The Grasshopper

by Joseph Lothian

Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Paul C. Stalder · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good book that could have been great with a more serious editing. The structure of the book is wonderful; an elderly man reflecting on his life from within his care home. But this reflection leads into tense pitfalls that shake the reader out of the narrative. The narrative, however, soars. Spanning the tumultuous middle period of the 20th century, you follow one of the sweetest characters in Canadian literature from his humble mining roots in small town Alberta, to his success, in life and family, on Vancouver Island. Lothian paints Western Canada deftly, and with obvious affection, most clearly for the Crowsnest Pass. He conjures images if Calgary, Victoria, Vancouver, and Port Alberni as well, but the heart of the story is in the mines surrounding Coleman, Alberta. A must read for Albertans, and an terrific addition to Southern Alberta literature.

[Adrienne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read. This book is really special.

[Tom Y · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book, particularly if you grew up in a small town in the 60's. Great writer!

[Anne Gafiuk · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not want the story to end. The main character, Kola, was so convincing, I cared about what happened to him. Set in The Crowsnest Pass, Calgary, and Port Alberni/Alberni, British Columbia, and being familiar with all those locations really brought the story to life for me. Having a father who was a coal miner in Belgium and then at the Atlas Mine in Alberta, made this story more poignant. The author, Joseph Lothian, captured the accents of the people of the day from so many cultural backgrounds. An excellent read.

[Jasmine || Chatty.Chapters · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favourite books of all time. I first read this book in high school and it really stuck with me. The story of Kola's life is one filled with humility, hardship, sacrifice, and bravery. The book is written so well, that it captures the readers interest from the first page to the last. I will always have a place in my heart for this story as it is truly inspirational and creates such great emotion.