From Truth to Joy: An Author Talk with Jenny Kay Dupuis

In this presentation, Jenny Kay Dupuis shares her personal journey of using literature and art to break the silence and shed light on critical issues related to Indigenous experiences that have deeply impacted her and the community around her. Drawing from her bestselling children’s books, I Am Not a Number and Heart Berry Bling, she reflects on how storytelling can serve as a powerful tool for truth-telling, healing, and empowerment.

Jenny Kay offers insights into what inspired and motivated her to create I Am Not a Number, a story written about the residential school system, and expands on her latest book, Heart Berry Bling, which reveals the experiences faced by First Nations women and children under the Indian Act. Heart Berry Bling reflects the lived realities of thousands—including her own—and shares teachings about the strawberry, while expressing her views on Indigenous joy and the importance of cultural continuity. She will also discuss how Indigenous literature, along with artwork, can be meaningfully used in a variety of spaces—such as educational settings, libraries, community spaces, and homes—to foster understanding and promote dialogue.

Throughout her talk, Jenny Kay emphasizes the importance of teaching, telling, and hearing difficult stories. She explores how these narratives can help build a culture rooted in empowerment, respect, trust, and innovation.

There will be a book signing following the program. Our friends from Perfect Books will be on hand to sell books.

This event is made possible through the generous support of the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Association (FOPLA).

Accessibility

Ottawa Public Library is committed to ensuring that all programs are accessible to everyone. If you need assistance registering for this program or require specific accommodations to participate, please contact us.

Jenny Kay Dupuis is a best-selling author, educator, and accomplished artist whose focus is raising awareness about Indigenous realities. She co-authored I Am Not a Number, a widely acclaimed children’s book that introduces young readers to the history and legacy of the residential school system in Canada. The book has won numerous awards and appeared on several best-of-the-year lists. Her latest release, Heart Berry Bling, weaves together real-life experiences to explore the impacts of the Indian Act on First Nations women and their families.

Jenny Kay is also recognized for her vibrant visual art, which combines storytelling, pop culture, and Indigenous symbolism. Her work is featured in both private and corporate collections, including a large-scale mural commissioned for the NBA Courtside Restaurant in Toronto.

Beyond her creative work, Jenny Kay is a respected speaker and advisor who has supported organizations globally in advancing leadership and driving organizational change. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Calgary, a Master of Education in Special Education, and a Bachelor of Arts in History and Visual Arts. She is also a certified teacher and learning strategist.

Jenny Kay lives in Toronto, Ontario, and is a proud member of Nipissing First Nation.

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