Monique Gray Smith, a Victoria-based writer of Cree-Lakota-Scottish heritage, has recently released her novel Tilly and the Crazy Eights. The novel tells the story of a group of Indigenous Elders on a road trip of a lifetime, and according to Smith, the novel was born out of a personal journey she took with her friend Kelly Terbasket.
Smith's journey began when she received a grant in 2015 from the First Peoples Culture Council. She and Terbasket followed the same southern route that she had planned out for her characters in the novel. The journey helped her to further develop her characters and to create a sense of authenticity in her storytelling.
In an interview with NewHamburgIndependent.ca, Smith stated that the journey was the "most fun and joyous project" she had ever worked on. She also recounted how watching her characters finally come to life when she was writing was like watching a screen.
Smith is an accomplished writer who has written books for both adults and children. Her writing often explores themes of identity, connection, and the human experience. In Tilly and the Crazy Eights, Smith continues to explore these themes through the eyes of her characters on their journey.
The novel has been receiving positive reviews, with readers praising its heart and soul. It has also been noted that the novel is an important contribution to Indigenous literature and culture. Tilly and the Crazy Eights is a story that celebrates the power of community and the importance of acknowledging and preserving Indigenous traditions.
In addition to being a writer, Smith is also a sought-after speaker and consultant. She has been recognized for her work in promoting education and cultural awareness, and has received numerous awards and honors. Her latest novel is a testament to her talent as a writer and her commitment to promoting Indigenous culture and traditions.
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