Monique Gray Smith

Award-winning and best selling author, speaker & consultant

 
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COMING SOON

Sharing the Light: Stories and Reflections

Available January 27, 2026

Through the lens of five transformative practices ~ gratitude, love, hope, joy and happiness ~ I weave together short stories, poignant reflections, and thoughtful questions that invite readers to pause and reconnect with their inner light.

This book can be read cover to cover or used as a daily source of guidance providing gentle wisdom that inspires and empowers, helping to navigate life in a challenging world.

Sharing the Light is a powerful reminder that when we embrace our light and share it with the world, that energy not only transforms us but ripples out to uplift everyone around us.

PRE-ORDER FROM YOUR LOCAL BOOKSTORE or from one of the links below.

Chapters Indigo
Bookshop
Amazon

NEW RELEASE

Kookum’s First Drum

Available April 14, 2026

When Charlie’s Kookum asks him what the best part of his school day was, he knows right away: Indigenous drum circle!

Kookum tells him that not very long ago she was gifted her very first drum at a ceremony for children who never returned home from residential schools. But Charlie doesn’t understand. How could she only have gotten her first drum so recently?

Kookum explains that she was taken from her family when she was very little because of something called the Sixties Scoop. She was raised by an adoptive white family and only later learned what being Cree meant. It’s taken her a long time to feel like she belongs. Kookum's story gives Charlie the idea to teach her a song so they can play their drums together.


 

DREAMING ALONGSIDE

Let Dragonfly lead you on a journey of inspiration!

Following your winged guide, visit the places and things that can help you find strength in the present and imagine your amazing future.

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CIRCLE OF LOVE

Everyone is welcome in the circle.

Circle of Love is a story celebrating family, friends, community, and, most of all, love.

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LOVE IS MEDICINE

Monique believes that love is medicine, Learning from each-other is a precious practice, That positive change is possible, and that it is all of our responsibility to step into the work that possible

Here are some ways to connect:

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Learn with Monique online

Take an online course and start or deepen your journey of learning - whether in support of Indigenous young people, or to start or deepen your personal journey of reconciliation.

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Read

Books for smalls and bigs. Read with loved one, for your own heart, or with a class or community!

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Book a Speaking Engagement

Monique’s speaking engagements revolve around hope, resilience, education and wellness. Woven into all of Monique’s speaking engagements is the teaching that love is a form of medicine.

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Spotlight Course

Speaking with Children and Young People About 
Truth and Reconciliation

How do I talk to kids about this?

In this heartfelt and accessible course, Monique responds to the question she often receives from  parents, aunties, uncles, care providers, grandparents, coaches and others who love the young people in their lives.

Participant Feedback

“Monique's voice and tone made me feel really safe to listen and get into my own thoughts/reflections while watching her videos. I felt welcomed and comfortable being vulnerable and honest with myself in her (digital) presence.”

 

Take the next step in your learning journey.

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What People Have to Say About Monique

 

Project Voice: Vancouver, Washington

“Monique's message to the audience was right on track for the event, to answer the question what make a vibrant and healthy community. She was absolutely lovely to meet and connect with over the course of her stay. She was generally interested in the students work and had a great conversation with every student who had her sign their copy of Braiding Sweetgrass for young adults. Some of the students even had prom that evening but didn't want to miss the chance to hear Monique speak.”

St. Joseph’s Indian School: Chamberlain, South Dakota

“Every moment with Monique was a highlight. She brought her full self every step of the way. Whether speaking about her work as an author, brainstorming indigenous plantings for our campus, sharing about "Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults" in the home or classroom, consulting with our Truth and Healing staff, reading to an over-active group of third graders, or addressing the sensitive topic of boarding school history, Monique gave 150%.”

Eastern Township School Board: Quebec

“I had the privilege of attending a session led by Monique Gray Smith on Truth and Reconciliation, and I must say it was truly inspiring. Monique's words resonated deeply with our students, sparking important conversations about empathy, understanding, and the power of reconciliation. Her ability to connect with the audience on such a profound level is a testament to her passion and dedication to this crucial topic. Monique Gray Smith's message is not only impactful but also essential in fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society. I highly recommend her as a speaker for any event focused on Truth and Reconciliation.”

Oak Park and River Forest High School: Chicago, Illinois

“Chicago, IllI am so grateful for the time and wisdom you shared with the students at Oak Park and River Forest High School this morning.  I know I was certainly moved and inspired by what you shared, and I know the students will carry your words with them as well.” - Amber Hooper, Librarian

British Columbia Library Association

“We’ve had so much feedback from folks saying how much they appreciate your warmth and wisdom, and that it was such a good way to start their learning at the conference.” - Rina Hadziev, Executive Director

“Monique is such a gentle, kind, and caring presenter. This work takes a lot of heart, and her's radiates through.”

“Thank you Monique! You always share your teachings in such a calm, kind and inclusive manner, and I appreciate you.”

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