If you ever feel you're in the mood for something completely absurd, out of this world (but in it), something that will make you laugh, wonder what the heck is going on, and reflect on the author's wild imagination, Dirty Birds is your book. All Milton Ontario wants is to spread his wings; leave his … Continue reading Dirty Birds by Morgan Murray
Every Little Piece of Me is the highly anticipated second novel by Amy Jones, author of We're All in This Together. Ava Ava's fathers move her and her two siblings from NYC to a Bed & Breakfast in Gin Harbour, Nova Scotia to be part of a reality TV show. ("It's Jon and Kate Plus … Continue reading Every Little Piece of Me by Amy Jones
Frances and Malcolm, mother and son, a wealthy pair of callous social outcasts, have just found out that all their money is gone. They have to make big changes, but neither are inclined to work for it - what will become of them? ("... her blood thrilled at life's gruesome pageant.") Frances's friend, Joan, offers … Continue reading Shadow Giller: French Exit by Patrick deWitt
I don't know what it is about this book that I loved so much. Maybe the fact that I am coming up to the stage of life that June and Randy are at and can imagine how it might be. Maybe because of the perfect imperfections of the characters. Maybe the bang-on dynamics between the … Continue reading The Figgs by Ali Bryan
Looking for an indigenous book or author who makes you laugh instead of cry? Who is able to poke fun at herself, her family, and life on the Reserve while at the same time so obviously showing her love and pride for the same things? This book quickly wormed its way into my heart and … Continue reading Nobody Cries at Bingo by Dawn Dumont (2011)
I'm happy to report that this book is as fun as it looks, without being too light (because if it's too light then I'm probably not interested). One thing that makes this a standout for me is the multiple narrators. Almost all the characters are given a voice at some point in the book, while … Continue reading We’re All In This Together by Amy Jones
The Tiny wife is one of the shortest books I've ever read, and one of the strangest. This book was recommended to me, and as I have been wanting to read something by Andrew Kaufman for a while, I thought I would start with this novella. The Tiny Wife is described as a "modern … Continue reading The Tiny Wife by Andrew Kaufman
No Relation has been near the top of the charts here in Canada, and all the reviews I have read have been sunny and bright. It's a good thing I don't have to come on here and disagree with everyone. Earnest Hemmingway was having a bad day. He lost his job, his girlfriend, and his wallet. Many … Continue reading No Relation by Terry Fallis
Will Ferguson is a Canadian writer who is well known for his humorous travel writing and observations about Canadian culture. Some of his best known books include How to Be A Canadian, Beauty Tips From Moosejaw, and 419. In 2012, he won the Scotiabank Giller Prize with his novel 419, which is anything but humorous. Because I … Continue reading Happiness by Will Ferguson
