Subject
Canada -- Emigration and immigration -- Fiction Books
Best books
Harry Pick
Next year : $b a semi-historical account of the exploits and exploitations of the far-famed Barr Colonists, who, led by an unscrupulous Church of England parson, adventured deep into the wilderness of Canada's great North-West in the early days of the twentieth century
"Next Year" by Harry Pick is a semi-historical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative chronicles the exploits and challenges faced by the Barr Colonists, a group of British immigrants led by an ambitious church parson, as they journey into the Canadian wilderness. Through their eyes, the reader experiences the trials of starting anew in a foreign land and the often comic yet tragic circumstances that accompany their ambitious endeavor. The opening portion of the narrative introduces the Barr Colonists aboard the S.S. Lake Manitoba, detailing their cramped and chaotic conditions during the voyage from England to Canada. Amidst the discomfort, the characters emerge, defining their identities and aspirations—in particular, Bertrand Paul Tressider, a young man with dreams of ranching, and Sam Potts, a witty and irreverent fellow. As they voyage across the Atlantic, discussions turn to the prospects of land ownership in the treacherous but promising Saskatchewan valley. With humor and a touch of cynicism, this beginning sets the stage for the colonists' encounters with both the land and each other, highlighting their hopes and the hard realities they will face.
Harold Bindloss
A Prairie Courtship
"A Prairie Courtship" by Harold Bindloss is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Alison Leigh, a young woman who embarks on a journey to the Canadian prairie to seek work after facing hardships in her life back in England. Struggling to adjust to her new environment, she encounters a variety of characters and experiences that challenge her views on life and relationships. At the start of the novel, Alison travels by train to Winnipeg, facing the grim realities of emigrant travel. Already weary from her journey and uncertain about her future, she reflects on the difficulties that led her to leave her previous life behind. Upon arriving in Winnipeg, she discovers her job opportunity has vanished, leaving her feeling isolated and vulnerable. However, when she meets Maverick Thorne, a kind and resourceful man, Alison's journey takes a new turn. Their interactions reveal themes of resilience, companionship, and the promise of new beginnings amidst the challenges of life on the prairie. Thorne’s character emerges as a source of support, and his unconventional views hint at the deeper exploration of societal norms that the novel will likely delve into as Alison navigates her new world.
Constance Holme
The things which belong—
"The Things Which Belong—" by Constance Holme is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores the complex emotions and relationships of its characters, primarily focusing on Mattie and Kirkby, who have reached a pivotal moment in their lives as they decide to leave the only home they have known for a new beginning in Canada. This decision ignites a reflection on their past, their individual desires, and the concept of freedom that has been elusive for Mattie. At the start of the story, we witness the aftermath of a significant decision: Kirkby has written a letter resigning from his long-held position as head gardener. The narrative captures the emotional turmoil surrounding this choice, as the couple grapples with their expectations and fears about the future. Mattie's initial silence during this moment of change hints at her deep, complex feelings, while Kirkby observes her, struggling with his own uncertainties. As they begin to prepare for the move, their discussions reveal their intertwined histories and the shifts in their relationship, setting the stage for a journey of discovery and reflection on what it truly means to belong.
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