Empire of Wild

Empire of Wild, written by Cherie Dimaline, is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of identity, community, and indigenous culture. The audiobook, narrated by Michelle St. John, is a powerful and immersive experience that brings the story to life in a unique and compelling way.

The novel follows the story of Joan, a Métis woman living in a small town in Ontario. Joan's life is turned upside down when her husband, Victor, goes missing while on a hunting trip. Despite a massive search effort, no trace of Victor is found, and Joan is forced to come to terms with the possibility that he may be dead.

One year later, Joan is working at a local diner when she sees a man who looks exactly like Victor. But when she confronts him, he denies knowing her and disappears before she can get any answers. Determined to uncover the truth, Joan sets out on a journey that takes her deep into the heart of her community's history and beliefs.

Michelle St. John's narration is a highlight of the Empire of Wild audiobook. Her voice is rich and expressive, and she does an excellent job of capturing the nuances of each character's personality and emotions. She also brings a sense of authenticity to the story, as she is herself an indigenous actress and musician.

One of the most striking aspects of Empire of Wild is its exploration of indigenous culture and mythology. Cherie Dimaline draws on traditional Métis and Anishinaabe stories to create a world that is both familiar and mysterious. The supernatural elements of the story are woven seamlessly into the narrative, creating a sense of magic and wonder that is both captivating and unsettling.

At its core, Empire of Wild is a story about the struggle to find one's place in the world. Joan is a complex and compelling protagonist, grappling with questions of identity and belonging. Her journey is both personal and universal, as she confronts the legacy of colonization and the ongoing struggles faced by indigenous communities in Canada and beyond.

Another strength of Empire of Wild is its exploration of family dynamics and relationships. The novel delves deep into the complexities of marriage, parenthood, and siblinghood, exploring the ways in which these relationships can both support and challenge us. Through Joan's interactions with her family members, Dimaline paints a nuanced and realistic portrait of the joys and struggles of family life.

Overall, Empire of Wild is a powerful and resonant novel that is well-suited to the audiobook format. Michelle St. John's narration adds an extra layer of depth to the story, bringing the characters and their world to life in a way that is both immersive and engaging. With its blend of supernatural elements, indigenous culture, and family drama, this is a novel that will stay with listeners long after the final chapter.