Phrases
Recurring words/messages
Symbolism/cultural connections
100


“But my nokomis said you can’t be around that much  darkness without some of it touching you”


Grandmother

100

Miigwech

Thank you

100

“I say a silent prayer to Creator for zoongidewin

(Grandfather teaching; quote is on the day of Levi's arrest)

Courage

200

“I love you, ojiishiingwe

Scar face

200

During Lily's funeral, Granny June, Aunt Teddie, and other's chose not to enter the Church. Why is that?

Trauma from Residential Schools

200

“On Sunday, I start my day with  a prayer for zaagidiwin. ___. Today is the official end of my traditional one-year mourning period for Lily

Love

300


“I feel lightheaded. Like I am giishkwebii, happy and tipsy.


Drunk

300

What is the reason behind Daunis referring to herself as Firekeeper's Daughter?


BONUS: In the tribal story shared early in the book, what is the role of the Firekeeper's daughter?

Her father's last name is Firekeeper, and her name translates to daughter


BONUS: She makes each day happen by singing and raising the sun

300

“making a mental note of the dome-shaped rock along the path that looks like a mini madoodiswan

Sweat lodge

400

“Get in, my girl. Ambe!”

Come on!

400

What does aunt Teddie say when Ron says that he is an FBI agent?


(Starts with "scariest words ever spoken: ...")

"I'm from the federal government and I'm here to help."

400

I am aware of someone on the rock with me as I turn around. Lily. As she was and also as something more. She isn’t Lily anymore. She is Binesikwe

A thunderbird

500

“N’Daunis bazigonjisen

Get up!

500

When Daunis feels as if she is dead, she states to be a part of a world filled with pansies who become singing women. What does this represent?

MMIWG; a routine where pansies are grabbed from a basket by each woman before a blanket party to offer prayers and support

500

“Indigenous women and girls who are murdered or missing. Their spirits taken too soon, lives cut short. For each one . . . mikwendaagozi

She is remembered

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