My friend Vera Starbard has been highlighting Native work everyday this month and invited me to write the post for day 29! I’m an actor and audiobook narrator. I love books and storytelling, so narration is the perfect marrying of these pieces of myself. I particularly love and am honored when I have the opportunity to narrate stories by Alaska Native/Tlingit authors.
“Berry Song,” written and illustrated by Michaela Goade (Tlingit, Kiks.ádi clan) is a beautiful children’s book about picking berries that is a love letter to the land, our relationship with it, and the knowledge passed down through the generations. The book itself is beautifully illustrated, and the audiobook is produced by Hachette Audio in a way that matches Michaela’s work, with music underlying the text. It’s so uplifting and peaceful. I’m looking forward to Michaela’s next book, Moon Song!
“The Tao of Raven” by Ernestine Hayes (Tlingit, Kaagwaantaan clan) is the author’s second memoir. I’ve admired Ernestine for many years and couldn’t believe it when this opportunity came to me. The book is raw and honest about Ernestine’s experiences and point-of-view. I felt so empowered reading her words. And the iconic cover art for the book was done by Crystal Worl (Tlingit/Athabascan.) It is wonderful to see how three Tlingit women can weave together our art mediums to lift up Ernestine’s story.
Gunalchéesh to both authors for trusting me to speak their words.
– Erin Tripp
Tlingit Bookstagramer Erin Tripp is an amazing voice actor who has narrated books for some of the biggest major publishing houses. And she’s taking over the accounts today to talk about two Indigenous books she narrated! – VS