Are you looking for a book on residential schools that will provide insight, understanding, and a powerful narrative? Look no further, as we explore the 20 best residential schools books that offer an essential and thought-provoking look into this dark chapter of history. These books delve into the experiences of Indigenous children in Canada’s residential school system, shedding light on the trauma, resilience, and cultural impact of these institutions. From memoirs to historical accounts, these books offer an essential education on the subject, making them must-reads for anyone seeking to understand this crucial aspect of Canadian history.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Residential Schools Books
- 2 Indian Horse
- 3 Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City
- 4 Up Ghost River: A Chief’s Journey Through the Turbulent Waters of Native History
- 5 A Knock on the Door: The Essential History of Residential Schools from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
- 6 Stolen Life: The Journey of a Cree Woman
- 7 Unsettling the Settler Within: Indian Residential Schools, Truth Telling, and Reconciliation in Canada
- 8 From the Ashes: My Story of Being Métis, Homeless, and Finding My Way
- 9 Speaking My Truth: Reflections on Reconciliation and Residential School
- 10 The Reason You Walk
- 11 A National Crime: The Canadian Government and the Residential School System
- 12 The Marrow Thieves
- 13 The Break
- 14 The Right to Be Cold: One Woman’s Story of Protecting Her Culture, the Arctic, and the Whole Planet
- 15 Seven Fallen Feathers
- 16 Up Ghost River
- 17 A Knock on the Door: The Essential History of Residential Schools from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
- 18 My Name Is Seepeetza
- 19 The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America
- 20 They Called Me Number One: Secrets and Survival at an Indian Residential School
- 21 The Education of Augie Merasty: A Residential School Memoir
- 22 Final Thoughts on Best Residential Schools Books
- 23
20 Best Residential Schools Books
Indian Horse
by Richard Wagamese
Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese is a powerful and heart-wrenching novel that delves into the devastating impact of Indian residential schools on the indigenous community in Canada. The story follows the life of Saul Indian Horse, a young Ojibway boy who is forcibly taken from his family and sent to a brutal residential school where he experiences trauma and abuse. Despite the hardships, Saul discovers a talent for ice hockey, which becomes both his escape and his burden as he navigates the challenges of racism and prejudice in the sport.
Wagamese’s poignant and evocative writing brings to life the struggles and resilience of indigenous people, shedding light on the dark history of the residential school system. Through Saul’s journey, the novel explores themes of identity, cultural heritage, and the enduring impact of trauma. Indian Horse is a compelling and important read that offers a deeply moving portrayal of a dark chapter in Canadian history.
Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City
by Tanya Talaga
Seven Fallen Feathers by Tanya Talaga is a powerful and heartbreaking exploration of the deaths of seven Indigenous high school students in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Talaga delves deep into the systemic racism and the legacy of colonialism that contributed to their deaths, shedding light on the ongoing impact of Canada’s residential school system on Indigenous communities. Through meticulous research and compassionate storytelling, Talaga exposes the harsh realities faced by Indigenous youth in a northern city, while also giving voice to the families and communities affected by these tragedies. This book is a searing indictment of the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada, and a call to action for reconciliation and justice. Seven Fallen Feathers is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complex and painful history of Indigenous communities in Canada, and the urgent need for change.
Up Ghost River: A Chief’s Journey Through the Turbulent Waters of Native History
by Edmund Metatawabin
Up Ghost River: A Chief’s Journey Through the Turbulent Waters of Native History by Edmund Metatawabin is a poignant and powerful memoir that delves into the author’s personal experience within the Canadian residential school system. Metatawabin provides a raw and honest account of his time at St. Anne’s, a notorious residential school where he endured abuse, trauma, and the loss of his cultural identity.
This compelling book sheds light on the dark history of Indigenous residential schools, offering a firsthand perspective on the devastating impact of assimilation policies on Indigenous communities. Metatawabin’s narrative is both heartbreaking and hopeful as he shares his journey of healing and reclaiming his identity as a proud Cree man and leader.
Through his courageous storytelling, Metatawabin brings attention to the enduring legacy of the residential school system and the resilience of Indigenous peoples. Up Ghost River is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the lasting effects of colonialism and the ongoing struggle for Indigenous rights and reconciliation.
A Knock on the Door: The Essential History of Residential Schools from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
by Phil Fontaine, Aimée Craft, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
A Knock on the Door: The Essential History of Residential Schools from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada provides a comprehensive and essential overview of the history of residential schools. Co-authored by Phil Fontaine, Aimée Craft, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, this book delves into the devastating legacy of the residential school system in Canada. Through personal stories, historical accounts, and insightful analysis, the authors shed light on the impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities and the lasting effects on generations of survivors.
This book about residential schools is a crucial resource for understanding this dark chapter in Canadian history and the ongoing journey towards healing and reconciliation. A Knock on the Door offers a compelling and necessary examination of the residential school experience, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of this important issue.
Stolen Life: The Journey of a Cree Woman
by Rudy Wiebe and Yvonne Johnson
Stolen Life: The Journey of a Cree Woman is a powerful and harrowing book about the devastating impact of Canada’s residential school system on Indigenous communities. Co-authored by Rudy Wiebe and Yvonne Johnson, this memoir tells the story of Johnson’s childhood experiences in the residential school system and the long-lasting effects it had on her life. Through Johnson’s firsthand account, the reader gains insight into the trauma, abuse, and cultural suppression that Indigenous children endured in these institutions. The book sheds light on the resilience and strength of the Cree people, while also highlighting the ongoing legacy of intergenerational trauma. Stolen Life is a poignant and essential read for anyone seeking to understand the dark history of the residential school system and its profound impact on Indigenous communities.
Unsettling the Settler Within: Indian Residential Schools, Truth Telling, and Reconciliation in Canada
by Paulette Regan
Unsettling the Settler Within by Paulette Regan is a powerful and thought-provoking book on residential schools in Canada. Regan, a scholar and expert in indigenous issues, delves into the painful history of Indian residential schools, exploring the impact of colonialism on indigenous communities and the process of truth telling and reconciliation.
Through in-depth research and personal narratives, Regan sheds light on the devastating effects of residential schools on generations of indigenous people, while also examining the role of settlers in the process of reconciliation. She challenges readers to confront their own complicity in the colonial system and encourages them to engage in meaningful dialogue and action towards reconciliation.
This book about residential schools offers a vital perspective on the legacy of colonialism and the ongoing journey towards healing and justice. It is essential reading for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the complex issues surrounding residential schools and the path to reconciliation in Canada.
From the Ashes: My Story of Being Métis, Homeless, and Finding My Way
by Jesse Thistle
From the Ashes: My Story of Being Métis, Homeless, and Finding My Way by Jesse Thistle is a powerful memoir that chronicles the author’s journey from a troubled childhood to finding redemption and healing. Thistle shares his experiences of being Métis and the challenges he faced growing up, including homelessness and addiction. His raw and honest storytelling provides a poignant insight into the struggles of Indigenous people in Canada.
Thistle’s memoir is a captivating and deeply moving account of resilience, survival, and the strength of the human spirit. His writing is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, as he bravely confronts the trauma and intergenerational effects of the residential school system on his family and himself. Through his personal narrative, Thistle sheds light on the lasting impact of the systemic injustices that have affected Indigenous communities for generations.
From the Ashes is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complex and deeply rooted issues faced by Indigenous people in Canada. Thistle’s memoir is a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Speaking My Truth: Reflections on Reconciliation and Residential School
by Shelagh Rogers
Speaking My Truth: Reflections on Reconciliation and Residential School by Shelagh Rogers is a powerful and poignant collection of personal stories, essays, and reflections from survivors of Canada’s residential school system. This book provides a platform for Indigenous voices to share their experiences and perspectives on the impact of residential schools on their lives and communities.
Rogers, a respected Canadian broadcaster and advocate for reconciliation, has collaborated with survivors, intergenerational survivors, and a wide range of contributors to create a deeply moving and thought-provoking exploration of the lasting effects of the residential school system. Through their stories, readers gain insight into the trauma, resilience, and journey towards healing and reconciliation.
Speaking My Truth is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the legacy of the residential school system and its ongoing impact on Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is a poignant and necessary contribution to the conversation surrounding truth and reconciliation, and a testament to the strength and resilience of Indigenous communities.
The Reason You Walk
by Wab Kinew
The Reason You Walk by Wab Kinew is a powerful and poignant memoir that delves into the author’s personal journey of healing, forgiveness, and reconciliation. This deeply moving book explores the intergenerational trauma caused by the Canadian Indian residential school system, as well as the author’s own experiences growing up and coming to terms with his identity as an Indigenous man.
Kinew’s memoir is a compelling and heartfelt exploration of his relationship with his father, who was a survivor of the residential school system, and the impact of that trauma on their family. Through his experiences, Kinew offers a deeply personal and insightful look at the devastating legacy of the residential schools while also offering hope and the possibility of healing and reconciliation.
This book about residential schools is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about the impact of the residential school system on Indigenous communities and the ongoing journey towards healing and reconciliation.
A National Crime: The Canadian Government and the Residential School System
by John S. Milloy
A National Crime: The Canadian Government and the Residential School System by John S. Milloy is a groundbreaking book on the dark history of the Canadian residential school system. Milloy provides a comprehensive and deeply researched overview of the government’s role in the establishment and operation of these institutions, which had a devastating impact on Indigenous communities across Canada.
The book delves into the systemic abuse, cultural genocide, and intergenerational trauma inflicted on Indigenous children who were forcibly removed from their families and communities to attend these schools. Milloy’s work sheds light on the long-lasting effects of the residential school system and its implications for reconciliation and healing in Canada.
A National Crime is a vital and timely resource for anyone seeking to understand the full extent of the harm caused by the residential school system. Milloy’s meticulous scholarship and compassionate approach make this book an essential read for anyone interested in Canadian history, Indigenous rights, and the ongoing legacy of colonialism.
The Marrow Thieves
by Cherie Dimaline
The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline is a captivating dystopian young adult novel set in a future where civilization has collapsed and people’s ability to dream has disappeared. The story follows Frenchie, a young Indigenous boy, who is on the run from a government that hunts Indigenous people for their bone marrow, which is believed to have the power to restore dreams. The novel addresses themes of resilience, survival, and the impact of colonization on Indigenous communities. Through its gripping narrative, The Marrow Thieves sheds light on the historical trauma of Indigenous peoples and serves as a poignant commentary on the impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities. This powerful and thought-provoking book about residential schools offers a unique and necessary perspective on a dark chapter in Canadian history.
The Break
by Katherena Vermette
The Break by Katherena Vermette is a gripping and powerful novel that delves into the lives of a group of Indigenous women in Winnipeg. The story is centered around a violent assault on a young Métis girl, and the impact it has on her family and community. Through the perspectives of various characters, Vermette masterfully weaves together a narrative that explores themes of trauma, resilience, and the enduring strength of Indigenous women.
This book provides a raw and unflinching look at the effects of intergenerational trauma, and the resilience of Indigenous communities in the face of adversity. The Break offers a poignant and honest portrayal of the challenges faced by Indigenous people, and sheds light on the long-lasting effects of colonization, including the legacy of the residential school system.
Vermette’s powerful storytelling and vivid characters make The Break a compelling and important read for anyone seeking to understand the impact of historical injustices, making it an essential book about residential schools and their lasting effects.
The Right to Be Cold: One Woman’s Story of Protecting Her Culture, the Arctic, and the Whole Planet
by Sheila Watt-Cloutier
The Right to Be Cold: One Woman’s Story of Protecting Her Culture, the Arctic, and the Whole Planet is a powerful memoir by Sheila Watt-Cloutier that sheds light on the impact of climate change on the Arctic and its indigenous communities. Watt-Cloutier, an Inuk woman, shares her personal experiences and the challenges faced by her people in the face of environmental degradation and cultural loss.
This compelling book delves into the intersection of environmental and human rights, as Watt-Cloutier advocates for the right of her community to maintain their traditional way of life in the face of a rapidly changing climate. She also explores the broader implications of climate change, emphasizing its global significance and the interconnectedness of all life on the planet.
Through her poignant storytelling, Watt-Cloutier also addresses the historical and ongoing impacts of colonization, including the legacy of residential schools, on indigenous peoples in the Arctic. The Right to Be Cold is a must-read for anyone interested in environmental justice, indigenous rights, and the urgent need for climate action.
Seven Fallen Feathers
by Tanya Talaga
Seven Fallen Feathers by Tanya Talaga is a powerful and heartbreaking book about the tragic deaths of seven Indigenous high school students in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Talaga, an award-winning journalist, investigates the systemic issues that led to the deaths of these young people who had to leave their remote communities to attend school in the city. The book delves into the history of Canada’s treatment of Indigenous peoples, shedding light on the devastating legacy of colonialism, assimilation, and the residential school system. Through interviews with the families of the fallen students and extensive research, Talaga paints a compelling and deeply moving portrait of the impact of intergenerational trauma and the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities.
Up Ghost River
by Edmund Metatawabin
Up Ghost River by Edmund Metatawabin is a powerful and moving memoir that delves into the author’s experience in a residential school. This harrowing account sheds light on the devastating impact of the Canadian government’s assimilation policies on Indigenous communities. Metatawabin shares his personal journey of resilience and healing, offering a unique perspective on the intergenerational trauma caused by the residential school system. The book provides a raw and honest portrayal of the abuse, cultural suppression, and loss of identity that Indigenous children endured in these institutions.
Through vivid storytelling and introspection, Metatawabin not only uncovers the atrocities of the residential school system but also explores the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities. Up Ghost River is a poignant and necessary read for anyone seeking to understand the lasting effects of colonization and the ongoing process of reconciliation. This book about residential schools is an important contribution to the ongoing dialogue about Indigenous rights and the impact of historical trauma.
A Knock on the Door: The Essential History of Residential Schools from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
by Phil Fontaine, Aimée Craft, and The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
A Knock on the Door: The Essential History of Residential Schools from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada is a powerful and essential book about residential schools in Canada. Written by Phil Fontaine, Aimée Craft, and The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the history and impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities. Through personal stories, historical accounts, and archival documents, the authors shed light on the dark legacy of these institutions, which aimed to assimilate Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture. The book explores the devastating effects of residential schools on generations of Indigenous peoples, while also highlighting the resilience and strength of survivors and their communities. A Knock on the Door serves as a crucial resource for understanding the history of residential schools and their ongoing impact on Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to learn about this important chapter of Canadian history.
My Name Is Seepeetza
by Shirley Sterling
My Name Is Seepeetza, written by Shirley Sterling, is a poignant and powerful book about a young Indigenous girl’s experience in a Canadian residential school. Set in the 1950s, the book follows Seepeetza as she is forcibly taken from her family and community to attend a government-run residential school, where she faces cultural suppression, abuse, and a loss of identity.
Sterling’s writing is evocative and deeply moving, offering readers a window into the devastating impact of the residential school system on Indigenous children and their families. Through Seepeetza’s eyes, the reader gains insight into the resilience and strength of Indigenous people in the face of adversity.
This book sheds light on a dark chapter in Canadian history and serves as a reminder of the ongoing legacy of trauma and healing in Indigenous communities. My Name Is Seepeetza is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the impact of residential schools and the resilience of Indigenous peoples.
The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America
by Thomas King
The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America by Thomas King is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the history and contemporary reality of Indigenous people in North America. King combines history, personal anecdotes, and sharp wit to shed light on the complex and often overlooked experiences of Native peoples. The book delves into a wide range of topics, including the impact of colonization, the portrayal of Indigenous people in popular culture, and the ongoing struggles for recognition and justice.
One of the most poignant and impactful aspects of the book is its unflinching examination of the devastating legacy of residential schools, offering a powerful and necessary perspective on this dark chapter in North American history. Through King’s engaging and insightful storytelling, readers are invited to confront uncomfortable truths and confront the inconvenient realities of the Indigenous experience. The Inconvenient Indian is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Indigenous experience in North America.
They Called Me Number One: Secrets and Survival at an Indian Residential School
by Bev Sellars
They Called Me Number One: Secrets and Survival at an Indian Residential School by Bev Sellars is a powerful and poignant memoir that sheds light on the dark history of Canada’s residential school system. Sellars recounts her own harrowing experiences at St. Joseph’s Mission, where she was forcibly taken from her family and subjected to abuse, neglect, and cultural erasure. Through her compelling narrative, Sellars exposes the systemic injustices and trauma inflicted upon Indigenous children in these institutions.
This book about residential schools is a gripping and eye-opening account of resilience, resistance, and the enduring strength of Indigenous communities. Sellars’ candid and courageous storytelling provides a crucial perspective on the long-lasting impact of the residential school system and the ongoing journey towards healing and reconciliation. They Called Me Number One is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the legacy of colonialism and the resilience of Indigenous peoples in Canada.
The Education of Augie Merasty: A Residential School Memoir
by Joseph Auguste Merasty and David Carpenter
The Education of Augie Merasty is a powerful memoir that provides a firsthand account of the devastating impact of the Canadian residential school system. Written by Joseph Auguste Merasty with the assistance of David Carpenter, this book offers a raw and unflinching look at Merasty’s experiences as a young Indigenous boy forced to attend a residential school. The memoir delves into the harsh realities of the system, detailing the abuse, neglect, and trauma that Merasty and countless others endured.
Through Merasty’s poignant and evocative storytelling, readers gain insight into the profound and lasting effects of the residential school system on Indigenous communities. The Education of Augie Merasty sheds light on a dark chapter of Canadian history, offering an important and necessary perspective on the legacy of colonialism and the resilience of Indigenous peoples. This memoir is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the impact of residential schools and the ongoing journey towards healing and reconciliation.
Final Thoughts on Best Residential Schools Books
Exploring the painful history of Residential Schools through literature can be a powerful way to educate and empathize with those affected. The 20 best books about residential schools offer readers a chance to delve into this dark chapter of Canadian history, providing important perspectives and insights. These books serve as essential resources for anyone seeking to understand the impact of residential schools on Indigenous communities and the ongoing process of reconciliation. By engaging with these powerful narratives, readers can contribute to a greater awareness and understanding of the legacy of residential schools in Canada.
Which book about Residential Schools is best?
The best book on Residential Schools can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese,
- Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City by Tanya Talaga,
- Up Ghost River: A Chief’s Journey Through the Turbulent Waters of Native History by Edmund Metatawabin.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Residential Schools?
For those looking to learn about Residential Schools, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese,
- Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City by Tanya Talaga,
- Up Ghost River: A Chief’s Journey Through the Turbulent Waters of Native History by Edmund Metatawabin,
- A Knock on the Door: The Essential History of Residential Schools from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada by Phil Fontaine, Aimée Craft, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada,
- Stolen Life: The Journey of a Cree Woman by Rudy Wiebe and Yvonne Johnson,
- Unsettling the Settler Within: Indian Residential Schools, Truth Telling, and Reconciliation in Canada by Paulette Regan,
- From the Ashes: My Story of Being Métis, Homeless, and Finding My Way by Jesse Thistle,
- Speaking My Truth: Reflections on Reconciliation and Residential School by Shelagh Rogers,
- The Reason You Walk by Wab Kinew,
- A National Crime: The Canadian Government and the Residential School System by John S. Milloy
These books offer a range of perspectives on Residential Schools, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books about Residential Schools?
The best books about Residential Schools are:
- Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese,
- Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City by Tanya Talaga,
- The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline,
- The Break by Katherena Vermette,
- Speaking My Truth: Reflections on Reconciliation and Residential School by Shelagh Rogers,
- Unsettling the Settler Within: Indian Residential Schools, Truth Telling, and Reconciliation in Canada by Paulette Regan.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Residential Schools are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Residential Schools books of all time?
Choosing the best Residential Schools books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include
- Indian Horse by Richard Wagamese,
- Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City by Tanya Talaga,
- Stolen Life: The Journey of a Cree Woman by Rudy Wiebe and Yvonne Johnson,
- Speaking My Truth: Reflections on Reconciliation and Residential School by Shelagh Rogers,
- and The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Residential Schools and continues to be influential today.