Description: In this memoir of myth and an uncommon friendship that was sparked while Norman was in Manitoba translating Inuit tales into English, the author writes of his bond with Helen Tanizaki, who became his guide through the stories and customs of the Inuit, and who was fatally ill during their time together.
Brief description: Howard Norman is the author of several novels--The Northern Lights, The Bird Artist, and The Museum Guard--and a story collection, The Chauffeur. He has twice been named as a finalist for the National Book Award. He lives with his family in Vermont and Washington D.C.
Review Quotes:
"Wonderfully written." --The Washington Post
"Quietly powerful...[A] moving and haunting account of an uncommon friendship in the frozen north." --O magazine "The question of 'appropriation of voice, ' the phenomenon of culture shock and even the basic function of narrative are among the subjects illuminated by this little book. . . . Very touching and human." --The Toronto Star "Norman's book offers a refreshing simplicity. A-" --Entertainment Weekly "The book is a lyrical tapestry . . . in which sadness and humor, quick wit, and long reflection are balanced." --The Times Union (Albany)