SCPL Online NonFiction Book Club discussion

In today’s news, traditional hunts such as the seal hunt are often negatively portrayed by animal rights activists. However, for Sheila, it is part of her culture and heritage. Over the years, I’ve seen stories about protests for hunts by indigenous groups but had never really thought about it before from the indigenous perspective.

For Sheila, both the hunt and the celebrations afterwards, are such an integral part of the Inuit culture. She highlights how hunting unites the community and teaches important values to children.

Have you had much exposure to animal rights activists and their views of hunting? Did Sheila’s portrayal of an Inuit hunt and the celebrations that followed alter your view on such activities?

I can’t say I have had much exposure to animal rights activists and their view of hunting or that I’ve ever really thought about it that much. Sheila’s portrayal definitely made me appreciate the cultural significance of activities like that though. I really enjoyed that part of the book. I can’t say my view was particularly altered but it was definitely enhanced. Seal hunting is a huge part of the Inuit culture and it was interesting to learn about them. I’m not particularly interested in trying seal meat any time soon though ;)

Thanks for your comment Heidi! I absolutely agree with you that this section was one of my favourite parts of the book. It was fascinating to learn about the seal hunt from the Inuit perspective and how important it was for them. There are definitely a few foods that I grew up with that would be hard to give up and I have never thought for some people, seal or caribou meat would be the same. I am with you in that I don't think I'm ready to try seal meat quite yet!