7 Generations

7 Generations: A Plains Cree Sagais an epic, four-part graphic novel. Illustrated in vivid colour, the story follows one Indigenous family over three centuries and seven generations. This compiled edition was originally published as a series of four graphic novels:Stone,Scars,Ends/Begins, andThe Pact.

Stoneintroduces Edwin, a young man who must discover his family's past if he is to have any future. Edwin learns of his ancestor Stone, a young Plains Cree man, who came of age in the early 19th century. When his older brother is tragically killed during a Blackfoot raid, Stone, the best shot and rider in his encampment, must overcome his grief to avenge his brother's death.

InScars, the story of White Cloud, Edwin's ancestor, is set against the smallpox epidemic of 1870-1871. After witnessing the death of his family one by one, White Cloud must summon the strength to find a new home and deliver himself from the terrible disease.

InEnds/Begins, readers learn about the story of Edwin's father, and his experiences in a residential school. In 1964, two brothers are taken from the warm and loving care of their grandparents, and spirited away to a residential school. When older brother James discovers the anguish that his brother is living under, it leads to unspeakable tragedy.

InThe Pact, the guilt and loss of James's residential school experiences follow him into adulthood, and his life spirals out of control. Edwin, mired in his own pain, tries to navigate past the desolation of his fatherless childhood. As James tries to heal himself he begins to realize that, somehow, he must save his son's life-as well as his own. When father and son finally meet, can they heal their shattered relationship, and themselves, or will it be too late? (FromHighWater Press)

David A. Robertson is an author andgraphic novelist based in Winnipeg. He has written several books in many genres, includingthe graphic novelsWill I See?andSugar Falls, thepicture bookWhen We Were Alone,the YA Reckoner series andthe memoirBlack Water.

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Interviews with David A. Robertson

15:33David Robertson's On The Trapline

David Robertson talks to Shelagh Rogers about his new kids book, On The Trapline.

David A. Robertson browses for comics at Maxx Collectibles in Winnipeg, Man.

6 years ago

Duration 4:48

David A. Robertson is the author of numerous graphic novels, including Will I See?, Betty and Sugar Falls. CBC Books caught up with Robertson at his local comic book store to learn about the comic books he loved reading as a kid.

Unreserved43:38'I have so much to say': Cree author David A. Robertson on writing everything from graphic novels to a memoir

To say Cree author David A. Robertson is prolific is a bit of an understatement. He started his writing career in 2009, and has already published more than 20 titles. This fall he has three books being released. This week on Unreserved, an extended conversation with the author.

Books by David A. Robertson