We are back with our first issue of 2020. In it, our core review team looks at four novels. The first, The Far Himalaya by Phillip Ernest is a fascinating tale of homelessness, erudition and love, all most likely inspired by the author's own experience. The second, Things Worth Burying by Matt Mayr resurrects the fine tradition of the northern Canadian novel, this time written from a Steinbeckian working-class perspective. The third, Empire of Wild by Cherie Dimaline delves into the world of mythic fiction from a Canadian Indigenous viewpoint. And finally, The Teardown by David Homel is a skillfully crafted study in absence for a rather niche audience. As always, we hope you enjoy reading ORB's very cool insights during our beautiful February weather.