Author: Chris Bohjalian

This was on the list of books to wrap up for Kathryn’s birthday but when I thought a bit more about it I think it came to me from her.

The story centres around two women – Cassie and Elena. Cassie, the flight attendant, is an alcoholic and has random sexual encounters on her travels. After a flight to Dubai, Cassie wakes up in the bed of a dead man; she knows she slept with the man but she has no recollection of the murder. Elena is trailing Cassie in order to clean up a job her “people” believe she failed at.

I’m only giving the book a 3-star rating as I was disappointed in the ending. It was coming to an exciting conclusion but the ending left me confused and wanting the details.

Good Reads Rating: * * *

Author: Edmund Metatawabin

During a recent concert the performer, John Wort Hannom, mentioned this book in relation to a song he had written (Man of God). The library had a copy so I borrowed it.

The memoir is a shocking revelation of the abuses the author and others faced while in residential school. The book doesn’t go into great detail but you certainly get the message. It also outlines the problems our First Nations face under the Indian Act; a good insight into how the government continues to hold sway over their lives.

I don’t generally like a memoir that is written with dialogue; I find I have to keep reminding myself that the book is not a story. The messages in this one are important enough that I could overlook that.

If you aren’t inclined to read the book, please check out the song Man of God by John Wort Hannom.

Goodreads Rating: * * *

Author: Matt Cohen

I read this book years ago; I have copies of my website dating back to 2010 but I couldn’t find my initial review. I couldn’t remember anything about the story but in my mind it was the greatest book ever. I’ve carried it around with me since at least my Port Coquitlam days, and maybe even longer. It sat on the shelf on Texada (with my really good books) and I decided to read it again.

Sadly I have no idea why I thought it was so marvellous. Carl has been away from the town he grew up in for a few years. He was running from his partner and their child, and the memory of his mother, at a time when his life was falling apart. When he returns, all the old feelings and acquaintances are waiting for him.

Goodreads Rating: * * *