I discovered this graphic novel just sitting on my shelf.

I don’t remember when/where I acquired it and I don’t remember why/how I resisted reading it for so long. I’m just glad it was there. The mystery lends a certain extra magic.

People often hang red dresses hanging on trees around the nearby campus. I’ll probably remember this book each time I come across a new one.

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SYNOPSIS

If I Go Missing is derived from excerpts of a letter that went viral and was also the basis of a documentary film. In her letter, Jonnie calls out the authorities for neglecting to immediately investigate missing Indigenous people and urges them to not treat me as the Indigenous person I am proud to be if she were to be reported missing. Indigenous artist Neal Shannacappo provides the artwork. Through his illustrations, he imagines a situation in which a young Indigenous woman does disappear, portraying the reaction of her community, her friends, the police, and media.

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REVIEW

I love this book.

It started simple, but there were strong moments that made me shiver.

I love that the words came from a real teenager. It gave them a special impact because I truly believe the world belongs to the youth. We should allow them to be our guides.

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“If I go missing, I beg of you, do not treat me as the Indigenous person I am proud to be.”

(pp. 50-1)

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