44 pages • 1 hour read
Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands
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Book Brief
430
Graphic Memoir • Nonfiction
Northern Canada • 2000s
2022
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Ducks by Kate Beaton is an adult graphic memoir about Beaton’s two years working in the Alberta, Canada oil sands after graduating from university, highlighting her experience as a young white woman in an isolated, hypermasculine environment. It explores her interactions with coworkers, her struggle with the workplace culture, and her eventual return home. The book discusses rape, sexual harassment, and victim blaming.
Informative
Contemplative
Melancholic
Gritty
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
31,143 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Kate Beaton's Ducks has garnered praise for its compelling narrative and insightful exploration of the Canadian oil sands industry. Readers appreciate Beaton’s poignant storytelling and evocative illustrations. Criticisms focus on occasional pacing issues and the heavy subject matter, which may not appeal to all audiences. Overall, it's acclaimed for its emotional depth and social commentary.
Who Should Read Ducks?
A reader who would enjoy Ducks by Kate Beaton is likely drawn to personal narratives with a focus on socio-economic and environmental themes. Fans of Fun Home by Alison Bechdel or Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi would appreciate the memoir's candid storytelling and evocative illustrations.
31,143 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Becky Beaton
Becky Beaton
Katie's older sister who studied science and serves as a protective figure in her life. She provides support to Katie during difficult times and shares a close familial bond with her.
Lindsay
Lindsay
Katie’s university friend who joins her in the oil sands and acts as a significant source of support. She shares a background in journalism and a deep friendship with Katie, reinforced by their shared experiences.
Ryan
Ryan
Katie’s supervisor at Albian Sands, known for his gruff demeanor combined with a sense of humor. Their relationship evolves into a mutual understanding, marked by his respect for Katie and struggles with personal challenges.
Mike
Mike
A close male friend of Katie's in the oil sands, initially bonded through shared interests. Their friendship is complex, illustrating the difficulties of male and female relationships in a challenging environment.
430
Graphic Memoir • Nonfiction
Northern Canada • 2000s
2022
Adult
18+ years
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