74 pages • 2 hours read
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112
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Canada • 1940s
2010
Middle grade
9-12 years
Fatty Legs by Margaret Pokiak-Fenton recounts her childhood experience in a Canadian residential school for Indigenous children, where she faced intimidation, humiliation, and abuse, but ultimately triumphed through resilience. The title refers to a nickname given to her after a nun made her wear bright red stockings as an act of cruelty. The book illustrates anti-Indigenous racism and the perseverance of Indigenous cultures amidst colonial efforts to erase them. Topics in the book include intimidation, humiliation, and cultural oppression.
Challenging
Inspirational
Emotional
Mysterious
Hopeful
3,724 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Fatty Legs by Margaret Pokiak-Fenton has garnered positive acclaim for its heartfelt and eye-opening portrayal of a young Inuit girl's experience in a residential school. Reviewers commend its accessible writing and powerful illustrations. Some find it emotionally intense, while a few note a desire for deeper historical context. Overall, it's a poignant, educational read.
Readers aged 9-12 who are interested in historical fiction and social justice will appreciate Fatty Legs by Margaret Pokiak-Fenton. Fans of The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis and I Am Malala (young readers edition) by Malala Yousafzai will find its themes of resilience and courage compelling.
3,724 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
112
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Canada • 1940s
2010
Middle grade
9-12 years
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