Here’s a touching story about Michael Redhead Champagne that will inspire children to help others, even in the simplest of ways.

Michael was raised by an adoptive family who believed strongly in kindness and support. From a young age, Michael was taught that everyone deserves compassion and care. Inspired by his family’s values, Michael knew he wanted to make a difference in his community.

Seeing classmates who were lonely or unhappy, Michael knew he needed to do something and, at a young age, started to speak up for others. He realized that even small actions, like offering a smile or a kind word, could make a big impact on someone's day.

Michael’s journey shows that anyone can be a leader and make a difference, no matter their age. Leadership groups at the elementary level would appreciate the message this graphic novel brings forward, emphasizing the power of kindness and the importance of standing up for others.

Other End Matter: None
Images: Colour illustrations
Contributor Affiliation: Author Sonya Ballantyne (Swampy Cree), Illustrators/artists/comic designers Rhael McGregor (Métis) & Toben Racicot
Bibliography: Yes
Index: No

Evaluator: Debra H., Elementary School Teacher, Indigenous Books for Schools

Sonya Ballantyne is a Swampy Cree writer, filmmaker, and speaker from Winnipeg, Manitoba. Her work focuses on contemporary and futuristic portrayals of Indigenous women and girls. If you want a story about a cheeky Native girl or a presentation on the media’s portrayal of Indigenous women, she’s your go-to. Her published works include children’s book Kerri Berry Lynn as well as contributions to anthologies such as Pros and Comic Cons and Women Love Wrestling. She has also written for television, such as APTN’s Taken and the children’s show Wolf-Joe. She is currently working on her first feature film, a graphic novel memoir, and the forthcoming game The Walking Dead: Last MILE.

Sonya Ballantyne's profile page

Rhael McGregor is a Queer Two-Spirit/non-binary artist of both Métis and settler heritage working in comics and animation. Their works focus on 2SLGBTQIA+ imaginings of fantasy, sci-fi, and autobiography to tell stories they hope will help bring laughter, positivity, and acceptance to their readers. Rhael is well-known for their work on indie comics such as Tinder and Small Big Gay, as well as their anthology work with Quindrie Press and Iron Circus Comics. Rhael's currently working on their first graphic novel as an artist for HighWater Press.

Rhael McGregor's profile page

Toben Racicot is a comic book writer and letterer whose work has appeared in Crown & Anchor, Pilgrim's Dirge, Beastlands, Sidequest, and Juniper. He dreamt of being an aerospace engineer before failing high school physics. Now he studies role-playing games at the University of Waterloo.

Toben Racicot's profile page

• Nominated, Forest of Reading

This inspiring story is told in graphic novel format...The illustrations are expressive....The result is a moving account of Michael’s [Redhead Champange] childhood in an format that is accessible to a range of reading levels.

Quill & Quire

A vibrant rainbow palette juxtaposes the darker realities of foster and adoption trauma, homelessness, and police hostility showcased in this motivational graphic memoir.

School Library Journal