Alumni Book Nook: Rhea Good (BEd’94, BA’01)
Rhea Good’s latest book, "What Would Alice Do?", focuses on the life of her grandmother
University of Saskatchewan (USask) graduate Rhea Good earned a Bachelor of Education degree from the College of Education in 1994 and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the College of Arts and Science in 2001. She was employed as a full-time teacher for 24 years before transitioning to substitute teacher work six years ago.
Good was born in Fort St. John, B.C., and moved to Saskatchewan at the age of four. She was raised in North Battleford, Sask., and now lives in Battleford, Sask., where she continues to write. She released her latest book, What Would Alice Do?, on April 6, 2024. It follows Bottle of Grain (2020) and Incremental (2021).
What is the focus of your new book, "What Would Alice Do?"
The book is about the life of my grandmother, Alice Kowalsky (1920-2021). The story knits together seven generations of history with humorous, solemn, and inspiring anecdotes.
What inspired you to write this book?
When my grandmother passed away, I was afraid I would forget the stories. I also want my grandchildren to acknowledge their inheritance.
Why would you recommend your book to USask alumni?
This is the story of a first-generation Canadian who grew up in a log house with no running water or electricity. Many alumni will make connections with their own family history.
Did your education at USask play a role in researching and/or writing this book?
I am grateful for my years at (USask). I have always loved libraries and the potential they contain.
What are five adjectives that you would use to describe your book?
Inspiring, historical, funny, hopeful, and wise.
What do you enjoy about writing?
Books have been very important to me in my life, and I have learned so much from stories. For me, every story is a parable and I appreciate all the kernels of wisdom therein. I enjoy writing because I have a fear of forgetting the stories or the stories not being shared. When I have the story written down, I have a sense of relief that I have fulfilled a moral responsibility to record and share the story.
What is your advice for other people who may be interested in writing their first book?
Do not hesitate. Start the project as soon as possible because it will take longer than expected. When I wrote two illustrated children’s books there was a lot of “hurry up and wait” time as I communicated with the illustrator. After many edits, the illustrations and the text were complementary. In my latest book, What Would Alice Do?, the editing process required months away from the text because I knew it too well and I was missing mistakes. Creating a book is very satisfying and I encourage everyone to follow their gut instinct as they gestate the project. I chose to self-publish with KDP publishing through Amazon. I would recommend this route because no start-up capital is required.