Abstract:
Indigenous wisdom enhances knowing and understanding of the earth and it is prudent to be
guided by Indigenous wisdom in a time of ecological crisis. Through storytelling Indigenous
wisdom offers messages of hope to the world in this struggle for harmony. There is an Ojibwa
prophecy that states, "… look for a turtle-shaped island that is linked to the purification of the
earth” (Benton-Banai, 1979). Easter Island (Rapa Nui), remotely located in the South Pacific, is
a turtle-shaped island. This mysterious island’s stone monuments and wooden tablets are a seal
about to be opened by a meek child. This project is a fictional narrative of one child’s journey of
self-discovery. In Finding Turtle Island, this child, Hotu-iti, struggles to belong to a foreign
island in 18th century Polynesia. The islanders are also struggling amidst a war to keep their
ancient ways and protect their land. It takes the wisdom of a child hidden in a cave to lead the
islanders to restoration. The story is filled with mysteries unraveled and epic adventures. This
contextual narrative reflects transferable Indigenous values to help guide the renewal of the earth.
