Xwémalhkwu First Nation To Unveil Book Launch For New Graphic Novel

The Xwémalhkwu First Nation (HFN) ready to unveil book launch for “Xwémalhkwu Hero Stories: A Graphic Novel”.

The official launch of a graphic novel based on sacred recordings of Homalco First Nation Elders happens on Friday.

The launch will take place from 10am to 12pm, at the Campbell River Coast Discovery Inn.

Xwémalhkwu Hero Stories is based on recordings of Homalco Elders from the early 90's that have been produced into a mini podcast series by 100.7 FM the Raven.

The three stories illustrated in the graphic novel depict historic moments of Coast Salish history. Indigenous graphic artists who are featured include: Alina Pete, Valen Onstine and Gord Hill.

Tchadas Leo, Project Manager and Lead Editor, says the novel will be a source to educate and inspire youth in the community to learn some of the historic and heartfelt stories from their direct relatives.

“As far as we know, this type of graphic novel is the first of its kind,” he said.

The Nation is working on how to best distribute the novel, with details to come in the following months.