A review by natbookreviews
Surviving the City by Natasha Donovan, Tasha Spillett

5.0

Review of “Surviving the City: Volume 1”


How I read: 📖

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Rating System Below)

Surviving the City: Volume 1 by Tasha Spillett is a stunning and powerful graphic novel that left me completely moved. The story of Miikwan and Dez, two Indigenous best friends, is a beautiful exploration of friendship, loss, and the harsh realities that Indigenous women face. The emotions run deep as the novel navigates the heartache of missing loved ones, and the threat of Dez being placed in a group home adds tension that is both real and heartbreaking. Spillett masterfully weaves in themes of colonialism and womanhood, creating a story that is both intimate and universal.

The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous, with the spirits following the characters adding a layer of beauty and depth to the story. The visual representation of the connection between past and present Indigenous experiences is haunting and impactful. The artwork not only complements the narrative but also elevates the emotional weight of the story. It’s a quick read, but one that will stay with you long after you’ve finished, making you think deeply about the experiences and challenges Indigenous women face today.

I highly recommend Surviving the City to everyone, especially with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation coming up. This book is a timely reminder of the struggles Indigenous communities continue to face and the importance of never forgetting. It’s short, beautifully told, and thought-provoking in all the right ways—an essential read for all.

Get it at…


📗 - Hard Copy -📗
📱 - Digital - 📱
Kobo - Free with Kobo Plus
🎧 - Audio - 🎧
Audible - Not Available
Libro.FM - Not Available
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*Star Rating Guide*
⭐ 
  • The writing style didn’t appeal to me.
  • The characters didn’t resonate with me.
  • I pushed myself to the limit to avoid DNF’ing.
  • I wouldn’t suggest this book to anyone I’m acquainted with.
⭐⭐
  • The book was passable, but it won’t stick in my mind.
  • Although I didn’t abandon the book, my mind wasn’t fully immersed in the story.
  • I discovered that it was easy for me to stop reading it and not feel compelled to continue promptly.
  • When everything was said and done, I was unsure of my immediate opinion on this book.
⭐⭐⭐
  • If someone is actively seeking a book in this general premise, I would suggest this.
  • While it was good, I don’t think I’ll ever pick up this book for a second read.
  • If it were part of a series, I’d probably venture into the next book.
  • Reading it was time well-spent.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • This book was brilliant.
  • I had the urge to keep reading and turn to the next page.
  • The book stayed on my mind for days after I finished it.
  • I highly recommend this book to everyone.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • I was actively engaged in wanting to finish reading this book.
  • My thoughts are consumed by this book after completing it.
  • I want to have a physical copy as a trophy that I can display on my shelf.
  • I felt a strong connection and investment while reading this book, would definitely recommend.