Launch scheduled for March 28 in Kuujjuaq

The book Fifty years below zero,) a biography of Father Jules Dion of Nunavik written by Raymonde Haché, is now available in English.

First published in French as Cinquante ans au-dessous de zero in 2006, the book will be launched March 28 at 2:30 pm in Kuujjuaq, at the Notre Dame de Fatima parish church hall.

Dion, who is better known in Nunavik by his Inuttitut name, Pirtiu, was known as a skilled mechanic, carpenter, dog team runner, hunter, fisherman, doctor, dentist, priest and part-time snowmobile salesman.

Dion, who turns 81 next month, arrived in Quaqtaq in July 1955, as a newly-ordained Oblate missionary. Dion still lives in Kangiqsujuaq.

Haché, a teacher, first met Father Dion in 1978 when she taught in Quaqtaq, where they started an enduring friendship.

The book is available at the Catholic missions in Kuujjuaq and Kangiqsujuaq and at Kuujjuaq's Tivi Galleries.

Fifty years below zero, Raymonde Haché; Éd. Anne Sigier; ISBN 978-2-89129-558-1: $35 in Nunavik.