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When I Was Eight

by Christy Jordan-Fenton

A child’s determination to learn

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AlbakiReads Editorial

A child’s determination to learn

Olemaun’s journey from her Arctic home to an outsiders’ school brings together a child’s desire to read and the pressures she faces there. The school renames her Margaret, cuts her hair, and assigns her menial chores; the account centers on her continued determination to learn. Based on Margaret Pokiak-Fenton’s true story, this younger-reader adaptation of *Fatty Legs* is complemented by illustrations. Its subject connects literacy with the experience of leaving home for school and confronting attempts to control one’s identity.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • Children ages 4–8 interested in biographies and true stories.
  • Young readers exploring stories about learning to read and perseverance.
  • Adults seeking an illustrated adaptation of *Fatty Legs* for younger readers.

Themes

Literacy and educationPerseveranceIdentity and renamingLeaving home for school

Based on publisher information and book metadata.

Book overview

Bestselling memoir Fatty Legs for younger readers. Olemaun is eight and knows a lot of things. But she does not know how to read. Ignoring her father's warnings, she travels far from her Arctic home to the outsiders' school to learn. The nuns at the school call her Margaret. They cut off her long hair and force her to do menial chores, but she remains undaunted. Her tenacity draws the attention of a black-cloaked nun who tries to break her spirit at every turn. But the young girl is more determined than ever to learn how to read. Based on the true story of Margaret Pokiak-Fenton, and complemented by stunning illustrations, When I Was Eight makes the bestselling Fatty Legs accessible to younger readers. Now they, too, can meet this remarkable girl who reminds us what power we hold when we can read.
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Customer reviews

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Malaika Taylor

I highly recommend to for anyone looking for inner clarity

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Thomas DiMassa

Great service and fast service

Great shopping experience! The book arrived quickly, was well packaged, and matched the description perfectly. I would definitely shop with you again

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Olivia

Smooth.