There’s nothing better than a book that makes you think, and in these five exceptional titles, the philosophical is redefined! Including everything from travel and loneliness to survival and death, ruminations on human existence and society abound in these BC books. Join the authors in pondering powerfully and bring new wisdom to old plights for any age.
Alone Together: A Curious Exploration of Loneliness by Petti Fong, illustrated by Jonathan Dyck (Orca Book Publishers)
This book explores loneliness and the lessons we can learn about how it can bring people together. Loneliness is a global phenomenon that affects people young and old. This lovely book is based on a podcast of the same name and honours what children and adults alike have understood about what it means to be alone.
Out now!
The Weight of Survival: Poems by Tina Biello (Caitlin Press)
In this brief and bountiful poetry collection, Tina Biello retraces her family’s journey from post-war Italy to a small logging town near Cowichan Lake, exploring themes of identity, queerness and belonging. This writing honours, grieves and contemplates what makes small-town communities possible.
Out now!
Assisted Suicide in Canada: Moral, Legal, and Policy Considerations by Travis Dumsday (UBC Press)
In 2015, Canada’s Supreme Court legalized assisted suicide and voluntary euthanasia, later enacted via Bill C-14. Assisted Suicide in Canada examines legal and ethical debates, including freedom of conscience and public funding, offering a balanced introduction for scholars and engaged readers.
Out now!
Boxing the Compass: A Life of Seafaring, Music, and Pilgrimage by Michael L. Hadley (Heritage House)
This timely and engrossing memoir explores themes of human conflict, ethics and reconciliation. An insightful take on the Silent Generation, Michael L. Hadley, who grew up during the First World War but was too young to be enlisted, has lived through most of the major modern conflicts and world events of the past century. He is also an award-winning historian and retired naval officer.
Available April 2, 2024!
Reservations: The Pleasures and Perils of Travel by Steve Burgess (Douglas & McIntyre)
Travel was once a marker of sophistication. Now the tourist is just as likely to be viewed as one locust in an annihilating swarm. Tourists face tough questions: When does economic opportunity become exploitation? How do we justify the use of climate-changing jet fuel? And can we be sure our tourist dollars aren’t propping up corrupt and brutal regimes? This book is a personal investigation into the real price of our holidays.
Available April 27, 2024!