KILLING THE WITTIGO

This is an uncomfortable book to read—but it is meant to be.

This concise but broad-ranging work examines the lasting emotional and psychological impacts of colonization on Indigenous people in the U.S. and Canada. Experienced educator Methot (Nehiyaw) discusses many difficult subjects in chapters such as “Terror Anger Grief Loss,” “Isolation, Disconnection, Reconnection,” “Families and Relationships,” “Dis-ease and Self-Care,” “Systems and Institutions,” and “Culture and Spirit.” The chapter on lateral violence, intracommunity dysfunction that is usually not openly addressed, is particularly valuable. Throughout, activities help readers learn about themselves and process what they have read. An important author’s note emphasizes that this book is not a substitute for getting help from a trusted adult. Although there are disclaimers before content about topics like abuse, neglect, and suicide, there are instances of traumatic stories that are not prefaced with a warning; in her introduction, Methot emphasizes pacing your reading to avoid becoming overwhelmed. Along with a variety of fonts, line art, and interesting graphics and charts, quotes and social media posts from young Indigenous people discussing their experiences add to the mixed-media appeal. These voices also give readers the feeling that they are not alone. The book does not delve into differences between various nations’ histories or U.S. and Canadian governments’ policies. Throughout, there’s an emphasis on healing and connecting; readers are reminded to “be a good ancestor” and “do more than survive, thrive.”

A valuable introduction to Indigenous culture-based approaches to trauma.