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Tilly and the Crazy Eights
When Tilly receives an invitation to help drive eight elders on their ultimate bucket list road trip to Albuquerque for the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow, she impulsively says yes. Before she knows it, Tilly has said goodbye to her family and is behind the wheel--ready to embark on an adventure that will transform her in ways she could not predict. Just as it will for each and every one of the elders on the trip, who soon dub themselves "the Crazy Eights."
Tilly and the Crazy Eights each choose a stop to make along the way--somewhere they've always wanted to go or something they've wanted to experience. Their plan is to travel to Las Vegas, Sedona, and the Redwood Forests, with each destination the inspiration for secrets and stories to be revealed. The trip proves to be powerful medicine as they laugh, heal, argue, and reveal hopes and dreams along the way.
With friendships forged, love found, hearts broken and mended, Tilly and the Crazy Eights feel ready for anything by the time their bus rolls to a stop in New Mexico. But are they?
Tilly and the Crazy Eights each choose a stop to make along the way--somewhere they've always wanted to go or something they've wanted to experience. Their plan is to travel to Las Vegas, Sedona, and the Redwood Forests, with each destination the inspiration for secrets and stories to be revealed. The trip proves to be powerful medicine as they laugh, heal, argue, and reveal hopes and dreams along the way.
With friendships forged, love found, hearts broken and mended, Tilly and the Crazy Eights feel ready for anything by the time their bus rolls to a stop in New Mexico. But are they?
230 pages, Paperback
First published October 9, 2018
44 people are currently reading
1016 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
October 30, 2018
So I thought this was going to be a light, perhaps sentimental read, and in some ways it is. It’s sweet, sad, mostly predictable, but so much more and proved to be such a meaningful read. Although all of the characters were a delight, each one carries a personal burden. A group of Native American elders, the ladies of the Stitch ‘n’ Bitch group decide to take a road trip when Sarah announces to the group that the one thing she has always wanted to do is “dance at the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow “ in Albuquerque, NM. One by one they tell each other the thing they really want to do from going to Las Vegas, seeing the Grand Canyon, hugging a tree in the Redwood Forest, spreading a sister’s ashes in the red rock at Sedona. This quickly becomes a bucket list adventure for all of them, including two of the elder men and Tilly, who is much younger and is asked to help with the drive. They embark on a journey from their home on the reservation in Vancouver to all of these places. It’s more than a road trip. It’s a journey of self discovery, healing, forgiveness, incorporating some rites and traditions that I found fascinating. Two of them rekindle a marriage, one has cancer, two are carrying the past abuse from their childhood at the Residential school they were forced to go to. One is facing a marriage in trouble.
I don’t know if the phrase ensemble novel is one that is used, but I kept thinking as I was reading this how all of the characters are integral to what the story means, in addition to Tilly of the title. It’s a story that belongs to all of them. This is funny in parts, sad in others and reflects things that are pertinent to them as Native Americans, but so many things that are pertinent to all of us. There’s a little magical realism - the ancestors, and some on the “other side” make appearances, but every bit of it felt right for the story. Predictable, but lovely in the connections these characters have with each other, how they help each other face their personal burdens. I didn’t realize until after I read this that Monique Gray Smith had written an award winning book called Tilly, about the same character as in this one. On my list !
I received an advanced copy of this book from Second Story Press through Edelweiss.
December 5, 2018
Hmm. I'm slightly at a loss to describe this book accurately. It was... fine. I was excited to read it and wanted to absolutely love it, but it did not quite reach that level for me.
Tilly and some Elders take a road trip. There were so many characters that none of them truly felt fully developed, which I think was my main concern with the book. I sometimes found myself mixing up characters -- partly because I usually devour books, but this one moved a bit slowly, so I read it over a few days instead of in one night or over maybe two days. Residential schools were brought up often and are an important and dark subject, but I feel the surface was barely touched about those as well. I enjoyed reading more about some of the traditions and will say I am now inspired to go to (or at least learn more about) the annual pow wow in Albuquerque.
The book has some light humor, love, friendships, a trip to Vegas, a bit of redemption... All in all, I'm glad I read it, but I was just hoping for a bit more.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Tilly and some Elders take a road trip. There were so many characters that none of them truly felt fully developed, which I think was my main concern with the book. I sometimes found myself mixing up characters -- partly because I usually devour books, but this one moved a bit slowly, so I read it over a few days instead of in one night or over maybe two days. Residential schools were brought up often and are an important and dark subject, but I feel the surface was barely touched about those as well. I enjoyed reading more about some of the traditions and will say I am now inspired to go to (or at least learn more about) the annual pow wow in Albuquerque.
The book has some light humor, love, friendships, a trip to Vegas, a bit of redemption... All in all, I'm glad I read it, but I was just hoping for a bit more.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2018
Tilly and a group of indigenous elders head out on a road trip to Albuquerque for the world's biggest Powwow.
The trip originated in the women's stitch and bitch group with Sarah, one of the ailing members talking about her dream of dancing at the Powwow. Then two older men join them. They raised enough money for the trip by having film nights and baked goods sales. Tilly, the youngest, left her husband and children to look after them and be their driver. Each one of them has a specific bucket list item they want to cross off while on their journey.
Shortly after they are on the road they name themselves Tilly and the crazy Eights. We get to know a lot about each of the characters as they travel from Vancouver, Canada, to New Mexico. I ended up caring for all of them although I wish Mable had had more of a presence.
It's a coming of age novel for the older crowd. Sure it's loaded with laughter and tenderness, but there is also loss, heartache and romance. A lot of learning and growing takes place. Each of them has issues to grapple with. Not the least are their histories of residential schools. I ended up weepy at numerous points in this book.
Ultimately it's a heartwarming feel good read about a group of people who are survivors. What more can you want?
The trip originated in the women's stitch and bitch group with Sarah, one of the ailing members talking about her dream of dancing at the Powwow. Then two older men join them. They raised enough money for the trip by having film nights and baked goods sales. Tilly, the youngest, left her husband and children to look after them and be their driver. Each one of them has a specific bucket list item they want to cross off while on their journey.
Shortly after they are on the road they name themselves Tilly and the crazy Eights. We get to know a lot about each of the characters as they travel from Vancouver, Canada, to New Mexico. I ended up caring for all of them although I wish Mable had had more of a presence.
It's a coming of age novel for the older crowd. Sure it's loaded with laughter and tenderness, but there is also loss, heartache and romance. A lot of learning and growing takes place. Each of them has issues to grapple with. Not the least are their histories of residential schools. I ended up weepy at numerous points in this book.
Ultimately it's a heartwarming feel good read about a group of people who are survivors. What more can you want?
December 13, 2020
Reads like a corny, predictable YA novel. There is no depth to it, not to any of the characters nor to any of the many issues thrown into the plot.
Also, the audiobook is awful. The narrator uses the same voice for every elder character, that of a 90 year old. I couldn't wait for this one to be over.
Also, the audiobook is awful. The narrator uses the same voice for every elder character, that of a 90 year old. I couldn't wait for this one to be over.
January 14, 2021
This was just the book that I needed to read, an easy read yet sharing the perspectives, knowledge and experiences of elders as they take a bucket list trip of a lifetime.
It was fun and light yet shared important perspectives on the elder’s experiences with residential schools, racism and generational trauma. It showed the unique character of each individual along with hope and resilience.
My only wish was that it had a better title... if it was not for the Canada Reads long-list, I might never have known about or picked up this novel. I hope it makes the short list!
It was fun and light yet shared important perspectives on the elder’s experiences with residential schools, racism and generational trauma. It showed the unique character of each individual along with hope and resilience.
My only wish was that it had a better title... if it was not for the Canada Reads long-list, I might never have known about or picked up this novel. I hope it makes the short list!
February 15, 2021
I really enjoyed Tilly and the Crazy Eights by Monique Gray Smith and should acknowledge that the timing of my read was definitely contributing factor. Recently, I have been reading some darker, heavier books and wanted a change. To counteract, I chose Tilly and the Crazy Eights to lift my spirits. Mission accomplished. It was a quick, easy and uplifting book.
It is the story of Tilly, a young married woman with twins, who is asked to share the driving on a road trip. It is a long journey from Alberta to British Columbia, to Las Vegas then Sedona and Albuquerque for the National Pow Wow, then back to the Redwood Forest to hug the tall Sequoia trees and then back home with a number of other stops in between.
The book is filled with colourful characters starting with the
eight female elders who belong to a Bitch and Stitch group that meets quickly to chat and work on their projects. One came up with the idea of finishing her ‘bucket list’, what she’d like to do before she dies. Each elder has their own special wish and they decide to decide to ‘go for it.´ They ask two male elders to accompany them - a spouse and an ex. It makes for one crowded bus with lots of variety in personalities and bucket list wishes and a fun time and learning experience for everyone involved.
I really enjoyed the characters. Gray Smith brought each to life, each was different and important to the story. The elders and their guests really complemented each other.
I say the reading was easy because it flowed so well but it wasn’t due to lack of content. It was a very informative book, jam-packed full of Indigenous traditions, heritage and his/herstory. I recommend the book for those people unfamiliar with Indigenous issues. You will learn much, both good and bad happenings in a fun and non-threatening way.
The impact that residential schools on these elders as children is mentioned (a topic not often discussed amongst them) in a loving and caring way. There is also a fair amount of information about healing ceremonies and other Indigenous practices of giving thanks to the Creator throughout the day. The role of ancestors and the elders (keepers of the wisdom) is discussed as are many symbols of Indigenous life; as well as, the spirit world that plays a large role in everyone’s lives. Those new to Indigenous topics will learn a lot and those familiar with many issues will likely learn something new. I could not help but be fully absorbed and appreciative of the Indigenous way of life, particularly their sense of community and support for one another, when reading Tilly and the Crazy Eights. The warmth and love the elders showed each other and everyone they met was palpable. Also, the joie de vivre of Lucy and her antics, as well as Poncho’s also had me chuckling throughout. Despite the hardships mentioned in the story, I would definitely consider this a “feel good” book.
None of the topics is discussed in depth but I think that’s a good thing. Gray Smith’s writing ensures she does not lose readers new to Indigenous ways by getting into too much detail, but she rather piques their interest using anecdotes and items of interest. Readers will definitely not zone out when reading. Rather Gray Smith carries them along with her upbeat and constantly moving prose.
She writes in chapters of 1 to 4 pages. There might be too many chapters for some readers, who do not prefer this format, if they are familiar with and prefer novels where a chapter is much longer and covers a lot more material. For this book and audience however, I thought short chapters was a good choice. Gray Smith introduces just under 15 characters in a very short time frame. I think the short chapters that focus on only 1 or 2 characters at a time, help readers unfamiliar with multiple narrators and so many characters avoid confusion. I also think the writing style more easily suits all ages; therefore, making Tilly and the Crazy Eights more accessible and a great book for families, classes and groups, both young and old, to read aloud and share together.
I would usually rate similar books 3 stars due to simplicity but thought about it and decided that its very simplicity is what makes the book, both its characters and story, so special. And also based on my pure enjoyment I’ve decided to round up a full point to 4 stars.
It is the story of Tilly, a young married woman with twins, who is asked to share the driving on a road trip. It is a long journey from Alberta to British Columbia, to Las Vegas then Sedona and Albuquerque for the National Pow Wow, then back to the Redwood Forest to hug the tall Sequoia trees and then back home with a number of other stops in between.
The book is filled with colourful characters starting with the
eight female elders who belong to a Bitch and Stitch group that meets quickly to chat and work on their projects. One came up with the idea of finishing her ‘bucket list’, what she’d like to do before she dies. Each elder has their own special wish and they decide to decide to ‘go for it.´ They ask two male elders to accompany them - a spouse and an ex. It makes for one crowded bus with lots of variety in personalities and bucket list wishes and a fun time and learning experience for everyone involved.
I really enjoyed the characters. Gray Smith brought each to life, each was different and important to the story. The elders and their guests really complemented each other.
I say the reading was easy because it flowed so well but it wasn’t due to lack of content. It was a very informative book, jam-packed full of Indigenous traditions, heritage and his/herstory. I recommend the book for those people unfamiliar with Indigenous issues. You will learn much, both good and bad happenings in a fun and non-threatening way.
The impact that residential schools on these elders as children is mentioned (a topic not often discussed amongst them) in a loving and caring way. There is also a fair amount of information about healing ceremonies and other Indigenous practices of giving thanks to the Creator throughout the day. The role of ancestors and the elders (keepers of the wisdom) is discussed as are many symbols of Indigenous life; as well as, the spirit world that plays a large role in everyone’s lives. Those new to Indigenous topics will learn a lot and those familiar with many issues will likely learn something new. I could not help but be fully absorbed and appreciative of the Indigenous way of life, particularly their sense of community and support for one another, when reading Tilly and the Crazy Eights. The warmth and love the elders showed each other and everyone they met was palpable. Also, the joie de vivre of Lucy and her antics, as well as Poncho’s also had me chuckling throughout. Despite the hardships mentioned in the story, I would definitely consider this a “feel good” book.
None of the topics is discussed in depth but I think that’s a good thing. Gray Smith’s writing ensures she does not lose readers new to Indigenous ways by getting into too much detail, but she rather piques their interest using anecdotes and items of interest. Readers will definitely not zone out when reading. Rather Gray Smith carries them along with her upbeat and constantly moving prose.
She writes in chapters of 1 to 4 pages. There might be too many chapters for some readers, who do not prefer this format, if they are familiar with and prefer novels where a chapter is much longer and covers a lot more material. For this book and audience however, I thought short chapters was a good choice. Gray Smith introduces just under 15 characters in a very short time frame. I think the short chapters that focus on only 1 or 2 characters at a time, help readers unfamiliar with multiple narrators and so many characters avoid confusion. I also think the writing style more easily suits all ages; therefore, making Tilly and the Crazy Eights more accessible and a great book for families, classes and groups, both young and old, to read aloud and share together.
I would usually rate similar books 3 stars due to simplicity but thought about it and decided that its very simplicity is what makes the book, both its characters and story, so special. And also based on my pure enjoyment I’ve decided to round up a full point to 4 stars.
February 18, 2023
Though this is a short book at just about 200 pages, I found myself having a hard time getting through it. I did enjoy the parts where we were able to experience a bit of understanding regarding the Elders & their situations but found myself bored with Tilly. When she went on her spiritual vortex excursion I skimmed through the pages because I just could not engage with her dialogue or her storyline.
When she sends a text to Mabel to let her know she's getting dinner, they come to find her anyway? Maybe I missed the part where this is explained because to me, it makes little sense that Tilly would explain that she was not going to be present for a meal & then the Elders decide that she's missing. It's also written out that they never received her text but, again, I skimmed most of this part because I was disengaged from the story.
This isn't a bad book by any means but it's superfluous. There are heavy subject matter addressed throughout this story & though I appreciate how we didn't have to read into a great deal of detail regarding every event, I felt a bit like I was sitting on a moving train trying to appreciate the scenery as a whole while only being able to set my gaze on a tree at a time.
When she sends a text to Mabel to let her know she's getting dinner, they come to find her anyway? Maybe I missed the part where this is explained because to me, it makes little sense that Tilly would explain that she was not going to be present for a meal & then the Elders decide that she's missing. It's also written out that they never received her text but, again, I skimmed most of this part because I was disengaged from the story.
This isn't a bad book by any means but it's superfluous. There are heavy subject matter addressed throughout this story & though I appreciate how we didn't have to read into a great deal of detail regarding every event, I felt a bit like I was sitting on a moving train trying to appreciate the scenery as a whole while only being able to set my gaze on a tree at a time.
April 14, 2019
A road trip story about a group of indigenous elders who embark on a bucket list trip from British Columbia to Albuquerque, New Mexico for a huge international pow wow, with stop-offs along the way. This had things in common with a lot of the ‘up-lit’ featuring older people that has been very popular lately, but it is also part of the recent surge in indigenous literature, as you see how the elders’ lives have been affected by residential schools, alcoholism, disconnection from their culture and loss - and as you see their resilience and community. The writing is kind of clunky, but it’s got heart and I think lots of people will like it. 2.5.
April 19, 2021
Awww! What a nice story. It felt familiar to me and I suspect it’s because the author and I share many of the same cultural traits.
Side note: The author & main character (Tilly) have twins. Somehow this is the fourth book I’ve read that has twins in the book or are a lead in the book. Just - interesting (I also have twins!).
I love the idea of Tilly going on a trip with Elders. The author captured the personalities of the Elderly characters with so much familiarity, that it made for a comforting read for me.
The reading level is about grade 7/8 but the content would be for adults. I think folks from out west 40+ would really enjoy this book.
It was written in a way so that adults who are Indigenous and just coming in to their culture can easily understand the ceremonies or rituals they go through. There’s no shame in how the explanations are given. It’s a gentle book that way.
In that way, being a gentle book, it also makes a good book for new adult readers and for new readers of the English language. Anyone new to learning about Indigenous stories plus I just think older Indigenous folks would get a good hug from this book.
The narrative is nice and simple. There’s a groups of eight Elders plus Tilly who make their way to the biggest pow wow in the world at the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow in Albuquerque, USA. North America’s largest pow wow and along the way, each of them makes a bucket list stop.
I must admit, I added a few things to my own bucket list based on those in Tilly and the Crazy Eights 👌🏽
Side note: The author & main character (Tilly) have twins. Somehow this is the fourth book I’ve read that has twins in the book or are a lead in the book. Just - interesting (I also have twins!).
I love the idea of Tilly going on a trip with Elders. The author captured the personalities of the Elderly characters with so much familiarity, that it made for a comforting read for me.
The reading level is about grade 7/8 but the content would be for adults. I think folks from out west 40+ would really enjoy this book.
It was written in a way so that adults who are Indigenous and just coming in to their culture can easily understand the ceremonies or rituals they go through. There’s no shame in how the explanations are given. It’s a gentle book that way.
In that way, being a gentle book, it also makes a good book for new adult readers and for new readers of the English language. Anyone new to learning about Indigenous stories plus I just think older Indigenous folks would get a good hug from this book.
The narrative is nice and simple. There’s a groups of eight Elders plus Tilly who make their way to the biggest pow wow in the world at the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow in Albuquerque, USA. North America’s largest pow wow and along the way, each of them makes a bucket list stop.
I must admit, I added a few things to my own bucket list based on those in Tilly and the Crazy Eights 👌🏽
August 17, 2018
To call this book a road trip, undermines what this book is really about. Yes, it is a trip from Vancouver, BC to Albuquerque New Mexico, but, as they say, the journey is the reward, not the destination.
To call this book a story about Elders trying to complete their bucket list also diminishes what this book is about. Yes, there is that goal, but there are reasons for the choices they make in the said list.
And to call this story a story of cancer, also diminishes what this story is about. Although Sarah has had cancer, there are eight other people on this trip, as well.
So, suffice it to say, that this is a lot going on in this book.
Tilly become the drive for a group of Elders from an unnamed First Nations group of women and men, who want to complete a bucket list. Each of them has a reason for going on the trip. Sarah, who has been fighting cancer, wants to dance at the world pow wow, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Pancho, wants to visit the redwoods. Lucy wants to visit Las Vegas.
It is not an easy road trip. There are obsticles along the way, and Tilly keeps seeing the vision of her grandmother, who is trying to give her advice.
And then, there is the Residential School scars that are left on some of the group. Or the marriage problems. Or the alcoholism. It is a tight group, but they each have their battles to fight, and live.
I have been to some of the places the group has been to, but not all of them. It was an interested, detailed trip, but the best part, if there can be a best part, was the arrival at the pow wow, and how resonating it made them all feel.
When I was a young teen, I discovered Science Fiction conventions. It was an amazing feeling, being among like-minded people, that shared the same thoughts, the same likes, the same obsessions as you did.
The way the group felt at the pow wow was how I felt discovering others like me, though I'm sure that sounds disrespectful, it is not meant to be.
This is a wonderful, sad, funny, touching story. And this is coming from someone who doesn't like to read journey books. But this was a journey of the soul, as well as the body, and it was and is well worth it. Highly recommended.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
To call this book a story about Elders trying to complete their bucket list also diminishes what this book is about. Yes, there is that goal, but there are reasons for the choices they make in the said list.
And to call this story a story of cancer, also diminishes what this story is about. Although Sarah has had cancer, there are eight other people on this trip, as well.
So, suffice it to say, that this is a lot going on in this book.
Tilly become the drive for a group of Elders from an unnamed First Nations group of women and men, who want to complete a bucket list. Each of them has a reason for going on the trip. Sarah, who has been fighting cancer, wants to dance at the world pow wow, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Pancho, wants to visit the redwoods. Lucy wants to visit Las Vegas.
It is not an easy road trip. There are obsticles along the way, and Tilly keeps seeing the vision of her grandmother, who is trying to give her advice.
And then, there is the Residential School scars that are left on some of the group. Or the marriage problems. Or the alcoholism. It is a tight group, but they each have their battles to fight, and live.
I have been to some of the places the group has been to, but not all of them. It was an interested, detailed trip, but the best part, if there can be a best part, was the arrival at the pow wow, and how resonating it made them all feel.
With pauses between her words, Lucy said, "Look...at..all..the Indians." Her tone was somewhere between a whisper and her regular voice.
When I was a young teen, I discovered Science Fiction conventions. It was an amazing feeling, being among like-minded people, that shared the same thoughts, the same likes, the same obsessions as you did.
The way the group felt at the pow wow was how I felt discovering others like me, though I'm sure that sounds disrespectful, it is not meant to be.
This is a wonderful, sad, funny, touching story. And this is coming from someone who doesn't like to read journey books. But this was a journey of the soul, as well as the body, and it was and is well worth it. Highly recommended.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
July 19, 2021
This was such a sweet book. I have to admit that—early in the book—as I was reading it, I thought it was a bit childish. It seemed to be written for a much younger audience. But the more I read, the more it grew on me, and I know now that it was actually the characters that grew on me. Read this book and you'll understand what I mean. They are all so real and by the end of the book you'll feel like every single one of them is a friend!
It was a huge delight to read this. The story was incredibly heart-warming—each and every smaller story within the larger one was so sweet. It's a simple book, but it has a VERY big heart!❤️
It was a huge delight to read this. The story was incredibly heart-warming—each and every smaller story within the larger one was so sweet. It's a simple book, but it has a VERY big heart!❤️
August 8, 2021
This novel is all heart. The lovely simplicity of the dialogue belies the depth. She covers serious issues with humour and no pretension. The characters are humble, wise, lively, and extremely likeable. I would love to be part of such a group and community, starting with the “stitch and bitch” club and evolving in it as these characters did.
August 7, 2019
I really liked the characters but thought the writing was a little amateurish. The story overall was a good one and reading about the Grand Nations Pow Wow was very interesting. Just thought there could have been more there.
February 28, 2021
A little too predictable and juvenile.
October 12, 2021
The author did a great job of balancing humour and sadness. The writing felt very real. I really loved it.
February 25, 2020
This was such a lovely book. It is a celebration of indigenous culture and an acknowledgment of indigenous history in Canada.
December 4, 2022
I loved every second of this. Tilly and the Crazy Eights overflows with joy, sorrow, family, laughter and love. My heart is so warm and full.
April 3, 2020
I adored this book!! Loved the dynamic between friends, family and couples.
I admire any author who can cover a number of political and sensitive issues without taking sides, defending or offending. Instead, Smith just presents the reader with factual evidence and allows them to reach their own conclusions or question their biases.
For instance:
"Tilly couldn’t help but wonder what it was like for each of them to look out the window and see nothing but their own people. She wondered how it might feel as an elder to see their people openly celebrating what they’d had to hide for years. What had been illegal for years. And she wondered what it was like for them to see so many people proud of being Native."
Thought-provoking, right? The ol' put-the-shoe-on-the-other-foot scenario. And although this book did examine things like depression, oppression, death and racism, there were also many positive notes. It wasn't heavy, but rather an interesting and fun read. Tagging along with this group, dubbed "The Crazy Eights", on their road trip was entertaining!
When you get to chapter 47, “It’s Pow Wow Time” look up “Gathering of Nations Pow Wow” videos on YouTube to experience what it is.... CHILLS... so you can better understand! Just awesome.
Many years ago I had the privilege of seeing The Quilt of Belonging at The Canadian National Exhibition. It is a 120 foot (36 metres) long collaborative textile art project. Its 263 blocks portray the rich cultural legacies of all the First Peoples in Canada and every nation of the world at the dawn of the new Millennium.
Here you can see each block that references the First Peoples in Canada
- many cultures that are tragically now extinct.
“When this many people, from all different kinds of backgrounds come together to celebrate and uphold the dignity of our culture and ceremonies, well, this to me is part of what reconciliation is about.”
I admire any author who can cover a number of political and sensitive issues without taking sides, defending or offending. Instead, Smith just presents the reader with factual evidence and allows them to reach their own conclusions or question their biases.
For instance:
"Tilly couldn’t help but wonder what it was like for each of them to look out the window and see nothing but their own people. She wondered how it might feel as an elder to see their people openly celebrating what they’d had to hide for years. What had been illegal for years. And she wondered what it was like for them to see so many people proud of being Native."
Thought-provoking, right? The ol' put-the-shoe-on-the-other-foot scenario. And although this book did examine things like depression, oppression, death and racism, there were also many positive notes. It wasn't heavy, but rather an interesting and fun read. Tagging along with this group, dubbed "The Crazy Eights", on their road trip was entertaining!
When you get to chapter 47, “It’s Pow Wow Time” look up “Gathering of Nations Pow Wow” videos on YouTube to experience what it is.... CHILLS... so you can better understand! Just awesome.
Many years ago I had the privilege of seeing The Quilt of Belonging at The Canadian National Exhibition. It is a 120 foot (36 metres) long collaborative textile art project. Its 263 blocks portray the rich cultural legacies of all the First Peoples in Canada and every nation of the world at the dawn of the new Millennium.
Here you can see each block that references the First Peoples in Canada
- many cultures that are tragically now extinct.
“When this many people, from all different kinds of backgrounds come together to celebrate and uphold the dignity of our culture and ceremonies, well, this to me is part of what reconciliation is about.”
October 8, 2018
This one was a big change of pace for me. I wouldn’t say it is a book that kids couldn’t read but it doesn’t read like it is written for kids. I only mention this because it is a rare thing for me to write about this type of book in this space. The characters are adults with the majority being elders. There is a large group that decides to go on a bucket list type trip from Vancouver to the Gathering of Nations Powwow in Albuquerque, New Mexico. All of the individuals in the group are going through personal challenges of one sort or another and the strength of the book is how they use each other as a community to get through some of life’s big moments. Another strength is many of the mentions of the Indigenous ceremonies and ways of living that go beyond simply stating but describing them for readers who may be less familiar.
dnf
December 15, 2018This pulls back from eyerollingly sentimental to be more charmingly hokey. It centers around a group of Native Elders who go on a road trip to fulfill each person's modest bucket list desires, and part of the reason it works is that each member of the group has experienced major trauma in their lives, and you really feel how much they all heartily deserve any happiness and personal growth that can be wrung from their trip.
While I greatly enjoyed the first half and did a lot of smile-crying, I did find it to hit a kind of predictable stride at a certain point. But I think this is an incredibly unique and valuable book in that it's one of the only comfort reads I know of that's written by an Indigenous author that centers Indigenous people and concerns.
While I greatly enjoyed the first half and did a lot of smile-crying, I did find it to hit a kind of predictable stride at a certain point. But I think this is an incredibly unique and valuable book in that it's one of the only comfort reads I know of that's written by an Indigenous author that centers Indigenous people and concerns.
May 13, 2021
This novel is simply spectacular. If you want to laugh, cry and have authentic voices, look no further. I will certainly be reading more of Gray Smith's work and the messages from this will never leave me. We can only hope to one day have such a network of people as Tilly does. Put this on your TBR pile people!! You won't regret it!
April 19, 2021
❤️😭❤️”Look...at all...the Indians.” (Chapter 46 hit the heart too deeply)...
December 20, 2021
What a beautiful book. Full review to come
June 15, 2021
What a beautifully written story...a group of Indigenous ladies, living in Vancouver, working on their crafts at a local stitch and bitch. A conversation came up... what is your one thing on your bucket list that would make your life complete?...Sarah a cancer survivor just finishing chemo and treatments asks the other members...
Some would think would be travel to some where exotic or meet someone famous...some would be extravagant and others would be simple request....
With this group of aging ladies and a few husbands...with this group it’s simple and perfect... they come together to gather money and raise the funds for this trip. The bus donated by the elders and off they go to fulfill their bucket list... Tilly the youngest member of the group, is brought in to help,drive the bus - 2 weeks for the elders. There List is simple and powerful. The land gives you the experiences & gives comfort along the way...
The world Pow Wow, the tulip festival, Las Vegas & go to see the pawn stars that is filmed in Vegas,Redwood Forrest - to hug “grandfather tree”, Red Rocks of Sedona, Grand Canyon, and a negative Nellie with no destination but going along for the ride.
I felt like, I was also along for the journey, make that Tilly and the crazy eights + 1... past truths are revealed.., some are hard to hear and listen To the nightmares they endured in their youth in residential schools, the connections, the love, friendship found along the way is truly a joy to read. Friends can become family too.
In light of the Kamloops residential school in Vancouver and this book came out before the horrific discovery of 215 kids buried next to the school. It should have never happened. Ever! The scars last a lifetime. Atrocity that happened in those schools - Changed those children and the nightmares and scars followed them into adulthood. Never again. 🧡
I have never connected with nature as much as reading this book....I listened to the warrior woman song, I watched “the traditional dance” at the Worlds Pow Wow, & the sound track of this road trip, would have been amazing... just - take it easy.... maybe I’m at the age, that I need to open my eyes, & look around and be more grounded and aware of the nature around me.
I’ve read this for the book club and so happy it was suggested. Will be one, I recommend for many years to come.
Some would think would be travel to some where exotic or meet someone famous...some would be extravagant and others would be simple request....
With this group of aging ladies and a few husbands...with this group it’s simple and perfect... they come together to gather money and raise the funds for this trip. The bus donated by the elders and off they go to fulfill their bucket list... Tilly the youngest member of the group, is brought in to help,drive the bus - 2 weeks for the elders. There List is simple and powerful. The land gives you the experiences & gives comfort along the way...
The world Pow Wow, the tulip festival, Las Vegas & go to see the pawn stars that is filmed in Vegas,Redwood Forrest - to hug “grandfather tree”, Red Rocks of Sedona, Grand Canyon, and a negative Nellie with no destination but going along for the ride.
I felt like, I was also along for the journey, make that Tilly and the crazy eights + 1... past truths are revealed.., some are hard to hear and listen To the nightmares they endured in their youth in residential schools, the connections, the love, friendship found along the way is truly a joy to read. Friends can become family too.
In light of the Kamloops residential school in Vancouver and this book came out before the horrific discovery of 215 kids buried next to the school. It should have never happened. Ever! The scars last a lifetime. Atrocity that happened in those schools - Changed those children and the nightmares and scars followed them into adulthood. Never again. 🧡
I have never connected with nature as much as reading this book....I listened to the warrior woman song, I watched “the traditional dance” at the Worlds Pow Wow, & the sound track of this road trip, would have been amazing... just - take it easy.... maybe I’m at the age, that I need to open my eyes, & look around and be more grounded and aware of the nature around me.
I’ve read this for the book club and so happy it was suggested. Will be one, I recommend for many years to come.
October 31, 2021
A heartwarming story, filled with love, laughter and truth: the main ingredients for healing. I like the straight-forward writing style, and the way the author incorporates aboriginal teachings throughout the story. The characters, the elders — or The Crazy Eights, as they call themselves— are all so likeable and genuine. I enjoyed their adventures on the road trip to New Mexico for the Grand Pow Wow, fulfilling individual bucket list dreams and discovering renewal and healing on the journey. I feel we all can learn so much from the aboriginal teachings and especially from the way the community respect and care for their elders.
“I’ve come to learn that when I” [says elder Bea talking with Tilley,] “don’t get what I want or think I need, I’m being protected. Time always reveals why I didn’t get what I wanted. It’s one of the ways the Creator and our Ancestors take care of us.”
Thank you, author Monique, and Tilly and the Crazy Eights. Or, diolch yn fawr, as we say in my native Welsh language. And chi-migwech, in the words of our Anishinaabe and Ojibwa elders on whose territorial lands I am privileged and very grateful to reside. (Yes, your story has brought tears to my eyes and much gratitude in my heart for my own ancestors.)
“I’ve come to learn that when I” [says elder Bea talking with Tilley,] “don’t get what I want or think I need, I’m being protected. Time always reveals why I didn’t get what I wanted. It’s one of the ways the Creator and our Ancestors take care of us.”
Thank you, author Monique, and Tilly and the Crazy Eights. Or, diolch yn fawr, as we say in my native Welsh language. And chi-migwech, in the words of our Anishinaabe and Ojibwa elders on whose territorial lands I am privileged and very grateful to reside. (Yes, your story has brought tears to my eyes and much gratitude in my heart for my own ancestors.)
February 10, 2025
Tilly And The Crazy Eights by Monique Gray Smith 🇨🇦7/2/25 4.7 stars
When Tilly receives an invitation to drive eight elders on their ultimate bucket-list road trip, she impulsively says yes. Before she knows it, Tilly has said goodbye to her family and is on an adventure that will transform her in ways she could not predict, just as it will be for the elders who soon dub themselves “the Crazy Eights.”
The Crazy Eights each choose a stop - somewhere or something they’ve always wanted to experience - on the way to their ultimate goal, the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow in Albuquerque. Their plan is to travel to Las Vegas, Sedona, and the Redwood Forests, with each destination the inspiration for secrets and stories to be revealed. The trip proves to be powerful medicine as they laugh, heal, argue, and dream along the way. By the time their bus rolls to a stop in New Mexico, Tilly and the Crazy Eights, with friendships forged and hearts mended, feel ready for anything. But are they? 4.7 stars
When Tilly receives an invitation to drive eight elders on their ultimate bucket-list road trip, she impulsively says yes. Before she knows it, Tilly has said goodbye to her family and is on an adventure that will transform her in ways she could not predict, just as it will be for the elders who soon dub themselves “the Crazy Eights.”
The Crazy Eights each choose a stop - somewhere or something they’ve always wanted to experience - on the way to their ultimate goal, the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow in Albuquerque. Their plan is to travel to Las Vegas, Sedona, and the Redwood Forests, with each destination the inspiration for secrets and stories to be revealed. The trip proves to be powerful medicine as they laugh, heal, argue, and dream along the way. By the time their bus rolls to a stop in New Mexico, Tilly and the Crazy Eights, with friendships forged and hearts mended, feel ready for anything. But are they? 4.7 stars
February 13, 2021
Tilly agrees to drive eight Indigenous elders to the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It will be a long drive to reach their destination where one of the elders wants to fulfill her dream of dancing in the Grand Entry at the World Pow Wow. Each member of the group will choose a stop along the way to see or do something they have always wanted to experience. It is a transformative trip for everyone as they laugh, argue and heal along the way.
This story is humorous, sad, and thought provoking The revelations of the elders' personal memories were often filled with pain. It gave me a new awareness of what Indigenous people experienced with residential schools and racism. In the story, the group members are able to help each other face their personal burdens.
I really liked this book. I enjoyed the characters and the dynamics between them. The author's short chapters moved the story along quickly. The theme is uplifting. Highly recommend.
This story is humorous, sad, and thought provoking The revelations of the elders' personal memories were often filled with pain. It gave me a new awareness of what Indigenous people experienced with residential schools and racism. In the story, the group members are able to help each other face their personal burdens.
I really liked this book. I enjoyed the characters and the dynamics between them. The author's short chapters moved the story along quickly. The theme is uplifting. Highly recommend.
February 5, 2021
I misunderstood the description about this book and thought it was a memoir. It took me until about halfway through to realize that it wasn't, which tells you the story is very believable. It weaves in both positive and negative memories and changes perspective to each of three crazy eights to develop their characters (that should've been my clue it wasn't a memoir!) I enjoyed reading this book but it wasn't as light-hearted as I anticipated.
March 31, 2021
Three and a half stars. This book was written in a very simplistic style, ultimately fairly predictable and not adverse to a cliché or two. However, the whole spiritual side is, for me, quite intriguing. I think all of us can learn from the way the Indigenous elders are respected and ancestors are honoured and remain an important part of their lives; how nature should be treated with kindness and respect. This is a quick, easy read, but interspersed in the simplicity there are nuggets that are worth thinking about.
August 17, 2021
This book is lovely and heart warming. I loved visiting the bucket list places through the eyes of the characters. I was touched by the resiliency of those in the book that had endured trauma and found ways to heal through family, community and their spirituality. My favourite parts were the prayers, ceremonies and rituals that showed the important role of the creator in their culture.
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