For Maria Campbell, a Métis ("Halfbreed") in Canada, the brutal realities of poverty, pain and degradation intruded early and followed her every step. Her story is a harsh one, but it is told without bitterness or self-pity. It is a story that begins in 1940 in northern Saskatchewan and moves across Canada's West, where Maria roamed in the rootless existence of day-to-day jobs, drug addiction and alcoholism. Her path strayed ever near hospital doors and prison walls.

It was Cheechum, her Cree great-grandmother, whose indomitable spirit sustained Maria Campbell through her most desperate times. Cheechum's stubborn dignity eventually led the author to take pride in her Métis heritage and Cheechum's image inspired her in her drive for her own life, dignity and purpose. (From Goodread Biography)

Maria Campbell is a Métis elder, author, playwright, broadcaster and filmmaker, best known for the classic 1973 memoir Halfbreed. She was named to the Order of Canada for her contributions to national literature in 2008.