Age Group:
Marketed to childen, but might be more appropriate for an adult audience due to mature themes

Themes:
Adventure, Canadian, Children’s Literature, Coming-of-age, Historical Fiction, Mystery, Native Issues, Realistic Fiction, Social Commentary, Young Adult

Summary:
In 1959, fifteen-year-old Nipishish, a Métis, returns to his reserve in Quebec after being kicked out of a residential school. Life has changed on the reserve, and Nipishish doesn’t know where he fits in or where his future lies–until he gets some help from his friends.

My Thoughts:
Good for Nothing is a unique and important novel grappling with human rights and the strength of community. Nipishish is a humble, tenacious youth in search of redemption. His head and heart are fiercely directed ahead in the battle to perserve his culture and nation.

While this novel is appropriate for a younger audience, mature readers will enjoy Crazy Dave by Basil Johnston, a touching true life account of reservation life.

Borrow Good for Nothing and Crazy Dave from your local Vaughan library today!