Brian Thomas Isaac reveals new novel echoes personal experiences

Brian Thomas Isaac, an accomplished Syilx writer, has recently released his second novel, Bones of a Giant, following the success of his first book, All the Quiet Places. This new book delves into the life of Lewis Toma, the brother of Eddie, whose mysterious disappearance captivated readers in the debut novel.

Set in the summer of 1968, Bones of a Giant introduces us to 16-year-old Lewis Toma, who finds himself spending the summer with his cousins while his mother is away picking fruit in the United States. This summer is full of new experiences for Lewis, from enjoying modern conveniences like hot showers to indulging in beer, greasy chicken, and rock ‘n’ roll music. All this takes place against the backdrop of Eddie’s disappearance two years earlier.

Isaac’s personal experiences growing up on the Okanagan Indian Reserve deeply influenced the themes and setting of Bones of a Giant. He shares how he, his mother, and grandmother lived an isolated life, with minimal human interaction. “There was nobody up there. Nobody. We lived in a house with basically the whole world to ourselves. It was lonely, but then we got used to it,” Isaac recalls.

The author’s reflections on his own life, from feeling terrified when he first had to go to school to his decision to leave education in Grade 8 due to racism, all seep into the narrative of Bones of a Giant. Isaac’s journey took him on various paths, including working as a labourer and spending time in northern Alberta’s oil patch before ultimately returning to his community in the Okanagan.

It wasn’t until he turned 70 that Isaac decided to pursue writing. Initially drawn to poetry, he later found himself engrossed in writing a novel while working on his home. Despite his lack of formal training, Isaac dedicated himself to reading and learning from the best books he could find, resulting in the completion of his first novel, All the Quiet Places. His latest work, Bones of a Giant, proved to be a more enjoyable writing experience for Isaac, as he and his wife engaged in lively discussions and readings every Friday evening.

In his writing, Isaac aims to dispel stereotypes and humanize First Nations people, emphasizing their common humanity. “We all have pains and we all have tears. I really wanted people to experience what it’s like to walk right beside someone, to walk them through the whole book,” he explains.

Bones of a Giant is now available in bookstores and libraries, offering readers a chance to immerse themselves in a compelling narrative that draws from Isaac’s lived experiences and resonates with themes of loss, family, and personal growth. Isaac’s unique blend of storytelling and personal insight promises an engaging and thought-provoking read for all who delve into his latest work.