oxford reads

Gin, Turpentine, Pennyroyal, Rue by Christine Higdon follows four sisters in 1920s Vancouver whose lives collide around a life-altering, deeply controversial event. This novel opens the door to powerful conversations about women’s autonomy, family, class, and the choices that shape our lives—then and now.
For fans of The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

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Horsefly by Mireille Gagné set in 1942, entomologist Thomas develops biological weapons on a remote island. Sixty years later, Theodore is jolted from his aimless life when a mysterious horsefly bite leads him to kidnap his dementia-stricken grandfather — as a deadly swarm of horseflies begins exacting nature's long-awaited revenge.
For fans of Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeer

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How to Survive a Bear Attack by Claire Cameron weaves together a real-life tragedy and the author’s own experiences to explore grief, fear, and our relationship with the wild. This memoir it invites discussion on trauma, parenthood, nature, and how we make sense of the unthinkable.
For fans of Wild by Cheryl Strayed

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In the Upper Country by Kai Thomas follows a young Black woman navigating family secrets, systemic racism, and survival in rural Canada, blending suspense with social insight. This novel sparks conversation on race, justice, identity, and the unseen histories that shape our communities today.
For fans of Brother by David Chariandy

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Vanished Beyond the Map by Adam Shoalts follows a solo journey into one of the last unmapped regions of Northern Canada, blending adventure with history and reflection. This non-fiction adventure memoir sparks conversation about exploration, Indigenous histories, our connection to the land, and the limits of what we truly know about our own country.
For fans of Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

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Life in Two Worlds: A Coach's Journey from the Reserve to the NHL and Back by Ted Nolan

An inspiring memoir about perseverance, identity, and the power of staying true to oneself. Born and raised in the Garden River First Nation, Nolan overcame adversity to reach the highest levels of professional hockey, winning the NHL’s Coach of the Year award. But his journey was never just about the game—it was about navigating two worlds, facing discrimination, and ultimately returning to his roots to uplift Indigenous youth. Candid and deeply personal, this book is a must-read for hockey fans and anyone moved by stories of resilience and leadership.

About the Author

TED NOLAN grew up on the Garden River First Nation Reserve and played three seasons in the NHL for the Detroit Red Wings and the Pittsburgh Penguins. He served as an assistant coach with the Hartford Whal­ers and as head coach for the Buffalo Sabres from 1995 to 1997 and from 2013 to 2015; he was also head coach for the New York Islanders from 2006 to 2008. Ted has coached internationally, taking Team Latvia to the Sochi Olympic Winter Games in 2014.

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