Wayne Johnston

Wayne Johnston is a Canadian author known for his novels set in Newfoundland, including 'The Colony of Unrequited Dreams' and 'The Custodian of Paradise'. His works often explore themes of history, identity, and the human condition.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Colony Of Unrequited Dreams

    Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Newfoundland, this historical novel weaves a rich tapestry of ambition, love, and political intrigue. It follows the life of Joey Smallwood, a determined and often conflicted character who rises from humble beginnings to become a pivotal figure in Newfoundland's journey to confederation with Canada. Intertwined with Joey's story is his complex relationship with Sheilagh Fielding, a sharp-witted journalist whose own struggles and aspirations mirror the tumultuous changes in their homeland. Through vivid storytelling, the narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the relentless pursuit of dreams in a land as rugged and unforgiving as its people.

    The 6171st Greatest Book of All Time
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  2. 2. The Story Of Bobby O'malley

    Set in the small town of Ferryland, Newfoundland, this coming-of-age tale follows the life of a young boy navigating the complexities of adolescence amidst the backdrop of a tight-knit community. Through a series of poignant and often humorous vignettes, the protagonist grapples with familial expectations, budding friendships, and the quest for identity. As he encounters the challenges and joys of growing up, he learns valuable lessons about resilience, love, and the importance of staying true to oneself.

    The 6578th Greatest Book of All Time
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  3. 3. The Divine Ryans

    Set in the vibrant yet insular world of 1960s Newfoundland, this poignant novel follows the life of young Draper Doyle Ryan as he navigates the complexities of family, faith, and self-discovery. Draper is caught in the web of his eccentric and devoutly Catholic family, the Ryans, who run a local newspaper and are steeped in tradition and secrecy. As Draper grapples with the mysterious death of his father, he embarks on a journey of uncovering hidden truths, confronting his own fears, and ultimately finding his place within the family and the world around him. Through humor and heartache, the story explores themes of identity, loss, and the enduring power of love and resilience.

    The 7040th Greatest Book of All Time
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  4. 4. Baltimore's Mansion

    A Memoir

    Set against the backdrop of Newfoundland's rugged landscape, this poignant memoir delves into the intricate dynamics of a father-son relationship, exploring themes of identity, legacy, and belonging. Through vivid storytelling, the narrative weaves together the personal histories of three generations, capturing the struggles and triumphs of a family deeply rooted in their homeland. As the protagonist grapples with his father's expectations and the weight of familial duty, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, ultimately seeking to understand his place within the tapestry of his heritage.

    The 8418th Greatest Book of All Time
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  5. 5. The Navigator Of New York

    Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, this novel follows the journey of Devlin Stead, a young man from Newfoundland who becomes entangled in the thrilling race to reach the North Pole. As he navigates the bustling streets of New York City, Devlin uncovers secrets about his past and the enigmatic explorer Dr. Frederick Cook, who claims to have been the first to conquer the Arctic frontier. The story weaves together themes of ambition, identity, and the relentless pursuit of truth, all while exploring the complexities of human relationships and the allure of uncharted territories.

    The 8842nd Greatest Book of All Time
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  6. 6. The Custodian Of Paradise

    Set against the rugged backdrop of Newfoundland, this novel follows the life of Sheilagh Fielding, a fiercely independent and enigmatic woman who grapples with her past and the secrets that haunt her. As she retreats to a remote island to escape the shadows of her family history, she becomes the custodian of her own narrative, piecing together the fragments of her life with wit and resilience. Through a tapestry of memories and encounters, the story explores themes of identity, isolation, and the enduring quest for redemption in a world marked by both beauty and harshness.

    The 9792nd Greatest Book of All Time
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