“She has never stopped talking about you and remembering you.”

The Berry Pickers surprised and delighted me! Based on the marketing copy I honestly thought since we knew what happened it might not be that great. I was wrong. This is one of the best books I’ve read this year. A missing girl and her family in one storyline and in another a family with many secrets and aggressive fears. Through Joe and Norma we learn exactly what happened. 

Amanda Peters is brilliant. She made me love Joe and Norma and the perspectives they shared. I also loved Aunt June and many of the other characters who were all distinct and added to the story. Peters writing is beautiful. I turned down the corners of so many pages because of the truths shared. I was emotionally invested in every part of this story, weeping and rejoicing along with the characters. Peters showed us how Indigenous people are treated, never telling or hitting the reader over the head. The pacing of the novel is great. And the organization and chapter titles are perfect. Peters’ style works well for me.

This novel addresses grief and loss powerfully. Family ties and nature nurture are key themes. But I thought of. One of that while I read. I only wanted to know what happened to these people I care for. I highly recommend this book for lovers of family stories told beautifully.