Translator Mary Ann Corbiere shares terms in Nishnaabemwin (also known as Anishinaabemowin) featured in Mooz / Moose, written and illustrated by Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley.

Mary Ann grew up speaking Nishnaabemwin in Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island. Her translations are based on the way that speakers from her community would say these things. 

You’ll see that some Nishnaabemwin terms are written a bit differently on this webpage than they are in the book. While the story is about Mooz, a female cat, these phrases by themselves can refer to both male and female subjects in Nishinaabemwin. In Nishnaabemwin, a verb by itself means that he or she does the action. A separate word isn’t needed for “he” or “she.” Speakers teaching Nishnaabemwin can explain such changes to learners.

Listen as you read!

🔈Wewebaanwese / She swings her tail	🔈Kodaanzii / She climbs
🔈Giimoodzi / She sneaks	🔈Jaachaamo / She sneezes
🔈Bzaandabi / She sits still	🔈Naambaanwii / She yawns
🔈Bkwaakdajiitaa / She curls up	🔈Naanooskwaandizo / She licks her fur