Heather Ramsay, a former reporter and freelance journalist with deep ties to Haida Gwaii, has released her debut novel, A Room in the Forest, and is undertaking a spring and summer tour across British Columbia and Alberta to promote her work.
Published by Caitlin Press in March 2025, Ramsay’s coming-of-age novel follows 19-year-old Lily as she leaves a confined life in a small-town Alberta furniture store to take a job in the ancient forests of Haida Gwaii. The story explores themes of identity, belonging, and the challenges of personal discovery against the stunning natural backdrop of the islands.
Lily’s journey takes an unexpected turn when she encounters a group of tree planters who challenge her perspectives about the land and the narratives she has carried with her, sparking a transformative experience in the wilderness.
Ramsay’s novel reflects her intimate connection to the landscapes she has lived in. After spending a decade in Haida Gwaii and seven years in Wet’suwet’en territory, Ramsay now lives in the unceded Ts’elxwéyeqw territory of Chilliwack, BC. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia, and her work has been featured in notable publications such as The Fiddlehead, The Antigonish Review, Numero Cinq, and Canadian Geographic. She is also a co-author of two books for the Haida Gwaii Museum.
Upcoming Tour Dates and Events
Ramsay’s book tour will include readings and appearances in several communities across British Columbia and Alberta, including:
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May 15 – Masset Playhouse, Haida Gwaii (7 p.m.)
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May 20 – Sidekick Brewing, Chilliwack (with Taryn Hubbard) (7 p.m.)
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June 11 – Caffé Fantastico, Victoria (7 p.m.)
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July 8 – Abbotsford Community Library (with Al Rempel and Connie Braun) (6:30 p.m.)
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August 12 – Shelf Life Books, Calgary (6:30 p.m.)
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August 28 – Quesnel Public Library (with Emma Jarrett) (6:30 p.m.)
Additionally, Ramsay will join a northern B.C. author tour alongside Al Rempel, Adrienne Fitzpatrick, Daniela Elza, and Leanne Boschman at the following venues:
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August 16 – Omineca Centre, Prince George (6:30 p.m.)
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August 19 – Smithers Public Library (6:30 p.m.)
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August 21 – Terrace Public Library (6:30 p.m.)
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August 22 – Port City Spirits, Prince Rupert (6:30 p.m.)
Copies of A Room in the Forest will be available at all tour stops and can be ordered through bookstores across Canada.
