Children’s book weaves ‘colourful thread’ of diversity

Young readers are encouraged to celebrate their inner fabulousness in a new children’s book about the many fashions and cultural backgrounds found in Nunavut.

Iqaluit artist Ian Etheridge

The Colourful Thread tells the story of Akua and her classmates as they prepare for a school fashion show in Iqaluit.

“It’s all about diversity and acceptance,” said Ian Etheridge, the book’s illustrator, who lives in Iqaluit.

The story was written by Toronto author Ian Keteku, who worked on it remotely with Etheridge.

The book is published by the Nunavut Black History Society in partnership with the Nunavut Department of Education.

Etheridge previously illustrated the children’s book The Homemade Halloween Costume Dilemma in 2022 and co-authored and illustrated Christmas Incorporated in 2023, both in collaboration with Iqaluit author James Seamone.

Etheridge’s latest illustrations appear in Nick and Nate vs. The Nose Nabbler, also written by Seamone, which was published in March.

Copies of The Colourful Thread have been distributed to licensed early learning and childcare centres in Nunavut. It’s also available online for free on the Department of Education website.

The Nunavut Black History Society plans to officially launch the book at the Iqaluit Centennial Library Tuesday at 6 p.m. as part of its ongoing Black History Month schedule of events.