A Stranger at Home

A True Story

By: Christy Jordan-Fenton, Margaret-Olemaun Pokiak-Fenton

Narrated by: Lisa Nasson

Traveling to be reunited with her family in the arctic, 10-year-old Margaret Pokiak can hardly contain her excitement. It’s been two years since her parents delivered her to the school run by the dark-cloaked nuns and brothers.

Coming ashore, Margaret spots her family, but her mother barely recognizes her, screaming, “Not my girl”. Margaret realizes she is now marked as an outsider.

And Margaret is an outsider: She has forgotten the language and stories of her people, and she can’t even stomach the food her mother prepares.

However, Margaret gradually relearns her language and her family’s way of living. Along the way, she discovers how important it is to remain true to the ways of her people - and to herself.

This first-person account of a young girl’s struggle to find her place will inspire young listeners to ask what it means to belong.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2011 Christy Jordan-Fenton and Margaret-Olemaun Pokiak-Fenton (P)2021 Annick Press

Critic reviews

“Olemaun’s spirit and determination shine through this moving memoir.” (Kirkus Reviews)

“Like its predecessor Fatty Legs, this is potent, accessible, and moving. Highly recommended.” (Toronto Star)

“Provides a compelling and moving story of a girl searching for the strength to find her place in the world.” (School Library Journal)