When I Was Eight by Christy Jordan-Fenton, Margaret-Olemaun Pokiak-Fenton
Published by Annick Press on June 30, 2020
Genres: Juvenile Nonfiction / People & Places / Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island / General
Pages: 250

Bestselling memoir Fatty Legs for younger readers.

Olemaun is eight and knows a lot of things. But she does not know how to read. Ignoring her father’s warnings, she travels far from her Arctic home to the outsiders’ school to learn.

The nuns at the school call her Margaret. They cut off her long hair and force her to do menial chores, but she remains undaunted. Her tenacity draws the attention of a black-cloaked nun who tries to break her spirit at every turn. But the young girl is more determined than ever to learn how to read.

Based on the true story of Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, and complemented by stunning illustrations, When I Was Eight makes the bestselling Fatty Legs accessible to younger readers. Now they, too, can meet this remarkable girl who reminds us what power we hold when we can read.

While this wasn’t the most powerful children’s book I’ve read, it has a meaningful story that highlights resilience and perseverance. It’s simple, heartfelt, and offers a good lesson, even if it didn’t completely sweep me away. I’d recommend it for readers looking for a thoughtful, educational story to share with kids.