This graphic novel continues
the story of Echo, a young Métis girl living in a foster home. In this sequel,
Echo has made some connections to other students at school and gotten involved
in the indigenous leadership program. While still missing her mother, she is in
a positive, supportive, foster family.
I appreciate how Canadian
history is taught through Echo’s eyes. She travels back in time to 1869
and 1870 in the Red River when the Métis were trying to keep their land. The
Canadian government wanted it for white settlers. To avoid this, the Métis,
under the leadership of Louis Riel, set up their own government in hopes of negotiating with Canada. In spite of their best efforts, they lost. The reality
is that the Canadian government has never dealt fairly with indigenous peoples
and reading this novel makes it all very clear.
The story of Métis resistance
is one of many dark chapters in our history. Even though I know this story, it
seems more profound in a graphic novel format. Perhaps it’s because I am
invested in Echo and these are her ancestors.
The back matter includes a
timeline full of important dates. A map shows where the Red River settlement
is. There is also a list of rights that was a foundational document for the
Métis government.
The realistic art has a gritty
feel to it. There is one page that filled me with dread. It’s a joyful picture
of Echo with Benjamin, her friend from the past, celebrating what
they think will be a successful negotiation between the Métis and the
government of Canada.
No comments:
Post a Comment