Western University's top reads: From heartfelt tales to thought-provoking insights, Western authors deliver this winter

Western University's Literary Gems: With winter's chill in the air, there's no better time to snuggle up with a warm blanket, a steaming cup of cocoa, and a great book. Western News presents a collection of engaging reads by faculty and alums, covering topics from history, hockey, and politics to poetry, current events, and children's literature. Whether you're a history buff, a hockey enthusiast, or searching for meaningful stories for kids, these titles offer something for everyone.

Unpacking Political Language in Turbulent Times

At a Loss for Words: Conversation in an Age of Rage by Carol Off, BA'88, LLD'17

Award-winning journalist and former CBC As It Happens host Carol Off takes readers on an eye-opening journey through six politically charged words—freedom, democracy, truth, woke, choice, and taxes. In this instant #1 bestseller, Off dissects how these terms have been distorted by political forces on both the left and right, eroding meaningful dialogue.

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A "call to arms" for reclaiming shared understanding, this book is both deeply analytical and powerfully emotional. Philosophy professor Michael Milde calls Off a "gifted storyteller" whose work is “absolutely compelling.”

30,000 Miles of Canadian Hockey Tales

The Country and the Game: 30,000 Miles of Hockey Stories by Ronnie Shuker, MA'08

Hockey and Canada go hand in hand, and freelance writer Ronnie Shuker captures this bond with an adventurous twist. In his first book, Shuker recounts a cross-country journey exploring the heart of Canadian hockey culture.

From heli-hiking to the remote crash site of hockey legend Bill Barilko to skating in a frigid barn in Tuktoyaktuk, N.W.T., Shuker immerses readers in stories of resilience and passion. This book showcases how hockey unites Canadians, weaving together tales from Cree communities, Hutterite colonies, and small-town ice rinks across the nation.

Celebrating Indigenous Connections to the Land

Because This Land is Who We Are: Indigenous Practices of Environmental Repossession by Chantelle Richmond

Professor Chantelle Richmond, Biigtigong Anishinabe and Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Health and the Environment, offers an inspiring exploration of Indigenous connections to the land. Co-written with Brad Coombes and Renee Pualani Louis, this book celebrates traditional practices in environmental repossession from Indigenous communities in Canada, Hawai'i, and New Zealand.

Kyle Whyte of the University of Michigan describes it as "a true gift, rich in philosophy, story, and practical wisdom." Richmond's work exemplifies how Indigenous ways of knowing honour the land and reinforce identity, rights, and belonging.

A Deep Dive into Ukraine's Rich History

Ukraine, not 'the' Ukraine by Marta Dyczok

Professor Marta Dyczok's Ukraine, not 'the' Ukraine, offers a nuanced view of the nation's history, from its medieval roots to modern-day heroism. Through personal narratives like that of her former student, Maxim Sviezhentsev, who left academia to fight in Ukraine's war, Dyczok reveals the resilience of the Ukrainian people.

With a focus on Ukraine's role as a key historical actor, Dyczok's work is available as a free download until Dec. 13. It's a must-read for anyone looking to understand the complexities of this embattled yet vibrant country.

A Local Journey Through Time

Here Before Us: A Neighbourhood History of Oxford Park by Lorraine Tinsley

Historian Lorraine Tinsley brings her sharp focus home with Here Before Us, a detailed history of Oxford Park in London, Ontario. Against the backdrop of the Thames River's ancient geological formations, Tinsley chronicles the area's transformation from Indigenous lands to Euro-Canadian settlements.

From the stories of Black American freedom seekers like John Holmes to tales of resilience after the 1973 gas explosions, Tinsley captures the spirit of the community. Her work is a fascinating local history that resonates far beyond its borders.

Wartime Shadows in Blackout London

Under Cover of Darkness: Murders in Blackout London by Amy Bell

Historian Amy Bell uncovers a chilling side of wartime London in her latest book, Under Cover of Darkness. During the Second World War's blackouts, the cover of darkness became fertile ground for violent crimes.

Bell examines stories of forgotten victims—women, children, and the elderly—shining a light on their lives and deaths amidst the chaos of war. Exploring domestic violence, robberies, and public brawls, her book reveals how wartime conditions amplified vulnerabilities not just to the enemy but to each other.

An Uplifting Tale of Non-Traditional Families

Dotted Lines by Stephanie Cesca, BA'00

Former journalist Stephanie Cesca's debut novel, Dotted Lines, is a heartfelt story that brings the perspective of non-traditional families to life. Celebrating the role of a stepparent as the unsung hero, Cesca's work offers a fresh, empathetic narrative.

Reflecting on her formative years at Western, Cesca incorporates her personal experiences into this touching and relatable novel. Her work has garnered acclaim, including shortlist recognition for the Penguin Random House Canada Student Award for Fiction.

Poetic Reflections on Diaspora and Identity

Oh Witness Dey! by Shani Mootoo, BFA'80, DLitt'21

Renowned author and artist Shani Mootoo's poetry collection, Oh Witness Dey!, traverses questions of ancestry, memory, and identity. Born in Ireland and raised in Trinidad, Mootoo channels her diasporic experiences into vibrant verses that transcend colonial narratives.

These poems are a lyrical celebration of rebellion, joy, and solidarity, inviting readers to witness the legacy of displacement and the bonds of shared history.

Representation in Middle-Grade Fiction

Maya Plays the Part by Calyssa Erb, BA'15

Calyssa Erb's debut novel Maya Plays the Part shines as a heartwarming tale of an autistic girl navigating the world of theatre and self-acceptance. Written by an autistic author, the book has been praised for its authentic representation and is nominated for the IBBY Outstanding Books for Young People with Disabilities award.

Erb's empathetic storytelling makes this a standout pick for middle-grade readers, blending humour, heart, and hope.

Empowering Children Through Safety and Consent

With This Note by Annalise Hayes, EdD'18

Educator Annalise Hayes offers a powerful tool for teaching children about personal safety and consent in With This Note. This award-winning book simplifies complex topics for young readers, empowering them to trust their instincts and understand body autonomy.

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With praise from psychologists and educators, Hayes provides a thoughtful resource for parents and teachers alike, blending care and practical wisdom.

Whether you're interested in rediscovering shared values, exploring local and global histories, or diving into heartfelt fiction, this winter reading list offers an inspiring selection to warm both the mind and heart. Keep reading at Education Post News for more global updates.