Emma FitzGerald takes readers on a fickle artistic journey along the coast of Nova Scotia in her book Sketch by Sketch Along Nova Scotia’s South Shore published by Formac Books. Through her signature and enchanting storytelling, FitzGerald writes the ultimate love letter to the coastal life. She captures the ethos of seaside towns, historic landmarks, and salt-weathered snacks.

I finished reading this book on my flight to Florida; even though the plane was heading south, I was still sailing on Nova Scotia’s coastline. With FitzGerald’s sketches, each page felt like a postcard. It is truly one of the most beautiful art I have seen in books. 🥹

Each city isn’t just being reported through the pages of this book no, it feels as if FitzGerald invites you for a cup of tea at a cozy seaside café. The book is an informal get-together between a journal and a sketchbook. No matter where you are reading, this book is the ultimate escape. Trust me when I tell you that you will want to pack your bags and head to Nova Scotia immediately. Why wouldn’t you? You already have all the insider travel tips and the perfect anecdotes to convince you. 🧳

Can we all take a moment to appreciate the aesthetic? It gives “coastal grandmother” on an art trip, with “I summer in Long Island” vibes. And I love every single moment of it. Because, you aren’t just reading the book, you are also living in it. 🌊🐚

The final verdict? Well, there’s no doubt that Sketch by Sketch Along Nova Scotia’s South Shore is a five-star book ⭐️. When you get to the last page, you won’t have just read about Nova Scotia–you will have felt it. Its essence still lingers in my mind like the ocean’s perfume; time moves at a tide’s pace as each wave tells a story. Whether you are reading this book 50,000 feet in the air or in the comfort of your bed, this book will sweep you off your feet, and isn’t that what a five-star book does?

Annaka
By: Andre Fenton
Annaka is a 17 year old girl who has been living with her mom in Halifax. They moved from Yarmouth when she was 10 years old. Upon arriving in Halifax Annaka started going by Anna as she did not like her name. Anna missed her grandparents, who they stayed with when they lived in Yarmouth. Anna always wished to go and visit them but her mom had said she was always too busy. One day at school Anna gets a call from her mom saying that her Grampy passed away. Soon they were off to Yarmouth, Anna wanted this day for so long but not like this! Her Grampy isn’t there and she is afraid that her Nan will not remember her as she has Alzheimer’s. Once she arrives it isn’t long before she runs into Clay, her not so imaginary friend. Anna discovers that Clay has not only been waiting for her to come back, but can also take her back to memories that Anna wrote about in her journal. Anna soon starts to realize she has multiple questions that she wants answers too and Clay has the ability to help! Will Anna be able to find the answers she needs while keeping her best friend safe?
I liked this book. It had lots of fun moments while keeping the seriousness of the story line. It was relatable as I have lost a few grandparents as well. I did have a few cries while reading this book. I enjoyed Anna’s friend Tia. I thought she was a great character as she is silly and supportive. I rate this book a 4/5.

​

This was such a cute and heartwarming YA romance but it was so much more than that. This book focused on topics such as eating disorders, racism, university struggles and other social justice issues that packed a powerful punch. I loved all the characters so much and they were very well written.

​