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A review by mat_tobin
Jo Jo Makoons: The Used-To-Be Best Friend by Dawn Quigley
5.0
An exuberant and joyful chapter book that introduces readers to a funny and charismatic Ojibwe girl named Jo Jo. Set on the fictional Pembina Ojibwe reservation, this series opener immerses young readers in Jo Jo's world, where she faces relatable challenges with humour and heart.
This first book delves into Jo Jo's worries about her beloved cat, Mimi and her school best friend, Fern, who seems to be ignoring her at lunchtime. Through Jo Jo's struggles with language arts to her attempts to save Mimi, the story showcases our protagonist's irrepressible spirit and passion for the Ojibwe way of life.
Quigley, a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Ojibwe, skillfully weaves cultural information throughout the story, an element I particularly loved, fostering a sense of pride in Jo Jo's people, traditions, and family. The inclusion of a glossary of Ojibwe and Michif words further enhances the reading experience, allowing young readers to engage with and learn from Jo Jo's rich heritage.
The narrative is brought to life by Tara Audibert's plentiful grayscale illustrations, depicting Jo Jo and her friends with expressive faces and capturing the essence of their mischievousness. Jo Jo herself is an irresistible character, with her strong voice, long hair, big eyes, and stylish clothes reflecting her lively personality.
At its core, Jo Jo Makoons is a heartwarming and humorous book (complemented by lovely grayscale illustrations from Audibert) about growing up Native in a loving community. A fun series for young readers just taking flight. It leaves us eagerly anticipating what adventures Jo Jo Makoons will embark on next.
This first book delves into Jo Jo's worries about her beloved cat, Mimi and her school best friend, Fern, who seems to be ignoring her at lunchtime. Through Jo Jo's struggles with language arts to her attempts to save Mimi, the story showcases our protagonist's irrepressible spirit and passion for the Ojibwe way of life.
Quigley, a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Ojibwe, skillfully weaves cultural information throughout the story, an element I particularly loved, fostering a sense of pride in Jo Jo's people, traditions, and family. The inclusion of a glossary of Ojibwe and Michif words further enhances the reading experience, allowing young readers to engage with and learn from Jo Jo's rich heritage.
The narrative is brought to life by Tara Audibert's plentiful grayscale illustrations, depicting Jo Jo and her friends with expressive faces and capturing the essence of their mischievousness. Jo Jo herself is an irresistible character, with her strong voice, long hair, big eyes, and stylish clothes reflecting her lively personality.
At its core, Jo Jo Makoons is a heartwarming and humorous book (complemented by lovely grayscale illustrations from Audibert) about growing up Native in a loving community. A fun series for young readers just taking flight. It leaves us eagerly anticipating what adventures Jo Jo Makoons will embark on next.