Sitting at their Feet

by Matt Gilbert

My memoir about growing up in my remote village learning from Elders, travelling the world and applying the lessons I learned, and then returning to hear the stories of the Elders again.

Paperback

First published October 13, 2021

About the author

I grew up in Arctic Village, Alaska, but lived around the country and finished college in Anchorage. I earned a Bachelors of Arts degree in English. I finished graduate school in cultural studies, and then became a novelist and filmmaker.

Reviews

[Carol Hoefler]

To the best of my knowledge, there are few if any contemporary memoirs by Gwich’in men. Sitting at Their Feet breaks the mold. This is the story of a young Alaska Native’s energetic quest to advance himself, his village and his tribe. On a greater scale, he strives to ease the plight of Alaskans and American Indians.

Matthew Gilbert draws extensively from values and wisdom shared by the revered village elders of his hometown Arctic Village, Alaska. Gilbert strives to be a progressive new tribal leader, statewide village delegate, community organizer and political organizer. His autobiography recounts a joyful, yet troubled childhood. His academic career has been impacted by incredible opportunities as well as formidable barriers. As an adult, Gilbert tells of occupational and romantic successes and frustrations. His story punctuates the issues and problems that vex many rural Alaskans.

Yet to the reader there is a peaceful and compelling desire to continue reading as his connection to Arctic Village and to his Gwich’in heritage includes wonderful descriptions of peaceful cabin-living, spiritual adventures into the wilderness, and a proud sense of Native identity. Gilbert continues to conduct research and write about Gwich’in culture; I look forward to reading more of his work.