Rhymes for Young Ghouls

The events take place during the late 1960s to mid-1970s, a period marked by significant cultural changes and the ongoing struggles of Indigenous peoples in Canada. The impact of residential schools looms large over the characters' lives, shaping their experiences and choices during these tumultuous years.

The Red Crow Indian Reservation serves as the serene backdrop where Aila's childhood unfolds, representing the Mi'kmaq people's struggle and resilience. St. Dymphna's residential school, on the other hand, symbolizes the traumatic history faced by Canada's First Nations, notorious for forcibly separating children from their families and imposing a legacy of pain and loss.

💔 Loss and Grief

The theme of loss and grief is poignantly portrayed through Aila's family, as the deaths of her brother and mother cast a long shadow over her life. This painful history influences Aila's decisions and drives her actions, as she seeks to escape the cycle of trauma left by her parents’ struggles.

⚖️ Justice and Betrayal

Justice and betrayal run deep in the narrative, as Aila grapples with thwarted attempts to reclaim her family's dignity and confront the corrupt figures exploiting her community. Betrayal comes to the forefront when trust is broken, leading to devastating consequences for Aila and her father.

🌱 Healing and Reconciliation

Aila's journey highlights the themes of healing and reconciliation, as she seeks to mend her fractured familial bonds and come to terms with her past. The story unfolds her path toward understanding, forgiveness, and the rebuilding of relationships, providing a glimmer of hope amidst adversity.