We all have a story. Mary found hers by writing poetry. How will you find yours?

Mary TallMountain (1918 – 1994) was only six when she was adopted out of her Native village of Nulato. Cut off from her family and her people, Mary survived a childhood marred by trauma and a rebellious young adulthood by grounding herself in her Native culture and developing her talent for writing.

Denakkanaaga’s mission is to pass on the wisdom of our elders. Mary TallMountain was one of our elders. Her lifelong struggle to exist in two worlds echoes the struggles many of our people still face today. We feel strongly that Mary’s story, as told through her glorious poetry, will help our people – and all people – respect the dignity and power of their own stories.