I will start with a slightly controversial statement with my review of Dreaming in Indian: Contemporary Native American Voices edited by Lisa Charleyboy and Mary Beth Leatherdale: The stories, poetry, essays, photographs and more, are familiar events and journeys that have relatable elements for almost anyone who has ever been an outsider. Regardless of if you are a minority, I think most people can relate to the prejudices, the destruction of history and faith, and taking the lands of people. And some of the themes are relative for all (they talk about drug use, family issues, community, mental health, making it in the arts and/or music). Yes, these stories are personal to the native authors who are telling them, but the message is for everyone.
With that said, it is focused on the native experiences of peoples of Canada and around Northern America. There is a mix of different media used that illustrates the poetry, stories, essays, interviews and more. I enjoyed the painting and photographs because it really shows you the “big picture.” Many writers mentioned that there is a “Hollywood” version and there is reality. And many of the images show you that the subject does not “fit” the stereotype, therefore they are taking it back and making it their own. There is a lot of making things told from their voices.
I was amazed at the range of nations, experiences and even who some of the writers are (there is an interview with an Olympic athlete). It is eye opening (I learned history I was unaware of) and beautifully presented. It is short, but packed full. There is talk of drug use, a sex worker tells her story and some other subjects that might not be for the young or sensitive reader. But for the most part, ages 10 to adult would be fine. Of course, if you are giving to a younger reader know your reader as while nothing is “graphic” it is not shying away from things.