Description
This companion to the Governor General's Award–winning picture book On the Trapline is a loving and inspiring ode to grandparents.
When I’m a moshom, a long, long time from now, I will watch my grandchildren dance and play hockey, and I will be the loudest one cheering. I will take them on the trapline and teach them how to fish. I will feed them Bannock and share stories about our community. I will tell them I love them, just like my moshom did.
This heartwarming story thoughtfully explores the legacy of love, traditions and heritage passed down from generation to generation. Through the eyes of three siblings and their moshom (grandfather), readers are taken on a journey filled with cherished moments, from cheering at sports events to sharing traditional Cree knowledge and language. This picture book beautifully captures the bonds between grandparents and grandchildren, making it perfect for shared reading and an ideal gift for special occasions like birthdays, holidays or family celebrations.
Includes a glossary of Swampy Cree words and an author's note.
When I’m a moshom, a long, long time from now, I will watch my grandchildren dance and play hockey, and I will be the loudest one cheering. I will take them on the trapline and teach them how to fish. I will feed them Bannock and share stories about our community. I will tell them I love them, just like my moshom did.
This heartwarming story thoughtfully explores the legacy of love, traditions and heritage passed down from generation to generation. Through the eyes of three siblings and their moshom (grandfather), readers are taken on a journey filled with cherished moments, from cheering at sports events to sharing traditional Cree knowledge and language. This picture book beautifully captures the bonds between grandparents and grandchildren, making it perfect for shared reading and an ideal gift for special occasions like birthdays, holidays or family celebrations.
Includes a glossary of Swampy Cree words and an author's note.
Author Bio
David A. Robertson (he/him/his) is a two-time winner of the Governor General's Literary Award, has won the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award, as well as the Writer's Union of Canada Freedom to Read award. He has received several other accolades for his work as a writer for children and adults, podcaster, public speaker, and social advocate. He was honoured with a Doctor of Letters by the University of Manitoba for outstanding contributions in the arts and distinguished achievements in 2023. He was nominated for the 2026 Hans Christian Anderson Award. He is a member of Norway House Cree Nation and lives in Winnipeg.
Review Quotes
PRAISE FOR When I'm a Moshom
"In this moving and deeply felt companion to On the Trapline. . . a child relates all the ways he will honor his beloved moshom (grandpa) and keep his memory alive." —STARRED REVIEW, The Horn Book
"Gentle and never didactic, Robertson skillfully conveys, in a Cree way, teachings and ways of being and knowing that were naturally passed down from his own father and moshom. The generational love and the ancestors uplifting the young ones is felt throughout the book." —Canadian Children's Book News
"A youngster bonds with his grandfather—and vows to one day walk in his footsteps. . . . Warmhearted, loving and sure to resonate." —Kirkus Reviews
"Robertson’s foreword introduces the book as an homage to his late father, preserving his memory for his own young son. . . . The lyrical, poem-like form conveys deep reverence and the enduring role of grandparents in our lives." —Booklist
"There are many wonderful books about the relationship between grandparents and their grandchildren, but When I’m a Moshom is one of the best I have read." —Imaginary Elevators
"While David A. Robertson's words are based in reminiscences of his moshom, When I'm a Moshom is not a story of sadness of loss. It is one of hope and promise for the future. . . . I am in awe that When I'm a Moshom is [Corrie Hill]'s debut picture book." —CanLit for Little Canadians
"Through his grandfather’s example, a child recognizes the role of love and positive influence in When I’m a Moshom. . . . Cree words are translated so children ages 3-7 can learn 'stand up' and 'sit down.' Corrie Hill’s earth-toned illustrations complement the text." —Winnipeg Free Press
"In this moving and deeply felt companion to On the Trapline. . . a child relates all the ways he will honor his beloved moshom (grandpa) and keep his memory alive." —STARRED REVIEW, The Horn Book
"Gentle and never didactic, Robertson skillfully conveys, in a Cree way, teachings and ways of being and knowing that were naturally passed down from his own father and moshom. The generational love and the ancestors uplifting the young ones is felt throughout the book." —Canadian Children's Book News
"A youngster bonds with his grandfather—and vows to one day walk in his footsteps. . . . Warmhearted, loving and sure to resonate." —Kirkus Reviews
"Robertson’s foreword introduces the book as an homage to his late father, preserving his memory for his own young son. . . . The lyrical, poem-like form conveys deep reverence and the enduring role of grandparents in our lives." —Booklist
"There are many wonderful books about the relationship between grandparents and their grandchildren, but When I’m a Moshom is one of the best I have read." —Imaginary Elevators
"While David A. Robertson's words are based in reminiscences of his moshom, When I'm a Moshom is not a story of sadness of loss. It is one of hope and promise for the future. . . . I am in awe that When I'm a Moshom is [Corrie Hill]'s debut picture book." —CanLit for Little Canadians
"Through his grandfather’s example, a child recognizes the role of love and positive influence in When I’m a Moshom. . . . Cree words are translated so children ages 3-7 can learn 'stand up' and 'sit down.' Corrie Hill’s earth-toned illustrations complement the text." —Winnipeg Free Press
Biographical note
DAVID A. ROBERTSON is the author of numerous books for young readers including the two Governor General's Literary Award–winning picture books On the Trapline and When We Were Alone, both illustrated by Julie Flett. He also wrote The Song That Called Them Home, a picture book illustrated by Maya McKibbin. His middle-grade fantasy series, The Misewa Saga, has received great acclaim and award attention. A sought-after speaker and educator, David is a member of Norway House Cree Nation and lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba. For more information, visit his website, www.darobertson.ca, and follow him on Twitter @DaveAlexRoberts.
CORRIE HILL is a passionate and self-taught Indigenous artist. She is a member of the Mohawk Nation, Bear Clan, from Six Nations of the Grand River. Her passion for art began in her teenage years, and after working with various mediums, she now prefers working digitally. Corrie views art as good medicine that strengthens her mental wellness and as an outlet to showcase her Indigenous pride. Her work is deeply rooted in her Haudenosaunee identity, reflecting the strength, beauty, and resilience of her people. Corrie currently resides in Brantford, Ontario, with her family.
CORRIE HILL is a passionate and self-taught Indigenous artist. She is a member of the Mohawk Nation, Bear Clan, from Six Nations of the Grand River. Her passion for art began in her teenage years, and after working with various mediums, she now prefers working digitally. Corrie views art as good medicine that strengthens her mental wellness and as an outlet to showcase her Indigenous pride. Her work is deeply rooted in her Haudenosaunee identity, reflecting the strength, beauty, and resilience of her people. Corrie currently resides in Brantford, Ontario, with her family.