Papa’s Magic Fiddle, written by Treiva Plamondon and one of the first submissions to Northern Quill Publishing, will be the subject of a book launch in Hay River on September 26.
The book is inspired by Plamondon’s late grandfather and well-known Métis fiddler, Richard Lafferty.
“Writing Papa’s Magic Fiddle was my way of moving through grief and honouring my Papa, Richard Lafferty, who was such a huge part of my life,” said Plamondon in a news release announcing the book launch.
“I had always dreamed of writing a children’s book and this story became a way for me to remember the bond we shared.”
The book is set in Hay River. Northern Quill, a publishing company launched in the NWT two years ago, said it was important for the book to make its debut in the community. Another event is planned for Yellowknife in October.
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“Coming back to Hay River to launch the book feels like such a full-circle moment. This is where the story is set, and where so many of our memories and connections to the land began,” said Plamondon.
“It feels really special to bring this story home and share a piece of my Papa with the community.”
The event is at Big Lake Eatery and Café on September 26 from 3-4pm. Copies of Papa’s Magic fiddle will be available for purchase during the book launch and Northern Quill Publishing will also be giving away various copies of books in its catalogue thanks to funding from the Field Law Community Fund.
The company is also offering a free writing workshop at the youth centre and Plamondon will perform readings of the book at Hay River schools.
Northern Quill encouraged any schools or youth-focused organizations interested in bringing Plamondon in for book readings to get in touch.
Correction: September 21, 2026 – 12:19 MT. An initial version of this story said copies of Papa’s Magic Fiddle would be given away during the book launch. Books published by Northern Quill Publishing will be given away, but Papa’s Magic Fiddle will be available for purchase.
