Author: Chris Bohjalian

This was on the list of books to wrap up for Kathryn’s birthday but when I thought a bit more about it I think it came to me from her.

The story centres around two women – Cassie and Elena. Cassie, the flight attendant, is an alcoholic and has random sexual encounters on her travels. After a flight to Dubai, Cassie wakes up in the bed of a dead man; she knows she slept with the man but she has no recollection of the murder. Elena is trailing Cassie in order to clean up a job her “people” believe she failed at.

I’m only giving the book a 3-star rating as I was disappointed in the ending. It was coming to an exciting conclusion but the ending left me confused and wanting the details.

Good Reads Rating: * * *

Author: Edmund Metatawabin

During a recent concert the performer, John Wort Hannom, mentioned this book in relation to a song he had written (Man of God). The library had a copy so I borrowed it.

The memoir is a shocking revelation of the abuses the author and others faced while in residential school. The book doesn’t go into great detail but you certainly get the message. It also outlines the problems our First Nations face under the Indian Act; a good insight into how the government continues to hold sway over their lives.

I don’t generally like a memoir that is written with dialogue; I find I have to keep reminding myself that the book is not a story. The messages in this one are important enough that I could overlook that.

If you aren’t inclined to read the book, please check out the song Man of God by John Wort Hannom.

Goodreads Rating: * * *

Author: Yasmina Khadra

This novel is written by a former officer in the Algerian army. Although it doesn’t give a deep insight into the people of Kabul it was an interesting read. Any story that starts off with the stoning of a prostitute has my attention.

The story follows the lives of two different couple. Mohsen and Zenaida lead a privileged life prior to the Taliban taking control. They now barely survive but are aware they a better off than many. Atiq is employed by the Taliban; he and his wife Musarrat fail to see where his position has helped them. As the story progresses you see how each couple envision their futures.

Goodreads Rating: * * * *