The Outside Circle

Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses violence, substance abuse, and abuse of Indigenous people.

“Some of our people still struggle with addictions, living in pain and confusion. There are not many choices. Look what it did to our families.”

In this passage, the narrator introduces one of the themes of the novel: Intergenerational Trauma and the Legacy of Colonialism. The graphic novel explores the way addiction and suffering are inflicted on Indigenous lives, passed down through generations as a consequence of colonial policies.

“‘What the f#@$? Whose baby is it?’

‘Are you kidding me? It’s your baby!’”

Pete reacts violently upon learning of Crystal’s pregnancy. He accuses her of infidelity and forces her out of the car, unknowingly repeating the actions of his father toward his mother in a manifestation of intergenerational trauma. The fact that she answers his question with an immediate question represents their struggles to find common ground and embody their parental roles.

“Look what I made for you! Happy birthday, Pete!”

Joey, Pete’s younger brother, is portrayed as sweet and innocent in this interaction. He offers Pete a handcrafted birthday card, creating a striking contrast to the violence that permeates their lives and conveying the theme of The Importance of Community and Family Bonds.