We might be a little biased, but we love ALL book-related holidays! Today, we’re celebrating #ReadaBookDay—a chance to curl up with an old classic or a new favourite. Looking for some suggestions on what to read this Book Day? Here are some locally-published stories that we’re loving lately!
Nonfiction
Open Every Window: A Memoir by Jane Munro (Douglas & McIntyre)
A deeply touching and powerful memoir describing the emotional highs and lows that author Jane Munro endured while caring for her husband as he suffered from a combination of Alzheimer’s and dementia. During the emotional process, Munro found solace and freedom in her writing, Iyengar yoga, and her partnership.
What Was Said to Me: The Life of Sti’tum’atul’wut, a Cowichan Woman by Ruby Peter, in collaboration with Helene Demers (Royal BC Museum)
A triumphant memoir by Cowichan Elder Sti’tum’atul’wut (Ruby Peter). Peter mentored hundreds of students and teachers and helped thousands of people learn the Hul’q’umi’num’ language. She contributed to dictionaries and grammars and has created a rich legacy for future advocates of Indigenous language preservation.
Fiction
Bramah and the Beggar Boy by Renée Sarojini Saklikar (Nightwood Editions)
The first installment in a thrilling new series, this book is part epic-fantasy, part prose, written by award-winning poet Renée Sarojini Saklikar. The characters must endure eco-catastrophes and a viral bio-contagion, among other things, on their epic adventures through Pacifica!
The Fifth: A Love(s) Story by MP Boisvert (Caitlin Press & Dagger Editions)
A moving and impactful novel about polyamory and learning to navigate love, life, and desire, and chosen family. Originally published in French, this English-language edition is newly translated by award-winning translator Monica Meneghetti.
Poetry
Coast Mountain Foot by ryan fitzpatrick (Talonbooks)
A striking collection of lyrical poems, written over 15 years. Coast Mountain Foot recounts fitzpatrick’s move from Calgary to Vancouver in 2011, and explores the complex dynamic and differences between the two cities.
The Pit by Tara Borin (Nightwood Editions)
Set in a small-town dive bar in Dawson City, Yukon, Borin’s debut poetry collection explores the complexities of addiction and our ability to find home and community in unexpected places.
Children’s Books
Raymond and the Buffalo by Lou Beauchesne, illustrated by Kate Chappell (Orca Books)
A whimsical and emotional picture book about friendship, loss, and the comfort we can find in books. Raymond, a hairy buffalo, lost and alone learns to be brave and makes a new home in the library and finds a new friend in the librarian.
Off The Beaten Track by Maylis de Kerangal, illustrated By Tom Haugomat, translated By Helen Mixter (Greystone Books)
Coming October 19, this stunningly illustrated coming-of-age story for teens explores themes of independence, resiliency, and self-confidence and teaches young readers the importance of guidance and mentorship from trusted adults.