The Berry Pickers A Novel By Amanda Peters
"The Berry Pickers" is a poignant debut novel that delves into the haunting mystery surrounding the disappearance of four-year-old Ruthie, a Mi’kmaq girl, from the blueberry fields of Maine in 1962. As the family grapples with the loss, the story unfolds over nearly fifty years, exploring the lasting impact on Ruthie's brother, Joe, and the ripple effects on those left behind.
Meanwhile, in Maine, Norma, the only child of an affluent family, grows up surrounded by secrets and recurring dreams that hint at hidden truths. Determined to uncover the mystery shrouding her past, Norma embarks on a journey spanning decades to unearth the long-buried family secret.
With echoes of "The Vanishing Half" and "Woman of Light," this riveting novel tackles themes of love, race, trauma, and the resilience of the human spirit. Through vibrant storytelling and compelling characters, author Peters sheds light on the enduring legacy of Indigenous family separation and the quest for truth in the face of adversity.
"The Berry Pickers" is not only a gripping tale of suspense and revelation but also a testament to the strength of love and the resilience of the human spirit across generations. Peters' debut heralds the arrival of a vibrant new voice in fiction, offering readers a powerful exploration of identity, loss, and the search for belonging.