An Honest Woman by Jónína Kirton In this brutally honest book of poems, a Métis woman recounts the abuses, joys, and catastrophic losses she has experienced, as well as her coming of age in a difficult time and place. With uncommon grace and intelligence, Kirton presents an honest and plain depiction of what a woman’s life can look like in the face of familial limitations, sexist and racist disregard and mistreatment, or as the consequences of the choices one makes while growing up. She presents some stunning and surprising instances of joy, but also the depths of grief over the loss of brothers and unborn children. She contrasts the differences between male and female sexual awakening, and offers examples of shocking current events, parental/societal abuse and neglect, but also ones of gratitude. Seeing what a young woman of mixed heritage endures is useful for all genders and ethnicities. Caution: explicit sexual references; sexual and physical abuse. |
Life Cycle of a Lie by Sylvia Olsen
This novel takes place in a small BC town. Vik, meets the new student Jonas on the first day of high school. Both Vik and her boyfriend, Linc, become good friends with Jonas, and they are all part of an environmental group called SOS (Save our Streams). Jonas unintentionally causes tension in Vik and Linc’s relationship. Jonas is then accused of a crime which only Vik can tell the truth about. The novel covers issues such as racial tension between non-First Nations and First Nations in the community, personal concerns around sexuality, and the complexities of family relationships. Caution: This book contains coarse language, descriptions of physical violence, sexuality, domestic abuse, and discrimination. |
Mitêwâcimowina: Indigenous Science Fiction and Speculative Storytelling by Neal Mcleod In this first-ever Indigenous science fiction anthology, established authors such as Drew Hayden Taylor, Richard Van Camp, Lee Maracle, and Eden Robinson draw on the rich history of storytelling in First Nations culture. The 18 short stories detail alien invasions, space travel, and postapocalyptic worlds, as well as other topics. Many of the stories draw their inspiration from First Nations lore. Neal McLeod’s contribution is partially written in Cree and has been translated. Neal McLeod is the author of several other books, including 100 Days of Cree and cîhcêwêsin: New Poetry from Indigenous Saskatchewan. These Indigenous authors occasionally use the term “Indian.” Caution: occasional instances of profanity and drug use. |
The Outside Circle by Patti LaBoucane-Benson This graphic novel addresses issues of racism and discrimination, poverty, sexual and domestic abuse, alcohol and drug addiction, and gang violence in a search for a healing balance for First Nations youth. The protagonist becomes aware of the effect that his lifestyle plays in transmitting the intergenerational pain of the Aboriginal people on to his younger brother. He embarks on a physical and spiritual healing process through the “In Search of Your Warrior” program, sweat lodges, and smudging. The Outside Circle uses the conventions of the graphic novel to powerful effect in narrating a sensitive and disturbing story. Caution: Graphic images and content may be disturbing to some readers |