Arun Budhathoki’s new poetry book explores migration and identity

Canada-based Nepalese poet Arun Budhathoki has released a new poetry collection titled And I Blamed Canadian Winter Again: Poems East & West, marking his return to poetry after almost ten years.

Published by Nirala Publications, the 96-page book explores themes of migration, identity, and belonging, drawing from Budhathoki’s life between the snowy landscapes of New Brunswick, Canada, and his Himalayan roots in Nepal.

“This book is not just a return to poetry,” Budhathoki said. “It is a testament to the enduring power of words to illuminate, comfort, and transcend borders.”

The collection has received praise from literary figures worldwide. Himalayan poet Yuyutsu RD Sharma described it as “a poetic journey across borders, weaving together the complexities of belonging and displacement.” Indian poet Ashwani Kumar called it “a captivating fusion of dialogic revelations… simultaneously haunting and healing.”

Budhathoki, who previously published Prisoner of an iPad in 2014, is also known for his journalism and translations. His work has appeared in international outlets including Vice, The Guardian, and The Financial Times. He also translated Shramatan: A Nepalese Migrant Worker’s Memoir by BN Joshi into English.

The book is available in paperback via Amazon in the USA, Canada, and India, and can also be ordered by libraries and bookstores through Itasca Book Distribution in Minneapolis, USA.