Katherena Vermette author page

Katherena Vermette biography

Katherena Vermette is a Canadian writer of Métis descent, known for her work in poetry, fiction, and children’s literature. She grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and her writing often explores themes related to Indigenous identity, community, and family. Vermette holds a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia.

Her debut poetry collection, North End Love Songs, was published by The Muses’ Company in 2012. This collection received the Governor General’s Literary Award for Poetry in 2013. Vermette has also written for young readers, including the Seven Teachings Stories series, which introduces children to Anishinaabe teachings through picture books.

In 2016, Vermette published her first novel, The Break, with House of Anansi Press. The novel was shortlisted for the Rogers Writers’ Trust Fiction Prize and the Governor General’s Award for English-language fiction. She has also contributed to anthologies and literary magazines, and her work has been recognized for its focus on Indigenous experiences in Canada.

Vermette’s subsequent works include the poetry collection river woman (2018) and the novel The Strangers (2021), both published by House of Anansi Press. The Strangers won the Atwood Gibson Writers’ Trust Fiction Prize in 2021.