the gift of birdsong.

Marcus
Ammesmaki / Aanikanootaagewin is a K/1 teacher at Waadookodaading Ojibwe
Language

Institute
in Hayward, Wisconsin.