Falling from Grace

by Ann Eriksson

Sometimes it’s the little things in life that make all the difference, like chromosomes, sperm, bugs or an endangered seabird that nests in old-growth forests. But, what’s big or what’s little depends entirely on your perspective. Faye Pearson is a three-and-a-half-foot tall female scientist doing entomological research in the tallest trees on Vancouver Island, who is pit with a ragtag group of protesters against the might of a multinational logging corporation.

The story of Faye and her struggle to function in a world not made for people her size is poignant and heart-warming. Whether she is lusting after her climbing partner, standing up to a conflicted logging boss, dressing down an insulting interviewee, nurturing a wayward child in the midst of an environmental standoff, or being carted off under the arm of a Mountie, you’ll be unable to resist this amazing woman. There is a fall in Eriksson’s novel, but also incredible moments of grace. Falling from Grace is a novel of no small achievement.

258 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 22, 2010

Reviews

[J. E. Hewitt · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this story of a bio-scientist working in the old-growth rain forest in BC. The plot held lots of twists I didn't expect and the voice of the main character was engaging ... I won't tell you more because she's somewhat unusual and it's fun to find out for yourself. Lots of science stuff that interested me too.

[Frances · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well crafted story set amid the anti-logging protests again old growth logging, a science researcher and her assistant's research get waylaid when protesters move into their camp. There are many characters and layers to this story. I recommend it.

[Melissa Joulwan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A love letter to trees, found family, and life’s tender beauty.