Cette auteure crée des histoires pour les jeunes, profondément ancrées dans sa vie en Alaska et dans la culture inupiaq qu'elle adopte. S'appuyant sur une perspective unique façonnée par sa vie dans la communauté la plus septentrionale d'Amérique du Nord, son écriture cherche à partager l'esprit fort et magnifique de la vie arctique. Elle écrit pour donner un sens au monde et communiquer sa vision singulière.
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.