Shovels not Rifles

Historical young adult fiction set in the First World War featuring a young African Nova Scotian in the No. 2 Construction Battalion who faces racism and discrimination from his fellow Canadians.

Shovels Not Rifles is the story of Will, a young Black man from a small Nova Scotia town who enlists and goes to war in the historical Black Battalion in 1916.

When Coloured men are finally allowed to enlist in the Canadian military, Will Coleman has a chance to make his late father proud, see the world and earn enough money to take care of his mother. Immediately after joining the No. 2 Construction Battalion, he learns that the members of Canada’s only all-Black battalion are not allowed to fight on the front lines. Instead, they are assigned the same forestry work they were doing at home. Not only that, Will is the target of racism and discrimination by superiors and many fellow soldiers who refuse to accept a “checkerboard army”.

Alongside his fellow soldiers in the No. 2 Construction Battalion, Will slowly faces the harsh realities of the war -- and the country he wanted to fight for.

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average rating is 3 out of 5, based on 150 votes, book lovers sharing their thoughts

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Violet

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average rating is 4 out of 5

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A Pocket of Time: The Poetic Childhood of Elizabeth Bishop

A Pocket of Time: The Poetic Childhood of Elizabeth Bishop, written by Rita Wilson and illustrated by Emma FitzGerald, is a beautifully crafted picture book exploring the childhood of Elizabeth Bishop, one of Canada’s most celebrated poets. Set in Great Village, Nova Scotia, the book follows a young Elizabeth as she experiences both the wonder of childhood and the grief of losing her mother. Wilson blends biographical details with a gentle, poetic rhythm, showing how ordinary observations can become meaningful sources of inspiration.

FitzGerald’s delicate illustrations beautifully capture the warmth and scenic beauty of Nova Scotia. Her vibrant colors and expressive style make the book feel comforting and inviting while bringing Bishop’s childhood world to life.

What I loved most was the way Wilson weaves fragments of Bishop’s poetry into the narrative. The combination of poetry, biography, and illustration gives the book a unique musical quality and makes Bishop’s story feel personal rather than academic. The themes of childhood, family, memory, and curiosity also reminded me of my own childhood and gave the book a comforting sense of nostalgia.

Overall, A Pocket of Time has originality, artistry, and emotional depth. I would recommend it to readers of all ages, especially anyone interested in poetry, art, or beautifully told stories.

I recommend this book.

Julia

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average rating is 5 out of 5

Time Published

Really good book

I recommend this book.

Julia

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average rating is 5 out of 5

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Amazing book

I recommend this book.

Violet

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average rating is 4 out of 5

Time Published

Into the Current

Into the Current by Jared Young is an emotional and thought-provoking novel about a young man named Daniel Solomon who is forced to reflect on his life after a plane accident leaves him suspended between life and death. As Daniel revisits important memories, he begins to understand how his choices have shaped who he is. The novel explores themes such as regret, personal growth, and the importance of making the most of the time we have.

This book changed the way I view the value of life and reminded me that every choice can have a lasting impact. As summer is approaching, it has encouraged me to focus on improving myself, appreciating the people around me, and making better use of the time I have. Overall, Into the Current is a meaningful and well-written novel that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys reflective stories with important life lessons.

I recommend this book.

Jorja Walker

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Dartmouth NS

average rating is 3 out of 5

Time Published

Jacob’s Dilemma

I recommend this book.