20.12m: A Short Story Collection of a Life Lived as a Road Allowance
- Author Name: Arnolda Dufour Bowes
- Award Year: 2022
- Publisher: Gabriel Dumont Institute Press
- Publication Date: 2021
- ISBN: 9781926795997
About the Book
20.12m: A Short Story Collection of a Life Lived as a Road Allowance Métis sheds light on a key episode of the life of the Métis Nation when the Métis were known by the larger society as the “Road Allowance People.” In this passionate coming of age book, Arnolda Dufour Bowes honours the true-life experiences of her father, Arnold Charles Dufour, a resident of the Punnichy, Saskatchewan Road Allowance community. These evocative vignettes exemplify Métis grit and tenacity to survive and eventually succeed in the face of so many hardships. Seamlessly weaving true and creative elements, these five engaging stories share a common lived experience with many other Métis families. In keeping with the family focus, Arnolda’s sister, Andrea Haughian, skillfully complements these poignant stories with expressive illustrations.
About the Author
Arnolda Dufour Bowes, who was born in 1974, is a strong Métis woman. Her family roots are from across Saskatchewan, ranging from île-à-la-Crosse in the north, to Gordon’s First Nation and Punnichy in the south. She grew up in Saskatoon, but has lived in and travelled the world from New Zealand to Saudi Arabia, and everywhere in between. Arnolda describes herself as “a Jack of all trades and master of none,” as she has worked in fields varying from construction to nursing, and many in between. She is audacious with a quirky sense of humour, a healthy sprinkle of sarcasm and loves new adventures from skydiving to surfing. Arnolda values learning new skills, living life purposefully, and finds writing therapeutic. She lives with her supportive, handsome husband, three amazing children, and their annoying dogs, Hickory and Jax, in a cozy red house on the prairies.