The Reason You Walk

The Reason You Walk follows journalist and indigenous activist Wab Kinew as he reconnects with his father Tobasonakwut during his father's terminal cancer diagnosis. The memoir traces their shared journey through a critical year, as they work to bridge the distance between them caused by residential schools and intergenerational trauma. Kinew alternates between present-day events and historical accounts of his father's life, including his experiences at residential school and his later work as a traditional indigenous leader and teacher. The narrative encompasses both men's efforts to understand each other while exploring their Anishinaabe culture and traditions. Throughout the book, Kinew documents his father's traditional ceremonies, political activism, and path toward reconciliation with the Catholic Church. The story also traces Kinew's own transformation as he learns to embrace his indigenous heritage and role as a father. This memoir examines themes of forgiveness, cultural identity, and the complex bonds between fathers and sons. Through personal experience, it illustrates broader questions about reconciliation between indigenous and non-indigenous peoples in Canada.

Readers appreciate Kinew's honest portrayal of his complex relationship with his father and the journey of reconciliation between them. Many note the book provides insight into Indigenous culture, residential schools, and family healing. Readers highlight: - Clear, accessible writing style - Balance of personal story with broader cultural context - Educational value about Anishinaabe traditions - Authentic exploration of father-son dynamics Common criticisms: - Some sections feel disconnected - Occasional timeline jumps create confusion - More detail wanted about certain events Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (100+ ratings) Sample reader comments: "The rawness of emotion and honesty about family struggles resonated deeply" - Goodreads reviewer "Could have used tighter editing in parts, but the core story is powerful" - Amazon reviewer "Helped me understand Indigenous perspectives in a personal way" - CBC reader review

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🔸 Author Wab Kinew was adopted through traditional Indigenous custom by the respected Anishinaabe elder Tobasonakwut Kinew, whose journey with terminal cancer forms the heart of this memoir. 🔸 The book's title comes from an Anishinaabe ceremony song that speaks to finding one's purpose in life and walking with intention through the world. 🔸 Kinew has served as the Leader of Manitoba's New Democratic Party since 2017, making him the first First Nations provincial party leader in Manitoba's history. 🔸 The memoir explores the impact of residential schools across generations, as Tobasonakwut was a residential school survivor who later became a traditional teacher and advocate for reconciliation. 🔸 The book won the Kobo Emerging Writer Prize for Non-Fiction in 2016 and was a finalist for the RBC Taylor Prize, one of Canada's most prestigious literary awards.