ASHER'S GUIDE

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) Through Black Spruce by Joseph Boyden is a deeply evocative and emotionally charged novel that explores the complexities of identity, family bonds, and the endurance of the human spirit. Set in the rugged and remote landscapes of Northern Ontario, Boyden weaves together two interconnected narratives, unraveling the lives of two strong and resilient Indigenous women. The story is primarily told through the alternating perspectives of Annie Bird, a young Cree woman who embarks on a journey to find her missing sister, and her Uncle Will, a bush pilot and a former hunter who faces his own struggles and demons. As their stories unfold, Boyden delves into the intricate dynamics of family, tradition, and the clash between modernity and traditional Indigenous ways of life. One of the notable strengths of Through Black Spruce lies in Boyden's masterful ability to create a rich sense of place. The vivid descriptions of the northern wilderness immerse readers in the rugged...

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5) Three Day Road by Joseph Boyden is a powerful and deeply affecting novel that transports readers into the harrowing world of World War I and explores the devastating impact of war on the human spirit. Through richly drawn characters and exquisite storytelling, Boyden weaves a tale of friendship, loss, and the complexities of identity against the backdrop of the brutal and unforgiving battlefield. The story revolves around the lives of two Cree soldiers, Xavier Bird and Elijah Whiskeyjack, who enlist in the Canadian Expeditionary Force during World War I. As they navigate the treacherous trenches and face the horrors of war, their bond is tested and strained. Boyden skillfully alternates between the present timeline of the war and flashbacks to their upbringing in their Cree community, providing insights into their cultural heritage and the challenges they face as Indigenous individuals fighting for a foreign nation. One of the most striking aspects of Three Day Roa...

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) In the Country of Last Things, penned by the acclaimed writer Paul Auster, immerses readers in a haunting and dystopian world that captivates with its stark portrayal of despair, survival, and the indomitable human spirit. This thought-provoking novel takes readers on a journey through a decaying urban landscape, delving deep into the dark recesses of human nature. Set in an unnamed city plagued by economic collapse and social disintegration, the story follows Anna Blume, a young woman in search of her missing brother. As she traverses the desolate streets, encountering various characters and witnessing the brutality and desperation of everyday life, the novel explores themes of isolation, loss, and the fragility of societal structures. One of the most compelling aspects of In the Country of Last Things is Auster's ability to create a vivid and immersive atmosphere. Through his masterful prose, he paints a bleak and desolate picture of a crumbling city, where p...

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5) Say Nothing: A True Story of Murder and Memory in Northern Ireland is a meticulously researched and deeply impactful book that delves into the dark and violent history of Northern Ireland's Troubles. Written by Patrick Radden Keefe, this gripping narrative weaves together personal stories, political analysis, and historical context to create an engrossing account of a complex and deeply divisive period. The book centers around the disappearance of Jean McConville, a mother of ten, in 1972, during the height of the conflict between the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and British security forces. Keefe uses McConville's story as a launching point to explore the lives of key figures involved in the Troubles, examining their motivations, actions, and the lasting impact of their choices. One of the greatest strengths of Say Nothing is Keefe's ability to humanize the individuals caught up in the conflict. By delving into the lives of IRA members, British soldiers,...

  "Station Eleven" by Emily St. John Mandel is a captivating and beautifully written novel that offers a fresh and introspective take on the post-apocalyptic genre. With its elegant prose, intricate storytelling, and poignant exploration of human resilience and connection, this book stands out as a thought-provoking and memorable literary work. The narrative unfolds in a world devastated by a devastating flu pandemic that wipes out a significant portion of the global population. Mandel skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, shifting back and forth in time, to create a tapestry of interconnected lives before and after the collapse of civilization. The novel follows a diverse set of characters, including an actor, a traveling symphony, a paparazzo-turned-paramedic, and a group of survivors, as their lives intersect and intertwine in unexpected ways. One of the strengths of "Station Eleven" lies in Mandel's exquisite writing style. Her prose is lyrical and...

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5) "Killers of the Flower Moon" by David Grann is an impeccably researched and gripping account of a shocking series of murders that took place in 1920s Oklahoma. Meticulously piecing together historical records, personal testimonies, and extensive interviews, Grann unveils a tale of conspiracy, greed, and the tragic plight of the Osage Nation. The book explores a dark chapter in American history, delving into the systematic killings of wealthy Osage Indians who found themselves in possession of immense wealth after oil was discovered on their land. Grann vividly portrays the sinister machinations behind the murders, as members of the Osage community were targeted for their oil wealth, resulting in a disturbingly high number of deaths in the otherwise serene Osage County. What sets "Killers of the Flower Moon" apart is Grann's masterful storytelling. He effortlessly weaves together multiple narrative threads, providing readers with a comprehensi...

In the realm of American folk and country music, few names hold as much reverence and influence as Townes Van Zandt. A troubled troubadour with a hauntingly poetic voice, Van Zandt left an indelible mark on the music landscape with his introspective songwriting, soulful performances, and the profound impact he had on generations of musicians. In this blog post, we pay tribute to the enigmatic artist, exploring his remarkable talent, enduring legacy, and the enduring allure of his music. The Songwriter's Journey:  Born in Fort Worth, Texas in 1944, Townes Van Zandt displayed a penchant for music from an early age. Inspired by folk and country icons like Woody Guthrie and Hank Williams, he honed his songwriting skills and distinctive fingerpicking guitar style. Throughout his career, Van Zandt released a collection of masterful albums, including "Our Mother the Mountain," "Townes Van Zandt," and "Delta Momma Blues," each showcasing his poetic lyricism an...

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) "Please Kill Me" by Gillian McCain and Legs McNeil is a captivating and unfiltered oral history that chronicles the explosive rise and tumultuous journey of punk rock in 1970s New York City. Through a collection of firsthand accounts from musicians, artists, managers, and other key figures, McCain and McNeil present a vivid and compelling narrative that captures the raw energy, rebellion, and chaos that defined the punk movement. The book takes readers on a wild and frenetic ride through the birth of punk, from its early origins at CBGB, Max's Kansas City, and other legendary venues, to its transformation into a cultural phenomenon that would forever change the face of music. The authors masterfully piece together interviews, anecdotes, and anecdotes to create a cohesive and immersive oral history that reads like a thrilling backstage pass to the punk scene. What sets "Please Kill Me" apart is its unparalleled access to the voices that shaped...

In the realm of folk music, there are artists whose names may not be immediately recognizable, but whose impact and talent continue to resonate through the years. One such artist is Jackson C. Frank, a singer-songwriter whose tragic life and soul-stirring music left an indelible mark on the folk scene of the 1960s. In this blog post, we pay tribute to this unsung troubadour, exploring his remarkable journey, his influential music, and the enduring legacy he left behind. The Early Life and Tragic Circumstances: Born in Buffalo, New York in 1943, Jackson C. Frank's life was marked by tragedy from an early age. At the tender age of 11, he survived a devastating school fire that claimed the lives of many of his classmates. The physical and emotional scars he carried from that day would shape his music and his troubled existence. Musical Discovery and Rise to Prominence: In the early 1960s, Frank discovered the burgeoning folk scene in New York's Greenwich Village, where he befriend...

In the era of digital entertainment, streaming platforms have become a staple for countless individuals seeking to unwind and enjoy a wide range of TV shows and movies. While Netflix remains a dominant force in the streaming industry, it's always worth exploring other options to diversify your viewing experience.  We'll delve into some free alternatives to Netflix that offer a wealth of content for you to discover and enjoy without breaking the bank.  Free Alternatives to Netflix:  Tubi Crackle IMDb TV Pluto TV Kanopy TUBI: Tubi is a popular ad-supported streaming platform that boasts an extensive library of movies and TV shows across various genres. With over 20,000 titles to choose from, you'll find everything from classic films to recent releases. Tubi's user-friendly interface and personalized recommendations make it easy to explore new content and create your own watchlist. Although it includes advertisements, the vast selection and cost-free access make it a fa...

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) "The Orenda" by Joseph Boyden is an epic and powerful novel that delves into the intricate tapestry of Canada's early history, exploring the collision of cultures and the profound impact it has on individuals and communities. Set in the 17th century, amidst the backdrop of the Huron-Iroquois wars, Boyden weaves together the perspectives of three central characters to create a gripping narrative that is both deeply introspective and historically enlightening. At the heart of the story is Bird, a Huron warrior haunted by personal tragedy, and Snow Falls, a young Iroquois girl captured and adopted into the Huron tribe. Their lives intersect with that of Christophe, a French Jesuit missionary who seeks to convert the Indigenous people to Christianity. Through their perspectives, Boyden skillfully explores themes of cultural clashes, the complexities of faith, and the resilience of the human spirit. Boyden's prose is richly descriptive, immersing the re...

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5) John Williams' novel "Stoner" is a breathtaking masterpiece that explores the profound depths of an ordinary life. Originally published in 1965, the book achieved a remarkable resurgence in recent years, captivating readers with its timeless themes and impeccable storytelling. Through its quiet yet powerful narrative, Williams crafts a poignant and deeply human story that resonates long after the final page is turned. "Stoner" introduces us to William Stoner, a simple man born into a farming family in rural Missouri during the early 20th century. As Stoner embarks on his journey through academia, he discovers his passion for literature and dedicates his life to the study and teaching of English literature at the University of Missouri. While his career path may seem unremarkable, it is through the depiction of Stoner's experiences, relationships, and personal struggles that the novel shines. What sets "Stoner" apart is Williams...

Introduction: In the realm of folk music, there are few artists as enigmatic and influential as Nick Drake. Despite a short and tragic life, Drake's music continues to captivate listeners with its haunting beauty and introspective lyrics. With his delicate guitar work, ethereal vocals, and poetic songwriting, Drake left behind a legacy that has grown in stature over the years. Join us as we delve into the life, artistry, and enduring impact of Nick Drake. Early Life and Musical Journey: Born on June 19, 1948, in Rangoon, Burma, Nick Drake grew up in a family with a deep love for music. Immersed in classical and folk music from an early age, he developed a passion for songwriting and guitar playing. Drake attended Cambridge University, where he began honing his skills as a musician and performing in local venues. It was during this time that he caught the attention of record producer Joe Boyd, leading to the release of his debut album. Rise to Recognition: Nick Drake's career to...