Sue Aikens North of Ordinary | The Witching Hour with Patti Negri

This week, Patti welcomes Sue Aikens of National Geographic’s Life Below Zero to discuss her new memoir, North of Ordinary. Sue recounts being moved from Chicago to Alaska as a child and later abandoned by her mother, learning self-sufficiency and finding comfort and guidance in ravens—especially one she called George—who led her to a cabin she still owns. She describes living in extreme isolation near Kavik on Alaska’s North Slope, relying on hunting, medicinal plants, and improvisation for survival. Sue shares the story of a grizzly attack, how she treated her injuries alone, and returning to the Arctic despite ongoing risks. She reflects on spirituality, energy, and staying connected to nature, and explains writing the book for her descendants, available through outlets including Mystery Control. @SourcebooksInc #sueaikens #lifebelowzero #northofordinary