by Richard Van Camp
Many authors are known
for just one type of fiction, but not Richard Van Camp. The award-winning
novelist also pens comics, TV scripts (CBC’s ‘North of 60’), and is an
internationally renowned storyteller. Steeped in the oral traditions of his
people, the Tlicho (Tłı̨chǫ) of
the Dene First Nations, Van Camp’s storyteller’s voice is wonderfully evident
in his highly recommended short story collection, Moccasin Square Gardens.
Set primarily in the Northwest Territories, or Denedeh, Moccasin Square Gardens vividly evokes the rhythms and characters of small-town life 'north of 60'. While some tales bring to mind Stephen Leacock or Stuart McLean, those comparisons fail to capture the dazzling range of themes and genres in this collection. Family discord and reconciliation, environmental degradation, sexuality, fantasy, mythology, and even a smattering of horror is all found here. Yet, even the darker stories are permeated with the author's optimism and sense of humour.
Moccasin Square Gardens opens with 'Aliens’, a lyrical tale of budding romance and two-spirit identity. In 'Man Babies', a resourceful park ranger confronts the lay-about, videogame-obsessed son of the woman he's considering moving in with. In 'Super Indians', an embezzling band chief is hilariously held to account at a community sports day. In the haunting 'I Am Filled with a Trembling Light', the social ills of addiction and abuse are explored when a dying man tries to reclaim the home his father has lost to gambling debts.
The outliers in the collection are the two 'Wheetago War' stories. Van Camp, a fan of Star Wars who also writes graphic novels, combines Indigenous myth and popular culture in the form of Zombie-like Wheetago monsters, brought back to life by global warming.
It's a cliché, but this clear-eyed, emotion-filled collection will have you laughing and crying, while at the same time contemplating questions of Indigenous and Canadian history and culture.
Richmond Public is offering a free, online discussion of Moccasin Square Gardens on July 29th, from 10:30 to 11:30am, on Zoom. To register, visit www.yourlibrary.ca/events-calendar/ and search for ‘adult summer reading', or phone 604-231-6413.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteUseful information are very rare nowadays on web. I would like to thank the author who write and share this article with informative and useful information.
ReplyDeleteKindly Visit our Website:- Change Yahoo Mail Password
An Arab writer of centuries ago advised a distressed person and said that the book is a friend who does not praise you happily and does not put you on the path of evil. I hope Richard Van Camp will be my best companion this summer. Buy Essay Online
ReplyDeleteI read this post. This is a very informative and interesting article. Family discord and reconciliation, environmental degradation, sexuality, fantasy, mythology, and even a smattering of horror are all found here. Keep sharing your thoughts with us. Now it's time to get Siding Services in Florham Park NJ for more information.
ReplyDeleteI am very impressed with the information about the Moccasin Square Gardens novel. This novel is very interesting I will read this novel and share this article with my friends. Thanks for posting it. Now it's time to avail https://beelinebuild.com/ for more information.
ReplyDeleteERP development is a reminder that even in the world of literature and storytelling, the importance of efficient systems and processes (like Enterprise Resource Planning) can't be underestimated. Just as Richard Van Camp blends different genres and themes in his writing, businesses should consider integrating diverse tools, erp development and technologies to streamline their operations and enhance their storytelling in the market.
ReplyDelete'Aliens,' a beautiful tale of blooming passion and two-spirit identity, kicks off Moccasin Square Gardens. In 'Man Babies,' a smart park ranger confronts the lax, videogame-obsessed son of the woman he's thinking about marrying. In 'Super Indians,' an embezzling band leader is put to account at a community sports day in a funny way. Thank you for sharing your knowledge! Keep up the good job! Continue to spread the word. Please take a peek at my website.
ReplyDeletereckless driving virginia
Your ability to provide practical advice is both helpful and actionable. Solar
ReplyDelete"Moccasin Square Gardens delves into the rich tapestry of Indigenous life, blending humor and heartbreak in a vivid ||Abogado de Multas de Tráfico Nueva Jersey||Domestic Violence Charges New Jersey exploration of community and identity."
ReplyDeleteAmong the new generation of racing games, Drive Mad stands out as an exciting entry that combines intense driving mechanics with a variety of levels and obstacles.
ReplyDeletePlaying online games helps to bitlife train critical thinking skills. In many strategy games, players must quickly make decisions based on constantly changing situations, thereby improving their ability to reason logically and process information.
ReplyDeleteThe soundtrack in Sprunki Infected is highly engaging, keeping players immersed in the musical experience as they build their tracks.
ReplyDeleteRichard Van Camp's "Moccasin Square Gardens" is a vibrant short story collection that captures the essence of small-town life in the Northwest Territories. Blending humor and poignant themes like family, identity, and environmental issues, Van Camp's storytelling shines through. His unique voice resonates with readers, much like the engaging gameplay of slope game , where navigating challenges can evoke laughter and reflection.
ReplyDeletePreparing for the Data-Architect Questions and Answers? Boost your confidence with targeted practice questions! These exam-focused questions cover all key topics, helping you understand core concepts and improve your skills. By practicing, you’ll be better equipped to handle challenging scenarios and earn your certification with ease. Start practicing today!
ReplyDeleteWEBFISHING offers the perfect balance of both. Whether you're unwinding with friends in the camp or battling to catch the biggest fish, every moment in WEBFISHING is filled with joy and excitement. It’s the ultimate casual fishing experience, where fun never stops!
ReplyDeleteRun 3 is a popular platform runner video game. It attracts players with its fast, creative and challenging gameplay in space.
ReplyDeletethis software is easy to use, I like it papa's games
ReplyDeleteblock blast said: When a dying man attempts to retrieve the house his father lost due to gambling debts, the eerie 'I Am Filled with a Trembling Light' explores the social evils of addiction and abuse. The two 'Wheetago War' stories are the collection's outliers.
ReplyDeleteTake your gaming skills to the next level with tenguides. Our site offers a wide variety of strategies, tips, and tricks that cater to all types of gamers, from casual players to competitive enthusiasts.
ReplyDelete