Heather Smith Wins Governor General’s Literary Award for “Tig”

Waterloo author Heather Smith has been awarded the prestigious Governor General’s Literary Award for her novel Tig. This recognition highlights her talent and dedication to storytelling, particularly in the realm of young people’s literature.

Overcoming Challenges to Achieve Success

Smith’s journey to becoming an author was not without its challenges. Growing up, she struggled with a speech impediment and was a reluctant reader, which led her to doubt her academic abilities. Despite these hurdles, she has successfully carved out a place for herself in the literary world, culminating in this significant accolade announced in March 2024.

Tig tells the poignant story of a girl named Tig and her brother Peter, who are taken in by their uncle and his partner after enduring months of living without their parents. The narrative explores themes of trauma, family, resilience, and the profound need for love and trust. In an interview with Craig Norris on CBC Kitchener-Waterloo’s The Morning Edition, Smith shared her thoughts on winning the award and the inspiration behind her work.

Connecting with Readers Through Authentic Storytelling

Reflecting on the moment she learned of her award, Smith described waking up to a flurry of congratulatory messages on her phone. “I was half asleep and it wasn’t the first thing I thought of,” she recalled. “Then it struck me.” The award signifies more than just recognition; it validates the connection her work has made with readers.

“As a writer, you spend a lot of time alone… the only way you know that your book is reaching people is when it wins awards like this,” Smith stated.

In Tig, the protagonist’s journey is a mirror to Smith’s own experiences. She noted that the story was inspired by real-life events, particularly influenced by a school friend of her daughter’s who shared her struggles with abandonment. Smith has always embraced darker themes in her writing, believing that audiences are capable of handling complex and serious subjects.

“I think it respects the readers to go into deeper places and not shield them from things,” Smith explained. “Our readers are more resilient than we think they are.”

The message of Tig resonates with hope and perseverance. Smith conveyed that it encourages readers not to give up on themselves, emphasizing that support is often available even in the toughest times. “There are going to be hard times, and there often is a light at the end of the tunnel,” she stated.

Writing Tig also served as a personal journey for Smith, revealing insights about her own capabilities. She mentioned that the novel taught her to take risks with her writing and highlighted her own insecurities. “There’s a little bit of me in Tig,” she said, reflecting on her character’s intelligence and her own past struggles with self-doubt.

As Smith continues to inspire young readers with her storytelling, her recognition at the Governor General’s Literary Award serves as a reminder of the power of literature to heal and connect. The award not only honors her achievements but also brings attention to the importance of addressing complex issues through storytelling.