Book Review: The Cube People and Cube Squared

The Cube People and Cube Squared are two books by Ottawa author Christian McPherson. The books follow main character Colin MacDonald as he navigates working for the Federal Government in Ottawa, relationships, and the deep desire to be an author. These books are well-written and a must-read for anyone working in the government or in a cubicle.

Pin

The author’s descriptions of work in the Federal Government are so spot on I was constantly reminded of situations from when I was working. I cringed at times when Colin had issues with his coworkers or his boss, and especially loved when he and his coworkers were expected to wear funny hats to increase employee morale. This never happened at my work, but it’s so off the wall yet typical that it might as well have.

But cubicle life isn’t the only thing covered in these novels, Colin struggles with wanting to be an author but being stuck in a job he doesn’t particularly like. I think everyone can relate. And then there are the trips to the fertility doctor as Colin and his wife struggle with infertility. Not everyone has these challenges, but chances are you know someone who does. The couple goes on to have children and the focus then changes to the repetitive and mundane parts of parenting. I’m sure everyone reading this post can relate to that!

McPherson has a way with words and describes life in Ottawa exactly, even mentioning a lot of places downtown. It’s nice recognizing places in novels and what’s nicer is supporting local authors. What’s better than reading two great books from a local author? Have you heard of Christian McPherson or read these books? What did you think?