The Windshift Line: A Father and Daughter's Story

by Rita Moir

In this beautifully written and deeply moving book, Rita Moir draws strength from her father's words as she deals with a relationship with an abusive man, the challenges of living on her own in the country, and the disappointment of another thwarted romance. In turn, she offers the same strength to her father when he must confront his own illness, loss of memory, and death. Through these experiences, Moir faces the reality of death and encounters her windshift line--the boundary where opposing forces collide, twist and swirl--and she comes out on top. In the end, she transforms loneliness, fear, and loss into life-affirming power and renewal.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1553650891
• ISBN13: 9781553650898
• Release Date: August 2005
• Publisher: Greystone Books
• Length: 196 Pages
• Weight: 0.55 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.3" x 7.8"

Customer Reviews

Almost like reading poetry

A friend gave me Rita's book and recommended I read it. I loved it! The lyrical way she writes makes the book flow as if one is reading a poem dedicated to both her dad and her dog, Connor. I could not put it down. It is a beautifully written book that I will likely buy for my own library so I can read it again.

So, young lady...

Windshift chronicles growth of observant understanding. The narrator's friends prepare for events and practice without the competitive overpowering presence of boys. They learn to use their heads. They learn about voice---not just physical voice, but presence, the ability to stand up and deliver, to take risks. They learn ways to answer the frequent question: "So, young lady, what have you done today to justify your existence". And they know that every dream of violence is a warning. It is a book of discovery.

The Windshift Line

I couldn't put it down. Rita Moir's descriptive and moving account of her life in rural Canada as a single woman made me feel as if I were accompanying her on this journey. She is a gifted writer with an ability to express her deepest emotions, yet maintain a vein of humor and logic. I look forward to reading more of her works.

Family and Friends

The Windshift Line takes us on a single woman's journey into her fears, her identity, her relationship with family, death and loss. It portrays a loving and strong family, and the roles people play within the family. It speaks to the value of community, of the natural world, of the bond with animals and the openness to love and express joy. It is beautifully written, lyrical.