Questa autrice crea storie per giovani, profondamente radicate nella sua vita in Alaska e nella cultura inupiaq che abbraccia. Attingendo da una prospettiva unica plasmata dalla vita nella comunità più settentrionale del Nord America, la sua scrittura cerca di condividere lo spirito forte e bello della vita artica. Scrive per dare un senso al mondo e comunicare la sua visione singolare.
Amiqqaq's joy over his family's successful bowhead whale catch leads him to discover the significance of the spirit-of-the-whale. As they prepare for the traditional Iñupiaq whaling feast, he gains a deeper understanding of cultural traditions and the connection between his community and the natural world. This journey highlights themes of heritage, respect for nature, and the importance of family celebrations.
Alaskans Luke, Chickie, Sonny, Donna, and Amiq relate their experiences in the early 1960s when they are forced to attend a Catholic boarding school where, despite different tribal affiliations, they come to find a sort of family and home.