Velma Wallis

About the Author

Velma Wallis is an acclaimed Athabascan Indian author from Alaska, renowned for her poignant retellings of indigenous legends that illuminate the resilience and wisdom of her people. Born and raised in the remote village of Eagle along the Yukon River, Wallis draws deeply from her cultural heritage and personal experiences to craft narratives that bridge traditional oral storytelling with contemporary literature. Her debut novel, Two Old Women, [Anniversary Edition]: An Alaska Legend of Betrayal, Courage and Survival, became a national bestseller, earning widespread praise for its exploration of survival, betrayal, and the enduring strength of elders in harsh wilderness settings. Through her evocative prose, Wallis not only preserves Athabascan folklore but also addresses universal themes of human endurance and community, inspiring readers worldwide to appreciate the profound lessons embedded in Native American traditions.