Song of Rita Joe is a book of exceptional courage and insight, the words of a gentle woman who fought for her family, justice, and her own independent voice. She faced intolerance, ignorance, and abuse, searched her inheritance for strength, and wrote poems of clarity and encouragement that continue to inspire not only her people but all people.

Finally, she was a humble woman, an honoured Mi’Kmaw elder, poet, and member of the Order of Canada.

In this Canadian classic, Rita Joe leaves us her own story. Born in poverty on a reserve in Cape Breton, she survived on sheer guts and compassion.

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Acclaimed poet Rita Joe (1932—2007) of Whycocomagh First Nation wrote seven books, won numerous awards, and continues to be an influence on poets and other artists across Canada. I Lost My Talk is perhaps Joe's most famous poem, and references her time at the Shubenacadie Residential School. The poem inspired an eponymous multimedia performance at the National Arts Centre in 2016 as well as songs written by Indigenous youth across the country. She is known today as the Poet Laureate of the Mi'kmaq.

Anne Joe, Estate of Rita Joe (Rita Joe's daughter), annmuin@gmail.com, 902-379-2263, 4962 Shore Rd., P. O. Box 7216, Eskasoni, NS, B1W 1B2

Rita Joe's profile page