Gitz Crazyboy
Gitz Crazyboy (he/him/his) is a Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot) and Dene father and youth facilitator from Mohkínsstsisi (Calgary). Gitz's passion and purpose is helping, guiding, and most importantly, learning from the next generation, and he has held many positions within the youth education profession.
As an activist, Gitz is known for his leadership and participation in establishing the Bear Clan Patrol in Calgary, as well as organizing with the Idle No More movement. He has spent most of his life learning and living with different Indigenous Nations around the world. His travels have taken him to Germany, Ecuador, Guyana, Puerto Rico, and sacred spaces all over North America.
Currently Gitz resides in Calgary and is actively reconnecting with his Siksikaitsitapi roots. He believes the truth of who we are can be found in the beautiful things our ancestors carried—riddles, mysteries, ceremonies, songs, medicine, love, life, and laughter.
Teen Books (1)
The Rez Doctor
$22.95
Artists:
Format:
Paperback
Text Content Territories:
Indigenous Canadian; First Nations; Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksikaitsitapi);
ISBN / Barcode: 9781553799245
Synopsis:
Synopsis:
In this uplifting story, a young Indigenous man overcomes hardship to fulfill his dream of becoming a doctor.
Young Ryan Fox gets good grades, but he’s not sure what he wants to be when he grows up. It isn’t until he meets a Blackfoot doctor during a school assembly that he starts to dream big.
However, becoming a doctor isn’t easy. University takes Ryan away from his family and the Siksikaitsitapi community, and without their support, he begins to struggle. Faced with more stress than he’s ever experienced, he turns to partying. Distracted from his responsibilities, his grades start to slip. His bills pile up. Getting into med school feels impossible. And now his beloved uncle is in jail. Can Ryan regain his footing to walk the path he saw so clearly as a boy?
This inspiring graphic novel for young adults is based on a true story.
Awards
- NCSS-CBC Notable Social Studies Book 2025 Winner
- CBC Young Adult Favorites 2025 Winner
- 2025 Next Generation Indie Book Award (Graphic Novel) Winner
Reviews
“Readers will root for Chase as he struggles with realistic problems like failing grades, acute stress, near-alcoholism, bills, and suddenly becoming a dad….The Rez Doctor is an uplifting and realistic narrative of achieving your dreams and giving back to your community.” — Youth Services Book Review
“…this graphic novel would be a good addition to any collection.” — School Library Journal
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 12+
Themes, Subjects, and Big Ideas: YA Fiction, Graphic Novels, Coming of Age, Careers, Occupations, New Experiences.
Fountas & Pinnell (F&P) Level: Z
Additional Information
64 pages | 6.50" x 10.00" | Paperback
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