A great graphic memoir, and this is my periodic reminder that if you are hesitant about picking up a graphic novel or memoir, you really MUST give them a try! I particularly love memoirs in this format. There’s something visceral in a visual medium which conveys emotion in a way words alone cannot.
This is an account of the author’s two years working in the remote Canadian oil sands, surrounded by mostly lonely men, and trying to pay off her student loans. I loved the juxtaposition of these enormous machines against the backdrop of the beautiful countryside and the simple cartoon like people, but with the most endearing facial expressions.
Many topics are covered in the narrative: environmentalism, indigenous peoples rights, social and financial inequalities. But above all, this was a story about sexual assault and misogyny. So just a fair warning on that front.
I also was reminded about how little I know about the culture and history of our neighbors to the north, and I was glad to learn more. Recommend!