The Rez Doctor
by Gitz Crazyboy, Veronika Barinova, Azby Whitecalf, Toben Racicot
Highwater Press, 2024
ISBN 978-1-55379-924-5
$22.95, 60 pp, ages 12+
highwaterpress.com
In this powerful graphic novel, the protagonist, Ryan Fox, details the journey he takes from a young boy inspired by a Blackfoot woman doctor, to finally recognizing his dream of being a doctor. The novel takes an unflinching look at the realities of the barriers Indigenous youth living on the Rez might face when working towards an ambitious goal. The relatives who encourage him are fighting their own demons with alcohol and prison. There is systemic racism and the loneliness that comes with stigma, as well as the usual temptations that can steer any student away from their studies—partying, peer pressure, girlfriends, debt. Ryan meets Charm, the young woman who encourages him to study instead of party, and who believes in him when he is discouraged. Despite an early pregnancy and the pressures of family, Ryan is finally successful. The reader celebrates with him as we see Ryan’s hard work and persistence result in him realizing his dream. It is appropriate for young adult readers and can be an inspiring resource for any young person who needs encouragement to work hard and display persistence while living in difficult circumstances.
Classroom Connections: This novel begins with a short overview of the barriers that Indigenous people have historically faced when seeking medical help in Canada, and a starting point is to review the formation of Indian hospitals and the examples of systemic racism in the health industry, both in the past and in the present. A discussion on “right relationships” with Indigenous people in the field of medical practice would be helpful in the intermediate grades and junior high, as a certain level of maturity is needed for this complex subject. The graphic novel format could also be looked at thoroughly, with a discussion on the pros and cons of why using a graphic novel rather than traditional storytelling might be beneficial to this particular story.
Review by Betty Schultze.
This review is featured in Canadian Teacher Magazine’s Spring 2025 issue.
