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The Birthing Tree
Not yet published
Expected 1 Sep 26From the internationally bestselling author of The Berry Pickers: a powerful, intensely moving novel of family and legacy, following one woman as she confronts buried truths and the fragile future she alone must protect.
As I stood under it, looking up into the branches, listening as the wind rustled the leaves, I could hear my Kiju’s voice: “This tree holds our stories.”
Born under the shadow of a tree sacred to generations of Indigenous women, Aliet has been brought up outside a small Nova Scotia town by her fierce, loving grandmother, Kiju. Her father remains a mystery no one will name, while her mother died under that very tree, gently held by its cradle of roots as Aliet came into the world.
But the world beyond their community is changing, and although Kiju has a wealth of wisdom to share, local women are increasingly reluctant to follow traditional birthing rituals. At the local hospital, white doctors are sceptical of Indigenous practices, and Aliet and Kiju are distraught to witness as prejudice turns to condemnation.
Decades later, Aliet is living a quiet life in the city while she grapples with a personal tragedy that has shaped her adulthood. She works as a nurse, administering modern medicine while still holding her grandmother’s teachings and stories dear, tucked beside memories of the tree that once welcomed new life. But when Kiju passes away suddenly, grief-stricken Aliet understands that she must return to the it is only these roots that can help her reconnect with her heritage, and discover long-buried secrets about herself.
Sweeping and intimate, spanning decades, The Birthing Tree follows one woman’s journey to protect her land, her traditions, and the memory of the women who came before her, as she decides which parts of her inheritance she will carry into the future.
As I stood under it, looking up into the branches, listening as the wind rustled the leaves, I could hear my Kiju’s voice: “This tree holds our stories.”
Born under the shadow of a tree sacred to generations of Indigenous women, Aliet has been brought up outside a small Nova Scotia town by her fierce, loving grandmother, Kiju. Her father remains a mystery no one will name, while her mother died under that very tree, gently held by its cradle of roots as Aliet came into the world.
But the world beyond their community is changing, and although Kiju has a wealth of wisdom to share, local women are increasingly reluctant to follow traditional birthing rituals. At the local hospital, white doctors are sceptical of Indigenous practices, and Aliet and Kiju are distraught to witness as prejudice turns to condemnation.
Decades later, Aliet is living a quiet life in the city while she grapples with a personal tragedy that has shaped her adulthood. She works as a nurse, administering modern medicine while still holding her grandmother’s teachings and stories dear, tucked beside memories of the tree that once welcomed new life. But when Kiju passes away suddenly, grief-stricken Aliet understands that she must return to the it is only these roots that can help her reconnect with her heritage, and discover long-buried secrets about herself.
Sweeping and intimate, spanning decades, The Birthing Tree follows one woman’s journey to protect her land, her traditions, and the memory of the women who came before her, as she decides which parts of her inheritance she will carry into the future.
Audible Audio
Expected publication September 1, 2026
About the author
Amanda Peters
3 books2,502 followersAmanda Peters is a writer of Mi’kmaw and settler ancestry. Her work has appeared in the Antigonish Review, Grain Magazine, The Alaska Quarterly Review, the Dalhousie Review, and filling station magazine. She is the winner of the 2021 Indigenous Voices Award (IVA) for unpublished prose and a participant in the 2021 Writers Trust Rising Stars program. Amanda has a certificate in creative writing from the University of Toronto and she is a graduate of the Master of Fine Arts program at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe New Mexico. Amanda is an Associate Professor in the Department of English and Theatre at Acadia University. She lives and writes in the Annapolis valley Nova Scotia with her fur babies Holly and Pook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was so excited to receive an arc of Amanda Peters’ new book because I had enjoyed The Berry Pickers.
The focus is on holding onto the threads that connect us to our past and Peters reminds readers of the risk of losing a connection to our heritage; the ripple effects run through generations. She encourages us to live boldly AND keep our traditions.
Aliet Paul was raised in Nova Scotia by her grandmother and taught the Mi’kmaq medicinal wisdom. When her grandmother dies, Aliet returns to her hometown and is devastated when she discovers the extent of restoration needed. Aliet sets aside her journey toward modern medicine and rebuilds Kiju’s home and focuses on restoring the Mi’kmaq traditions under the birthing tree. Trauma may have pulled her on a different trajectory, but her love of her heritage pulled her home and gave her the strength to reconcile a broken heritage.
I appreciated reminders about:
🌳Choosing love over hate
🌳Sharing knowledge
🌳The danger in lies of omission
🌳Living with grief
🌳Belonging and purpose
As much as I enjoyed The Berry Pickers, I feel that this one will spend more time in the spotlight! It’s worthy of the silver screen and will resonate with a wider audience. The examination of what happens when we stop serving our purpose kept me spellbound.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
The focus is on holding onto the threads that connect us to our past and Peters reminds readers of the risk of losing a connection to our heritage; the ripple effects run through generations. She encourages us to live boldly AND keep our traditions.
Aliet Paul was raised in Nova Scotia by her grandmother and taught the Mi’kmaq medicinal wisdom. When her grandmother dies, Aliet returns to her hometown and is devastated when she discovers the extent of restoration needed. Aliet sets aside her journey toward modern medicine and rebuilds Kiju’s home and focuses on restoring the Mi’kmaq traditions under the birthing tree. Trauma may have pulled her on a different trajectory, but her love of her heritage pulled her home and gave her the strength to reconcile a broken heritage.
I appreciated reminders about:
🌳Choosing love over hate
🌳Sharing knowledge
🌳The danger in lies of omission
🌳Living with grief
🌳Belonging and purpose
As much as I enjoyed The Berry Pickers, I feel that this one will spend more time in the spotlight! It’s worthy of the silver screen and will resonate with a wider audience. The examination of what happens when we stop serving our purpose kept me spellbound.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Want to Read
June 17, 2026I was so excited to see this ARC on NetGalley. I loved The Berry Pickers and would absolutely love to be granted an ARC for The Birthing Tree. Amanda Peters writes beautifully, and from the heart. I've put in a request to the Toronto Public Library to order this author's second book. Can't wait to read it!
Want to Read
July 26, 2026✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ: 𝘱𝘳𝘦-𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘶𝘱𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦 :･ﾟ✧:･ﾟ✧
ARC received ✨ Won a giveaway!
Thank you HarperCollins Canada for the arc copy!
Full thoughts coming soon 💫
ARC received ✨ Won a giveaway!
Thank you HarperCollins Canada for the arc copy!
Full thoughts coming soon 💫
Want to Read
March 23, 2026I love when an author's catalog has cohesive covers <3
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May 4, 2026
I really loved The Berry Pickers so I was thrilled to receive an advanced copy of Amanda Peters new novel.
Aliet Paul was raised by her grandmother, Kiju, a Canadian native Mi'kmaq woman who was the town's midwife. Tradition dictated that the women she helped would give birth at the birthing tree, a majestic tree that they believed held the stories of all those who birthed at the tree. As time progresses, the old ways give way to more traditional medicine, and Kiju is forbidden from midwifery; the birthing tree becomes just another tree in a dense forest. When Kiju dies, Aliet returns home to a crumbling house and secrets that were left by Kiju.
This book was so beautifully written. Amanda Peters does such a wonderful job of telling the story and developing the characters in such a way that you feel fortunate to have known them. It wasn't a long novel - just at 300 pages - but each page was intentionally written to add important elements to the story. There were so many nuggets of wisdom from Kuji that I loved.
"We need to hold on to the threads that connect us to our past. Without knowing our past, we won't know who we are."
"Violence, whether with words or hands, is always a bad idea. But boy, did that feel good."
"It's a greedy thing, grief. You have to sit with it, let it do what it does, and then rise up and keep going."
The book was told in dual timelines - Aliet's childhood and teen years, and the present day. Sometimes this works, sometimes it doesn't. This one worked very well because the historical story really informed the present day. And to be honest, both stories could have stood on their own; both had just the right amount of suspense to keep me interested. The book took me through a wide range of emotions - nostalgia for my grandmother and simpler times, grief at lost family members, excitement for new babies. It was so very well done.
This book has taken a well-deserved place in my list of top 2026 reads. 5 ⭐s!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Catapult, Counterpoint Press, and Soft Skull Press for an advanced copy of this novel. It's scheduled to be published on September 1, 2026.
Aliet Paul was raised by her grandmother, Kiju, a Canadian native Mi'kmaq woman who was the town's midwife. Tradition dictated that the women she helped would give birth at the birthing tree, a majestic tree that they believed held the stories of all those who birthed at the tree. As time progresses, the old ways give way to more traditional medicine, and Kiju is forbidden from midwifery; the birthing tree becomes just another tree in a dense forest. When Kiju dies, Aliet returns home to a crumbling house and secrets that were left by Kiju.
This book was so beautifully written. Amanda Peters does such a wonderful job of telling the story and developing the characters in such a way that you feel fortunate to have known them. It wasn't a long novel - just at 300 pages - but each page was intentionally written to add important elements to the story. There were so many nuggets of wisdom from Kuji that I loved.
"We need to hold on to the threads that connect us to our past. Without knowing our past, we won't know who we are."
"Violence, whether with words or hands, is always a bad idea. But boy, did that feel good."
"It's a greedy thing, grief. You have to sit with it, let it do what it does, and then rise up and keep going."
The book was told in dual timelines - Aliet's childhood and teen years, and the present day. Sometimes this works, sometimes it doesn't. This one worked very well because the historical story really informed the present day. And to be honest, both stories could have stood on their own; both had just the right amount of suspense to keep me interested. The book took me through a wide range of emotions - nostalgia for my grandmother and simpler times, grief at lost family members, excitement for new babies. It was so very well done.
This book has taken a well-deserved place in my list of top 2026 reads. 5 ⭐s!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Catapult, Counterpoint Press, and Soft Skull Press for an advanced copy of this novel. It's scheduled to be published on September 1, 2026.
July 6, 2026
It's hard to imagine reading a better fiction in 2026!! The Birthing Tree is steeped in family, grief, and tradition. I'm a sucker for a dual timeline, which Peters does so well.
It's devastating to read about how Indigenous practices and wisdom were systematically erased, but also so necessary.
I think anyone could read this book and would find something to love about it!!
Best book of 2026??
It's devastating to read about how Indigenous practices and wisdom were systematically erased, but also so necessary.
I think anyone could read this book and would find something to love about it!!
Best book of 2026??
July 20, 2026
This book was well written and held my attention to the very last pages!!!
Review of advance copy
4.5 ⭐️
“Spoilers” are simply quotes shared below. 🤗
Received an early release of this book at Novel Bay during Indie Book Store Day! 🤍 Thank you for hand selecting this for me!
Page 20: Grief is hard to look at straight on, especially when it’s so new and unfocused. It feels almost contagious. Looking into the eyes of the grieving, only serves to remind you of your own grief, those moments of sadness stored in the past. They threatened to burst out when you make eye contact with the bereft.
Page 46: When I see wood painted over with a colour, or even plain white, I cringe. The beautiful grains of wood, the twists and turns of age lines, stories of long winters and wet springs written in the grain— that's what I love. My grandmother never painted the wood in our little house. She always left it as nature intended.
Page 55: "When you hear a bird sing at night, it means that there is a skite' kmuj about, a ghost wanting to talk to you. The birds can see them, so best be keeping your ears open. Might be a bad ghost."
Page 89: She thinks she is unlovable. I wish she could leave the past in the past and see what I see, the love she has yet to experience. She may not believe it, but her joy is written in my rings.
Page 112: "But those medicines, they steal your memory. How can you tell your own child their birth story it you cant remember it your-self? How will they know where they came from, who they came from?" Kiju's voice was desperate, her face drawn. "And you sleep through the most beautiful..." She stammered. "And the lights, and the noise, so harsh on the ears of a new born. And they steal the cord, the birth sac."
"Superstition is what they told my girl when I asked to keep them. She tried to explain that it needs to be buried to remind children of their roots. But they made her feel silly, like she was a child. so she let them take it." She looked sad. Kiju reached over and held her hand. There was no admonishment, no advice, only comfort.
Page 120: *the entire page*
Page 274: There is no word for goodbye in our language because there is no such thing. You can't give a name to something that doesn't exist. For us, we are always walking among the ancestors. We will see each other again someday is always true.”
Page 276: "If there is anyone who can understand your heart right now, it's me. But this is your grief, it's heavy, and I'll be here to help you carry it.”
“Spoilers” are simply quotes shared below. 🤗
Received an early release of this book at Novel Bay during Indie Book Store Day! 🤍 Thank you for hand selecting this for me!
Page 20: Grief is hard to look at straight on, especially when it’s so new and unfocused. It feels almost contagious. Looking into the eyes of the grieving, only serves to remind you of your own grief, those moments of sadness stored in the past. They threatened to burst out when you make eye contact with the bereft.
Page 46: When I see wood painted over with a colour, or even plain white, I cringe. The beautiful grains of wood, the twists and turns of age lines, stories of long winters and wet springs written in the grain— that's what I love. My grandmother never painted the wood in our little house. She always left it as nature intended.
Page 55: "When you hear a bird sing at night, it means that there is a skite' kmuj about, a ghost wanting to talk to you. The birds can see them, so best be keeping your ears open. Might be a bad ghost."
Page 89: She thinks she is unlovable. I wish she could leave the past in the past and see what I see, the love she has yet to experience. She may not believe it, but her joy is written in my rings.
Page 112: "But those medicines, they steal your memory. How can you tell your own child their birth story it you cant remember it your-self? How will they know where they came from, who they came from?" Kiju's voice was desperate, her face drawn. "And you sleep through the most beautiful..." She stammered. "And the lights, and the noise, so harsh on the ears of a new born. And they steal the cord, the birth sac."
"Superstition is what they told my girl when I asked to keep them. She tried to explain that it needs to be buried to remind children of their roots. But they made her feel silly, like she was a child. so she let them take it." She looked sad. Kiju reached over and held her hand. There was no admonishment, no advice, only comfort.
Page 120: *the entire page*
Page 274: There is no word for goodbye in our language because there is no such thing. You can't give a name to something that doesn't exist. For us, we are always walking among the ancestors. We will see each other again someday is always true.”
Page 276: "If there is anyone who can understand your heart right now, it's me. But this is your grief, it's heavy, and I'll be here to help you carry it.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2026
Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Amanda Peters has done it again with another incredible book. We actually chose The Berry Pickers for our library book club and everyone absolutely loved it, so I was beyond excited to get my hands on this one. I am 100% sure this is going to be another book club favorite for us!
The characters are wonderful, and I completely fell in love with Kiju. The setting is so vivid that it feels like a place I've actually visited, and there are these sweet, subtle nods to The Berry Pickers that make the whole story feel warm and familiar. It’s truly heartbreaking to read about how Indigenous tribes were treated and forced to conform, but Peters does a beautiful job capturing the richness of the culture. I loved how she used a dual timeline to show how things change over time, especially regarding the women and their sacred birthing traditions.
In the story, Mi’kmaw women traditionally give birth under a special birthing tree in Nova Scotia. Aliet, was born there—just like her mother, who sadly passed away during childbirth. Aliet is raised by her grandmother, Kiju, who teaches her the traditional ways of a Mi’kmaw midwife. Growing up without a mom is tough enough, but it's even harder because Aliet doesn't know who her father is. When authorities start cracking down on Indigenous midwifery, they have to fight hard to keep their traditions alive. Meanwhile, the changing seasons bring the annual apple pickers, including Aliet's favorite childhood friend, John. As Aliet grows up and navigates love and loss, she ends up stepping off the traditional path to become a nurse, though she always keeps Kiju’s memories and teachings close to her heart. After Kiju passes away, Aliet finally returns home to find some unexpected surprises and a deep need to keep the old ways alive.
Amanda Peters has done it again with another incredible book. We actually chose The Berry Pickers for our library book club and everyone absolutely loved it, so I was beyond excited to get my hands on this one. I am 100% sure this is going to be another book club favorite for us!
The characters are wonderful, and I completely fell in love with Kiju. The setting is so vivid that it feels like a place I've actually visited, and there are these sweet, subtle nods to The Berry Pickers that make the whole story feel warm and familiar. It’s truly heartbreaking to read about how Indigenous tribes were treated and forced to conform, but Peters does a beautiful job capturing the richness of the culture. I loved how she used a dual timeline to show how things change over time, especially regarding the women and their sacred birthing traditions.
In the story, Mi’kmaw women traditionally give birth under a special birthing tree in Nova Scotia. Aliet, was born there—just like her mother, who sadly passed away during childbirth. Aliet is raised by her grandmother, Kiju, who teaches her the traditional ways of a Mi’kmaw midwife. Growing up without a mom is tough enough, but it's even harder because Aliet doesn't know who her father is. When authorities start cracking down on Indigenous midwifery, they have to fight hard to keep their traditions alive. Meanwhile, the changing seasons bring the annual apple pickers, including Aliet's favorite childhood friend, John. As Aliet grows up and navigates love and loss, she ends up stepping off the traditional path to become a nurse, though she always keeps Kiju’s memories and teachings close to her heart. After Kiju passes away, Aliet finally returns home to find some unexpected surprises and a deep need to keep the old ways alive.
August 2, 2026
A book about not knowing who you really are but relentless in finding your way. Alient was raised by her Mi’kmaw grandmother Kiju in a small community in Nova Scotia. Kiju was equivalent to a midwife and delivered babies for years following the traditional Mi’kmaw ways. Her own daughter Maggie died giving birth to Alient . This event as well as Alient not knowing who her father was made for a complicated life for Alient as she only comes to terms with it ,later in her life. The book just seemed to be a recount of Alient childhood which is similar to many with young love , summer outings , university and adulthood. Alient had struggles but her bringing up was basically a happy one with a loving grandmother, fine neighbours and friends . A decent read.
June 4, 2026
women are so strong and powerful and beautiful and resilient!!!!!!! you’ll always find ur way back home!!!
it’s devastating to think about the amount of indigenous practices and wisdom that has been lost over canada’s history. the callbacks to the berry pickers had me tearing UP
it’s devastating to think about the amount of indigenous practices and wisdom that has been lost over canada’s history. the callbacks to the berry pickers had me tearing UP
May 22, 2026
WOMEN❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Thank you to NetGalley, Edelweiss and the publisher for an advance copy of this book. This book was quite good. It is by Amanda Peters, of The Berry Pickers fame. I do not think it is quite as good as Berry Pickers but this is two in a row, showing that she is just an awesome author.
Some notes I made:
• In Chapter 1, she does a good job of creating situations which highlights the little things that were done to dehumanize Indigenous. The lack of ability to own property is an example. Then we see the movement of Indians (her words, not mine). When the government wanted to move them, they just said its time. And then the lies happen. Her Grandma decides to stay. I believe that when the government wanted to move them and indicated that the services would be better, they were genuine about that. But, it never panned out and all movement was part of an assimilation strategy.
• Despite being treated that way, Indigenous people still joined the war. Many, many examples.
• I did find in chapter 2 and 3, there were characters being introduced without context. This was not ideal. Left me wondering what I missed. This got better and all was explained but, I was a bit put off in these two chapters.
• Chapter 4: Shes seeing the change. Seeing that she does not know the people in the community anymore. This is deeper than her absence from being there. She comments how her people do not want to stay in one place, people want to move to cities and people are not being born under the Birthing Tree anymore.
Interesting Note: After reading a couple of books with Metis themes, and looking at the word half-breed, it was off-putting to read about one Indigenous person calling another Indigenous person a half-breed. We know it happened but there should have been more support for each other. Later we realize that Kenneth, who uses the term was not a very good person.
• In the next few chapters, the book really becomes about the debate between Midwives and hospitals for delivering babies. Culminates in a town meeting, where the local priest tells Kiju that he means no disrespect to her, that the town holds her in high esteem. But, they need to move forward to protect the flock. This is important……they talk about the very short amount of time in history that babies were being born in hospitals. However, we also know that mothers dying in childbirth, safety of the babies all improved in that time as well. And of course, we now have a model in childbirth that has options of midwives and doctors but both are highly regulated.
This entire debate is interesting for Aliet, given that her own mother died in childbirth. I do not think I am the one to debate the differences between childbirth options, but I do see the talking points that could be discussed in book clubs.
• Then, there is a good conversation starter (for book clubs). She wants to protect the tree, make it a historical site for her people The town meeting is met with difficulty. Is the difficulty lack of interest, lack of knowledge, real lack of care for her culture? Her feelings about achieving a very minor victory in this meeting are totally understandable. Should she be disappointed with the low level of support or happy that she wasn’t completely dismissed.
The response of people in the town was disappointing. Throwing trash, beer cans inside the fence and then the bible verse being posted is what conversation difficult these days. I can have debates and discuss pros and cons of anything. But these are the types of actions that shuts down an open conversation.
• Another plot line is Kiju and the change in her. What do you do when you feel like what you are meant to do is not possible. The increase of people not wanting her services, the laws changing, her getting older and Aliet moving on with her life. This was heartbreaking to read.
• Another good question for debate: Why didn’t Aliet opening tell people at school that she is Indigenous. Is it because it doesn’t and shouldn’t matter? Or did she not want to highlight that part of her life?
She admits that people at school said bad things about her people and she never said anything to anyone about it.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I think it has a lot of attributes that we like to see in a book. There is a struggle, there are lots of talking points, the writing is beautiful and it is relevant. This book talks about traditions, we can debate the need for modern western medicine, but we cannot debate the power of traditions.
Some notes I made:
• In Chapter 1, she does a good job of creating situations which highlights the little things that were done to dehumanize Indigenous. The lack of ability to own property is an example. Then we see the movement of Indians (her words, not mine). When the government wanted to move them, they just said its time. And then the lies happen. Her Grandma decides to stay. I believe that when the government wanted to move them and indicated that the services would be better, they were genuine about that. But, it never panned out and all movement was part of an assimilation strategy.
• Despite being treated that way, Indigenous people still joined the war. Many, many examples.
• I did find in chapter 2 and 3, there were characters being introduced without context. This was not ideal. Left me wondering what I missed. This got better and all was explained but, I was a bit put off in these two chapters.
• Chapter 4: Shes seeing the change. Seeing that she does not know the people in the community anymore. This is deeper than her absence from being there. She comments how her people do not want to stay in one place, people want to move to cities and people are not being born under the Birthing Tree anymore.
Interesting Note: After reading a couple of books with Metis themes, and looking at the word half-breed, it was off-putting to read about one Indigenous person calling another Indigenous person a half-breed. We know it happened but there should have been more support for each other. Later we realize that Kenneth, who uses the term was not a very good person.
• In the next few chapters, the book really becomes about the debate between Midwives and hospitals for delivering babies. Culminates in a town meeting, where the local priest tells Kiju that he means no disrespect to her, that the town holds her in high esteem. But, they need to move forward to protect the flock. This is important……they talk about the very short amount of time in history that babies were being born in hospitals. However, we also know that mothers dying in childbirth, safety of the babies all improved in that time as well. And of course, we now have a model in childbirth that has options of midwives and doctors but both are highly regulated.
This entire debate is interesting for Aliet, given that her own mother died in childbirth. I do not think I am the one to debate the differences between childbirth options, but I do see the talking points that could be discussed in book clubs.
• Then, there is a good conversation starter (for book clubs). She wants to protect the tree, make it a historical site for her people The town meeting is met with difficulty. Is the difficulty lack of interest, lack of knowledge, real lack of care for her culture? Her feelings about achieving a very minor victory in this meeting are totally understandable. Should she be disappointed with the low level of support or happy that she wasn’t completely dismissed.
The response of people in the town was disappointing. Throwing trash, beer cans inside the fence and then the bible verse being posted is what conversation difficult these days. I can have debates and discuss pros and cons of anything. But these are the types of actions that shuts down an open conversation.
• Another plot line is Kiju and the change in her. What do you do when you feel like what you are meant to do is not possible. The increase of people not wanting her services, the laws changing, her getting older and Aliet moving on with her life. This was heartbreaking to read.
• Another good question for debate: Why didn’t Aliet opening tell people at school that she is Indigenous. Is it because it doesn’t and shouldn’t matter? Or did she not want to highlight that part of her life?
She admits that people at school said bad things about her people and she never said anything to anyone about it.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I think it has a lot of attributes that we like to see in a book. There is a struggle, there are lots of talking points, the writing is beautiful and it is relevant. This book talks about traditions, we can debate the need for modern western medicine, but we cannot debate the power of traditions.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 stars
I absolutely loved The Berry Pickers so I am delighted to have received this arc from the publishers.
The ancient oak tree holds their stories, their traditions, and knowing your past means you know who you are.
Aliet is born under the sacred birthing tree where many indigenous Mi’kmaw women also give birth. Her mother dies giving life to Aliet and she is raised by her grandmother Kiju, as to who her father is, that remains a mystery. Kiju has a wealth of medical knowledge passed on by previous generations and is an unofficial midwife in the community but times are changing and modern medicine and attitudes alter everything.
Decades later, nurse Aliet returns to the home she is born in when Kiju dies and she is determined to reconnect to her Mi’kmaw heritage and in the process, learn about herself. The story is told in dual timelines which flows naturally and fluidly from one to the other.
This is a wonderful story which is beautifully told and the bond between Aliet and her grandmother tugs at the heartstrings. Parts of the storytelling are very moving and emotional and the pain of the injustice of dismissal of traditions is palpable and when everything these women hold dear is in jeopardy. This is counterbalanced by the deep relationships that denote who you are and give characters especially Aliet a sense of identity. The novel incorporates issues the Mi’kmaw face, the blinkered thinking, the prejudice, the disrespect given to tradition and suspicion and at these times, there is considerable tension. On the other hand, there are deep and lasting friendships that are formed over many years which gives Aliet the stability and healing that she needs.
I absolutely love the tradition of the birthing tree and am fascinated by indigenous traditions so this book is definitely in my wheelhouse. There are (mostly) wonderful characters that grace the pages, taking me on an emotional journey of love, friendship, grief, pain, resilience and identity. It’s a powerful book in an atmospheric setting and although I don’t love it quite as much as the authors previous novel, it’s still one I have no hesitation in recommending.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Penguin General for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
I absolutely loved The Berry Pickers so I am delighted to have received this arc from the publishers.
The ancient oak tree holds their stories, their traditions, and knowing your past means you know who you are.
Aliet is born under the sacred birthing tree where many indigenous Mi’kmaw women also give birth. Her mother dies giving life to Aliet and she is raised by her grandmother Kiju, as to who her father is, that remains a mystery. Kiju has a wealth of medical knowledge passed on by previous generations and is an unofficial midwife in the community but times are changing and modern medicine and attitudes alter everything.
Decades later, nurse Aliet returns to the home she is born in when Kiju dies and she is determined to reconnect to her Mi’kmaw heritage and in the process, learn about herself. The story is told in dual timelines which flows naturally and fluidly from one to the other.
This is a wonderful story which is beautifully told and the bond between Aliet and her grandmother tugs at the heartstrings. Parts of the storytelling are very moving and emotional and the pain of the injustice of dismissal of traditions is palpable and when everything these women hold dear is in jeopardy. This is counterbalanced by the deep relationships that denote who you are and give characters especially Aliet a sense of identity. The novel incorporates issues the Mi’kmaw face, the blinkered thinking, the prejudice, the disrespect given to tradition and suspicion and at these times, there is considerable tension. On the other hand, there are deep and lasting friendships that are formed over many years which gives Aliet the stability and healing that she needs.
I absolutely love the tradition of the birthing tree and am fascinated by indigenous traditions so this book is definitely in my wheelhouse. There are (mostly) wonderful characters that grace the pages, taking me on an emotional journey of love, friendship, grief, pain, resilience and identity. It’s a powerful book in an atmospheric setting and although I don’t love it quite as much as the authors previous novel, it’s still one I have no hesitation in recommending.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Penguin General for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
🌳 🤰 🌳 ARC REVIEW 🌳 🤰 🌳
PUB DATE: Aug 31st
My Rating : ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 4 Trauma Ancestry Stars
“Once a story is told, it cannot be untold. I feel her bitterness, reaching past my roots and burying itself in the dark earth. But I know this is temporary and she will soon embrace love again.”
“She may think that tragedy has imprinted on her. But joy also follows her. She will learn to embrace the joy with the sorrow.”
This is my first Amanda Peters and will not be my last , as she writes these woman with such tenderness .
This is a dual timeline story that takes on a heritage journey of midwifery in the indigenous community in a town in Nova Scotia .
With this story comes grief , heartbreak, resilience and a bit of coming of age and touches on some racism.
The story of The Birthing Tree will make you think of a time before there were hospitals and doctors and the ways of bringing a child into this world .
I really liked this story alot however it did feel some of passages were repetitive so I felt like I was reading the same chapters sometimes , but other than that it was a great story and would be a fantastic Bookclub pick as there’s LOTS to discuss !
PS the image I chose for this photo is a location I hiked to that is said Chief Tzouhalem was banished by his own people and lived in this cave with numerous wives ! It definitely felt haunting and I felt I was being watched the whole time!
Fun fact - I grew up never knowing my heritage background and it wasn’t until about 10 years ago my grandparents were First Nations 🫶🏼 it’s been challenging to learn more about it .
Thank you NetGalley ,Harper Collin’s Canada & Amanda Peters for this informative ARC !!
Thanks for reading , Respectfully Another Read by Angie 🖤🧡
PUB DATE: Aug 31st
My Rating : ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 4 Trauma Ancestry Stars
“Once a story is told, it cannot be untold. I feel her bitterness, reaching past my roots and burying itself in the dark earth. But I know this is temporary and she will soon embrace love again.”
“She may think that tragedy has imprinted on her. But joy also follows her. She will learn to embrace the joy with the sorrow.”
This is my first Amanda Peters and will not be my last , as she writes these woman with such tenderness .
This is a dual timeline story that takes on a heritage journey of midwifery in the indigenous community in a town in Nova Scotia .
With this story comes grief , heartbreak, resilience and a bit of coming of age and touches on some racism.
The story of The Birthing Tree will make you think of a time before there were hospitals and doctors and the ways of bringing a child into this world .
I really liked this story alot however it did feel some of passages were repetitive so I felt like I was reading the same chapters sometimes , but other than that it was a great story and would be a fantastic Bookclub pick as there’s LOTS to discuss !
PS the image I chose for this photo is a location I hiked to that is said Chief Tzouhalem was banished by his own people and lived in this cave with numerous wives ! It definitely felt haunting and I felt I was being watched the whole time!
Fun fact - I grew up never knowing my heritage background and it wasn’t until about 10 years ago my grandparents were First Nations 🫶🏼 it’s been challenging to learn more about it .
Thank you NetGalley ,Harper Collin’s Canada & Amanda Peters for this informative ARC !!
Thanks for reading , Respectfully Another Read by Angie 🖤🧡
June 15, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Canada | Harper Perennial for the ARC.
The Birthing Tree by Amanda Peters was absolutely stunning. This is my first book by this author, and I already want to read The Berry Pickers—because if it’s even close to this emotionally powerful, I know it will be a five-star read for me.
This book really stayed with me in a way I didn’t expect. I felt so many emotions while reading it—sadness, anger, tenderness. It’s one of those stories that just sits heavy in your chest in the best way.
The novel spans decades and follows Aliet and her Kiju, two Indigenous Mi’kmaq women whose lives are deeply connected through tradition, family, and the birthing tree. The birthing tree itself felt almost like a character—something alive, holding generations of stories.
Kiju is a respected Indigenous midwife who helps women give birth beneath the tree, continuing a practice rooted in tradition and community. But as time passes, outside systems start to push those teachings aside. Modern medicine begins to replace traditional birthing practices, and slowly Kiju is no longer allowed to continue the work that defines her. That loss felt really painful to read—it’s not just a profession being taken away, it’s a whole way of life and identity being erased.
When Kiju passes, Aliet returns home and is forced to confront everything that was lost, along with long-buried truths about her family and land. I found myself just sitting with those moments after reading, thinking about how much silence and grief can be passed down without anyone fully realizing it.
What stood out most to me was how Amanda Peters writes with such softness, even when the subject matter is heavy. It never felt forced or overly dramatic—just deeply human. The themes of cultural loss, resilience, love, and the impact of decisions across generations really hit me harder than I expected.
This is a quiet book, but not an easy one to forget.
The Birthing Tree by Amanda Peters was absolutely stunning. This is my first book by this author, and I already want to read The Berry Pickers—because if it’s even close to this emotionally powerful, I know it will be a five-star read for me.
This book really stayed with me in a way I didn’t expect. I felt so many emotions while reading it—sadness, anger, tenderness. It’s one of those stories that just sits heavy in your chest in the best way.
The novel spans decades and follows Aliet and her Kiju, two Indigenous Mi’kmaq women whose lives are deeply connected through tradition, family, and the birthing tree. The birthing tree itself felt almost like a character—something alive, holding generations of stories.
Kiju is a respected Indigenous midwife who helps women give birth beneath the tree, continuing a practice rooted in tradition and community. But as time passes, outside systems start to push those teachings aside. Modern medicine begins to replace traditional birthing practices, and slowly Kiju is no longer allowed to continue the work that defines her. That loss felt really painful to read—it’s not just a profession being taken away, it’s a whole way of life and identity being erased.
When Kiju passes, Aliet returns home and is forced to confront everything that was lost, along with long-buried truths about her family and land. I found myself just sitting with those moments after reading, thinking about how much silence and grief can be passed down without anyone fully realizing it.
What stood out most to me was how Amanda Peters writes with such softness, even when the subject matter is heavy. It never felt forced or overly dramatic—just deeply human. The themes of cultural loss, resilience, love, and the impact of decisions across generations really hit me harder than I expected.
This is a quiet book, but not an easy one to forget.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"This tree holds our stories...Without knowing our past, we won't know who we are."
Absolutely one of my best reads so far of 2026. If you enjoyed Peter's debut novel "The Berry Pickers," you may like this one even more. And can I add...What a beautiful cover!
Aliet is born under the Birthing Tree in her small village in Nova Scotia, attended to by Kiju, her grandmother, who is the keeper of the Mi'kmaq tradition of women birthing out in nature under this ancient and majestic tree. In the process of her birth, Aliet's mother, Maggie, dies, and Kiju raises Aliet.
Aliet is not privy to the identity of her father, and given her white skin, wonders if she is part white. But she is raised with the total love and devotion of Kiju and other friends who are as close as family. Aliet is complex -- she is secure in the love of her people, but grieves for the mother she never knew and has never even seen a picture of, and also grieves the absence of her unknown father, always trying to imagine him in the men that she sees, especially those with green eyes like hers.
Aliet comes of age in a time when the white people in the area disparage the process of women giving birth under a tree, and go to great lengths to put a stop to it. She becomes a nurse and leaves Kiju to go work and live in the city, but her roots call to her from time to time, and especially so when Kiju passes on. It is then that Aliet returns to the village to live in Kiju's home, take up Kiju's herbal practice, and live a simpler life.
This book provides a glimpse into Mi'k,maq life, and also a front row seat to the lifelong grief process. "The Birthing Tree" is beautifully written and really hits you in the heart. Highly, highly recommend that you read it when it releases in September 2026.
Thanks to #Netgalley for the ARC.
Absolutely one of my best reads so far of 2026. If you enjoyed Peter's debut novel "The Berry Pickers," you may like this one even more. And can I add...What a beautiful cover!
Aliet is born under the Birthing Tree in her small village in Nova Scotia, attended to by Kiju, her grandmother, who is the keeper of the Mi'kmaq tradition of women birthing out in nature under this ancient and majestic tree. In the process of her birth, Aliet's mother, Maggie, dies, and Kiju raises Aliet.
Aliet is not privy to the identity of her father, and given her white skin, wonders if she is part white. But she is raised with the total love and devotion of Kiju and other friends who are as close as family. Aliet is complex -- she is secure in the love of her people, but grieves for the mother she never knew and has never even seen a picture of, and also grieves the absence of her unknown father, always trying to imagine him in the men that she sees, especially those with green eyes like hers.
Aliet comes of age in a time when the white people in the area disparage the process of women giving birth under a tree, and go to great lengths to put a stop to it. She becomes a nurse and leaves Kiju to go work and live in the city, but her roots call to her from time to time, and especially so when Kiju passes on. It is then that Aliet returns to the village to live in Kiju's home, take up Kiju's herbal practice, and live a simpler life.
This book provides a glimpse into Mi'k,maq life, and also a front row seat to the lifelong grief process. "The Birthing Tree" is beautifully written and really hits you in the heart. Highly, highly recommend that you read it when it releases in September 2026.
Thanks to #Netgalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Birthing Tree is a novel I was first drawn to by its cover, but I quickly realized it was written by the same author as The Berry Pickers, which made me even more excited to read it. I really appreciated the subtle cameos from The Berry Pickers—they were a nice touch and felt rewarding as a returning reader.
This story follows Aliet, a woman reflecting on her childhood and the history that continues to shape her adult life. Her grandmother, Kiju, was known in their community for helping women give birth beneath the sacred birthing tree, a practice rooted in tradition and trust. As the story moves into the 1990s, that tradition is increasingly challenged as people begin to believe hospitals are safer, creating tension between ancestral knowledge and modern systems.
The novel moves between past and present, showing how Aliet’s relationships—both the ones she nurtures and the ones she lets fade—shape who she becomes. When she returns home as an adult, Aliet is forced to confront regret and the realization that she didn’t fully listen to or appreciate the lessons her grandmother tried to pass on.
While I genuinely enjoyed this book, I rated it three stars. Some sections felt a bit slow or overly heavy-handed in trying to convey deeper meaning. That said, I’ve always been deeply interested in and respectful of Native American culture, and I appreciated the way this story centered tradition, community, and generational wisdom.
Overall, The Birthing Tree is a reflective and meaningful novel that will resonate with readers who enjoy quiet, character-driven stories rooted in culture and memory.
This story follows Aliet, a woman reflecting on her childhood and the history that continues to shape her adult life. Her grandmother, Kiju, was known in their community for helping women give birth beneath the sacred birthing tree, a practice rooted in tradition and trust. As the story moves into the 1990s, that tradition is increasingly challenged as people begin to believe hospitals are safer, creating tension between ancestral knowledge and modern systems.
The novel moves between past and present, showing how Aliet’s relationships—both the ones she nurtures and the ones she lets fade—shape who she becomes. When she returns home as an adult, Aliet is forced to confront regret and the realization that she didn’t fully listen to or appreciate the lessons her grandmother tried to pass on.
While I genuinely enjoyed this book, I rated it three stars. Some sections felt a bit slow or overly heavy-handed in trying to convey deeper meaning. That said, I’ve always been deeply interested in and respectful of Native American culture, and I appreciated the way this story centered tradition, community, and generational wisdom.
Overall, The Birthing Tree is a reflective and meaningful novel that will resonate with readers who enjoy quiet, character-driven stories rooted in culture and memory.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When her beloved grandmother dies, Aliet returns home to reconnect with her Mi'kmaq heritage—and discovers a new found family that helps heal her wounded heart.
Told through a dual timeline, the novel alternates between Aliet's childhood in Nova Scotia and her present-day life. In the past, her grandmother, Kiju, is a respected midwife who practices traditional medicine. Despite the heartbreaking loss of her own daughter, Maggie, during Aliet's birth, Kiju finds purpose and joy in helping bring new life into the world at the community's birthing tree. Aliet grows up surrounded by the love of her grandmother and the close-knit Mi'kmaq community, eagerly anticipating the return of the seasonal apple pickers each year—especially her friend John.
In the present, Aliet has left home behind and works as a nurse in the city. Although she has built a career, she feels disconnected and unfulfilled, burdened by unresolved grief, family secrets, and questions about her own identity. She has never known the identity of her father, and because her mother died giving birth to her, she doesn't even have a photograph of her. Those unanswered questions continue to shape her life, despite the love she received from Kiju and her community.
At its heart, the novel explores identity, grief, family, and the challenge of preserving cultural traditions in a changing world. I enjoyed this book every bit as much as The Berry Pickers. Fans of heartfelt, character-driven fiction with rich Indigenous storytelling will find much to appreciate here.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Told through a dual timeline, the novel alternates between Aliet's childhood in Nova Scotia and her present-day life. In the past, her grandmother, Kiju, is a respected midwife who practices traditional medicine. Despite the heartbreaking loss of her own daughter, Maggie, during Aliet's birth, Kiju finds purpose and joy in helping bring new life into the world at the community's birthing tree. Aliet grows up surrounded by the love of her grandmother and the close-knit Mi'kmaq community, eagerly anticipating the return of the seasonal apple pickers each year—especially her friend John.
In the present, Aliet has left home behind and works as a nurse in the city. Although she has built a career, she feels disconnected and unfulfilled, burdened by unresolved grief, family secrets, and questions about her own identity. She has never known the identity of her father, and because her mother died giving birth to her, she doesn't even have a photograph of her. Those unanswered questions continue to shape her life, despite the love she received from Kiju and her community.
At its heart, the novel explores identity, grief, family, and the challenge of preserving cultural traditions in a changing world. I enjoyed this book every bit as much as The Berry Pickers. Fans of heartfelt, character-driven fiction with rich Indigenous storytelling will find much to appreciate here.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When I was seventeen, my world turned upside down, and I had abandoned this house and the legacy she’d left me, naively thinking that the past would remain in the past. but no one tells you that it doesn’t work that way. from The Birthing Tree by Amanda Peters
The Birthing Tree was a quiet read for me, like twilight’s gloaming rather than unsettling darkness. Aliet’s life has its sorrows, and it has its joys, while looming over her are haunting questions.
She can’t remember her mother. She has no idea who her father was, except she inherited his Caucasian skin instead of her mother’s Mi’kmaq.
Raised by her grandmother in a cabin out of time, with no indoor plumbing or television, but surrounded by love, Aliet found joy and friendship. But one schoolmate targeted her for his anger and hate, culminating in an act that drove Aliet to leave for a new life.
After her grandmother’s passing, Aliet inherits the cabin and decides to leave her city life as a nurse and stay. She takes up her grandmother’s cause to protect the old ways, to protect the ancient tree where Mi’kmaq women gave birth since time immemorial.
In backflashes to her past we learn about Aliet’s first love and of her grandmother’s fight to protect the Mi’kmaq traditions. After her return, what Aliet learns makes her rethink everything she thought she knew. In the end, she embraces the future and leaves the past behind.
The Birthing Tree is a beautiful symbol of a culture under attack and the binding links between women across time.
Thanks to Catapult for a free book through NetGalley.
The Birthing Tree was a quiet read for me, like twilight’s gloaming rather than unsettling darkness. Aliet’s life has its sorrows, and it has its joys, while looming over her are haunting questions.
She can’t remember her mother. She has no idea who her father was, except she inherited his Caucasian skin instead of her mother’s Mi’kmaq.
Raised by her grandmother in a cabin out of time, with no indoor plumbing or television, but surrounded by love, Aliet found joy and friendship. But one schoolmate targeted her for his anger and hate, culminating in an act that drove Aliet to leave for a new life.
After her grandmother’s passing, Aliet inherits the cabin and decides to leave her city life as a nurse and stay. She takes up her grandmother’s cause to protect the old ways, to protect the ancient tree where Mi’kmaq women gave birth since time immemorial.
In backflashes to her past we learn about Aliet’s first love and of her grandmother’s fight to protect the Mi’kmaq traditions. After her return, what Aliet learns makes her rethink everything she thought she knew. In the end, she embraces the future and leaves the past behind.
The Birthing Tree is a beautiful symbol of a culture under attack and the binding links between women across time.
Thanks to Catapult for a free book through NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved this book! Thanks to NetGalley for the Advanced e-copy. I won’t repeat the story, just my thoughts and feelings about it. I loved the insight into the Mi'kmaq, indigenous people of Canada’s Atlantic provinces. The story of Aliet (and Kiju her grandmother) in the mid 1960s, early 1970s was a very interesting coming-of-age story for Aliet and her friend John.
Peters did a nice job of showing the social and emotional challenges the Mi’kmaq faced, especially in the store with the little boy — and Aliet’s decision in high school. (Being deliberately vague to avoid spoilers).
Some of the lines I highlighted:
“Indians were never listened to in matters considered important to the rest of society, and that was even more true for Indian women.”
Kiju says to Aliet: “Don’t let that light skin of yours keep you from being who you are. What you did is a lie of omission. Nothing good comes from denying who you are. Only hurt.” The novel wrestled with this, and the cessation of Mi’kmaq birthing traditions - under the birthing tree - in a clear and heartbreaking way.
I would have liked to see more of Aliet’s story between the early 1970s and 1996, when the rest of the story takes place. Maybe that’s for another novel?
some caveats:
- I didn’t read the Berry Pickers, so I don’t know if this is related.
- The Kindle formatting was off in the ARC, which ALMOST made me stop reading. The writing and the story drew me in and I couldn’t stop reading it.
Thanks again, NetGalley.
Peters did a nice job of showing the social and emotional challenges the Mi’kmaq faced, especially in the store with the little boy — and Aliet’s decision in high school. (Being deliberately vague to avoid spoilers).
Some of the lines I highlighted:
“Indians were never listened to in matters considered important to the rest of society, and that was even more true for Indian women.”
Kiju says to Aliet: “Don’t let that light skin of yours keep you from being who you are. What you did is a lie of omission. Nothing good comes from denying who you are. Only hurt.” The novel wrestled with this, and the cessation of Mi’kmaq birthing traditions - under the birthing tree - in a clear and heartbreaking way.
I would have liked to see more of Aliet’s story between the early 1970s and 1996, when the rest of the story takes place. Maybe that’s for another novel?
some caveats:
- I didn’t read the Berry Pickers, so I don’t know if this is related.
- The Kindle formatting was off in the ARC, which ALMOST made me stop reading. The writing and the story drew me in and I couldn’t stop reading it.
Thanks again, NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another absolutely incredible book by Amanda Peters. Her writing is beautiful and pulls the reader in with character development, culture and history, and her stories pull at the heart strings.
This book features Aliet, a young woman growing up in Canada in the '70s. And the dual timeline takes us through her upbringing and then in the '90s as a young woman finding her way. Aliet is of Mi’kmaq descent and is being raised by her grandmother. She grows up not knowing who her father is and her mother died during childbirth. Kiju is her grandmother and she has helped countless women bring new life into the world at the Birthing Tree and childbirth is steeped in the tradition of their people. But the traditions are at risk when the townspeople don't understand or appreciate the tradition.
After Kiju dies, Aliet returns home and is determined to keep the traditions alive, while adapting to her new life.
There is plenty of heartbreak - John her first love, information about her father, and yet Aliet finds her way when she is blessed with the gift of brining a new life into the world.
This was a pleasure to read and took me through a lot of emotions!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for access to this eARC.
This book features Aliet, a young woman growing up in Canada in the '70s. And the dual timeline takes us through her upbringing and then in the '90s as a young woman finding her way. Aliet is of Mi’kmaq descent and is being raised by her grandmother. She grows up not knowing who her father is and her mother died during childbirth. Kiju is her grandmother and she has helped countless women bring new life into the world at the Birthing Tree and childbirth is steeped in the tradition of their people. But the traditions are at risk when the townspeople don't understand or appreciate the tradition.
After Kiju dies, Aliet returns home and is determined to keep the traditions alive, while adapting to her new life.
There is plenty of heartbreak - John her first love, information about her father, and yet Aliet finds her way when she is blessed with the gift of brining a new life into the world.
This was a pleasure to read and took me through a lot of emotions!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for access to this eARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In the atmospheric setting of a village in
Nova Scotia, Aliet - whose mother died giving birth to her - is raised by her strict, loving grandmother, who is an experienced practitioner of traditional birthing rituals in the Native American community.
But although Aliet grows up steeped in that indigenous wisdom, she and her grandmother also witness the growing alienation and scorn poured upon such traditional, often misunderstood, methods.
After Aliet adapts to city life and spends years working as a practitioner of modern medicine, it is her grandmother's death that draws her back to the place where she came from in the realisation that her best life lies in understanding and accepting her roots.
This is a moving story that spans generations, examines the relationships that are fundamental to our lives and make us who we are, and incorporates important issues such as racism, cultural alienation, the mistreatment of indigenous people, and the difficulty of living a life that is rootless and removed from your origins.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Nova Scotia, Aliet - whose mother died giving birth to her - is raised by her strict, loving grandmother, who is an experienced practitioner of traditional birthing rituals in the Native American community.
But although Aliet grows up steeped in that indigenous wisdom, she and her grandmother also witness the growing alienation and scorn poured upon such traditional, often misunderstood, methods.
After Aliet adapts to city life and spends years working as a practitioner of modern medicine, it is her grandmother's death that draws her back to the place where she came from in the realisation that her best life lies in understanding and accepting her roots.
This is a moving story that spans generations, examines the relationships that are fundamental to our lives and make us who we are, and incorporates important issues such as racism, cultural alienation, the mistreatment of indigenous people, and the difficulty of living a life that is rootless and removed from your origins.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
July 11, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC! The Birthing Tree by Amanda Peters is a story about the loss of a culture. When Aliet was born beneath the birthing tree, her grandmother knew she was destined for great things. Though of a mixed race and orphaned, growing up with her grandmother she never went without. She learned about her culture and was immersed in the lessons of the last. That is until she starts to feel like the odd one out. She realizes that she’s different and try as she might, she just can’t find a way to fit in. She doesn’t really belong to the elders or to the colonists. All she knows is that the way they treat her family and loved ones is wrong but she is too fearful to speak out. Over time, she learns the true meaning of family and develops the courage to fight for what is right. She learns to trust the lessons her grandmother gave her and live her truth. A beautifully written story that highlights the difficulties faced by the Mi'kmaq peoples through the mid to late 1900s. Overall, a story I would highly recommend to Canadians seeking to learn more about the First Nation cultures and customs that were here long before our time.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Netgalley and HarperCollins Canada Audio for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
3.5* rounded up.
I enjoyed The Birthing Tree overall, though it didn't quite resonate with me in the way I'd hoped. I went into it expecting the same emotional impact I felt while reading The Berry Pickers a story that has stayed with me ever since.
While I appreciated the writing and the meaningful themes throughout, I never fully connected with the characters on an emotional level, which made it a little harder for me to become completely immersed in the story. Even so, it's a thoughtfully crafted read.
I'd still recommend it to readers who enjoy character driven literary fiction, as I think many will connect with it more deeply than I did.
~One more small critique, I found the voice of the narrator Julia Davis, did not "fit" the character, and made the story seem juvenile?
***Spoiler alert***
I did get chills at the mention of "the missing child" from The Berry Pickers and learning that the family now picks apples and camps in her orchard. That connection between the two stories was a memorable moment and one I really appreciated
3.5* rounded up.
I enjoyed The Birthing Tree overall, though it didn't quite resonate with me in the way I'd hoped. I went into it expecting the same emotional impact I felt while reading The Berry Pickers a story that has stayed with me ever since.
While I appreciated the writing and the meaningful themes throughout, I never fully connected with the characters on an emotional level, which made it a little harder for me to become completely immersed in the story. Even so, it's a thoughtfully crafted read.
I'd still recommend it to readers who enjoy character driven literary fiction, as I think many will connect with it more deeply than I did.
~One more small critique, I found the voice of the narrator Julia Davis, did not "fit" the character, and made the story seem juvenile?
***Spoiler alert***
I did get chills at the mention of "the missing child" from The Berry Pickers and learning that the family now picks apples and camps in her orchard. That connection between the two stories was a memorable moment and one I really appreciated
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Harper Perennial and NetGalley for the uncorrected proofs in exchange for an honest review.
This is another great historical fiction from Peters. I think what really helped the story move forward was how different the two sections are. Aliet’s youth is a slow push away from her family and a breaking of her hopes, while her adulthood is a rebuilding of that hope and a rediscovery of Kiju’s practices. It’s the difference between trauma/loss and recovery/remembrance.
Perhaps a very minor overall role to play in the story, but by far my favourite element of the book was the interstitials from the Birthing Tree herself. These acted as the glue between the sections at the beginning, and as the driver towards the end. More importantly, it solidified and validated all of the beliefs Kiju held about the Tree and the earth.
Now, with all this said, why don’t I rate it higher? The main reason for me is that, despite being a reasonably short book, it has a problem of dragging. The pace is very slow, even in places where a faster clip may have created more of a breathing narrative. Unfortunately, this really pulled me out of enjoying the book as much as I could have.
This is another great historical fiction from Peters. I think what really helped the story move forward was how different the two sections are. Aliet’s youth is a slow push away from her family and a breaking of her hopes, while her adulthood is a rebuilding of that hope and a rediscovery of Kiju’s practices. It’s the difference between trauma/loss and recovery/remembrance.
Perhaps a very minor overall role to play in the story, but by far my favourite element of the book was the interstitials from the Birthing Tree herself. These acted as the glue between the sections at the beginning, and as the driver towards the end. More importantly, it solidified and validated all of the beliefs Kiju held about the Tree and the earth.
Now, with all this said, why don’t I rate it higher? The main reason for me is that, despite being a reasonably short book, it has a problem of dragging. The pace is very slow, even in places where a faster clip may have created more of a breathing narrative. Unfortunately, this really pulled me out of enjoying the book as much as I could have.
August 3, 2026
I was given the opportunity to read and review an ARC of The Birthing Tree by Amanda Peters from Netgalley. This is the second book that I have read by Amanda Peters. I really enjoyed The Berry Pickers. I also had the opportunity to hear Amanda Peters speak about her novel The Berry Pickers. I highly recommend attending any author talk if you can!
As a teacher-librarian at a public school that has all reading levels --from emerging readers to university bound students--I am constantly looking for appropriate content that will interest my readers. I love that with this novel I can recommend a book that I enjoyed from a Canadian author.
Aliet is a character that I wanted to laugh and cry with. The connection with her grandmother, Kiju, and her Mi’kmaw heritage was engaging. I always enjoy reading about strong female characters and this novel did not disappoint. The story was woven between past and present and was easy to follow. As a reader, I wanted to know how things ended with each part.
I plan to purchase this for my library collection and recommend it to my patrons.
As a teacher-librarian at a public school that has all reading levels --from emerging readers to university bound students--I am constantly looking for appropriate content that will interest my readers. I love that with this novel I can recommend a book that I enjoyed from a Canadian author.
Aliet is a character that I wanted to laugh and cry with. The connection with her grandmother, Kiju, and her Mi’kmaw heritage was engaging. I always enjoy reading about strong female characters and this novel did not disappoint. The story was woven between past and present and was easy to follow. As a reader, I wanted to know how things ended with each part.
I plan to purchase this for my library collection and recommend it to my patrons.
August 4, 2026
4.25⭐️
Aliet was born under the shadow of the birthing tree, which took the life of her mother. Having no idea who her father is, she is raised by her grandmother Kiju with a life of ritual, old-world wisdom, and Mi’kmaw tradition. Years later, she returns after the death of her beloved Kitju to a changed community. Trained in modern medicine, she is pulled back into the old ways while trying to uncover secrets long buried.
I loved The Berry Pickers and was hoping for another warm-hearted yet devastating tale. Peters did not disappoint. It weaves the traditions and culture of the Mi’kmaw people alongside classic stories of teenage angst, relationships with family, and trying to find out who you are as a human. It never fails that I learn something new and need to take a moment to reflect on my own impact and prejudices toward Indigenous ways. Much like the traditional sweetgrass, Peters braids a compelling story with a moral and cultural lesson that we all need to play a role in remembering where we came from and those who lived on the land before us.
Aliet was born under the shadow of the birthing tree, which took the life of her mother. Having no idea who her father is, she is raised by her grandmother Kiju with a life of ritual, old-world wisdom, and Mi’kmaw tradition. Years later, she returns after the death of her beloved Kitju to a changed community. Trained in modern medicine, she is pulled back into the old ways while trying to uncover secrets long buried.
I loved The Berry Pickers and was hoping for another warm-hearted yet devastating tale. Peters did not disappoint. It weaves the traditions and culture of the Mi’kmaw people alongside classic stories of teenage angst, relationships with family, and trying to find out who you are as a human. It never fails that I learn something new and need to take a moment to reflect on my own impact and prejudices toward Indigenous ways. Much like the traditional sweetgrass, Peters braids a compelling story with a moral and cultural lesson that we all need to play a role in remembering where we came from and those who lived on the land before us.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you haven't read Amanda Peters yet, this is a great place to start. Following Aliet, a Mi'kmaw woman in Nova Scotia torn between her life as a nurse and the traditional teachings of her beloved grandmother Kiju, it's the kind of book that quietly gets under your skin.
The dual timelines work really well, past and present weave together to slowly unravel a family mystery, with just enough suspense to keep you turning pages without it ever feeling gimmicky. The characters are the real draw though. The bond between Aliet and her grandmother is beautifully written, and when loss hits, you feel it.
What stayed with me was how much I learned about Mi'kmaw heritage and traditions, particularly around Indigenous midwifery, without it ever feeling like a history lesson. Peters writes about the impact of racism and outside forces on cultural tradition in a way that's subtle but hits hard.
Emotional, absorbing, and quietly unforgettable. Loved it!
The dual timelines work really well, past and present weave together to slowly unravel a family mystery, with just enough suspense to keep you turning pages without it ever feeling gimmicky. The characters are the real draw though. The bond between Aliet and her grandmother is beautifully written, and when loss hits, you feel it.
What stayed with me was how much I learned about Mi'kmaw heritage and traditions, particularly around Indigenous midwifery, without it ever feeling like a history lesson. Peters writes about the impact of racism and outside forces on cultural tradition in a way that's subtle but hits hard.
Emotional, absorbing, and quietly unforgettable. Loved it!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is a stunningly crafted book of warmth and complexity. It is a quiet tale that brings you deeply into the world of indigenous medicine, family history, and maternal health, while also playing with the definition of family. What I loved most about this book was that I learned an enormous amount of information but at no point felt like I was being schooled or overtly educated. It was more that Amanda Peters managed to draw out my curiosity on small details, making the culture and history something I craved to learn. She excels at providing the reader with a feeling of discovery and a kind of collaboration with the narrator. I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher through the Good Group Reads review process. It has not yet released its final decisions. I will update my review when that decision is made.
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