Plot Synopsis – This follows five generations of Metis women, the land that surrounds them, bison, and two loveable dogs. This extraordinary novel, told by a chorus of vividly realized, wise, confused, struggling characters attempting to make sense of this life and the next, heralds the arrival of a stunning new voice in literary fiction.

Publication Date – Nov. 7, 2023

Content Notes – This story contains reference to the residential school system and the generational trauma associated with the schools. There is heavy mention of alcohol abuse and withdraw. There is also domestic violence, suicide ideation, suicide attempts, child abandonment, child abuse, and racism.

Rating – ⭐⭐⭐.5 out of 5

Review – This book is HEAVY, but beautiful. It’s written in prose so most “chapters” are only a page or two. Most of the chapters switch between different POVs. I think if you like On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong, you will like this book.

The Grandmother Begins the Story is really about generational trauma and the lasting effects of colonialism on this family. We follow the threads of the different women through five generations and there is a concurrent/b plot story from the viewpoint of bison. I thought this was such an interesting story and really conveyed the joy and also soul crushing experiences these women went through.

Ultimately, I love the perseverance of this family and the women. There were themes of overcoming addiction and living for your family. The only reason this wasn’t a 5-star read for me was I felt that there could have been more connection between the spirit world, our world, and the bison. I felt like the thread was there, but it could have used a little more oomph.

Regardless, I loved this book. It was thought provoking and beautiful.

Thank you Algonquin Publishing for the ARC, all opinions are my own.