Father Bear-Pâpâ Maskwa-is taking his two bear cubs to the river for their first salmon run. Along the journey, they meet their friends squirrel, (añikwacâs), seal, (âhkik), and salmon, (sôsâsiw). With each friend, the cubs learn lessons in friendship, determination and courage. This totem story is intricately woven with the Swampy Cree language. The First Salmon The Bear Cubs' Adventure introduces children to Indigenous culture, sharing the virtues of Mother Earth and oral tradition.