Minnow: The Girl Who Became Part Fish

Minnow: The Girl Who Became Part Fish, a new graphic novel from Métis author Willie Poll and Dakelh illustrator Emily Pearson, was released by Medicine Wheel Publishing on April 7. 

A year after her Gran went missing, 12-year-old Minnow’s life takes a surreal turn: her senses are sharpening, a wild orca follows her along the shore, and she suspects she may be physically turning into a fish. Seeking solace at the local aquarium, she befriends Celia, an aspiring marine biologist. Together, the two untangle the mystery of Minnow’s burgeoning powers and their deep connection to her grandmother’s past. When a new pipeline project threatens the local resident orcas, Minnow must harness her newfound abilities and the strength of her community to protect the water.

Minnow, written for ages 10 and up, is a powerful tribute to youth activism, proving that even the smallest fish can bring about big change. Blending magical realism with timely themes of environmental protection and Indigiqueer identity, the graphic novel showcases the expertise of its creators.

Willie Poll is a Métis author from the Robinson Huron Treaty Territory (Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario) and a member of the Métis Nation of Ontario. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies and a Master of Arts in archaeology. Willie currently resides on PEI as a guest on the traditional lands of the Wabanaki and Mi’kma’ki people.

Cover artist Emily Graceanna Pearson is a Dakelh illustrator from the Stellat’en First Nation whose artwork reflects her passion for ecology, for the land, and for Indigenous land stewardship but also her love for whimsy—fairies, fantasy and magic.