Book details
Borders
Description
A People Magazine Best Book Fall 2021From celebrated Indigenous author Thomas King and award-winning Métis artist Natasha Donovan comes a powerful graphic novel about a family caught between nations.Borders is a masterfully told story of a boy and his mother whose road trip is thwarted at the border when they identify their citizenship as Blackfoot. Refusing to identify as either American or Canadian first bars their entry into the US, and then their return into Canada. In the limbo between countries, they find power in their connection to their identity and to each other. Borders explores nationhood from an Indigenous perspective and resonates deeply with themes of identity, justice, and belonging.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
beginner
Length
192 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'Borders' by Thomas King offers readers a deep and nuanced understanding of North American Indigenous cultures, particularly the Blackfoot people. It provides a valuable perspective on identity, nationality, and the complexities of cross-border movement for Indigenous communities.
- Engaging Storytelling: Thomas King is known for his compelling narrative style that weaves humor and pathos seamlessly. 'Borders' is no exception, offering an engaging plot with memorable characters that keep readers invested in the story from beginning to end.
- Social Commentary: The book tackles important social issues such as border politics, sovereignty, and the arbitrary lines that divide people and nations. It encourages readers to think critically about current and historical events related to Indigenous rights and identity.
- Literary Merit: Thomas King is a celebrated author, and 'Borders' showcases his literary talent. The book's well-crafted prose and thoughtful structure make it not only an important read for its content but also a pleasure to read for its artistry.