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Comments (20)

Community comments are the opinions of contributing users. These comments do not represent the opinions of the Edmonton Public Library.
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Jun 29, 2023Taradactll rated this title 3 out of 5 stars
A very moving story and a great example of reconciliation in Canada. I would describe the book as memoir and of family history. Also is a authentic, heartfelt, detailed look into Indigenous cultures and the impact of residential schools.
Aug 25, 2022Cathy424 rated this title 4.5 out of 5 stars
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by the author, while cleaning and decluttering. I found the pacing of the story to be relaxing, and to mimick the way we all live our lives with some regret and look back at those regrets with…
Sep 27, 2021mclarjh rated this title 2 out of 5 stars
Poorly written; tedious; promotional.
Sep 25, 2020emallabon rated this title 3 out of 5 stars
An honest memoir written from the heart by a son to honour his father. Some things about Canada's treatment of the First Nations people I was already aware of, i.e. the existence of the Indian Act and residential schools. But this book…
Nov 02, 2017Doudi rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
Kinew's book is a must read for Canadians. Those who do not fully understand the deep meaning of Peace and Reconcilation will have their answers in this book. I got my answer and will be able to explain some of its depth to others. I wish…
Feb 01, 2017Papadog rated this title 3 out of 5 stars
A shocker to learn about the horror of the residential schools from the experiences of Wab's father. Wake up call for me. Found it a little too personal, too much like a diary, and a hint of superiority, despite all the tragic events -…
Dec 22, 2016
An important book for any Canadian to read.
Sep 02, 2016Monika Hans rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
A very moving and touching story. It makes you laugh, cry, get angry and can stir up so many emotions. After only three days I'm almost through, which is pretty fast for me since English is my second language. One of the best books I've…
Aug 27, 2016wyenotgo rated this title 1.5 out of 5 stars
Given Wab Kinew's skill as a radio and TV communicator and his unquestioned intelligence I found this book disappointing. The writing style is disjointed, his choice of language sophomoric and at times crude. So, literature it is not; but…
May 29, 2016KateHillier rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
I'd never heard of Wab Kinew before he defended Joseph Boyden's novel "The Orenda" for Canada Reads (it later won). I didn't know much else beyond that, and that he hosts Canada Reads now, before I picked this up for book club. It was a…
DonnaMeness
May 08, 2016
People really need to understand that even if the Indian Act was repealed tomorrow, it would not change the dire effects of colonization or the continual racism that is present in many places in society. I think most of all, there has…
Apr 21, 2016gingerbeer rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
This is a fascinating and beautiful story about the father-son bond, healing and forgiveness, family and culture. It contains important insight into how Canada can restore the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people and…
Apr 18, 2016rpavlacic rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
A moving account about how a broadcaster and his father were affected by the Aboriginal residential school atrocity ... and what white society can learn from native cultures.
Apr 05, 2016K_ROK rated this title 3.5 out of 5 stars
A heartfelt memoir with important stories and events that can change opinions about First Nations culture. Wab's words in the Epilogue were so true about how we need to treat each other with love. Great book for all Canadians to read.
Apr 03, 2016CatherineG_1 rated this title 3.5 out of 5 stars
As two of the other reviewers said, this book provides great insights into First Nations people. The ceremonial part of their lives for example, the skulls and sundance ceremony show their individual strength. As Kinew highlights his…
Mar 29, 2016JWTF rated this title 3.5 out of 5 stars
When I read this book, I wasn't thinking about how well it was written (although it was!). I was fully immersed in Ndede and Wab's story - sometimes with tears!! This book deepened my understanding of first nations history in Canada. …
Mar 22, 2016ehbooklover rated this title 3.5 out of 5 stars
3.5 stars. An emotional, powerful, and uplifting memoir that really opened my eyes to the attempted suppression of Indigenous culture in Canada by the use of Residential Schools. I really enjoyed learning about the many rituals and…
Mar 01, 2016ownedbydoxies rated this title 4.5 out of 5 stars
Not just a well-written book, but a truly important book. If you read only one thing this year, make it this book.
Jan 22, 2016hRuth rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
❤️Having a crush on Wab since seeing him on Canada Reads, I looked forward to learning more about him. Tho not a novelist, he is an accomplished CBC commentator, journalist and educator; able to tell his family's story in fine form. It…
Dec 16, 2015smc01 rated this title 4.5 out of 5 stars
I have been impressed by Wab Kinew ever since I encountered him for the first time when he championed a book on Canada Reads. His book did not disappoint or change that impression. He has told an amazing story about the love between a…