The Courage of Elfina
by André Jacob
illustrated by Christine Delezenne
translated by Susan Ouriou
Realistically presented and powerfully illustrated, this teen graphic novel reveals the untold story of child exploitation and one girl's courage to escape.
IBBY Honour List 2020
Twelve-year-old Elfina lives with her grandmother in Paraguay. When a distant relative offers to have Elfina come live with her in the city so she can attend school, Elfina's grandmother sends her off for a better life. But life with her relatives isn't what Elfina thought it would be, and soon Elfina finds herself far away from home, living in Canada, and kept as a domestic servant by the family. School and an education are now a distant dream. When Elfina's uncle makes inappropriate advances at her, she knows she must somehow find the courage to escape and return home. But who will help her?
About the Authors
Reviews
"The words and pictures interlace seamlessly: a variety of large and small panels highlight both the spatial limitations of Elfina's world and her fantasies of escape … Christine Delezenne's two—colour illustrations are filled with movement and information, as well as glimpses of Elfina's humour and cheeky resistance."
Joanne Findon, Quill and Quire
Knowledge and awareness are critical components when trying to solve any problem, and this small but powerful novel arms its readers with information which they may use to confront the issues of forced domestic labour.
Ann Ketcheson, retired teacher, CM: Canadian Review of Materials
A deceptively short read that casts needed light on a dark and dehumanizing practice.
Kirkus
Subjects (BISAC)
YOUNG ADULT FICTION / Comics & Graphic Novels / General, YOUNG ADULT FICTION / Social Themes / Emigration & Immigration, YOUNG ADULT FICTION / Social Themes / Physical & Emotional Abuse (see also Social Themes / Sexual Abuse), YOUNG ADULT FICTION / Social Themes / Sexual Abuse
Subjects
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