21 Mar Review: I Would Give You My Tail
I Would Give You My Tail
Written by: Tanya Tagaq
Illustrated by: Qavavau Manumie
Tundra, 2025
ISBN: 9781774880579 (hardcover)
9781774880586 (EPUB)
$23.99 CAD (hardcover)
$11.99 CAD (EPUB)
32 pages
Ages: 3 to 7 years old
Review by: Erin Dunlop
I Would Give You My Tail is a delightful and heartwarming picture book by famed Inuk throat singer and writer Tanya Tagaq. It tells the story of Kalluk, a young Inuk boy who travels to his grandparents’ camp when his mother is in labour. On his way, he meets many creatures and asks them what makes them happy. Each response teaches him a new lesson and reminds him of all he is grateful for as he journeys back to meet his new little sibling. Tagaq’s story is deeply moving, encouraging both child and adult readers alike to reflect on their relationships with other people, animals, and the environment and to consider what we can offer each other. Manumie’s illustrations are simple, whimsical and imaginative, and perfectly compliment the text. Full of gentle wisdom and an Inuktitut translation and pronunciation guide, I Would Give You My Tail is a truly special book that belongs on every bookshelf.