Set in rural Ontario’s lake region on a small reserve, this book is a YA page turner. This native gothic novel, by acclaimed Ojibwa author Drew Hayden Taylor, combines the sick thrill of vampires with native legends of horror, and situations so realistic that teens (and others) will identify with them immediately. Taylor writes about the hard issues for Aboriginal youth: racism, poverty, addictions and suicide, sexism, and losing their original language in a light, entertaining, and touching way. This is Tiffany Hunter’s story and she’s no shrinking violet. Feisty and strong, opinionated, but willing to learn, Tiffany forms a dangerous relationship with a terrifying vampire who comes to the reserve, and ends up teaching her about her people in the present and in the past in a way that no school teacher could. Tiffany learns that her own strength and sense of humour just might help her conquer suicidal despair and make some exciting life decisions. (submitted by LJ)

A young adult novel and provides a twist by creating characters and a storyline that is part vampire tale as well as a coming of age novel. Teenager Tiffany Hunter is a disgruntled high school student who lives with her dysfunctional family on a small Ojibwe reserve. Otter Lake is her home and living at her house are her father and his mother. Grandmother is caring and wise and holds the family together after Tiffany's mother left her family for another man.

Highlights the importance of storytelling in within the Native traditional cultures. Stories can be entertaining as well as teaching tools.

Motorcycles and Sweetgrass
& the trilogy
Someday
Only Drunks and Children Tell the Truth
400 Kilometres

all take place in Ottawa lake