Thanks to the Animals

Allen Sockabasin is a Passamaquoddy who devotes much of his time to teaching and preserving the Passamaquoddy language.  A master musician, he has written, performed, and recorded Passamaquoddy stories and songs.  He has been a tribal governor, a member of the tribal council, director of child welfare for his tribe, and a health educator.  In 2010, he received the Sampson Center Catalyst for Change Award, which recognizes those who work for human and civil rights in Maine. His is the father of five grown children and a young son named Zoo Sap. Rebekah Raye is an artist beloved for her bird and animal paintings and sculpture, derived from her affinity with the natural world around her studio in East Blue Hill, Maine. In Rebekah’s words, “My early interest in animals of all kinds continues to be the focus of my painting and sculpture. Our pet chickens, geese, and cats—as well as the wild fox, bobcat, crows, and deer—are my inspiration. The more I learn about the animals I paint, the more I understand how we are all related.” Rebekah’s award-winning children’s books include The Very Best Bed, Bear-ly There, The Secret Pool, and Swimming Home, all published by Tilbury House.