There simply are too few stories told by and about Indigenous girls and women, especially from a contemporary viewpoint.

We exist and have dynamic experiences to share beyond history books or stories set long ago.

I have been shaped by a network of strong Anishinaabe Kwewag (Native American women), who may be called auntie, friend, cousin, or nokomis.

My father is a traditional firekeeper, who strikes ceremonial fires at spiritual activities in the tribal community and ensures protocols are followed, while providing cultural teachings through stories told around the fire. He is one of my greatest teachers.

I’m proud of my career in Indian education at the tribal, state, and national levels. Most recently, I was the Director for the Office of Indian Education (OIE) at the U.S. Department of Education. Previously, I was my tribe’s Education Director/Assistant Executive Director and served on the Board of Regents at Bay Mills Community College.

I am beyond fortunate to be a full-time author now - Firekeeper's Daughter an instant #1 NYT Bestseller is my debut novel. Although I currently live in Southwest Michigan, my home will always be Bahweting (the place of the rapids) in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.