Indian Time - A Voice from the Eastern Door

By Shannon Burns

With the urgency for Mohawk fluency continuing to grow, a new children’s book by Tom Shakokwenionkwas Porter will assist those who are trying to learn or teach the language.

“Nobody Can Do It Better Than Wariso:se” or “I:iah Onhka Senha Teieio’tenhseri:io Tsi Ni:ioht ne Wariso:se” is a colorful story about Porter’s mother, Josephine “Wariso:se” and how she taught her five children the value of hard work through her own diligence and attention.

Every page of the book contains Mohawk words side-by-side with the English translation and pronunciation and an accompanying CD contains the book’s text read by a Mohawk speaker. A separate language guide and dictionary further breaks down each sentence of the book, page by page, dissecting each word and meaning.

Porter, a respected elder from Akwesasne, is well known for his storytelling, articulation, and warm spirit. Those who are familiar with his style of verbal storytelling will instantly recognize his voice in the pages of his book. The story, focusing on Porter and his single mother, contains humor and a touching glimpse at the world through a little boy’s eyes.

“Those memories have carried me all my life,” Porter said.

The book is illustrated with photographs of Porter’s children and grandchildren “acting” the roles of Porter and his mother.

“Nobody Can Do It Better Than Wariso:se” was translated by Dorothy Karihwenhawe Lazore with photography and transcription by Lesley Forrester.

Copies of the book and language guide can be obtained through Porter’s family in Akwesasne or by contacting him at 4934 State Highway 5, Fonda, New York, 120068.