“Takannaaluk” means “the one down there”—a term used in Canada’s High Arctic to refer to the most important being in Inuit mythology. Also known by Sedna, Nuliajuk, and many other names, Takannaaluk came to be both feared and respected as the mother of the sea mammals. But her story begins with a betrayal.

As a young woman, Takannaaluk is tricked into marrying a sea bird posing as a man and then abandoned by her family. In this unique picture book, her story is brought to vivid life by respected elder Herve Paniaq and renowned artist Germaine Arnaktauyok.

Written by Herve Paniaq | Illustrated by Germaine Arnaktauyok

Ages 5–7