March 19, 2014

Voices of Indigenous kids


Looks Like Daylight: Voices of Indigenous Kids
by Deborah Ellis


Too often, media focus on the problems that First Nations people face whether it is poverty, alcoholism, family violence, drug abuse, or suicide. The long-term effects of residential schools, foster care, poor nutrition and environmental pollution continue to be felt, with solutions coming at a glacial pace. Deborah Ellis provides a much needed counterbalance in her conversations with Indigenous kids from Canada and the United States. They talk about their daily lives, about their dreams and interests, and how being Native affects their view of the world.

They speak frankly about broken families, racism, and brushes with the law, but also about dancing at powwows, competing at sports, seeking Native sanctuaries, and learning to be leaders. They have a better understanding of history than many people and have a firm understanding of the work they have to do. They are positive, optimistic, and hopeful about the future.

Enlightening and provocative, this is an important book. Highly recommended.





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