The Lookout Tree

It’s 1755, and twelve-year-old Fidèle’s life is quiet and pastoral—until a sudden shift in the political situation brings chaos to Acadie. The English are hunting down and deporting all the Acadians, and the only way to escape is to run far away or to live in the wilderness.

Fidèle’s parents are taken by the English along with their newborn baby. He, his sister, Prémélia, their grandfather, Pétard, and elderly Rosalie decide to brave life in the forest near their burned-down house in the hopes that their family members will return one day. Life in the woods is harsh and unforgiving, and they only survive with the help and knowledge of their Mi’kmaw friends and a mysterious spirit who appears during times of dire need.

Spanning two decades of the terrible events of the Deportation and the long struggle to reunite and resettle afterward, The Lookout Tree is an English translation of the beloved French classic, La butte à Pétard, and a testament to the determination of the Acadian people to survive and thrive in their homeland.

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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

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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

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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

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Jacob’s Dilemma

I recommend this book.