Words Jackie LaPlante
Photos Tanner’s Books
A Season for Spies
Iona Whishaw
If you haven’t yet fallen into Iona Whishaw’s Lane Winslow detective series, this prequel may be the place to start. As a translator in wartime England, Lane is doing her bit when, surprisingly, she is asked to participate in a secret mission in Scotland, under the guise of visiting her grandparents. Whishaw’s character is inspired by her own family history, adding an extra edge to the exploits of this gutsy heroine.
Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald
John U. Bacon
While those words might bring to mind Gordon Lightfoot’s soulful ballad, this engagingly-written, well-researched look at the disaster of the Edmund Fitzgerald is a compelling rendition of the 1975 event. By delving into the geography and economy of the area and detailing the seamanship required to navigate the often dangerous weather of the Great Lakes, John U. Bacon brings alive the remembrances of the lost crewman’s families and the vibrancy of cargo shipping 50 years ago.
The Poisoned King
Katherine Rundell
This second installment in the Impossible Creatures series is a ripping good adventure for any reader with an appetite for fun. “The Archipelago” is a small group of islands known to be the last place where magic exists. But even here, magic is under threat. A pair of spirited youths battle dragons and krakens to ensure that the good-hearted “impossible creatures” continue to exist. Illustrations, maps and an inventive bestiary of magical animals add extra interest.
Wolf, Moon, Dog
Thomas Wharton
Thomas Wharton’s poignant, funny and creative novel reprises historical vignettes through the eyes of dogs. “Wolf” is introduced as the first pack animal to see the value of a good pat, a served-up meal and joining humans as a pet. Subsequently, dogs, always called Wolf, pop up in various incarnations anywhere from Egypt’s underworld to Robert Service’s Klondike and as Greek philosopher, Diogenes. It is, at its heart, a love song to man’s best friend.
Formula One: The Champions: 75 Years of Legendary F1 Drivers
Maurice Hamilton
To mark the 75th Anniversary edition of initial Grand Prix , Maurice Hamilton, a Formula One commentator since 1977, has profiled 34 of the legends of the sport. Enhanced by beautiful photography ranging from evocative black-and-white photos depicting track action from the early days to sleek portraits of current drivers, each profile highlights key moments in the racer’s life and career. Also included are historic interviews with some of the iconic drivers.
The Marionette
Terry Fallis
Abandoning a political milieu for the world of intelligence gathering, Terry Fallis’ new protagonist is a writer of crime thrillers with a strong desire to be in the shoes of his own character. Declined employment by CSIS in the past, an unfortunate – and perhaps a tad outlandish – scenario finds the writer being rescued by CSIS and subsequently asked to infiltrate the government of Mali. Espionage, intrigue and comic thrills ensue.
Sorry, Not Sorry
Mark Critch
Comedian Mark Critch explores the current importance of Canadian identity in this series of thoughtful and gently humorous essays. His years spent satirizing and poking fun at Canada during his time on This Hour Has 22 Minutes has made him a firm believer in the importance of this nation. He explores varied topics from our current relationship with the monarchy to the impact of the Freedom Convoy, all underscored by his proud patriotism and dry, insightful wit.
