The Drum Calls Softly is Metis writer David Bouchard's picture book co-written with educator Shelley Willier and illustrated by Jim Poitras. The story is told in rhyming verse as the narrator celebrates with others the joy of the round dance and the music of the drum. This bilingual Cree and English book offers readers insight into the cultural understanding of First Nations by drawing them into the circle. They explore the seasons, the life cycle, cultural values, and making new friends. The 32-page book is illustrated with colour paintings of the dance by Jim Poitras. The book is accompanied by an audio CD which contains the English text, the Cree text and music by the Northern Cree Drum. Cree translation is provided by Steve Wood of Northern Cree.