The best Canadian fiction of 2024
the complexities of identity, family, and resilience in the face of adversity. Set in Winnipeg, the novel explores the bond between the sisters as they navigate their Indigenous heritage and the challenges of growing up in a city marked by poverty and violence. As they grapple with their own personal struggles and the legacy of intergenerational trauma, they must find a way to preserve their connection and find a path forward.
Katherena Vermette, the author of real ones, is a Métis writer from Treaty One territory in Winnipeg. She is also a poet and filmmaker, known for her award-winning poetry collection, North End Love Songs, and her debut novel, The Break, which won the Amazon First Novel Award and was a finalist for the Governor General’s Literary Award for Fiction. Vermette’s work often explores themes of Indigenous identity, community, and the impact of colonialism on Indigenous peoples.
real ones is a powerful and poignant novel that delves deep into the lives of its characters, offering a raw and honest portrayal of the challenges they face. Vermette’s lyrical prose and vivid storytelling bring the world of lyn and June to life, inviting readers to empathize with their struggles and triumphs. Through their journey, Vermette sheds light on the resilience and strength of Indigenous women, highlighting their resilience in the face of adversity.
LISTEN | Katherena Vermette on real ones: The Next Chapter 20:54
Real Ones is a must-read for anyone looking to explore the complexities of Indigenous identity, family dynamics, and the enduring power of sisterhood. Vermette’s novel is a testament to the strength and resilience of Indigenous women, offering a nuanced and compelling narrative that will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.
