Overview of “This Place: 150 Years Retold”
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” is a groundbreaking graphic novel anthology. It powerfully presents Indigenous stories spanning a century and a half, offering diverse perspectives.
Publication Details and ISBN
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” was published by HighWater Press, an Indigenous-owned publisher dedicated to amplifying Indigenous voices through literature. The book debuted in 2019, marking a significant moment in Indigenous storytelling and representation within the Canadian literary landscape. It’s a substantial work, boasting 336 pages filled with compelling narratives and striking visuals.
The book’s ISBN is 978-1553797586. This unique identifier is crucial for locating the book through various retailers and library databases. It ensures accurate identification and ordering. The ISBN is prominently displayed on the book’s cover and within its publication information, facilitating easy access for readers and researchers alike. It’s a key element for tracking and cataloging this important work.
Availability on Amazon
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” is readily available for purchase on Amazon in various formats. Both the paperback and hardcover editions are currently in stock, with pricing varying based on condition and seller. Amazon.ca and Amazon.com both list the book, catering to Canadian and American audiences respectively. Shipping options and delivery times depend on the chosen seller and your location.
As of today, December 27, 2025, the book maintains a strong customer rating on Amazon, reflecting its positive reception. While a free PDF version isn’t officially offered through Amazon, purchasing a physical copy supports the authors and publisher. Be cautious of unofficial PDF downloads, as they may be illegal or contain malware.
Availability on Google Books
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” is accessible through Google Books, offering a preview of the content. While a full, free PDF download isn’t directly provided by Google Books, users can often view a significant portion of the book online. This allows potential buyers to sample the diverse storytelling and artistic styles before committing to a purchase.
Google Books links to various retailers, including Amazon, where the physical copy can be bought. Searching for the book on Google Books reveals details about the authors and the book’s scope. Remember that seeking unofficial PDF versions carries risks, including potential copyright infringement and exposure to harmful software. Supporting the creators through legitimate channels is encouraged.
The Collaborative Nature of the Work
“This Place” is a remarkable achievement, born from the combined talents of numerous Indigenous writers and artists, fostering a truly collective narrative.
Multiple Authors and Contributors
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” distinguishes itself through its extensive list of contributors, showcasing a breadth of Indigenous talent. Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm, Sonny Assu, Brandon Mitchell, and Rachel Qitsualik-Tinsley are just a few of the prominent names involved. Sean Qitsualik-Tinsley, David A. Robertson, Niigaanwewidam James Sinclair, Jen Storm, Richard Van Camp, Katherena Vermette, Chelsea Vowel, Alicia Elliott, Tara Audibert, Kyle Charles, GMB Chomichuk, Natasha Donovan, Scott B. Henderson, Andrew Lodwick, Scott A. Ford, Donovan Yaciuk, and Ryan Howe also lend their voices.
This collaborative approach ensures a multifaceted representation of Indigenous experiences, moving beyond a single authorial perspective to create a rich and layered tapestry of stories.
Diverse Indigenous Voices Represented
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” intentionally amplifies a remarkable diversity of Indigenous voices, moving beyond monolithic narratives. Contributors represent various First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities across Turtle Island, ensuring a wide spectrum of cultural perspectives. The anthology includes storytellers from different generations, genders, and artistic backgrounds, enriching the overall narrative.
This deliberate inclusivity challenges conventional historical accounts and provides a nuanced understanding of Indigenous experiences. The book actively centers perspectives often marginalized in mainstream literature, fostering empathy and promoting reconciliation through shared storytelling.
Editorial Oversight and Coordination
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” benefited from careful editorial oversight, ensuring a cohesive yet diverse collection of stories. Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm served as a key figure in coordinating the numerous contributors and managing the project’s scope. This involved navigating diverse artistic styles and narrative approaches while maintaining a consistent thematic focus on Indigenous experiences over 150 years.
The editorial process prioritized Indigenous perspectives and cultural sensitivity, with contributors actively involved in shaping the final product. This collaborative approach fostered a sense of ownership and authenticity, resulting in a powerful and impactful anthology.
Themes and Content
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” explores themes of colonization, resilience, and Indigenous identity through diverse narratives spanning 150 years of Canadian history.
Historical Scope: 150 Years of Indigenous Experiences
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” ambitiously covers a vast historical period, commencing with the events following Canadian Confederation in 1867 and extending to the present day. The anthology doesn’t present a linear, chronological history, but rather a series of interconnected stories that illuminate pivotal moments and ongoing struggles within Indigenous communities.
These experiences encompass the devastating impacts of residential schools, the fight for treaty rights, the complexities of urban Indigenous life, and the enduring strength of cultural practices. The work deliberately avoids a singular, monolithic narrative, instead showcasing the diversity of Indigenous nations and their unique histories. It’s a powerful testament to survival, resistance, and the ongoing process of reconciliation, offering a nuanced and multifaceted portrayal of 150 years of Indigenous experiences in Canada.
Representation of Indigenous Perspectives
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” distinguishes itself through its commitment to centering Indigenous voices and perspectives. Unlike many historical accounts that have historically marginalized or misrepresented Indigenous experiences, this anthology is primarily authored and illustrated by Indigenous creators. This ensures authenticity and allows for a direct, unfiltered portrayal of lived realities.
The diverse range of contributors—including Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm, Sonny Assu, and Rachel Qitsualik-Tinsley—brings a wealth of knowledge, cultural understanding, and artistic talent to the project. The stories are told from within Indigenous communities, offering nuanced insights into their histories, challenges, and triumphs. This deliberate focus on self-representation is crucial for challenging dominant narratives and fostering a more accurate understanding of Canada’s past and present.
Exploration of Colonial Impact
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” doesn’t shy away from confronting the devastating impact of colonialism on Indigenous peoples. The anthology meticulously examines the historical and ongoing effects of colonization, including residential schools, land dispossession, and cultural suppression. Stories reveal the systemic injustices and trauma inflicted upon Indigenous communities over generations.
However, the work avoids solely portraying Indigenous peoples as victims. It also highlights the resilience, resistance, and agency demonstrated in the face of colonial oppression. Through diverse narratives, the anthology exposes the complexities of colonial relationships and challenges readers to critically examine Canada’s historical and contemporary responsibilities towards Indigenous reconciliation. The graphic novel format powerfully conveys the emotional weight of these experiences.
Focus on Resilience and Resistance
Despite depicting the harsh realities of colonial impact, “This Place: 150 Years Retold” fundamentally centers Indigenous strength and perseverance. The anthology showcases numerous acts of resistance – both overt and subtle – employed by Indigenous individuals and communities throughout history. These range from maintaining cultural practices in secret to actively fighting for land rights and self-determination.
The narratives emphasize the enduring spirit of Indigenous peoples and their unwavering commitment to preserving their cultures, languages, and traditions. Stories demonstrate how communities have adapted, innovated, and rebuilt in the face of adversity. This focus on resilience isn’t presented as simply overcoming hardship, but as a powerful assertion of sovereignty and a continuation of ancestral knowledge.
Artistic and Literary Forms
“This Place” uniquely blends graphic novel artistry with diverse storytelling approaches, utilizing powerful visuals to convey complex historical and emotional narratives.
Graphic Novel Format
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” distinguishes itself through its innovative employment of the graphic novel format. This choice isn’t merely stylistic; it’s integral to the work’s accessibility and impact. The visual medium allows for a nuanced portrayal of historical events and personal experiences, reaching a broader audience than traditional textual narratives might.
The graphic novel structure facilitates the integration of diverse artistic styles, reflecting the varied Indigenous voices contributing to the anthology. Panels, layouts, and color palettes are deliberately used to enhance storytelling, conveying emotions and cultural contexts with remarkable depth. This format breaks from conventional historical accounts, offering a dynamic and engaging experience for readers of all backgrounds, fostering a deeper connection to the narratives presented.
Combination of Storytelling Styles
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” masterfully blends a multitude of storytelling approaches, creating a rich and layered narrative tapestry. The anthology isn’t confined to a single genre or perspective; instead, it incorporates personal memoirs, historical accounts, fictionalized narratives, and poetic reflections. This deliberate combination mirrors the complexity of Indigenous experiences over 150 years.
Contributors employ diverse literary techniques, ranging from realistic portrayals to fantastical elements rooted in Indigenous oral traditions. The interplay between text and image is crucial, with artwork often supplementing or challenging written narratives. This stylistic diversity ensures that the anthology resonates with a wide range of readers, offering multiple entry points into the powerful stories contained within its pages, and amplifying the collective voice.
Visual Storytelling Techniques
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” leverages a stunning array of visual storytelling techniques to enhance its narrative impact. The graphic novel format allows artists to employ panel layouts, character design, and color palettes to convey emotions and historical context beyond the scope of words alone. Each artist brings a unique aesthetic, reflecting their individual cultural background and artistic vision.
Symbolism is heavily utilized, with recurring motifs and imagery representing themes of resilience, displacement, and cultural continuity. The artwork isn’t merely illustrative; it actively participates in the storytelling process, offering alternative interpretations and challenging conventional historical representations. This innovative use of visual language elevates the anthology, making it a powerful and immersive reading experience.
Key Contributors and Their Work
“This Place” features a collective of talented Indigenous writers and artists, including Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm, Sonny Assu, and Rachel Qitsualik-Tinsley, each contributing unique stories.
Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm’s Role
Kateri Akiwenzie-Damm is a central figure in “This Place: 150 Years Retold,” serving as one of the primary editors and a significant contributor to the anthology’s overall vision. As an Anishinaabe writer, poet, and artist, her work consistently centers Indigenous experiences and perspectives. She skillfully curated a diverse collection of stories, ensuring a broad representation of Indigenous voices and histories within the graphic novel.
Akiwenzie-Damm’s editorial guidance was crucial in shaping the narrative arc and thematic coherence of the project. Beyond her editorial role, she also contributed her own compelling storytelling to the anthology, adding another layer of depth and authenticity. Her dedication to amplifying Indigenous narratives makes her an invaluable force behind this important literary work.
Sonny Assu’s Artistic Contributions
Sonny Assu, a Kwakwaka’wakw artist, brings a distinctive visual style to “This Place: 150 Years Retold.” His contributions extend beyond mere illustration; he actively shapes the narrative through powerful imagery and symbolic representation. Assu’s artwork often blends traditional Kwakwaka’wakw art forms with contemporary techniques, creating a unique aesthetic that resonates with both cultural heritage and modern sensibilities;
His pieces within the anthology aren’t simply decorative but integral to conveying the complex emotions and historical weight of the stories. Assu’s skillful use of color, composition, and symbolism enhances the reader’s understanding of Indigenous experiences and the lasting impact of colonialism. He is a vital artistic voice within this collaborative project.
Brandon Mitchell’s Contributions
Brandon Mitchell, a member of the Syilx Okanagan Nation, offers a compelling visual narrative within “This Place: 150 Years Retold.” His artistic style is characterized by a striking blend of realism and surrealism, effectively capturing the emotional depth and historical complexities of the stories he illustrates. Mitchell’s work often explores themes of identity, displacement, and the enduring connection to the land.
He skillfully employs visual metaphors and symbolic imagery to convey the nuances of Indigenous experiences, inviting readers to engage with the narratives on a deeper level. Mitchell’s contributions are crucial in presenting a multifaceted perspective within the anthology, enriching the overall impact of the work.
Rachel Qitsualik-Tinsley’s Work
Rachel Qitsualik-Tinsley, an Inuk artist and writer, brings a vital perspective to “This Place: 150 Years Retold,” rooted in her experiences and heritage. Her contributions showcase the rich cultural traditions and resilience of Inuit communities, often focusing on themes of cultural preservation and the impact of colonization. Qitsualik-Tinsley’s storytelling is deeply informed by oral traditions, seamlessly blending them with contemporary graphic novel techniques.
Her artistic style is distinctive, incorporating elements of Inuit art and symbolism. She powerfully illustrates the challenges and triumphs of Indigenous peoples, offering a unique and essential voice within the anthology’s diverse chorus.
Critical Reception and Significance
“This Place” has garnered significant awards and praise for its innovative format and powerful representation of Indigenous histories and perspectives.
Awards and Recognition
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” has received widespread critical acclaim and numerous prestigious awards, solidifying its importance in contemporary literature. The graphic novel was a finalist for the 2021 Governor General’s Literary Award for Illustration, recognizing Sonny Assu’s exceptional visual contributions. It also won the 2021 HighBeam Award for Graphic Novels, celebrating its innovative storytelling and artistic merit.
Furthermore, the work was longlisted for the 2022 RBC Charles Taylor Prize, acknowledging its significant contribution to Canadian literature. These accolades demonstrate the profound impact of the anthology, highlighting its ability to engage readers with complex historical narratives and diverse Indigenous voices. The recognition underscores the book’s artistic and cultural significance.
Impact on Indigenous Literature
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” represents a pivotal moment in Indigenous literature, significantly expanding the possibilities of storytelling and representation. By employing the graphic novel format, it reaches a broader audience and offers a visually compelling entry point into complex historical narratives. The anthology’s collaborative nature, featuring multiple Indigenous authors and artists, fosters a sense of collective voice and shared experience.
It challenges conventional historical accounts by centering Indigenous perspectives and experiences, contributing to a more nuanced and accurate understanding of Canada’s past. The work inspires further creative exploration within Indigenous communities and encourages greater diversity in publishing, paving the way for future generations of Indigenous storytellers.
Educational Value and Use
“This Place: 150 Years Retold” is an invaluable resource for educators seeking to incorporate Indigenous perspectives into their curriculum. Its graphic novel format makes complex historical and social issues accessible to a wide range of learners, fostering critical thinking and empathy. The anthology provides a powerful tool for teaching Canadian history from Indigenous viewpoints, challenging dominant narratives and promoting reconciliation.
It’s suitable for use in secondary and post-secondary classrooms, as well as for independent study. The diverse storytelling styles and artistic techniques offer opportunities for interdisciplinary learning, connecting history, literature, art, and social studies. It encourages respectful dialogue and a deeper understanding of Indigenous resilience and resistance.
Accessing the PDF Version
Finding a free, legal PDF of “This Place: 150 Years Retold” is challenging; purchasing options through retailers are generally recommended for creators’ support.
Legality of Free PDF Downloads
Downloading PDFs of copyrighted material, like “This Place: 150 Years Retold,” without authorization is generally illegal. This constitutes copyright infringement, potentially leading to legal consequences for the downloader. While the internet offers numerous sources claiming “free PDF” access, many are unreliable and operate outside the bounds of copyright law.
Supporting Indigenous creators and publishers is crucial. Purchasing the book through legitimate channels – such as Amazon or Google Books – ensures they receive compensation for their work. Unofficial downloads undermine their livelihoods and the continuation of vital storytelling; Consider library access as a legal alternative to obtain the book without purchasing it. Respecting copyright fosters a sustainable ecosystem for Indigenous literature and art.
Potential Sources for PDF Access
Legitimate access to a PDF version of “This Place: 150 Years Retold” is primarily through authorized retailers. HighPark Press, the publisher, may offer a digital edition for purchase directly on their website. University and public libraries frequently provide access to ebooks and PDFs through their digital lending platforms, such as Libby or OverDrive.
Be cautious of websites advertising “free PDF downloads,” as these often contain malware or violate copyright. Some educational institutions with subscriptions to digital libraries may offer access to students and faculty. Checking with academic advisors or library resources is recommended. Always prioritize legal and ethical sources to support the creators and ensure a safe downloading experience.
Risks Associated with Unofficial Downloads
Downloading “This Place: 150 Years Retold” from unofficial sources carries significant risks. These websites frequently host malware, viruses, and spyware, potentially compromising your device and personal information. Such downloads also violate copyright laws, supporting illegal activities and undermining the authors’ and publisher’s rights.
The quality of illegally obtained PDFs is often poor, with missing pages, distorted images, or unreadable text. Furthermore, engaging with these sites can expose you to phishing scams and unwanted advertising. Supporting legitimate channels ensures you receive a safe, high-quality product and contribute to the sustainability of Indigenous storytelling and artistic expression. Prioritize ethical consumption and protect your digital security.