REVIEW: JACKFISH, THE VANISHING VILLAGE
AUTHOR: SARAH FELIX BURNS
PUBLISHER: INANNA PUBLICATIONS AND EDUATION INC.,
YORK UNIVERSITY, TORONTO, ONT.
Reviewed by Joanne Ross
Readers! Do not be discouraged by the drab, unimaginative cover of this book! What you
will find within is a challenging, exquisitely written first novel but not one for the faint of heart.
It is the fictitious autobiography of Clemance-Marie Nadeau, a woman who grew up in the
small northern Ontario village of Jackfish. A late-in-life pregnancy compels her to abandon her
anti-depressant medication, releasing the pent-up memories and demons of her past which
include poverty and abuse. Unemployed and living in a small Colorado town she inexplicably
separates from her husband, Bernie. Through sessions with her counselor, Jeanette, at a free
psychiatric clinic, her past is gradually unearthed as her emotions intensify. Clemance is
obliged to persist, painful though it may be, if she is to achieve some measure of redemption
and escape from events that brought her to this juncture. And these memories, though often
horrific are nonetheless compelling for the reader: You can't help wanting to know her story and
have her gain the salvation and self-awareness that for her is crucial if she is to move on with
life.
This novel is not a light read, so be forewarned! At times the writing seems almost poetic, so
vivid are the descriptions and the emotional intensity. It is the kind of novel that you will either
want to read through in one sitting or take breaks from to absorb each layer of disclosure.
The author, Sarah Felix Burns trained as an artist, historian, and social worker, all occupations
that have been of benefit in crafting this novel. She has stated that she writes "for those who are
wounded. I write for their healing and the expression of grief and anguish". It is not, therefore,
surprising that her book has recently been adopted for use at York University in their Bridging
Program for Women.
I strongly recommend this novel. I found it to be challenging, mesmerizing, and ultimately a
satisfying read. I look forward to reading more of this author's work in the future.
Joanne Ross is a local reviewer who lives in Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, BC.
Email: Joanne Ross
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