Book of the Month: Tell Me Why by Archie Roach – A Powerful Story of Resilience and Connection

Finding Peace in Turbulent Times: My Reflection on Tell Me Why by Archie Roach

This past month has been undeniably heavy. The tragic death of George Floyd and the widespread protests of the Black Lives Matter movement have ignited emotions across the globe. Like many of you, I felt the weight of it all, and I knew I needed a moment to pause, reflect, and just...be. So, a couple of weekends ago, I unplugged from everything and found solace by the river—seeking peace and a little clarity.

I took along our book of the month, Tell Me Why by Archie Roach. Little did I know just how timely and deeply relevant this book would be to the events that have unfolded around the world.

A Book That Demands Reflection

From the very first pages, Archie Roach's words pulled me in. This isn't just a memoir; it's a soul-stirring journey through pain, survival, and hope. Much like his music, Roach's storytelling is powerful, raw, and filled with heart. Several times throughout the book, I had to pause, set it down, and just sit in his words for a while. It wasn't easy. It wasn't meant to be.

Archie Roach, for those unfamiliar, is one of Australia's most soulful songwriters. But as much as he's gifted with music, his gift for storytelling in Tell Me Why is just as profound. This book takes you through his struggles with addiction, his search for identity, and his resilience as a member of the Stolen Generation—children forcibly removed from their families due to misguided and harmful government policies.

A Timely Memoir

In Tell Me Why, Roach talks about the deep trauma of being torn from his family at a young age and the long, often heartbreaking journey to reconnect with them. Tragically, for some, like his mother and sister, it was too late. His pain is raw, yet his resilience shines through every chapter.

As I read about Roach’s experiences with systemic racism, the loss of loved ones, and the violence inflicted by those in power, I couldn’t help but reflect on the present-day struggles that have echoed through the Black Lives Matter movement. One particular story hit hard—a young 19-year-old man, dead on his birthday because of systemic racism. Roach’s writing captures these injustices with an honesty that demands attention.

Resilience, Connection, and Hope

Beyond the grief and loss, what strikes me most about Roach’s story is the tenacity of Aboriginal people. His journey isn't just one of suffering; it's one of resilience, family, and connection to Country. His love for his people and his fight to preserve culture and tradition are woven into every page, offering a glimmer of hope even in the darkest moments.

Roach’s story, like the stories of so many marginalized communities, is not just about surviving trauma—it’s about finding strength in that trauma and building something beautiful from it. It’s about remembering, honoring, and ultimately healing.

Discussion Questions for Tell Me Why

If you’re reading Tell Me Why for a book club, or even just for personal reflection, here are some thought-provoking questions to guide your discussion. These questions are designed to help you dig deeper into Roach's experiences, his perspectives, and the broader issues his story brings to light:

1. What were your initial thoughts on Albert giving Archie his first taste of alcohol in the park?

2. Do you think Archie's foster parents were truly innocent and believed they were doing the right thing fostering Aboriginal children?

3. What are your thoughts on the churches' involvement in missions, and how does it affect your perception of religious institutions today?

4. Archie and his foster brother Noel had a troubled relationship. What do you think caused the underlying tension between them?

5. Archie never reconnected with his foster parents after leaving. What do you think about his decision not to see them again?

6. On Page 49, Archie says, "Albert cared for my every need those first few weeks in Sydney." Do you think Albert was truly helping Archie, or was he enabling destructive behavior?

7. Roach discusses the healing powers of music throughout the book. Do you believe music can be a tool for healing? Why?

8. On Page 54, Archie mentions that alcohol made him feel carefree and happy. How does this reflect the larger theme of escapism through substance use in the book?

9. On Page 112, Archie debates whether to return home to his family after reconnecting with them. What do you think about his decision-making process and the conflict he feels?

10. Alcoholism is a central theme in Tell Me Why. On Page 177, Archie reflects, "I started to wonder if it wasn't our blackness that got us drinking but our trauma?" What do you think about this statement and the broader issue of trauma and substance abuse?

11. In one of the parks Archie frequented, a young Aboriginal man tells him, "Keep the jawbreakers out of your mouth. No good to be educated." Why do you think this man discouraged Archie from using complex language and embracing education?

12. Archie’s writing is filled with soulful insights and poignant quotes. What is your favorite passage from the book, and why?

13. After reading Tell Me Why, what key lessons or reflections will you take away from Archie Roach’s story?

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Read Tell Me Why

Archie Roach's Tell Me Why is more than just a memoir—it's a heartfelt exploration of what it means to survive, thrive, and ultimately heal. It’s a timely read for anyone who wants to understand the deeper implications of systemic racism, family separation, and the resilience of Indigenous cultures.

If you haven’t picked up this book yet, I encourage you to do so. You’ll find yourself moved by Roach’s words and inspired by his strength. This is a story that matters—not just for Aboriginal people, but for everyone.

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Looking for more?

Explore other inspiring reads in our book club, or dive deeper into the cultural significance of Aboriginal storytelling. Keep reading, keep learning, and let’s continue the conversation.