The Barren Grounds

David A. Robertson has written such a fine, beautiful novel. He manages to combine hard truths about our history with a Narnia-like fantasy, sweeping us into the world of the story while opening our hearts as well. --Susin Nielsen, author of We Are All Made of Molecules and No Fixed Address

This middle-grade fantasy deftly and compellingly centers Indigenous culture. --STARRED REVIEW, Kirkus Reviews

"This is a book that is rich in its characterization, evocative in its descriptions, and skillful in its weaving together of traditions of the past and life in the present." --CM Magazine

"[T]he treatment of Cree culture resonates, and the engaging characters and folklore ensure readers will look forward to the next installment." --Publishers Weekly

"Reminiscent of C.S. Lewis's Narnia stories, this fantasy is very much its own tale of ruptured Indigenous culture, of environmental reciprocity and care." --Toronto Star

"The Barren Grounds has a strong message about living with the earth and not taking more than you need." --Toronto Public Library