Ruth Dyckfehderau Knihy

"This is a collection of literary creative non-fiction stories of James Bay Cree First Nations people who are living with diabetes."--

Focusing on the experiences of individuals with diabetes, this award-winning collection features twenty-eight storytellers sharing their unique perspectives on life in Eeyou Istchee, the land of the James Bay Cree in Northern Québec. Rather than centering on illness, the narratives provide deeply personal insights into their everyday lives and cultural context, highlighting resilience and community in the North.

The story follows Athena, who, after being misdiagnosed and institutionalized for thirty years due to her hearing loss, navigates her reintegration into society. Awkward and introspective, she embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her past and the reasons behind her wrongful confinement. As Athena reconnects with her former lover from the institution, she encounters unexpected revelations that challenge her understanding of both her history and her relationships.