Fatty Legs: The Inspirational True Story - Find Out What Happened!

If you are looking for an inspiring true story that sheds light on the challenges faced by indigenous children in Canada's Residential Schools, then "Fatty Legs" is a must-read. Authored by Christy Jordan-Fenton and Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, this book beautifully captures the life of a young Inuit girl, Olemaun, who battles stereotypes and racism in her quest for education. Set against the backdrop of the 1940s, this compelling tale will surely leave you captivated.

The Plot

"Fatty Legs" reveals Olemaun's arduous journey as she persuades her father to send her to a distant residential school in Aklavik. Olemaun's determination to pursue her education amidst the cultural barriers faced by indigenous communities in Canada is truly incredible.

Fatty Legs: A True Story

by Christy Jordan-Fenton (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5628 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	95 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The narrative narrates Olemaun's relentless efforts to learn English and adapt to a new environment that is vastly different from her Inuit community. As she arrives at the residential school, she faces countless challenges like strict rules, oppressive teachers, and a never-ending sense of isolation.

Olemaun's story takes a twist when she is ridiculed by her peers for her red stockings. The nickname "Fatty Legs" is demeaning, reflecting the way she is perceived by the other students. However, despite facing constant humiliation, Olemaun remains undeterred, determined to prove her worth both academically and personally.

The True Story Behind "Fatty Legs"

"Fatty Legs" is based on the life experiences of Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, co-author Christy Jordan-Fenton's mother. Margaret Pokiak-Fenton sought permission from her mother to share her story, with the aim of raising awareness about the truth behind Canada's Residential Schools. Through this heartfelt memoir, Margaret Pokiak-Fenton offers readers an honest portrayal of the challenges she faced and the strength she discovered as a young girl in a harsh and unforgiving environment.

Impact and Reception

"Fatty Legs" received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and its ability to shed light on the distressing experiences endured by Indigenous children in Residential Schools. The book has resonated with readers of all ages, igniting a sense of compassion and understanding for the inhabitants of these schools.

The impact of "Fatty Legs" goes beyond the book itself. It has prompted important conversations about the lingering effects of colonialism on indigenous communities and the importance of truth and reconciliation in healing the wounds of the past.

In , "Fatty Legs" is a powerful and enlightening true story that provides a glimpse into the hardships faced by indigenous children in Canada's Residential Schools. Through Olemaun's engaging journey, the authors beautifully capture the resilience and strength of the human spirit.

This book is a perfect choice for those looking for inspiration, historical insights, and a better understanding of the Indigenous experience. "Fatty Legs" will leave you reflecting upon the power of determination, the importance of education, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.

Fatty Legs: A True Story

by Christy Jordan-Fenton (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5628 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	95 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Eight-year-old Margaret Pokiak has set her sights on learning to read, even though it means leaving her village in the high Arctic. Faced with unceasing pressure, her father finally agrees to let her make the five-day journey to attend school, but he warns Margaret of the terrors of residential schools.

At school Margaret soon encounters the Raven, a black-cloaked nun with a hooked nose and bony fingers that resemble claws. She immediately dislikes the strong-willed young Margaret. Intending to humiliate her, the heartless Raven gives gray stockings to all the girls — all except Margaret, who gets red ones. In an instant Margaret is the laughingstock of the entire school.

In the face of such cruelty, Margaret refuses to be intimidated and bravely gets rid of the stockings. Although a sympathetic nun stands up for Margaret, in the end it is this brave young girl who gives the Raven a lesson in the power of human dignity.

Complemented by archival photos from Margaret Pokiak-Fenton’s collection and striking artworks from Liz Amini-Holmes, this inspiring first-person account of a plucky girl’s determination to confront her tormentor will linger with young readers.