This book was an emotionally difficult book to read..but definitely an important book to read. In this memoir, Jesse Thistle, an Indigenous man, speaks about his experience of homelessness and addiction along with complex relationships with family members and friends. He shows us a raw and honest narrative from his childhood to adulthood from Saskatchewan to living in the Greater Toronto Area. If I had to summarize this book to a person, I would say that this book shows readers a personal and familial account of the impacts of intergenerational trauma. Although this book was an emotionally hard read (like I mentioned earlier), I found his perseverance very inspiring.

This is a compelling memoir of a Metis man from the Toronto area. It traces his challenging childhood, his decent into drug addiction and homelessness and then his climb back up again. It provides a window into how people get into these situations and a greater understanding of the issues they face. It is a worthy read.

This memoir elicited so many emotions while reading; sadness, hope, disbelief, anger, and oddly, pride. It is a memoir of a life mired in addiction and hopelessness.
It takes us through Jesse Thistle's life as a young boy forever altered by the addictions of his father. Ironically, as he gets older, he falls into the same lifestyle and makes the same choices as his father did, this despite the love and support from members of his family, like his brothers, grandmother and extended family.
We see Jesse's path that ends up with him homeless, and engaging in criminal activity to support his drug addiction. He reaches rock bottom many times, before he is able to overcome this disease.
A story of hope and hopelessness, love and family.

I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley, in exchange I am leaving an honest review.

What an amazing story of hope from a Saskatchewan-born Métis man.

I work in a Housing First program, where I work to house individuals who are a lot like Mr. Thistle once was. Who have grown up with trauma and struggle with addictions. Some who have lived on the street even longer than this man did. And every day they inspire me and give me hope. Are the all going to be quite as successful as Jesse Thistle? Likely not, though this is a wonderful story to aspire to.

Sometimes success is overcoming everything and getting an education, becoming a scholar, and making an impact on the world. Sometimes success is having the support to keep a roof over your head, food in the fridge, and to just be able to enjoy the small comforts everyone deserves. Whatever your success, or the success of those you support, make sure to celebrate it. Make sure they know you are proud.

Thank you for telling the world your story, I hope everyone who reads it is honoured to have it shared with them.