Red Files, The

Inspired by her family history and archival sources, Bird-Wilson’s collection of poetry recounts the terrible legacy of residential schools in Canada. Opening with the abuses within the schools, she moves on to the aftermath of the schools and government involvement, and finally explores the inter-generational trauma that resulted. She considers the many costs of colonization to First Nations people, including the terrible treatment of children, land purchased at unfair prices, denial, and meaningless apologies. Useful to provide First Peoples insights and reflections on the lasting effects of the residential schools policy. Social considerations noted; the mature, sensitive, and sometimes raw subject matter requires teacher awareness.