With poetic text by gifted Indigenous storyteller Henry Charles (Ten Bears), an elder of the Musqueam First Nation, and breathtaking illustrations by Haida artist, Shoshannah Greene, The Game offers a vibrant introduction to Musqueam language and culture and inspires readers to rediscover a sport we know and love.
I am incredibly excited to share the journey behind The Game, a beautifully crafted story written by my friend, Henry Charles (Ten Bears), a gifted Indigenous storyteller.
Henry and I shared the rugby field together in 1973, touring England & Wales with the Meralomas Rugby Club. That tour ignited Henry’s passion for storytelling and community—one that shaped his life’s work.
Fast forward to 2011, I ran into Henry at an exhibition rugby game. He was serving as Storyteller in Residence at the Vancouver Public Library, while I was Chair of Canuck Place, a hospice for terminally ill children. When Henry learned this, he was deeply moved. He wanted to write a story for the children of Canuck Place, a story of resilience, joy, and belonging.
Inspired by the Vancouver Canucks’ 2011 Stanley Cup Final against the Boston Bruins, Henry penned The Game—a story that captures the thrill of sport, the power of community, and the beauty of Musqueam culture and language. Sadly, Henry passed away before sharing his handwritten manuscript with the children. Years later, his widow, Holly, rediscovered it, inspiring me to ensure his vision was brought to life.
At its heart, The Game tells the story of Killer Whale and Brown Bear, who argue over who is the greater competitor. Their bickering catches the attention of Powerful Mena, who proposes a fair challenge: a game on the ice, played with sticks, nets, and a star for a puck. But who will win and earn the trophy?
With poetic text from Henry and breathtaking illustrations by Haida artist Shoshannah Greene, The Game is more than just a hockey story—it’s a vibrant introduction to Musqueam traditions and language, inviting readers to see the sport they love through a new lens.
Today, thanks to the dedication of many, The Game is now published by Greystone Books and will be released on March 18th across Canada, the USA, and the UK.
This book is more than a story—it’s a legacy. It’s a tribute to Henry’s gifts as a storyteller, his love for his community, and his enduring spirit. I hope you’ll read it, share it, and celebrate his work with us.
📖 Available – March 18th 2025!
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