Book review: Money isn’t everything

This is an emotional story about a group of homeless people – one woman and four men –who form a bond to survive on the street. Facing the possibility of freezing to death during an Arctic cold front, they discover refuge inside a movie theatre and become enchanted with the comfort and escape of films.

There they unexpectedly meet a lonely and lost man who ultimately becomes a pivotal person in their lives when they discover a winning lottery ticket. Digger finds the ticket in a discarded package of cigarettes. His loyalty to his friends is so great that he does not hesitate to share it, making them all instant millionaires.

While the money changes their life circumstances, it does not change what’s in their hearts and memories. Although finding their way home presents each of them with unique challenges, despite their difficulties they ultimately grow closer.

Readers will discover tangible life lessons within each character’s perspective.

Wagamese uses descriptive narrative that is insightful, realistic and poetic. Legends and traditional teachings are intricately interwoven throughout this poignant story.

Intelligent. Compassionate. Creative.

“Ragged Company”by Richard Wagamese. Anchor Canada. Paperback. 376 pages. ISBN 978-0-385-25694-0. Released October 6, 2009.

– Reviewed by Laura Dokis