The Other Sister.

Sheila Martindale is poetry editor of Canadian Author and Bookman and
author of No Greater Love, her sixth collection of poetry.

This novel is beautifully written, riveting to read, and handles difficult topics with sensitivity and grace. Julia Brannon is in her 90s, and, at the urging of her granddaughter, is jotting down her thoughts and memories. The author leads us through the events of Julia’s life, keeping up a wonderful tension until the final stunning revelation. Our protagonist is also feisty, with a sharp mind and a ready wit—we admire her more and more as we get to know her. The main themes in the book are the special relationship between twins and the terrifying things happening in Europe during the Second World War, though the story is actually set in Toronto. Family dynamics are examined, particularly those between Julia and her twin sister as they grow up and assume their own individuality. Very powerful are the memories of Julia’s new friend Lena as she recalls in excruciating detail the time she and her twin sister spent in a concentration camp. The characters are well defined and developed, and the personal and global histories are intertwined in the most engaging manner. The writer’s skill is in the gradual hinting of what has happened, as she slowly provides innuendos and small details, allowing us to piece the story together in a deliciously tantalizing way. This cogent tale will make you want to explore other writing by this wonderful storyteller.