The Outside Circle

In this important graphic novel, two Indigenous brothers surrounded by poverty, drug abuse, and gang violence, try to overcome centuries of historic trauma in very different ways to bring about positive change in their lives.

Pete, a young Indigenous man wrapped up in gang violence, lives with his younger brother, Joey, and his mother who is a heroin addict. One night, Pete and his mother's boyfriend, Dennis, get into a big fight, which sends Dennis to the morgue and Pete to jail. Initially, Pete keeps up ties to his crew, until a jail brawl forces him to realize the negative influence he has become on Joey, which encourages him to begin a process of rehabilitation that includes traditional healing circles and ceremonies.

Powerful, courageous, and deeply moving, The Outside Circle is drawn from the author's twenty years of work and research on healing and reconciliation of gang-affiliated or incarcerated Indigenous men. (From House of Anansi Press)

• 44 books to read from Indigenous creators who identify as women and/or two-spirit

Interviews with Patti LaBoucane-Benson

The Current27:30'The Outside Circle': Rethinking rehabilitation for aboriginal offenders - May 26, 2015

At 15 years old, she was sent to federal prison. Now, she's on day parole, with a good job, and plans to give back to her First Nations community. Today, we explore the Warrior Program, that gives aboriginal offenders a chance for a promising future.