book review: Meeting destiny courageously

The suicide of a friend consolidates the painful, dark and repressed secrets of  James Nathan and Jake Noland.  Their haunted histories are expressed in their undirected lives and by their dysfunctional behaviours.

Initially, the story overviews a basic historical timeline of the leadership and events that impacted the “Blue People” of Canada’s Northwest Territories.

Chief David becomes a catalyst for change when he hears Jake’s description of the events that took place in the “mission” school years before. Publicly, Chief David shares his story, compelling others to find their voices and to right the wrongs that they had suffered. The Elders bring forth cultural practices and share them with the community who embrace the old ways of life as they embark on their collective and individual journeys of healing.

Fraught with human defects of character and the weight and the pain of the residential school experience, the actions and lifestyles of the characters seem rough and “raunchy” at times. But, as their lived experiences unfold, their personal and collective challenges are illuminated and awaken compassion and understanding.

Concurrently, the author intertwines the existence of an “old wolf” who ekes out an isolated and lonely existence. The characters and the wolf struggle through their respective challenges and ultimately meet their destinies courageously and as nature intended.

“Porcupines and China Dolls” by Robert Arthur Alexie. Theytus Books. Paperback 306 pages. ISBN 978-1-894778-68-8 (bound). Copyright 2009.

 – Reviewed by Laura Dokis