Review of The Icy Cross
Authors and publishers are not able to post replies in the review topics.
- Tomy Chandrafrost
- In It Together VIP
- Posts: 947
- Joined: 02 Mar 2024, 00:02
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 69
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tomy-chandrafrost.html
- Latest Review: There and Back There Again by Andrew Alsup
Review of The Icy Cross
When I first read the description of this book, it mentioned that people needed to understand North American culture. This was a challenge for me, coming from Asia.
The research process led me to stories about slavery, the colonization of America and Canada, hockey, British influence in Canada, the development of religion in Canada, the socio-political conditions in Canada, Canadian culinary diversity, and research about neighboring countries such as the history of the United States, Russia, and several European countries.
For a historical fiction novel with a memoir-like feel, this book was indeed meant to be savored slowly.
In "Icy Cross" by Peter Bisaillion, we were invited to see it from the perspective of Robert Seigneur, a priest, hockey player, and Anglo-Quebecer.
The author did detailed research, describing aspects such as Bible discussions in a Pentecostal church congregation, terms like "squarehead" indicating interactions between francophones and anglophones in Quebec, the stigmas among Quebecers, and how the River Town children eagerly awaited winter to play hockey.
One of my favorite parts of the story was the hockey showdown between the riverboys and cityboys on their respective turfs. When the city kids were challenged to play on the frozen lake of the riverboys' territory, unexpected events unfolded. Even though it was a work of fiction, I enjoyed the message the author conveyed that hockey could be enjoyed by everyone.
I appreciated how this novel covered various complex topics set against the backdrop of Canada. The story frequently flashed back to Robert's childhood and adulthood, depicting his youth, first love, and the deaths of loved ones.
There was criticism of the church, the obsession of fans with Robert, and the detractors who wanted to get rid of him.
Friendships among fellow hockey players that surpassed family ties, biker gang wars, and police bureaucratic issues accompanied the story, which revolved around major political events in Quebec. The 1995 Quebec referendum, the pre-event process, and the aftermath of the closely contested Quebec election were well explained, making us feel as if we were transported back to that era.
Socio-economic analysis, political trends, and generational segments and their views on the referendum were well-presented in the story. I also learned a lot about Montreal, one of Canada's largest cities, its dark history, and its significance in Canada's economy and culture.
I gave this book a 5 out of 5 as a form of appreciation for a book that recounted many historical events and details of life as an Anglo-Quebecer.
In my opinion, there was nothing I disliked about this book. Reading it was an enjoyable process for me to gain a glimpse of Canadian history and the context of life in North America. Wasn't it a pleasant experience to learn about another country?
Canada is a complex country, with two main languages and the dynamics between francophones, anglophones, and allophones. Characters like Jean, Manon, Donna, Dionne, Esme, Serge, Laundry Micheline, and Frank made the story's dynamics interesting.
Murders, drugs, gang wars, defamation, and separatist movements coexisted with stories of conversion, sincerity, friendship, nationalism, and devotion to God. Like the title of Robert's book, "Lights and Shadows," this book blended these elements into a captivating narrative.
The well-written plot, neatly woven details, and flawless editing made this book enjoyable to read. I recommended this book to those who wanted to learn more about Canada, North America, Protestantism, and the interaction between francophones and anglophones over time.
******
The Icy Cross
View: on Bookshelves
Tomy Chandra
-
- Posts: 187
- Joined: 31 Jul 2023, 05:52
- Currently Reading: Summer's Promise
- Bookshelf Size: 21
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-anozie-stephanie.html
- Latest Review: Creative Destruction by Alastair Bowman
-
- Posts: 52
- Joined: 13 May 2024, 05:53
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 11
I can also feel from the review the emotional breeze from the book. Very impressive.
- Priya Murugesan
- Posts: 570
- Joined: 27 Jan 2020, 01:51
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 50
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-priya-murugesan.html
- Latest Review: Beating Death (resubmission) by Sean O’Banion
- Tomi Ahmed
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 235
- Joined: 24 Feb 2024, 08:03
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 28
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-tomi-ahmed.html
- Latest Review: A Killer Within by Rosemarie B. Smith
- Reading Device: B00I15SB16
- 2024 Reading Goal: 35
- 2024 Goal Completion: 40%
- Jenna Padayachee
- Official Reviewer Representative
- Posts: 345
- Joined: 14 Jul 2022, 10:37
- Currently Reading: The Kybalion
- Bookshelf Size: 59
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-jenna-padayachee.html
- Latest Review: The Unfakeable Code® by Tony Jeton Selimi
- Signature Addition: Jenna Padayachee
I live in South Africa and have noted that Canada is one of the popular emigration choices.
I don't find the need to emigrate. Still, I am open to learning about other countries, and this book sounds lovely in that it is a historical novel fiction that provides impeccable insight through its memoir-like approach, " ..from the perspective of Robert Seigneur.
This book certainly offers a lot about life experiences, politics, historical events, and the role of hockey amidst all matters in the backdrop of Canada.
Congratulations to the author!
- Dana Lawrence Lohn
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 147
- Joined: 17 Mar 2024, 08:26
- Favorite Book: The Upstairs Delicatessen
- Currently Reading: In the Garden of Beasts
- Bookshelf Size: 30
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-dana-lawrence-lohn.html
- Latest Review: The Wicked Wives by Gus Pelagatti
- 2024 Reading Goal: 75
- 2024 Goal Completion: 20%
- Cristina-Ioana Toader
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 377
- Joined: 16 Feb 2023, 09:19
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 64
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-cristina-ioana-toader.html
- Latest Review: The Foundlings and Fisherman from Tumby by Phillip Leighton-Daly
- Rahul Singh 29
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 323
- Joined: 29 Sep 2023, 23:15
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 59
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-rahul-singh-29.html
- Latest Review: Tour of Duty by William H. Coles
- 2024 Reading Goal: 60
- 2024 Goal Completion: 43%
We seek to know ourselves and others, to belong and to be free, We accept what we can and change what we must.
- Rajaee
- Posts: 88
- Joined: 19 Feb 2024, 12:31
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 2
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-rajaee.html
- Latest Review: Wisdom by Arun mago
Your review is good, but it is very long. It would have been better if you kept it short and simple. It is solely my opinion and not meant to discourage you in any way.
- Martina Sette
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 358
- Joined: 04 Oct 2023, 06:47
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 64
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-martina-sette.html
- Latest Review: The Struggle for Justice and Truth by Tomas Cudzis
- 2024 Reading Goal: 30
- 2024 Goal Completion: 153%
- Gerry Steen
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 1211
- Joined: 08 May 2023, 20:08
- Currently Reading: The Impossible Mock Orange Trial
- Bookshelf Size: 205
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-gerry-steen.html
- Latest Review: Self Love : Journal Your Journey by Natalie Bears
- MAHAD BAIG MIRZA
- Posts: 325
- Joined: 30 Dec 2023, 09:12
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 33
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-mahad-baig-mirza.html
- Latest Review: Play Golf Better Faster: The Little Golf Bag Book by Kalliope Barlis
- 2024 Reading Goal: 20
- 2024 Goal Completion: 60%
- Gayatri Tripathi
- Posts: 149
- Joined: 05 Jul 2023, 10:10
- Favorite Book: E M P Honeymoon
- Currently Reading: Neither Safe Nor Effective (2nd Edition)
- Bookshelf Size: 25
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-gayatri-tripathi.html
- Latest Review: Stevie Tenderheart Books - Billy Jack (The Great Escape) by Steve William Laible
- 2024 Reading Goal: 100
- 2024 Goal Completion: 13%
It's fascinating to hear how the book provided a window into the complexities of North American culture, especially from the perspective of someone coming from Asia. Your dedication to understanding the historical and cultural context, including topics such as slavery, colonization, and the socio-political landscape of Canada, is commendable. This effort undoubtedly enriched your reading experience and allowed you to fully appreciate the intricacies of the story.
The detailed research conducted by the author, as you noted, brings authenticity to the narrative. The vivid descriptions of Bible discussions, the nuances of Quebecois terminology, and the vibrant depiction of hockey culture create an immersive experience. The hockey showdown between the riverboys and cityboys, which you highlighted as a favorite part, seems to encapsulate the spirit of community and competition that the sport fosters.
Your praise for the novel's handling of complex topics, from political events like the 1995 Quebec referendum to the socio-economic and cultural dynamics of Montreal, speaks to the book's educational value. It's wonderful to see how the story's characters and their intertwined lives added depth to the narrative, making it both engaging and enlightening.
The blend of historical fiction with memoir-like elements, coupled with a well-written plot and flawless editing, clearly made "Icy Cross" a standout read for you. Your recommendation for those interested in Canadian history, North American culture, and the Protestant faith is much appreciated.
Thank you for sharing your experience with "Icy Cross." Your review not only showcases the book's merits but also encourages others to delve into its pages and explore the rich tapestry of Canadian life it portrays.
- RJ Reviews
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 525
- Joined: 30 Jun 2023, 12:28
- Currently Reading: Weep For Love
- Bookshelf Size: 81
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-rj-reviews.html
- Latest Review: Always Losing Something by Max Green
- Reading Device: 1400697484
- 2024 Reading Goal: 24
- 2024 Goal Completion: 112%