74 pages 2 hours read

Margaret Pokiak-Fenton

Fatty Legs: A True Story

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Middle Grade | Published in 2010

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

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.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Fatty Legs?

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.

Recommended

Reading Age

9-12years

Book Details

Topics

Education

History: World

Themes

Society: Education

Emotions/Behavior: Shame & Pride

Genre

Children's Literature

Biography