Falling for Henry by Beverley Brenna Red Deer Press Saskatoon author Beverley Brenna’s eighth book Falling for Henry (Red Deer Press, 2011) is a Young Adult time slip novel which relies on historical fiction to tell the story of fifteen-yearold Kate Allen who escapes the trials of her own teen existence in central London by traveling back to the court of Henry VII at Greenwich Palace. Once there, she masquerades as Katherine of Aragon, the young woman who will become the first wife of the young and charismatic prince once he is crowned King Henry VIII. At first seeing her place in Tudor times as an answer to her 21st century troubles, Kate’s changing heart provides a strong rhythm for this close look at relationships. More information can be found at www.beverleybrenna.com
One of the sub-themes of the novel involves wolves of 16th century England who, close to extermination, have found a way to thwart extinction. This related environmental theme offers the life force Kate has been missing, and as she discovers ways to put her different pasts behind her, she also finds ways to come to terms with the present, including the panic attacks that have been increasing in duration since her father’s untimely death. Will the young wolf pup she befriends in Tudor Times make it back to reunite with its mother in modern day England? Will Kate ever find someone to replace a lost soul mate? Only time will tell in this fast-paced adventure, rich with British history and modern-day coming-of-age sensitivity. For ages 11 and up.
Wretched Beast by Shelley A. Leedahl BuschekBooks The latest poetry collection by longtime SWG member Shelley A. Leedahl is a visceral and imagistic sojourn documenting a poet’s walk through prairie woodlands and forests (“moose tracks on the moose tracks”), down urban Canadian streets and foreign country lanes, and across significant life transitions. The poems bridge signpost personalities, destinations, intense phases of self-imposed solitude, and sometimes raw experiences , leaving a never-before map in their emotional wake. Ripe with birds and garter snakes, with awe for the unlikely (“skates slung over shoulders in the old way”), with whimsy, praise, and with poems unafraid to ring in the minor key, Leedahl meticulously delivers her passionate art of walking, of listening inward and out, and of rising when it is no small thing. Leedahl is currently based in Sechelt, BC. “I love these new poems and find the writing irresistibly energetic and imaginative. It’s a beautiful, bountiful piece of work.” - Barry Dempster
DECEMBER 2011 - JANUARY 2012
FREELANCE
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