Surviving the City Vol. 3 We Are the Medicine

In the culminating story of Miikwan and Dez’s journey through high school, Surviving the City Vol.3 We are the Medicine by Tasha Spillett and Natasha Donovan, readers explore the discovery of the 215 in Kamloops set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Miikwan and Dez are in their final year of high school and beginning to think of their plans for the future. Miikwan is pretty set on heading to University but Dez isn’t quite sure. Their final year of school is disrupted by not only the COVID-19 pandemic but also the horrific discovery of 215 children buried at the site of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School. Through all of the sadness, anger and hurt, the friends try to continue to be the medicine they need to heal.

Tasha Spillett has taken a significant moment in time to finish the story of Miikwan and Dez. The spring of 2021 brought with it the opening of profound wounds for many people and the creation of new wounds for others. Through this story, readers understand the impact of these truths, long known by survivors, finally being accepted throughout Canada. It is vital for young readers to have these perspectives in order to be good allies in their communities. 

Tasha Spillett ensures that readers see that Indigeneity is not a monolith in this volume. Through the character of Ginebig, readers have an Afro-Indigenous character to show the treatment of others even within Indigenous cultures. Also, the treatment of those with darker skin when they are viewed by the police.

This story is full of hope and somewhat of a guidebook of sorts. There can be healing and it’s the new generation that will plant the seeds of the healing. Through Tasha Spilletts wonderful narrative, readers will understand the journey and the path they can walk towards the future.

Natasha Donovan’s art is always exemplary. I love the gatherings of young people with their ancestors, always with them as specters in the background of the frames. Each spread contains different ancestors, from young to old, stressing the belief that ancestors are always around, watching and willing to lend a helping hand should it be asked of them. Her work is dark when required and light when necessary. It sets a beautiful tone throughout the narrative and provides additional details to readers.