• Age: 14
• Grade: 9

The captivating story of Mary John (who passed away in 2004), a pioneering Carrier Native whose life on the Stoney Creek reserve in central BC is a capsule history of First Nations life from a unique woman's perspective. A mother of twelve, Mary endured much tragedy and heartbreak--the pangs of racism, poverty, and the deaths of six children--but lived her life with extraordinary grace and courage. Years after her death, she continues to be a positive role model for Aboriginals across Canada. In 1997 she received the Order of Canada. This edition of Stoney Creek Woman, one of Arsenal's all-time bestsellers, includes a new preface by author Bridget Moran, and new photographs.
Shortlisted for the Roderick Haig-Brown Regional Prize
Now in its 16th printing.

Bridget Moran, who passed away in 1999, was a social worker and the author of five books, including four for Arsenal Pulp Press: the bestselling Stoney Creek Woman, Judgement at Stoney Creek, A Little Rebellion, and Justa (now out of print). A fiery and outspoken woman, her activism was inspired by a deeply-felt desire for social and political justice.

Bridget Moran's profile page

• Short-listed, Roderick Haig-Brown Regional Prize

A valuable and moving biography.
-Books in Canada

Books In Canada

Stoney Creek Woman: The Story of Mary John, Tenth Anniversary Edition

Mary John’s biography is a significant contribution to First Nations women’s literature. Originally written in 1988, it is now in its 15th printing. This remarkable Carrier woman (1913-2004) was a respected elder, midwife, counsellor and educator who fought tirelessly to improve conditions and opportunities for First Nations people and to revive cultural traditions. In 1997 John was awarded the Order of Canada for outstanding service to her community; for fostering significant economic, social and political change on reserves; bridging understanding between cultures; and for preserving and promoting First Nations culture and language.

Moran, a social worker, and Mary John became politically active together in the 1950s. Moran also wrote Judgment at Stoney Creek.

Stoney Creek Woman: The Story of Mary John

Working as a social worker for the government, the author had her first contact with the Stoney Creek Reserve in the 1950s. There she met Mary John, an Aboriginal mother of twelve from the Carrier First Nations in northern BC. Mary’s life story involves the hardships of racism, sickness, and poverty, and her personal struggle to survive. Originally published in 1988, this updated edition features a new preface and new photographs.

This title won the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal, BC Historical Federation. A Teacher’s Guide is available from publisher.