1. A book that changed reading for me was Bone by Jeff Smith. It was the first graphic novel I ever picked up, and I fell in love with its illustrations and the rich fantasy world it depicted. The story revolves around three little characters who were run out of Boneville, a town that closely resembles modern society. The cousins fled so far that they ended up in a foreign, less advanced place which was a magical kingdom filled with wonders beyond imagination. The visuals in this book hooked me immediately.
2. As a child, I was a bookworm and eager to read as many books as possible. However, I lost my love for reading in middle school when mandatory reading assignments made it feel like a chore. Occasionally, I would pick up outdoor-themed books, a habit that has persisted over the years. Recently, though, I’ve rediscovered books that intrigue me, pushing me back onto the path of reading for pleasure rather than obligation. After a long day, I sometimes struggle to make time to read and relax. But the more I’ve been reading, the more I’ve realized that it doesn’t have to be tied to school I can enjoy books on my own terms, without feeling pressured.
3. I’m particularly intrigued by books about outdoor adventures and the experiences of those who have embarked on them. I also enjoy reading about fascinating historical events in British Columbia. Recently, my best friend encouraged me to try reading romance novels, which I hadn’t been particularly excited about before. Surprisingly, I’ve found myself hooked on them as well.
4. Many of my extracurricular activities are centered around the outdoors. I spend much of my time fishing, but I also enjoy hiking, camping, and skiing. Being in the wilderness, surrounded by the buzz of animals in the woods, brings me a sense of peace. It’s a chance to escape the noise of daily life and appreciate the beauty around us.
5. Patrick F. McManus was an author I used to enjoy. To be honest, I don’t follow specific authors very closely anymore. As a child, I did, but now I’m more focused on finding books with topics that interest me.
6. The last book I really enjoyed was The Golden Spruce by John Vaillant. This book was recommended to me while I was working up north in Haida Gwaii. It tells the story of a golden spruce tree that stood near Masset. Scientifically proven to be one in a million—or even a billion—it was unique and deeply sacred to the Haida people. Tragically, a man cut it down to make a statement about logging. I could write endlessly about this book, but I think it’s more impactful if you read it yourself. It’s truly moving.
7. This past summer, I worked at a remote fishing lodge on an island in Haida Gwaii. On my days off, I spent my time fishing and exploring places that few people have had the chance to see. In the first semester, I devoted all my free time to hiking and fishing. Since leaving home, I’ve had an insatiable urge to travel whenever I can. During winter break, I spent over two weeks in Vietnam. I met up with a friend from the lodge, and together, we traveled across the country. We started in Hanoi, rode motorcycles on the Ha Giang Loop (the best experience of my life), and then made our way south. After returning, I spent most days ice fishing and even tried cross-country skiing. I always jump at any opportunity for adventure.
8. I love learning about Indigenous culture, the outdoors and environmental science, animals, and history.
9. I would like to read John Vaillant’s book Tiger, my father has read it and was eager for this to be my next read.