Reviews and Comments

I have loved many books by Zadie Smith and this one is no different. A very well-timed historical fiction that is informative, insightful and captivating. The audio book is read by the author and was great. Push through the first two volumes to get to the crux of the story.

A really fun, easy-reading crime novel to get into holiday reading mode.

Keeping on my Victor Hugo streak. Reading in French.

A great sequel to The City we Became. I preferred the first book of this duology, but the author has a great rationale for why this ambitious project got cut short - COVID and real life politics changed her momentum on this story. I remain very attached to this tale, its characters who are city avatars, and cinematographic writing.

Wow. This is a fantastic book. I'll try writing up a short review later. But for now, find yourself a copy!

Fascinating read! A book of historical fiction that imagines the memoirs of Roman Emperor Hadrian. His travels, his relationships, his feelings of success or failure, the various stages of his life.

The author's writing notes at the end put her entire work in context. Part of her facination with Hadrian was to propose a reflection on a life of action, not only thought. I understand now why this book is one of Yourcenar's major works.

I would suggest reading up on the historical character of Hadrian to better appreciate the book.

Also translated into English.

Excellent short read depicting the history of the Fiat strikes in Turin, Italy in 1969. Simple narration from the perspective of a single worker. For anyone interested in workers' and labour history and resistance.

Reading this one by obligation, but might as well count it!

Fun, fast-paced and magical. Loved this third and last book of the Kingston Cycle series.

I read Kukum by Michel Jean in French. This book won the French competition equivalent to Canada Reads, le Combat des livres in 2021. Michel Jean is a journalist who has been writing stories inspired by his Innu roots for many years. Finally, he’s getting some recognition in Quebec literary circles and media for his books. Kukum tells the story of his own Innu grandmother, Almanda Siméon. Beautiful and crisp like a Northern wind.

This book tells the story of the relationship between Doro and Anyanwu, two beings with special powers - very different powers - and how they choose to use them. Wild Seed is a classic, one that is much needed in these times of crisis. Significant and radical.

A short and happy travel book I read at a time when traveling was not in the realm of possibilities (ie pandemic). You already know the story, but have you read the book? It is the comical tale of a man who tries to win a bet by traveling around the world in eighty days, and ends up finding love along the way. Charming and accessible.

A magnificent novel that follows the interconnecting lives of a choir of characters in the United Kingdom. Evaristo writes in a poetic and sometimes fragmented style. I loved her voice and pen, and this book was a highlight of my reading list in 2021.