From bestselling authors Leona Prince and Gabrielle Prince comes a new picture book that empowers young readers to embrace their potential by fostering an understanding of identity, tradition and culture. Remember Who You Are‘s positive affirmations encourage self-confidence and recognition of one’s potential, reminding readers that they are capable of great kindness and leadership. Read on to hear from the authors!
What inspired you to write your book, Remember Who You Are?
The inspiration came from wanting to give children a gentle reminder of their strength, identity and connection to something bigger than themselves. As Indigenous authors, we have seen how important it is for young readers to see themselves reflected in books that affirm their worth and belonging. This story grew from that vision. We wanted to give children everywhere a little encouragement.
What does your writing process look like as co-authors?
Our process is collaborative, and ideas often stem from casual conversations. Leona and I like to idea-share, and we get really excited when doing so. Our conversations usually include ideas, jokes, loud laughter and affirmations. We are sisters, so naturally we talk to each other a lot. Once we come up with a title, we usually start the writing process. We go back and forth, editing and refining until the words feel right to both of us.
How did writing Remember Who You Are differ from writing Be a Good Ancestor?
Be a Good Ancestor focused on responsibility and how our actions ripple forward to future generations. Remember Who You Are is more inward, encouraging children to look within themselves and recognize their inherent value. In a way, one book looks outward at how we walk in the world, while the other looks inward at how we carry ourselves.
Is there an affirmation in the book that resonates with you the most?
One affirmation is “We are the children of Chiefs” because it is a reminder of the strength, dignity and leadership carried within us through our ancestors. To say we come from Chiefs is to affirm that we come from resilience, wisdom and responsibility. Even if children do not know all the details of their family history, the affirmation calls them to remember that they carry the spirit of these leaders. It is also an invitation to see themselves as future leaders, capable of walking with integrity, compassion and strength. This affirmation is not about hierarchy or titles, but about connection. It reminds us that within our bloodlines and stories are people who stood tall for what was right, who carried teachings with honor and who ensured that we could stand here today. This will hopefully help ground children in the belief that they, too, will have the ability to lead, protect and inspire one day.
What does the phrase “remember who you are” make you think of?
Pausing and returning to the heart of who you are, your culture, your values, your spirit. For us, it’s a reminder of teachings passed down from Elders and ancestors, and the responsibility we have to carry those forward.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Just that we are grateful for everyone who shares this book with the young people in their lives. Stories are medicine, and we believe books can help children grow with love, pride and hope.
Leona Prince is from the Lake Babine Nation and Nak’azdli Whut’en and belongs to the Lhts’umusyoo (Beaver Clan). Leona is an award-winning educator and is currently the assistant superintendent of Indigenous Education for the Ministry of Education and Child Care in BC. She is the author of A Dance Through the Seasons, published by WaveMaker Press, and the bestselling co-author of Be a Good Ancestor, published by Orca Book Publishers. Leona lives in Burns Lake, British Columbia.
Gabrielle Prince is Dakelh from Lake Babine Nation and Nak’azdli Whut’en. She is an Intensive Youth Social Worker based in Prince George, British Columbia, where she is dedicated to supporting young people through culturally grounded, strength-based approaches. Gabrielle is also the bestselling co-author of Be a Good Ancestor, published by Orca Book Publishers. Beyond her professional role, Gabrielle finds joy in cultural traditions, time on the land and spending time with her family, friends and fur babies.