"It's an important book." More feedback on Goodbye Buffalo Bay by Larry Loyie

From: Joanne Schwartz, children’s librarian, Lillian H. Smith Library, Toronto

“I want to tell you how much I love Goodbye Buffalo Bay. I was so moved by the book. The writing is superb -- simple and compelling with such a strong, dignified voice. Larry's character and experiences build to a rich ending that resonates long after the book is closed. To write about such a difficult topic for a young audience can be tricky and you found the perfect tenor. It's an important book. I'm just so impressed and will recommend it to many teachers and kids.”


From: Eleanor Kelly, retired, former head librarian, Carnegie Community Centre, Vancouver, BC

“Am browsing through your book. Love the detail of the boy’s lives and the occasional bits of humour. It’s a wonderful document for kids and I hope it’s one day made into a movie. Really took me right into the school, and though I have known many former residents, I really had no idea of the petty cruelty and how the children were so afraid of the big, black cloaked nuns and priests. Another winner!”

From: Brian Isaac, author, South Okanagan Indian Band, Kelowna, BC

“My wife and I have just finished your book ‘Goodbye Buffalo Bay.’ We didn’t know what to expect from a book written for school age children, but we both really enjoyed it, especially the way you captured the feelings of the young people, which to some writers, isn’t that easy to do. Your descriptions of nature and a life lived outdoors reminded me of my youth. There was a certain peacefulness about the book, despite the harsh treatment in the residential school. Nicely wrapped up with Lawrence’s first kiss and his dreams of traveling.”

From: Taeko who lives in Japan
“Thank you!! for the book, and I was very happy when I found your hand-writing message in the book. It's not a big picture book, so I can carry it in my bag. I read it on train to/from my working place and at lunch time. I finished up to Chapter 6. There's some words I don't know but I read it through and enjoy it. I can pick dictionary after I finish reading. I was thinking it could be some harsh scenes in the book but it doesn't appear so far. Each time I turn the page, I'm a little scared as it could be shown on new page. I don't like to read harsh scene, but you have to face it when it's a reality.”