In July 1962, a Mi'kmaq family travels to Maine to pick blueberries for the summer when four-year-old Ruthie disappears one day after lunch. For decades, Ruthie's disappearance haunts her family, especially her six-year-old brother Joe who was the last to see her. Meanwhile, Norma grows up as the only child to an overbearingly protective affluent white couple. Although she dreams of another life and another mother, she takes decades to trust her instincts and uncover her family's secret.

I can't believe I didn't read this gorgeous novel last year. The Berry Pickers alternates between a dying Joe reminiscing about his life and Norma as she grows up. Though I took longer to get into Joe's chapters, both were incredibly powerful stories describing the impact of Ruthie's kidnapping on both Norma and her family. If you are looking for a book club pick, I would highly recommend this emotionally charged family drama.