Age Group:
Adult

Genre:
Biography & Memoir, Non-Fiction, Canadian, First Nations, Historical

Summary:
Basil Johnston documents the fascinating, true life story of his grandmother Rosa and her son David (Basil’s uncle), born with Down Syndrome. Growing up on a Native reserve in the early 20th century, David finds himself loved and accepted in a tightly knit community. He loves playing horseshoes, cutting wood for quarters and following around his older brothers. Everyone accepts David for his differences –until a new Indian agent is appointed, Mr. Tuffnell, who threatens to remove David from his home and send him to an institution. Will the strength and will of the community prevail?

My Thoughts:
Funny, humbling and inspiring, Basil Johnston’s biographical account of the life of “Crazy Dave” is a unique piece of Canadiana. If you’ve ever had the chance to watch APTN’s mid-1990s TV series North of 60, Johnston’s book touches on many of the same themes of cultural preservation, poverty and the strength of community. Johnston painstakingly researched the tiniest details of life in the village and it draws the reader in chapter-by-chapter, making us root for “Crazy Dave” every step of the way.

Borrow Crazy Dave from your local VPL library today! Have you read this book before? If so, let me know!