Beautiful, harrowing graphic novel memoir of Beaton's years working in Alberta oil sands. The graphic novel begins with the note that while many east coast Canadians have strong hometown ties, they are often pushed to head out west because that's where the jobs are. Beaton, from Cape Breton NS, takes us through her years working in Alberta, being one of few women, putting up with "boys talk" misogyny, not reporting her SA because of fears that the rest of her co-workers would shun her. She takes a job at the Maritime Museum to get away from the kind of "boys" work environment in the oil sands, but unfortunately the part time position at the museum just doesn't cover the living expenses, and she goes back to Alberta. 

I've been to Cape Breton many years ago, for me it is the most beautiful place on earth. To have to leave and head west to make a living, not knowing when you'll be able to head back there.. I cannot begin to imagine how difficult that must be for someone who is from the Island. 

Slightly related, I recommend everyone listen to the "official anthem" of Cape Breton, "The Island", the version by The Barra MacNeils is quite nice. 

 We are an island, a rock in a stream
 We are a people as proud as there's been
 In soft summer breeze or in wild winter winds
 The home of our hearts, Cape Breton 

 Over the highways and over the roads
 Over the causeway, stories are told
 They tell of the coming and the going away
 The cities of America draw me away
 Ah the companies come, the companies go
 And the ways of the world we may never know
 We'll follow the footsteps of those on their way
 And we'll ask for the right to leave or to stay