Robbie Robertson highlights First Nations roots in new kids book

Robbie Robertson is shedding light on his indigenous roots through a new children's book, Hiawatha and the Peacemaker — a story that gave him chills when he first heard it as a boy. 

The celebrated musician and songwriter joins Shad to talk about the 14th century diplomat Hiawatha, his own deep connection to the story, and why Hiawatha's peaceful message is still relevant today. 

Robertson vividly remembers hearing the story on his mother's reserve, the Six Nations of the Grand River. Now he hopes to turn others on to "some magic that they don't know about". 

WEB EXTRA | Watch the book trailer for Hiawatha and the Peacemaker, which features an original song by Robertson. Plus, see original oil paintings by Caldecott Honor–winner David Shannon, crafted for the book, below.