Bannock, Beans and Black Tea 05/02/11

Seth, a Canadian graphic novelist, grew up listening to his father's stories of growing up in extreme poverty on Prince Edward Island. In 2004 he put his father's stories together in a slim volume called Bannock, Beans and Black Tea

The title refers to their basic diet, when they had money for food. Bannock is a fry bread, similar to the American biscuit but fried as a flat bread, sort of like pita or na'an.

The book is a rather bleak memoir. Gallant's family was always struggling for money and it took its toll on everyone. This is not the idyllic PEI of L.M. Montgomery. This is a harsh and cruel island divided into the haves and have-nots.

The memoir begins and ends with some of Seth's illustrations in comic form. I wish there were more of them peppered through out the book, or even comprising the entire volume.

Five stars

Comments (4)

Comment #1: Wednesday, May, 4, 2011 at 16:40:46

Pam

Sounds kind of hard-core. Not sure I would like it. Maybe he should have done the whole book in graphic comic form?

Comment #2: Saturday, May 7, 2011 at 19:42:04

Pussreboots

I don't know that I'd call it 'hard-core' but it is certainly depressing in spots. I do, however, agree that it would make an excellent graphic novel.

Comment #3: Wednesday, June, 1, 2011 at 08:16:10

Wanda

The title caught my attention, the stories sound like they would hold it.

Comment #4: Wednesday, June 1, 2011 at 10:54:21

Pussreboots

It's a memorable book. I'm glad I read it.