Thélyson Orélien’s “It Was That or Die” Captures the Harrowing Journey of Haitian Migrants

Quebec author Thélyson Orélien’s debut novel, It Was That or Die, arriving in bookstores on March 10, 2026, is already generating significant international interest. The novel tells the story of Jonas Dorléon, a history teacher forced to flee gang-ridden Haiti and embark on a perilous journey to Canada.

A Story Born of Witness and Research

Orélien, who has lived in Canada for over 15 years, drew inspiration from the experiences of many individuals he encountered through volunteering and a reporting project in the United States. As he explained in an interview with La Presse, the novel is rooted in real stories and aims to convey the human reality behind migration statistics. He emphasizes that his characters are based on true experiences, aiming to foster understanding rather than judgment.

The Perilous Journey of Jonas Dorléon

It Was That or Die follows Jonas Dorléon’s arduous path from Haiti, through the Dominican Republic, Brazil, Mexico, and the United States, ultimately leading him to Quebec via Roxham Road. As detailed by Radio-Canada, the novel doesn’t shy away from depicting the dangers and desperation faced by migrants, including encounters with administrative hurdles, precarious living conditions, and the constant threat of violence. The narrative highlights the resilience and dignity of those forced to leave their homes behind.

International Acclaim and Translation

The novel has garnered considerable attention from publishers worldwide. Éditions Grasset has acquired the rights for French-speaking Europe, and more than a dozen other publishing houses have secured agreements with Boréal for publication in various countries. Boréal notes that the level of early international interest is unprecedented in its history.

A Poetic Exploration of Exile

Orélien’s writing style is characterized by its poetic and evocative language. Le Devoir describes his work as speaking “the language of exile,” capturing the emotional and psychological toll of displacement. The novel explores themes of loss, identity, and the search for humanity in the face of adversity. Jonas carries with him a notebook of poems, a photo of his mother, and a pair of clean underwear – symbolic reminders of his past and a testament to his enduring spirit.

Orélien’s Personal Connection to the Story

Born in Gonaïves, Haiti, in 1988, Orélien emigrated to Quebec following the 2010 earthquake. As noted by Éditions du Boréal, he has family in Quebec, including his grandmother who had resided there for many years. While he has found opportunity and tolerance in Quebec, he acknowledges the challenges faced by newcomers and the need for honest dialogue about immigration.

A Novel That Speaks to a Universal Experience

Orélien hopes his novel will resonate with both Quebecers and immigrants alike, fostering empathy and understanding. He believes that literature has the power to transcend personal experience and illuminate the shared human condition. He emphasizes that the novel is not intended to offer easy answers but rather to provoke reflection and encourage a deeper engagement with the realities of migration.