"
Wagamese artfully weaves sixty-some short essays -- stories, really -- into an unpretentious philosophy of life rooted in personal observations and experiences, transposing an understanding of traditional Ojibway principles (humility, trust, introspection and wisdom) into modern-day life. Though drawing unflinchingly on his experiences as a native man, a child of residential school survivors, a homeless person and an addict,
Wagamese writes with honesty and pathos without becoming ensnared in sentimentality. Yet it is not a book focused on hardships, victimhood or survival; rather,
One Story, One Song is a frank and frequently mirthful testament to the prospect of a way forward; a reminder of our responsibility to live principled lives." (Andrew Steeves
George Ryga Award Jury 20110916)
"
Richard Wagamese is a national treasure." (Joseph Boyden, Author of "Through Black Spruce" 20110112)
"
Richard Wagamese's writing is sweet medicine for the soul." (Richard Van Camp, Author of "The Lesser Blessed" 20110112)
"
One Story, One Song comprises brief ruminations (most are shorter than three pages) on various topics, many inspired by an anecdote or observation from the author's life... Funny, tender, never bitter, the essays also relate the ongoing struggle for native rights in Canada.
Wagamese writes in a refreshingly unadorned style. Indeed, heavy topics like homelessness, alcoholism, and drug abuse, which could easily lead to preachiness or self-pity, are refreshingly unsentimental in their treatment...[
One Story, One Song] should be read for the clarity of the author's voice, and for its contribution to the aboriginal experience in Canada." (
Quill & Quire 20110301)
"
Richard Wagamese reminds us that we are all story. And when we share our stories, we build something beautiful and profound. He's brought us this message before, but he does it better than ever with this book.
Richard is on the frontlines of what it means to be human. If we don't know yet, this book lights the path. He makes me rejoice in our shared humanity. This book is a tonic. And a gift." (Shelagh Rogers, Host of CBC Radio's "The Next Chapter" 20110112)
"The short pieces in
One Story, One Song remind us of human beings' place in the world: We are a part of it, not masters of it. And by sharing our stories we share ourselves...
One Story, One Song is all about connections, something we all need." (
Globe & Mail 20110302)
"Equal parts memoir, self-help book and personal affirmation, BC-based aboriginal writer
Richard Wagamese's latest effort encompasses the scope of his arduous and wondrous journey to clarity and confidence. Through his creative efforts, he heals past wounds and finds peace with his identity as an Ojibwa man, a former alcoholic and someone who has witnessed the range of human flaws and kindnesses." (
Winnipeg Free Press 20110219)
"
One Story, One Song embodies [
Wagamese's] belief that only by sharing our stories and being strong enough to take risks will we be able to understand one another. Although the messages in this book are slightly repetitive,
Wagamese hopes to drive home the point that we are all more similar to one another that it appears." (
Canadian Geographic 20110715)
"
Wagamese's prose addresses both sorrow and joy with a gratitude that can only be earned.
One Story, One Song speaks of lessons learned, personal triumphs, and wonderment. These anecdotes glow like embers in a hearth, temporarily dispelling the chill of the world outside, placating with gentle warmth." (
Georgia Straight 20110228)
