The Education of Augie Merasty: A Residential School Memoir - New Edition

The Education of Augie Merasty is a national bestseller and an instant classic that tells the story of a retired fisherman and trapper who was taken from his family and sent to government-funded, church-run schools, where he was subjected to a policy of aggressive assimilation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2022
Publisher: University of Regina Press

A remarkable and captivating book, "The Education of Augie Merasty" has achieved immense popularity and recognition. Having been named the fourth most significant Book of the Year by the National Post in 2015 and receiving the prestigious One Book, One Province in Saskatchewan award in 2017, this remarkable work has garnered widespread acclaim and has become an instant classic.

Born into a retired fisherman and trapper's life, Augie Merasty was one of an estimated 150,000 First Nations, Inuit, and Metis children who were forcibly taken from their families and sent to government-funded, church-run schools. These schools, driven by a policy of aggressive assimilation, aimed to mold children into the ways of white society. However, as Merasty vividly recounts, these schools went beyond simply attempting to shape children; they instilled a deep sense of shame in their students, often leading to physical and sexual abuse.

"The Education of Augie Merasty" is a courageous and intimate memoir that delves into the dark heart of humanity, brought to light by the cruel policies of a bigoted nation. Despite the painful memories and experiences shared, Merasty's remarkable resilience and sense of humor shine through. His warm voice and storytelling ability make this book an unforgettable and powerful read.

Through his journey, Augie Merasty sheds light on the systemic injustices and cruelty that were inflicted upon Indigenous children during the period of forced assimilation. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and confronting our past, and working towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all. "The Education of Augie Merasty" is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the power of storytelling to heal and inspire.

Dimension: 189 x 99 x 119 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780889778825