Greenwood: A Story

Greenwood, written by one of Canada's most acclaimed novelists, is a magnificent generational saga that traces the rise and fall of a family, along with their secrets and inherited crimes. Longlisted for the Scotiabank Giller Prize, this rugged and riveting novel has been praised for its superb storytelling, satisfying fans of works like Richard Powers' The Overstory.

Set in various time periods, the novel follows the lives of different members of the Greenwood family. In 2038, Jacinda (Jake) Greenwood works as a storyteller and tour guide in one of the world's last forests, entertaining ultra-rich vacationers. Meanwhile, in 2008, Liam Greenwood, a carpenter, finds himself injured and stranded in an empty mansion after a workplace accident. The story also delves into the life of Willow Greenwood, who was recently released from jail in 1974 after being arrested for participating in environmental protests as a form of penance for her father's involvement in a violent timber empire. Going back even further, in 1934, Everett Greenwood, alone as usual in his maple-syrup camp, becomes entangled in a crime that sets off a chain of secrets and betrayal that will haunt his family for decades.

Trees play a significant role throughout the narrative, serving as a steady, silent metaphor for survival, withering, and weathering. The novel intricately weaves together the stories of the Greenwood family, exploring themes of money, love, wood, and blood. It is a rain-soaked and sun-dappled tale that delves into the bonds and breaking points within a family, as well as the relentless pursuit of growth and light.

Overall, Greenwood is a profound and captivating novel that skillfully captures the complexities of family dynamics and the enduring impact of past actions on future generations. With lyrical prose and a compelling narrative structure, the novel immerses readers in a world where the legacy of the Greenwood family is both a burden and a source of resilience.

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