Ordinary Wonder Tales by Emily Urquhart

Emily Urquhart, a journalist with a doctorate in folklore, prefers the term "Wonder Tales" to "Fairy Tales". It suggests a sense of wonder while reading, rather than just the expectation of fairies or other fantastical creatures. I think we should call all stories "Wonder Tales". While reading these essays, I let Emily stoke a sense … Continue reading Ordinary Wonder Tales by Emily Urquhart

Kevin Lambert: ‘Querelle of Roberval’ and ‘You Will Love What You Have Killed’

Both Translated by Donald Winkler I knew going into these books that they weren't going to involve the usual things, but I also didn't expect to be quite as shocked by them as I was. Kevin Lambert's work has won several awards in Quebec, and Querelle of Roberval has just recently become a finalist for … Continue reading Kevin Lambert: ‘Querelle of Roberval’ and ‘You Will Love What You Have Killed’

‘My Camino’ by Patrick Warner and ‘Dream Sequence’ by Adam Foulds

My Camino by Patrick Warner A few years ago I read Patrick Warner's One Hit Wonders and said: "One Hit Wonders is such a unique reading experience that I wanted more." I got what I asked for - another unique reading experience - one that is darkly humorous, bold, challenging, and visceral. This book is … Continue reading ‘My Camino’ by Patrick Warner and ‘Dream Sequence’ by Adam Foulds

Shadow Giller: The Party Wall by Catherine Leroux, translated by Lazer Lederhendler

The first thing I noticed about The Party Wall, even before reading the first page, was the story/character sequence; ABACADABACADA. Intriguing, right? Then, after about four stories into it, I had no idea where any of it was going (a good thing). Even more enticing are the little clues giving us hints as to when … Continue reading Shadow Giller: The Party Wall by Catherine Leroux, translated by Lazer Lederhendler