Tuesday, December 29, 2020

THE COURAGE OF ELFINA by Andre Jacob & illustrated by Christine Delezenne

 

Elfina is from Paraguay. Her mother died during childbirth and her father's work kept him away from family. Elfina was sent to live with her grandparents. Hoping to offer her a better education, Elfina was sent to live in Asuncion to live with her aunt and uncle. 

Soon after moving, Elfina's aunt announced they were moving to Canada for their business. Elfina was told she would begin using their last name. Upon arrival in Canada, she expected to attend school and live the life her grandparents had wanted for her. That was not to be. Instead, Elfina stayed at home to cook and clean while the rest of her aunt's family went on with their lives. She was even assaulted by her uncle who swore her to secrecy or he would force her to leave.

Elfina eventually found help at the church. They told her no one should be forced to work and refused an education. With their help she returned to her family in Paraguay with hopes and dreams of a better future.

THE COURAGE OF ELFINA is a graphic novel about a form of human trafficking/abuse. Author Andre Jacob and illustrator Christine Delezenne present Elfina's story in clear, concise dialogue and art. 

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