February | CBC Books - Action News
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February

Lisa Moore's novel won Canada Reads in 2013.

Lisa Moore

Book cover for February by Lisa Moore.

Lisa Moore's novelFebruaryis based on a real-life incident: the tragic sinking of the Ocean Ranger oil rig off the coast of Newfoundland on Valentine's Day in 1982, with the loss of all 84 aboard. A powerful portrait of grief and the difficulty of moving on, it's the story of Helen O'Mara, a woman shattered by the death of her husband, Cal, who was one of the crew members.

Februaryis set25 years after the tragedy, but Moore shifts the action back and forth in time to offer snapshots of important moments in Helen's life, from meeting Cal, the love of her life, in the 1970s, to the day of the tragedy, and to her present-day life as a grandmother of two.

Februarywon Canada Reads 2013. It was defended by comedian Trent McClellan.

From the book

Helen watches as the man touches the skate blade to the sharpener. There is a stainless steel cone to catch the spray of orange sparks that fly up. A deep grinding noise grows shrill and she thinks: Johnny is coming home.


From February by Lisa Moore 2009. Published by House of Anansi.

Interviews

Canada Reads 2013: "February" author Lisa Moore on Canada Reads

12 years ago
Duration 2:44
The author of February discusses CBC's battle of the books.
Lisa Moore on "February"
The Newfoundland writer, whose most recent book is the YA novel "Flannery," shares her favourite fictional character, her greatest fear and more.

Other books by Lisa Moore