Elsewhere we note the changing role of women in the early 20th century. In one uncomfortable scene aboard a passenger train, Graham draws attention to matters of systemic racism. Rather, the author probes the ramifications of loss and trauma – not the least of which is survivor’s guilt – whether from war, disease or domestic tragedy.
The pacing of the book is unhurried, allowing readers access to characters’ inner thoughts and emotions, yet steady enough to sustain our interest and keep the plot moving forward to its surprising climax.īluebird does not sidestep or gloss over the painful aspects of that era. The ravages of war have left both with psychological scars, and we wonder if this shell-shocked pair will be able to rebuild their lives in Canada. The story alternates between the book’s two central characters, Adele and Jerry.
In all, the author presents a diverse ensemble of individuals – some admirable, some pitiable – each doing what they feel they must in the face of danger and opportunity. Against the backdrop of the First World War, she explores the lives of young Canadian nurses caring for the wounded at the front as well as those of a company of tunnellers, whose stifling task it was to dig far below the deafening chaos of the battlefield and lay mines beneath enemy trenches.Īnd in post-war Ontario, she introduces us to Prohibition-era rum-runners, whose motives and allegiances are more nuanced than we might have imagined. In her most recent novel Graham transports us to a Belgian field hospital and, later, to the speakeasies of Windsor, Ont. They have also acquainted readers with the origins of the Mounties, the influx to Canada of British Home Children, and the breach of German U-boats into Canadian waters. Her previous novels have shed light on the Halifax Explosion, the Acadian Expulsion and the Christie Pits Riot. Graham, originally from Toronto, lived for 18 years in Calgary before relocating to Nova Scotia, whose rich history drew her to the province. The bestselling novelist is on a mission to engage our imaginations with stories that weren’t covered in high school.
Genevieve Graham wants us to learn some history. We also welcome suggestions of other Canadian Christian books to review: Contact us. Faith Today welcomes your thoughts on any of our reviews. An extended review of a 2022 novel by Genevieve Graham Note: Our print issue contains a shorter version of this review.
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