The library’s slogan is “More than just books” but we do still have books aplenty. If you are looking for a summertime read here are some titles I’ve recently enjoyed.
I like nonfiction and if you do too, try Margaret MacMillan’s “The War that Ended Peace.” It is about the origins of the First World War. I especially liked the portrayal of German leader Kaiser Wilhelm II. He was an aggressive yet insecure man with a dark gift for insulting others. Draw your own comparisons with our current political leaders.
Speaking of politics, I liked Benjamin Sasse’s “Them: Why We Hate Each Other and How to Heal.” Whatever your political affiliation, I hope you agree that divisiveness is not good for us. Sasse is American but his message is universal.
Robert Harris is my favorite fun novelist. His books are smart but they also draw you in. I like them all but I will mention “Conclave.” Is it possible to write a thriller about the selection of a new Pope? Apparently yes!
Everyone is familiar with Stephen King novels but did you know he wrote “On Writing,” a how-to book? It is full of interesting anecdotes and that always entertaining Stephen King voice.
If you like short stories try Richard Van Camp’s “Moccasin Square Gardens.” The stories are rooted in First Nations geography and culture but they are also modern and quirky.
Another title about Indigenous life is Patti LaBoucane-Benson’s “The Outside Circle.” This is a graphic novel, but don’t let the format fool you – it is a serious and searing look at the challenges faced by inner city Indigenous youth. I saw the author speak a couple of years ago and was very impressed, and I am happy she became a Canadian senator in 2018.
Happy reading!
Ken Feser is chief librarian at the Medicine Hat Public Library.
