Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands
books by Kate Beaton
Celebrated cartoonist Kate Beaton vividly presents the untold story of Canada.Before there was Kate Beaton, New York Times bestselling cartoonist of Hark A Vagrant fame, there was Katie Beaton of the Cape Breton Beatons, specifically Mabou, a tight-knit seaside community where the lobster is as abundant as beaches, fiddles, and Gaelic folk songs. After university, Beaton heads out west to take advantage of Alberta’s oil rush, part of the long tradition of East Coasters who seek gainful employment elsewhere when they can't find it in the homeland they love so much. With the singular goal of paying off her student loans, what the journey will actually cost Beaton will be far more than she anticipates.Arriving in Fort McMurray, Beaton finds work in the lucrative camps owned and operated by the world’s largest oil companies. Being one of the few women among thousands of men, the culture shock is palpable. It does not hit home until she moves to a spartan, isolated worksite for higher pay. She encounters the harsh reality of life in the oil sands where trauma is an everyday occurrence yet never discussed. Her wounds may never heal.Beaton’s natural cartooning prowess is on full display as she draws colossal machinery and mammoth vehicles set against a sublime Albertan backdrop of wildlife, Northern Lights, and Rocky Mountains. Her first full-length graphic narrative, Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands is an untold story of Canada: a country that prides itself on its egalitarian ethos and natural beauty while simultaneously exploiting both the riches of its land and the humanity of its people. The pacing of the book reflects a careful consideration of reader engagement. Moments of intensity are balanced with quieter scenes that provide context and reflection. This rhythm keeps the story dynamic without becoming overwhelming. This book effectively balances entertainment with substance, offering a story that is enjoyable without sacrificing depth. The narrative remains engaging while still addressing meaningful ideas that resonate beyond the fictional setting. Such balance makes it a strong choice for readers seeking both enjoyment and insight. The emotional impact of this book is strengthened by the author’s ability to create believable relationships between characters. Interactions feel genuine, reflecting a range of human experiences and emotions. This realism helps readers become more invested in the outcome of the story, enhancing overall engagement.