Antonio Michael Downing

This is the memoir of Antonio Michael Downing, sometimes called Tony, sometimes Michael. And Mic Dainjah. And John Orpheus. Because the author is trying to define who he is, and which of his various relatives can be considered truly family.

Tony grew up in Trinidad. The description of life in Trinidad show the effects of colonialism, but also show the beauty and culture of that country.

Abandoned by their parents, he and his older brother are raised by their paternal grandmother. Miss Excelly is a religious, generous and kind person. When she passes away, Tony (then 11) and his brother, Junior, are brought to Canada by their paternal aunt Joan, They live in remote northern Ontario, where his aunt works with aboriginal children and attends the Seventh Day Adventist church. Tony's biological parents come in and out of his life, along with a collection of step-parents and half siblings.

This book deals with many heavy topics, child sexual abuse, abandonment, criminality and racism. It is a powerful story of resilience and a testament to the strength of a grandmother whose loving influence had an enduring impact on the author.… (mais)