The Outside Circle

[DEBUT] Imprisoned for killing his mother's boyfriend, Pete, a young Aboriginal gang member, quickly finds his life spiraling even further out of control. Despite pulling jobs for his crew on the inside, Pete is unable to protect his little brother from the influence of the streets and an uncaring child welfare system. A brutal prison attack leads to an opportunity for redemption, though, as he is recommended for a transfer to a Native healing center. Within the healing circle, Pete learns the harsh history of governmental and cultural attacks on the Aboriginal family structure and the path to self-mastery through therapy and traditional rituals. Debut author LaBoucane-Benson's long career working with young people in Pete's circumstances gives the story a strong emotional resonance and a solid historical and educational framework. Mellings's illustrations are perfectly suited to the work, expressing rage, despair, resolve, and rebirth with skill and style. A few spots of clunky dialog can easily be forgiven.