Betty & The Moon that followed

Betty and the Moon is a deeply moving children’s story inspired by the real-life journey of Elizabeth “Betty” Wright.

Growing up surrounded by the forests, rivers, and mountains of British Columbia, In New Aiyansh. Betty shares a special bond with her father, whom she lovingly calls Baba. Together they watch the night sky, and he teaches her a promise she will carry in her heart forever: whenever she looks at the moon, they will both be looking at it together.

When Betty is only five years old, she is taken far away to Residential School in Alberta, leaving behind everything she knows and loves. In this unfamiliar place, where many children feel lonely and miss their homes, Betty finds comfort in the one thing that followed her across the mountains—the moon.

Each night she sings softly to the sky, holding onto memories of her family and the land she calls home. Through the passing years, the moon becomes her quiet companion, reminding her that love and spirit can never be taken away.

Told with warmth, gentleness, and hope, Betty and the Moon introduces young readers to an important part of history while celebrating resilience, remembrance, and the power of love that stretches across mountains, oceans, and generations.

This story honors the strength of the children who carried their light through the darkest nights—and reminds us that the moon is always watching over us.

Dedication

For my Gigi,

Elizabeth “Betty” Wright,

my grandmother.

Your strength, your stories, and your light live on in our family and in every page of this book.

I also dedicate this story to the children who never made it home from residential schools. Your spirits are remembered, your lives are honored, and your light continues to shine like the stars in the night sky.

May we always look up, remember, and carry your stories forward.

With love,

Larissa Sparrow