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The Outside Circle Graphic Novel

Writer's picture: josh banksjosh banks

I recently sat down and read a graphic novel by Patti LaBoucane-Benson over the plight of Native-Americans currently in the U.S. It was a gripping story of how families are dealing with addictions, poverty, and a lost culture. I dug a little deeper into the author's efforts at writing this particular graphic novel. She had to

do a lot of her own research from The Native Counseling Services of Alberta in order to get a very accurate insight into the issues befalling this seemingly lost culture. I use the word lost, not as a slight to the people affected, but rather to the fact America has managed to hide the cultural disparity and shame it has brought to our Native-American brethren.


The story takes place in modern day society and the main character Pete, is at the center of the action. He has joined up with a gang to make money as well as get respect among his peers as well as also taking care of his little brother. His mother is a heroin addict whose boyfriend is a piece garbage. Still, he has a deep respect and love for his family; especially for his younger brother Joey who he wishes to grow up and get out of the life they live. Unfortunately, when you are in a gang and you have ties to the drug rings; eventually jail catches up to you. Although Pete ends up going to jail, he still maintains the fellowship of his gang brothers in prison. That is, until he is fighting battles in prison, the kind which can leave you dead. Feeling almost hopeless and without options, one is presented to him he cannot refuse.

The option allows Pete to enter into a rehabilitation center in a program called The Warrior Program. It is here the graphic novel really takes off. The author does a wonderful job showing just how easy it is for young "Aboriginal Men" to turn to violence and a life of crime. Throughout his journey we are witnessed to his upbringing or lack of parental support. The financial hardships he was exposed to along with the drug use and physical abuse as a child. All inner demons are exposed and it is very easy for the reader to feel this young man's anger, resentment, and hate for the things in his life as well as his view of society.

I believe the author has captured the essence of the unfortunate 'normalcy' this culture now faces. It is one of heart wrenching drama. Although the book ends on a positive note; it is easy for any realistic person to assume; for others who are experiencing this type of life, it is not so 'happily ever-after.' The novel was published in 2015 and the art was done by Kelly Mellings. I feel she did a wonderful job picking up the essence of the characters by using imagery and allusion towards the good and evil spirit representing Pete's soul. This makes for a very good read as well as moralistic lesson which bridges all cultures in today's civilizations.

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