Author: Drew Hayden Taylor 

Genre: Literary Fiction, Humour 

Year of Publication: 2010

Summary: The arrival of a strange yet good-looking man on his distinct motorcycle lights a buzz within Otter Lake. The Reserve's chief, Maggie, gets swept off her feet by the man. Meanwhile, her son Virgil couldn't be more suspicious of his appearance and intentions. Virgil is determined to separate the stranger from his mom and drive him away with some helping hands, tricks, and maybe raccoons too. 

Review: Having never read an Indigenous literary fiction before, I didn't know what to expect. Upon first impressions, the story was really difficult to get into. There were many scattered pieces here and there while the story was still building, and it left me lost sometimes. However, as the story progresses, I found the book quite enjoyable. Reading this book was not only a learning experience, but also a fun one. The story contains many Indigenous topics such as worldviews and heritage, but also incorporated bits of romance and humour. They were refreshing and really nice additions to the main themes of the book. The flow of the plot was neither too slow nor too fast, and the size of the book is great for moderate readers. I would recommend this book as a great introduction to Indigenous literature. 

Rating: ★★★★

Author: R. F. Kuang 

Genre: Contemporary Fiction 

Year of Publication: 2023

Summary: Yellowface is about a girl named Juniper who aspires to be a professional writer but when her "friend" (AKA. The person actually living Juniper's dream) ends up dying, Juniper's envy consumes her as she ends up in a messy web of lies and controversy that no one will emerge victorious. 

Review: The protagonist of most books is typically also the hero of the story, although in this book, this isn't as clear, since as the story slowly progresses you will soon realize just how blurred the lines of truth and lies are. I suggest sticking with this book especially since the ending is something you would not want to miss. 

Rating: ★★★★

Author: Susan Currie 

Genre: Fiction, White Pine 2024

Year of Publication: 2023

Summary: Iz the Apocalypse is about a girl who was forced to go through several foster care homes and when 1, in particular, left a lasting impact on her as she navigates her life, she seeks music as her refuge but along the way to healing she encounters issues that cause her to make some problematic decisions. 

Review: This story is quite moving and heartwarming as it shows no matter how lost you are there is always hope and even a sliver of it can make a large difference in your life or in the lives of others. 

Rating: ★★★★

Author: Taylor Jenkins Reid 

Genre: Historical Fiction 

Year of Publication: 2019

Summary: Taylor Jenkins Reid's captivating novel 'Daisy Jones & The Six' follows the rise and fall of a legendary rock band in the 1970s. Through interviews and vivid storytelling, it delves into themes of love, ambition, and the highs and lows of the music industry, I couldn't put it down! 

Review: This book is a fascinating look at the 1970s rock scene, told through captivating interviews and rich storytelling. The characters, particularly Daisy and Billy, are extremely well-developed, and you root for them throughout every twist and turn. Reid's writing style is addictive, engrossing you with its vivid depictions of music, fame, and personal struggles. It's a story that stays with you long after you've finished the last page, leaving you wanting more of its electrifying plot. If you enjoy music, drama, and memorable characters, this is a must-read that will transport you to a world of rock 'n' roll passion and intrigue. Even if you're not a music fan, it's a great read. 

Rating: ★★★★★