Wenjack by Joseph Boyden

Set in the 1960s, this poignant novella follows the harrowing journey of a young Indigenous boy who escapes from a residential school in Canada. As he treks through the wilderness, the narrative intertwines his perspective with those of the animals and spirits observing him, offering a haunting exploration of his struggle for freedom and identity. The story sheds light on the broader historical context of the residential school system, highlighting the cultural dislocation and personal trauma experienced by Indigenous children. Through its lyrical prose, the narrative captures the boy's resilience and the tragic consequences of a system that sought to erase his heritage.