Cree filmmaker Sonya Ballantyne prepares for her very first book launch

Kerri Berry Lynn which is an illustrated children’s book that showcases a young Kerri Berry Lynn getting 7 dogs as pets from her chapan (great-grandma). Kerri Berry Lynn brings Cree to life as she names her seven dogs after Cree numbers. Peyak(one), Nîso(two), Nisto(three), Nêwo(four), Niyanan(five), Nikotwâsik(six), and Têpakohp(seven).

The book launch is scheduled for January 6, 2 p.m at the McNally Robertson book store located in Grant park. Sonya Ballantyne will be there with the real life Kerri, alongside illustrator Celeste Sutherland to sign copies of Kerri Berry Lynn. They will also be accepting donations which will go towards Norway House Animal Rescue.

Sonya Ballantyne is a film-maker, writer, and public speaker from Misipawistik Cree nation, otherwise known as Grand Rapids First Nation.