Catching Dreams

Catching Dreams

This book is for the young and young at heart and for those who have a connection to the Dreamcatcher.

Though the Dreamcatcher was not part of my Labrador heritage, I have come to recognize the pan-cultural impact, power and importance of this icon. For decades I have had in my possession three Dreamcatchers, all of which were gifts - one from Western Canada, one from Nova Scotia and more recently one from Labrador. Inspired by those Dreamcatchers and by the legend and powers associated with this symbol, I first wrote the song "Catching Dreams" and later created the story "Chloe's Dreamcatcher." The song and the story both portray the spirit and significance of the Dreamcatcher from the perspective of a child.

The artwork by Heather Smith-Shave fashions a journey to special locations including Gros Morne National Park and Battle Harbour National Historic District, Newfoundland and Labrador. Throughout this scenic journey, Dreamcatcher images are woven into the visual fabric of the story. This book respectfully acknowledges the Indigenous origin of the Dreamcatcher and embraces its meaningful place in society. "The more we step out to share Aboriginal stories, the better it will be for all aboriginal people. The real power of the Dreamcatcher is that it can make a person believe in themselves." Chief Mi'sel Joe