April Raintree is the story of two sisters, separated from their family and one another. Despite that, the bond between them grows, as they navigate a society that is, at times, indifferent, hostile, and violent. Through this work of fiction, author Beatrice Mosionier reflects the all-too-harsh reality facing Indigenous people today – as well as a message of hope, healing, and reclamation. Based on the adult novel In Search of April Raintree, April Raintree has been revised specifically for students in grades 9 through 12.
The first edition of April Raintree, published in 1984, has since touched many generations of readers, becoming a Canadian school classic.
Great ideas for using this book in your classroom can be found in the Teacher’s Guide for In Search of April Raintree and April Raintree. A FREE copy of the guide is available for downloading.
Please note: The audio (downloadable M4B) format is the 1984 edition of April Raintree.
Student –
The character of Cheryl Raintree was my favourite because she believed in her culture and she was very tough. In the beginning she wanted to help First Nations people. That showed a lot about how nice she was. So Cheryl was my favourite because she wasnít ashamed to be who she was.