Miss Hobbema Pageant

It's the funniest compilation of short stories I have ever read. Anyone familiar with life on the Reserves or Hobbema or just interested in life in Alberta as a Native Indian will find this amusing. Heck anyone with a heartbeat will find it amusing!

My first exposure to these "Silas Stories" was through the book (and the film) "Dance Me Outside", which is still a very strong piece of Canadian literature ( & film). I have since been snapping up every "Ermineskin" work that Kinsella produces. "Miss Hobbema Pageant" continues the adventures of our favourite characters, Silas and Frank. I guarantee that you will laugh your way through the tale of Frank's entry as a Miss Hobbema contestant! The other stories, as always, range from thoughtful to hilarious. I only hope that Kinsella never runs out of stories to tell!

I tried to read Shoeless Joe without much success and had long stayed away from Kinsella's books. Desperate for a good read, I stumbled upon this gem. I must admit, the title grabbled my attention and when I opened up the book, I stumbled upon the narrator telling the story of how his girlfriend walked in upon one of his practical jokes and was bathed in motor oil, I figured that the book ought to be interesting. It is a collection of short stories set on the Ermineskin Reserve outside of Hobbema, Alberta. I recall reading the book late into the night, giggling at some funny situations related in the stories. I am proud to say that I have since revised my preconceived notions of Kinsella's work and will be looking forward to reading his other works.