Linda Spalding

Linda Spalding is a Canadian novelist and literary editor who has garnered acclaim for her works of fiction and non-fiction. Born in Kansas in 1943, she later immigrated to Canada and became a prominent figure in the Canadian literary scene. Her most recognized work is "The Purchase" (2012), which won the Governor General's Literary Award for Fiction. The novel explores themes of slavery and moral compromise through the story of a Quaker family in late 18th-century Virginia. Spalding has written several other notable books including "Who Named the Knife" (2007), "The Follow" (1999), and "A Dark Place in the Jungle" (1998). Her work often deals with historical themes and moral complexities, frequently incorporating elements of memoir and personal experience. She served as editor of Brick magazine, a literary journal, and has taught writing at various institutions. Spalding is married to novelist Michael Ondaatje, with whom she has collaborated on literary projects.

Readers appreciate Spalding's careful historical research and ability to bring 18th/19th century settings to life, particularly in "The Purchase" and "A Reckoning." Many note her thoughtful handling of complex moral issues around slavery and Quaker faith. Common praise focuses on her descriptive prose and character development. Multiple reviewers mention getting emotionally invested in the family dynamics she portrays. On Goodreads, one reader called "The Purchase" "a haunting exploration of how good intentions can lead to devastating choices." Critics say her pacing can be slow and that some sections feel overwritten. Several reviews mention difficulty connecting with certain characters or following multiple narrative threads. Goodreads ratings: The Purchase: 3.7/5 (2,100+ ratings) A Reckoning: 3.8/5 (300+ ratings) The Paper Wife: 3.5/5 (100+ ratings) Amazon ratings average 4/5 stars across her works, with "The Purchase" receiving the most reviews at 150+.

The Purchase (2012) In 1798, a Quaker man buys a slave at auction, setting off a chain of moral conflicts and family tensions in the American frontier.

Who Named the Knife (2007) A true account of the author's experience as a juror in a murder trial and her subsequent correspondence with the convicted woman.

Daughters of Captain Cook (1989) Set in Hawaii, this novel follows a researcher studying birds while uncovering family secrets and historical connections to Captain Cook's voyage.

The Paper Wife (1996) A woman travels to Hawaii in search of her missing husband and becomes entangled in local culture and personal discoveries.

A Dark Place in the Jungle (1999) A non-fiction account of the author's journey through Borneo while following the work of orangutan researcher Biruté Galdikas.

The Follow (1998) The story of a filmmaker who travels to Borneo to make a documentary about orangutans and becomes involved in environmental and personal conflicts.

Riska (1979) A novel about a young woman's journey of self-discovery through Indonesia and her encounters with local cultures.