Joan Crate Bücher

Exploring themes of domesticity and dislocation, this collection of poems delves into the transformation of what is considered home into something alien, while simultaneously reshaping the alien into a sense of belonging. Through simple, tangible actions like setting a table or driving, the poems reflect on the interconnectedness of personal experiences and broader conflicts, seamlessly transitioning between voices, landscapes, and time periods. Crate's work poignantly illustrates the delicate balance between exile and return, revealing the complexities of identity and place.

The hauntingly told tale of a young mother who uses the stories told to her by her Native father to illuminate her alienation and struggle to find meaning in life as the wife of a man with whom she seems to have little in common.

Set against the backdrop of the Canadian prairies, this coming-of-age novel follows the journey of a young Blackfoot girl as she navigates the challenges of growing up within the residential school system. The story explores themes of identity, resilience, and cultural heritage, highlighting the impact of systemic oppression on Indigenous communities. Through lyrical prose, the narrative delves into the girl's struggles and triumphs, offering a poignant reflection on the search for belonging and the strength found in one's roots.