Description
Outside Looking In: Viewing First Nations Peoples in Canadian Dramatic Television Series is an extensive examination of Canadian television programming and its portrayal of Aboriginal Peoples. The author has spent considerable time researching the nature of Canadian dramatic television programs and their depiction of First Nations characters and stories. Over time since the late 1950s the author looks closely at the following programs: Radisson, The Forest Rangers, Adventures in Rainbow County, Matt and Jenny, The Campbells, The Beachcombers, Spirit Bay, The Rez, and North of 60. She defines the issue of representation, stereotyping, and cultural appropriation, as well as the definition of First Nations and Aboriginal Peoples' terminology. Part 3 of the text examines the long-running CBC series, North of 60 and its development, writers, cast, and issues discussed on the program. She also reviews the favourable commentary as well as the criticisms raised about the show that depicted a fictional Dene community in the North with all its unique characters. The author has documented issues and concerns with televisions' portrayal of Indigenous Peoples in Canada through drama programming. While the book is comprehensive, it makes for an excellent and highly accessible source for anyone interested in the role of Aboriginal Peoples in the medium of Canadian television. The book contains numerous black and white stills, an extensive bibliography and index.