Shirley: An Indian Residential School Story

by Joanne Robertson, Shirley Fletcher (Horn) (Primary Contributor)

Shirley is only five years old when she is taken away by the Indian agent to live at a residential school. She loves learning, but she is not there by choice. From the first day walking up the long, lonely stone steps of the school building, life is hard and full of rules. Separated from her brothers and sisters, she is truly on her own.

Shirley is very brave, but there is no one she loves to hold her at night when she is afraid. No one to tuck her in and comfort her. Shirley keeps going despite the sadness. She makes friends and has adventures. And most of all, she looks ahead to summertime, when she will be able to return to her family and the happiness of home.

A true story.

Genres: Nonfiction, Picture Books, Middle Grade, Childrens, Indigenous, History, Biography

70 pages, Paperback

Published February 10, 2026

Reviews

[Chantal · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very inspiring short story about Indian residential schools in Canada by Joanne Robertson and Shirley (Fletcher) Horn. Something incredibly unique about this book is the eye-catching illustrations. They are a combination of both real photos and illustrations by Robertson. Nothing like I’ve ever seen before. They truly bring the story together in a way that would not feel as uplifting if they were just old photos.
This is a story of perseverance and reconciliation, and finding moments of joy when living in some of the worst situations imaginable for a Native child.
This one is going on my personal bookshelf.

Thank you Second Story Press and 49th Shelf for a copy of this stunning book.

[Jennybeast · Rating 4 out of 5]

Powerful. Painful. It's an honor that Shirley is willing to share her story. The book is well done -- short paragraphs, short stories. They hold the loneliness at the center, but they also portray how to survive in a hostile environment. Excellent jumping off point for conversations on the topic, regardless of age.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was heartbreaking, and I was truly surprised by how much humor was in it as well. The extended note from Shirley and from the author gives a lot of context and helps readers to understand how difficult it is to even write down stories like this one. Important for all readers.