From my early beginnings as a young introvert, the public library has always been a bit of a refuge. Years later, not much has changed, albeit with an additional affinity for endless hours spent scouring second-hand bookstores to add to my ever-growing “to-read” pile.
From one bookworm to another, this column will be underscoring and outlining various literary genres, authors, and recent reads and can serve as an introduction for those unfamiliar with these works, as a refresher for long-time aficionados, and maybe as an inspiration for readers to share their own suggested topics. Do you have a topic that you would like covered in this column? Feel free to contact me for an interview and a feature in an upcoming column.
Who
This week, we continue with our series on notable Canadian authors, both past and present. In particular, we consider the works of Gabrielle Roy. Roy was born on March 25, 1909, in St. Boniface, Manitoba and died on July 13, 1983, in Quebec. She is best known as “one of the major figures in French Canadian literature.” She was awarded the prestigious Governor General’s Award in both 1987 and 1999.
What
Some examples of Roy’s works include The Tin Flute, Street of Riches, Children of My Heart, and Windflower.
Where
These works are primarily set in various geographical locations, particularly in Manitoba.
When
Roy’s texts are primarily set in the 21st century.
Why
These works could be of interest to AU learners who enjoy literature that focuses on themes, such as psychology, or socio-economic class, with a particular focus on poverty, as well as those who would like to learn more about French language writers in Canada.
How
AU’s wide range of diverse courses make it easy to study this topic in depth. Courses related to the works of Gabrielle Roy are available in a variety of disciplines, including one’s that may fit into your Degree Works. (Always check with an AU counsellor to see if these particular courses fulfill your personal graduation requirements!)
AU students interested in learning more about this topic may enroll in HIST 326: Contemporary Canada: Canada After 1945, a senior-level, three-credit course, which “focuses on social change and social conflict since 1945.” (Please note that while this course has no prerequisites, HIST 225: History of Canada, 1867 to the Present is recommended.”)
In addition, student may be interested in SOCI 290: Social Problems, a junior-level, three-credit course, which “is designed to introduce students to the study of social problems: their definition, their dimensions and interconnections, and the effects and strategies for alleviating them.” (Note that this course does not require prerequisites.) Happy reading!
