Lytton: Climate Change, Colonialism and Life Before the Fire is a fascinating read about Lytton, British Columbia, which was razed to the ground by wildfires in 2021. I went into the book expecting the story of the town before and after the fire — and I got that, but I also got a whole lot more.

As well as the history of Lytton, and a thought-provoking look at climate change and wildfires, this book also unflinchingly touches on the relationship between the First Nations peoples and both British and American settlers, the impact of the residential school system, and how all of that feeds into the Lytton that we know today. The history is interspersed with anecdotes and reflections from residents, which adds depth and emotional punch. This was a really interesting read which will stay with me for some time.

I received an e-ARC from the publisher, Penguin Random House Canada, through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.