BOOK NEWS
A Dram Come True
The Vancouver International Writers Festival presents the eighth annual Dram Come True Single Malt Scotch Whisky Tasting. Chat with experts while you enjoy a variety of delicious and distinguished single malts. Rare scotches available at auction include Members's Legacy Caperdonich 1967, a dram regarded as one of the most extraordinary batches of malt of all time. It rates 96 points in Jim Murray's Whisky Bible, an annual whisky book coveted by connoisseurs. Own this extra special treasure that you can't buy off the shelf. Details and photos from last year here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/dramcometrue
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for May 14: A lifetime subscription to Geist. Note: subscription is non-transferable and must be sent to a Canadian mailing address.
Special Event
Alexander McCall Smith
The Vancouver International Writers Festival and Random House Canada present the bestselling author of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency Series who will talk about his forthcoming book, The Charming Quirks of Others. Complete details on our website, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/specialevents.
Alexander McCall Smith aficionados may well be more thrilled by The Double Comfort Safari Club than was John Burns.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/still-lives-with-women/article1563320/
AWARDS & LISTS
Seth, one of Canada's best-known comic book artists, who appeared in our 2009 Festival, has been awarded the 2010 Doug Wright Award for Best Book for his graphic novel, George Sprott 1894-1975.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/05/09/comics-books-graphicnovels-dougwright.html
American writer Mary Robison is the latest winner of the Rea Award for the Short Story.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/05/11/robison-rea-award.html
Former union president Buzz Hargrove and economist Jeff Rubin are two of the shortlisted authors for the National Business Book Award.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/05/11/business-book-award-nominees.html
Amitav Ghosh and Margaret Atwood each received a David Dan Prize for literature this past week.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Amitav-Ghosh-wins-prestigious-Dan-David-Prize/articleshow/5866558.cms
The awards were accepted amidst political pressure on the writers.
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601088&sid=a3UDSV5teRIA
A reminder that the deadline for entries for the annual City of Vancouver Book Award is Wednesday, May 26, 2010.
http://www.allianceforarts.com/blog/news-nominations-open-city-vancouver-book-awards
NEWS & FEATURES
The threat of legal action has forced Vancouver-based Talonbooks to postpone publication of a book about the Canadian mining industry.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/05/12/barrick-gold-mining-book.html
The government is preparing a copyright bill which lawyer Michael Geist describes as "anti-consumer".
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/story/2010/05/05/copyright-reform-bill.html
"Book-crossers" have been transforming ordinary books into "appreciating assets".
http://www.pw.org/content/book_renewable_resource
As Britons deal with their most recent election, John Mullen identifies the ten best elections in literature.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/08/ten-best-elections-john-mullan
Books are routinely given new covers abroad, with a new cover for each territory, with puzzling results.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/2010/may/09/judge-book-by-cover
The former poet laureate Ted Hughes is back in favour, writes Robert McCrum in the Guardian.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/09/ted-hughes-robert-mccrum
BOOKS & WRITERS
A video of Safraz Manzoor's interview with Hanif Kureishi offers insights into writing of the experience of a Pakistani in then largely-white Britain. Kureishi's Collected Stories was published earlier this year.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/video/2010/may/05/hanif-kureishi
The Sunday Times (UK) has an extract from Barry Forshaw's The Man Who Left Too Soon, on Stieg Larsson and his Millennium Trilogy. Lisbeth Salander a grown-up Pippi Longstocking?
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/fiction/article7113874.ece
The Globe and Mail has an excerpt from the last book in the Trilogy.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/salanders-final-bow/article1560266/
This week's New Yorker includes Uncle Rock, a short story by Dagoberto Gilb.
http://www.newyorker.com/fiction/features/2010/05/10/100510fi_fiction_gilb?currentPage=all
David Mitchell wrote his first novel fourth. Now his fifth novel, The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet is receiving rave reviews. The Observer says it confirms David Mitchell as the most dazzling British novelist of his generation.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/09/thousand-autumns-jacob-zoet-mitchell
Elsewhere, David Mitchell writes of his path to becoming a writer, beginning with an encounter with a Xerox machine.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2010/may/09/david-mitchell-once-upon-life
The Guardian carries an essay on Tariq Ali: a life in writing.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/08/tariq-ali-life-in-writing
The Toronto Star features an excerpt from Marci McDonald's The Armageddon Factor which offers insights to issues raised in the run-up to the G8 meeting.
http://www.thestar.com/news/insight/article/806535--how-canada-s-christian-right-was-built
A world without translation would be comparable to living behind an "iron curtain," argues New Yorker Edith Grossman in her new book.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Gained+translation/2994503/story.html
"A page turner that sells lots of copies, gets great reviews and wins literary awards", a quote from the Australian Literary Review in the Sunday Times (UK) interview with Australian novelist Christos Tsiolkas on his novel The Slap.
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/article7117246.ece
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by David Derry, Jon Paul Fiorentino, and Matthew Hooton. Thursday, May 13 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
THE WRITERS' STUDIO READS
The SFU Writer's Studio presents an evening of readings from recent works of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. Thursday, May 13 at 7:00pm, free. Rhizome Cafe, 317 E. Broadway.
VENUS ON FIRE, MARS ON ICE
John Gray, author of Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus , discusses his new book Venus on Fire, Mars on Ice and essential elements of wellness, happiness, and passion. Friday, May 14 at 4:00pm. Chapters Robson, 788 Robson.
THE 500 YEARS OF RESISTANCE COMIC BOOK
Arsenal Pulp Press presents the launch of Gord Hill's The 500 Years of Resistance Comic Book with refreshments and music by Russell Wallace. Friday, May 14 at 6:00pm, free. Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre, 1607 E. Hastings. More information at www.arsenalpulp.com.
JACKIE TIMOTHY
Storytelling by the Vancouver Public Library's 2010 First Nations Storyteller-in-Residence Jackie Timothy. Saturday, May 15 at 11:00am, free. Hastings Branch, VPL (2674 E. Hastings). More information at www.vpl.ca.
CHOOSING TO SMILE
Book signing with authors and cancer survivors Julie Houlker, Michelle Rickaby, and Glenda Standeven. Saturday, May 15 at 1:00pm, free. Hemingway's New and Used Books, 33765 Essendene Ave., Abbotsford. More information at www.choosingtosmile.com.
PULSE
Launch of Lydia Kwa's new novel. Sunday, May 16 at 6:00pm, free. Rhizome Cafe, 317 East Broadway. More information at www.peoplescoopbookstore.com.
STORIES ABOUT GREED
Featuring storytelling by Doreen Giesbrecht, Tony Rainbow, Linda Stender, and Anne Stevenson. Sunday, May 16 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $7 and includes tea. St. Mark's Anglican Church (1805 Larch Street). More information at www.vancouverstorytellers.vcn.bc.ca.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The third writer in the series, Steven Galloway will read from and sign his works. Monday, May 17 at 7:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
TELLING TALES
Open mic community storytelling event featuring stories told in under 10 minutes. Monday, May 17 at 8:00pm. The New Bohemian, 3162 W. Broadway.
SPOKEN INK
Poetry and prose by Marni Norwich and Don Simpson, with open mic. Tuesday, May 18 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe (101-3701 East Hastings). More information at www.burnabywritersnews.blogspot.com.
SKAGIT RIVER POETRY FESTIVAL
Features three days of poetry performances, conversations, interviews, workshops, films, feasting, singing, strumming and storytelling in La Conner, Washington. May 20-22, 2010. For full details, visit www.skagitriverpoetry.org.
Upcoming
SUNSHINE COAST FESTIVAL OF THE WRITTEN ARTS
Tickets to the 28th Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts go on sale on Wednesday, May 26 at 8 am by telephone only at 1-800-565-9631 or 604-885-9631. Canada's longest-running celebration of Canadian writers takes place August 12-15 in the historic Rockwood Gardens in Sechelt, BC. Full details at www.writersfestival.ca.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Judy Fong Bates, author of the acclaimed novel Midnight at the Dragon Cafe, has written an absorbing and beautiful new memoir of her search to understand her parents - from their mysterious and conflicting stories of their lives in China, to the poverty-stricken reality of Judy's childhood growing up in rural Ontario. Come meet the author of The Year of Finding Memory in the intimate setting of CBC's Studio One on Wednesday May 26 at 6:30 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
DAVE MARGOSHES
Regina writer Dave Margoshes will be reading from his two new books of poetry, The Horse Knows the Way and Dimensions of an Orchard. Wednesday, May 26 at 7:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Brian Brett and Audrey Thomas. Thursday, May 27 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
WRITE ON VANCOUVER
The Greater Vancouver chapter of the Romance Writers of America hosts its annual conference. May 28-29, 2010. Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Richmond Campus, 8771 Lansdowne Road, Richmond. For complete details, visit their website http://www.rwagvc.com/wov2010/index.html.
SHUSWAP LAKE 2010 INTERNATIONAL WRITERS FESTIVAL
Enjoy a weekend of writing, readings, and inspiring connections. Many different genres will be offered. May 28-30, 2010. Salmon Arm, BC. For complete details, visit their website at www.saow.ca.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Anosh Irani has a new novel Dahanu Road and it's his most personal yet, inspired by his own family history. It's a love story full of tragedy and humour about three generations of the Irani clan, Zoroastrians who fled persecution in Iran and settled in Bombay. As with all of Anosh's writing, it will make you weep and laugh, and weep again because you're laughing so hard!. Come meet Anosh Irani in the intimated setting of CBC's Studio One on Monday May 31 at 6:30 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
WRITE ON BOWEN!
Early-bird registration is now being accepted for the 3rd annual Write on Bowen Festival for Writers and Readers. July 2-4, 2010. For the full Festival line-up and registration details, visit www.biac.ca/writersfestival.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Book News Vol. 5 No.21
BOOK NEWS
A Dram Come True
The Vancouver International Writers Festival presents the eighth annual Single Malt Scotch Whisky Sampling. Enjoy the superb, complex flavours of a variety of rare and distinguished single malts. Scotch experts will be on hand to enhance the experience. Rare malts and other select items will also be available at auction. Details and photos from last year here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/dramcometrue
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for May 14: A lifetime subscription to Geist. Note: subscription is non-transferable and must be sent to a Canadian mailing address.
Special Events
Peter Carey
Tickets are still available for our event featuring Peter Carey in conversation with Hal Wake at the Frederic Wood Theatre. Details here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/specialevents.
The Washington Post is thrilled that, in Parrot & Olivier in America, Peter Carey has, at last, through Alexis De Tocqueville, located a book in his adopted home.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/04/27/AR2010042704504.html
Peter Carey talks with the Georgia Straight about how a travelogue by a French aristocrat, written in 1835, finally enabled the transplanted Australian to write about America and address the dumbing-down of North American culture today.
http://www.straight.com/article-321084/vancouver/carey-travels-back-strange-new-world
Alexander McCall Smith
The Vancouver International Writers Festival and Random House Canada present the bestselling author of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency Series who will talk about his forthcoming book, The Charming Quirks of Others. Complete details on our website, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/specialevents.
Check out this interview in Macleans.
http://www2.macleans.ca/2010/04/29/macleans-interview-alexander-mccall-smith/
AWARDS & LISTS
Dalhousie University professor Brian Bow has won the $35,000 Donner Prize for his book A Thousand Dreams.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/29/donner-prize-winner.html#lxzz0mX86xzEb
Solar, by Ian McEwan, has been shortlisted for the Wodehouse comic novel prize.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/apr/27/ian-mcewan-wodehouse-comic-novel-prize
Many, including McEwan, are amused by this since he has said he hates comic novels.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/ian-mcewan-sees-funny-side-of--bollinger-everyman-wodehouse-prize-nomination-1955136.html
Louise Penny of Quebec has won the 2009 Agatha award for best novel for The Brutal Telling, her third Agatha in a row. Alan Bradley won for best first novel.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/louise-penny-wins-third-agatha-in-a-row/article1555132/
Will Ferguson has won his third Stephen Leacock Award for Humour.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/802704--will-ferguson-wins-leacock-medal-of-humour-for-third-time
Canadian photographer Edward Burtynsky's has won the And/or Book Award for photography.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/30/burtynsky-oil-photo-award.html
Debut novels by Jennifer Cowan and Anna Kerz have been nominated for the Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Children's Book Awards. Winners will be chosen by young readers.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/27/childrens-book-awards.html
The City of Vancouver invites publishers and authors to submit entries for the annual City of Vancouver Book Award. Deadline for entries is Wednesday, May 26, 2010. An independent panel of judges will choose the winner.
http://www.allianceforarts.com/blog/news-nominations-open-city-vancouver-book-awards
The Jewish Book Awards will honour Howard Engel with a Special Achievement Award as part of their ceremony honouring authors of books in a variety of categories.
http://www.kofflerarts.org/site_documents/Koffler_BookAwards_April27_10_FINAL.pdf
NEWS & FEATURES
"There’s nothing more interesting or more hopeful about America than its poetry" writes Charles Simic, as he reflects on what it meant to be Poet Laureate of the United States.
http://www.nybooks.com/blogs/nyrblog/2010/apr/27/confessions-of-a-poet-laureate/
On the other hand, publishing of poetry is hitting hard times.
http://www.denverpost.com/ci_14986615
Writing about people you know, whether in Guatemala or ones brother, is a tricky business, as novelist Michael Helm has discovered.
http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/Seeking+Refuge/2972438/story.html
People who read fiction read in a variety of ways and the Atlantic has discovered there is no wholesale desire to read on iPads or Kindle.
http://www.themillions.com/2010/05/will-the-ipad-change-publishing-ask-the-atlantic.html
Google is creating an online bookstore to rival Apple and Amazon and invites smaller bookstores to join the online store.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/technology/google-bookstore-plan-could-be-boon-to-canadian-industry/article1556458/
BOOKS & WRITERS
Philippines-born Montrealer Miguel Syjuco's debut novel Ilustrado won the Man Asian Prize and the Palanca Award (the Pulitzer of the Philippines) in 2008, two years before it was published. Reviews will appear this month.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/the-shooting-star-of-filipino-fiction/article1552314/
Anne Carson's Nox, an elegy for her brother, arrives as a single accordioned sheet, folded into a handsome clamshell box.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/04/28/AR2010042804631.html
Reviews of Isabel Allende's latest book suggests a change in direction for the author. Island Beneath the Sea tells a slave's story with women at the forefront.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/02/books/review/Bahadur-t.html?nl=books&emc=booksupdateema3
Thirty-five years after the end of fighting in Vietnam comes Karl Marlantes's "exceptional war novel" Matterhorn.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/bookreviews/article/803193--pevere-matterhorn-the-things-they-carried
Thd Sunday Times (UK) describes David Remnick's The Bridge: The Life and Rise of Barack Obama as a judicious biography with surprising insights.
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/non-fiction/article7110544.ece
Many Canadians have heard Gaza physician Izzeldin Abuelaish on CBC radio; now a "hard to put down" autobiography has been published.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Healing+hate+Gaza+physician+Izzeldin+Abuelaish+moving+narrative/2971256/story.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
KOOTENAY SCHOOL OF WRITING
Reading by poets Chris Nealon and Hannah Calder. Friday, May 7 at 8:00pm. W2 Storyeum, 151 West Cordova Street. More information at www.kswnet.org.
ERIC NICOL
Author signs his new book Script Tease. Saturday, May 8 at 1:00pm, free. Hager Books, 2176 41st Ave.
THREE POETS + MUSICIANS
Poets Jamie Reid, Kim Goldberg, and Peter Trower read from their works at an event that includes music by guitarist Craig McCaul and drummer Niko Friesen. Saturday, May 8 at 8:00pm, free. W2 Storyeum (151 W. Cordova). More information at dadababy@shaw.ca.
LINDY HUGHES
Book signing by the author of It Never Stays in Vegas. Sunday, May 9 at 10:00am. Dundarave Starbucks, 2416 Marine Drive, West Vancouver.
RYAN KNIGHTON
Author reads from his critically acclaimed memoir C'mon Papa, Dispatches from a Dad in the Dark. Sunday, May 9 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $10/$12. Capilano Performing Arts Theatre, 2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver.
CANADIAN WRITERS ON GRIEF AND MOURNING
Some of Canada's best writers address their own losses in The Heart Does Break: Canadian Writers on Grief and Mourning. Featuring Jean Baird and George Bowering. Monday, May 10 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
KATHY PAGE
Author introduces her new novel The Find. Monday, May 10 at 7:30pm, free. ArtSpring Theatre, Salt Spring Island.
RODDY DOYLE
Join Booker Prize winner Roddy Doyle for a launch of his new book The Dead Republic. Tuesday, May 11 at 7:00pm. Chapters Robson, 788 Robson.
BERNADETTE WAGNER
Saskatchewan author reads from her new book This Hot Place. Tuesday, May 11 at 7:30pm, free. People's Co-op Bookstore, 1391 Commercial Drive.
THE CAPILANO REVIEW
Readings by poets Christian Bok and Lisa Robertson and the launch of Soma Feldmar's Other and TCR's Poet's Theatre issue. Tuesday, May 11 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $9/7/5. The Cultch, 1895 Venables. More information at www.thecultch.com.
BRUCE HUNTER
Part fictional memoir, part social history, Bruce Hunter's new novel In The Bear's House is a coming of age story about a deaf child who is sent to live in the wilderness on historic Kootenay Plains in west central Alberta. Wednesday, May 12 at 12:15pm, free. Britannia Branch, 1661 Napier Street.
SCIENCE FICTION BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP
Group discussion of The Forever War by Joe Haldeman. Wednesday, May 12 at 7:00pm. The Grind & Gallery, 4124 Main Street. More information at darthbuddy2000@yahoo.ca.
C'MON PAPA
Knopf Canada presents a celebration of the publication of Ryan Knighton's new memoir C'mon Papa: Dispatches from a Dad in the Dark. Wednesday, May 12 at 7:00pm. Shebeen Whiskey House (behind 212 Carrall). More information at rsvpcanada@randomhouse.com.
TOM WAYMAN
Author launches his novel Woodstock Rising. Wednesday, May 12 at 7:30pm, free. Vancouver Public Library, Central Branch, Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, 350 West Georgia Street.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by David Derry, Jon Paul Fiorentino, and Matthew Hooton. Thursday, May 13 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
PULSE
Launch of Lydia Kwa's new novel. Sunday, May 16 at 6:00pm, free. Rhizome Cafe, 317 East Broadway. More information at www.peoplescoopbookstore.com.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The third writer in the series, Steven Galloway will read from and sign his works. Monday, May 17 at 7:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
Upcoming
SKAGIT RIVER POETRY FESTIVAL
Features three days of poetry performances, conversations, interviews, workshops, films, feasting, singing, strumming and storytelling in La Conner, Washington. May 20-22, 2010. For full details, visit www.skagitriverpoetry.org.
WRITE ON BOWEN!
Early-bird registration is now being accepted for the 3rd annual Write on Bowen Festival for Writers and Readers. July 2-4, 2010. For the full Festival line-up and registration details, visit www.biac.ca/writersfestival.
A Dram Come True
The Vancouver International Writers Festival presents the eighth annual Single Malt Scotch Whisky Sampling. Enjoy the superb, complex flavours of a variety of rare and distinguished single malts. Scotch experts will be on hand to enhance the experience. Rare malts and other select items will also be available at auction. Details and photos from last year here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/dramcometrue
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for May 14: A lifetime subscription to Geist. Note: subscription is non-transferable and must be sent to a Canadian mailing address.
Special Events
Peter Carey
Tickets are still available for our event featuring Peter Carey in conversation with Hal Wake at the Frederic Wood Theatre. Details here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/specialevents.
The Washington Post is thrilled that, in Parrot & Olivier in America, Peter Carey has, at last, through Alexis De Tocqueville, located a book in his adopted home.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/04/27/AR2010042704504.html
Peter Carey talks with the Georgia Straight about how a travelogue by a French aristocrat, written in 1835, finally enabled the transplanted Australian to write about America and address the dumbing-down of North American culture today.
http://www.straight.com/article-321084/vancouver/carey-travels-back-strange-new-world
Alexander McCall Smith
The Vancouver International Writers Festival and Random House Canada present the bestselling author of The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency Series who will talk about his forthcoming book, The Charming Quirks of Others. Complete details on our website, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/specialevents.
Check out this interview in Macleans.
http://www2.macleans.ca/2010/04/29/macleans-interview-alexander-mccall-smith/
AWARDS & LISTS
Dalhousie University professor Brian Bow has won the $35,000 Donner Prize for his book A Thousand Dreams.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/29/donner-prize-winner.html#lxzz0mX86xzEb
Solar, by Ian McEwan, has been shortlisted for the Wodehouse comic novel prize.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/apr/27/ian-mcewan-wodehouse-comic-novel-prize
Many, including McEwan, are amused by this since he has said he hates comic novels.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/ian-mcewan-sees-funny-side-of--bollinger-everyman-wodehouse-prize-nomination-1955136.html
Louise Penny of Quebec has won the 2009 Agatha award for best novel for The Brutal Telling, her third Agatha in a row. Alan Bradley won for best first novel.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/louise-penny-wins-third-agatha-in-a-row/article1555132/
Will Ferguson has won his third Stephen Leacock Award for Humour.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/802704--will-ferguson-wins-leacock-medal-of-humour-for-third-time
Canadian photographer Edward Burtynsky's has won the And/or Book Award for photography.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/30/burtynsky-oil-photo-award.html
Debut novels by Jennifer Cowan and Anna Kerz have been nominated for the Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Children's Book Awards. Winners will be chosen by young readers.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/27/childrens-book-awards.html
The City of Vancouver invites publishers and authors to submit entries for the annual City of Vancouver Book Award. Deadline for entries is Wednesday, May 26, 2010. An independent panel of judges will choose the winner.
http://www.allianceforarts.com/blog/news-nominations-open-city-vancouver-book-awards
The Jewish Book Awards will honour Howard Engel with a Special Achievement Award as part of their ceremony honouring authors of books in a variety of categories.
http://www.kofflerarts.org/site_documents/Koffler_BookAwards_April27_10_FINAL.pdf
NEWS & FEATURES
"There’s nothing more interesting or more hopeful about America than its poetry" writes Charles Simic, as he reflects on what it meant to be Poet Laureate of the United States.
http://www.nybooks.com/blogs/nyrblog/2010/apr/27/confessions-of-a-poet-laureate/
On the other hand, publishing of poetry is hitting hard times.
http://www.denverpost.com/ci_14986615
Writing about people you know, whether in Guatemala or ones brother, is a tricky business, as novelist Michael Helm has discovered.
http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/Seeking+Refuge/2972438/story.html
People who read fiction read in a variety of ways and the Atlantic has discovered there is no wholesale desire to read on iPads or Kindle.
http://www.themillions.com/2010/05/will-the-ipad-change-publishing-ask-the-atlantic.html
Google is creating an online bookstore to rival Apple and Amazon and invites smaller bookstores to join the online store.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/technology/google-bookstore-plan-could-be-boon-to-canadian-industry/article1556458/
BOOKS & WRITERS
Philippines-born Montrealer Miguel Syjuco's debut novel Ilustrado won the Man Asian Prize and the Palanca Award (the Pulitzer of the Philippines) in 2008, two years before it was published. Reviews will appear this month.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/the-shooting-star-of-filipino-fiction/article1552314/
Anne Carson's Nox, an elegy for her brother, arrives as a single accordioned sheet, folded into a handsome clamshell box.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/04/28/AR2010042804631.html
Reviews of Isabel Allende's latest book suggests a change in direction for the author. Island Beneath the Sea tells a slave's story with women at the forefront.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/02/books/review/Bahadur-t.html?nl=books&emc=booksupdateema3
Thirty-five years after the end of fighting in Vietnam comes Karl Marlantes's "exceptional war novel" Matterhorn.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/bookreviews/article/803193--pevere-matterhorn-the-things-they-carried
Thd Sunday Times (UK) describes David Remnick's The Bridge: The Life and Rise of Barack Obama as a judicious biography with surprising insights.
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/non-fiction/article7110544.ece
Many Canadians have heard Gaza physician Izzeldin Abuelaish on CBC radio; now a "hard to put down" autobiography has been published.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Healing+hate+Gaza+physician+Izzeldin+Abuelaish+moving+narrative/2971256/story.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
KOOTENAY SCHOOL OF WRITING
Reading by poets Chris Nealon and Hannah Calder. Friday, May 7 at 8:00pm. W2 Storyeum, 151 West Cordova Street. More information at www.kswnet.org.
ERIC NICOL
Author signs his new book Script Tease. Saturday, May 8 at 1:00pm, free. Hager Books, 2176 41st Ave.
THREE POETS + MUSICIANS
Poets Jamie Reid, Kim Goldberg, and Peter Trower read from their works at an event that includes music by guitarist Craig McCaul and drummer Niko Friesen. Saturday, May 8 at 8:00pm, free. W2 Storyeum (151 W. Cordova). More information at dadababy@shaw.ca.
LINDY HUGHES
Book signing by the author of It Never Stays in Vegas. Sunday, May 9 at 10:00am. Dundarave Starbucks, 2416 Marine Drive, West Vancouver.
RYAN KNIGHTON
Author reads from his critically acclaimed memoir C'mon Papa, Dispatches from a Dad in the Dark. Sunday, May 9 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $10/$12. Capilano Performing Arts Theatre, 2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver.
CANADIAN WRITERS ON GRIEF AND MOURNING
Some of Canada's best writers address their own losses in The Heart Does Break: Canadian Writers on Grief and Mourning. Featuring Jean Baird and George Bowering. Monday, May 10 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
KATHY PAGE
Author introduces her new novel The Find. Monday, May 10 at 7:30pm, free. ArtSpring Theatre, Salt Spring Island.
RODDY DOYLE
Join Booker Prize winner Roddy Doyle for a launch of his new book The Dead Republic. Tuesday, May 11 at 7:00pm. Chapters Robson, 788 Robson.
BERNADETTE WAGNER
Saskatchewan author reads from her new book This Hot Place. Tuesday, May 11 at 7:30pm, free. People's Co-op Bookstore, 1391 Commercial Drive.
THE CAPILANO REVIEW
Readings by poets Christian Bok and Lisa Robertson and the launch of Soma Feldmar's Other and TCR's Poet's Theatre issue. Tuesday, May 11 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $9/7/5. The Cultch, 1895 Venables. More information at www.thecultch.com.
BRUCE HUNTER
Part fictional memoir, part social history, Bruce Hunter's new novel In The Bear's House is a coming of age story about a deaf child who is sent to live in the wilderness on historic Kootenay Plains in west central Alberta. Wednesday, May 12 at 12:15pm, free. Britannia Branch, 1661 Napier Street.
SCIENCE FICTION BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP
Group discussion of The Forever War by Joe Haldeman. Wednesday, May 12 at 7:00pm. The Grind & Gallery, 4124 Main Street. More information at darthbuddy2000@yahoo.ca.
C'MON PAPA
Knopf Canada presents a celebration of the publication of Ryan Knighton's new memoir C'mon Papa: Dispatches from a Dad in the Dark. Wednesday, May 12 at 7:00pm. Shebeen Whiskey House (behind 212 Carrall). More information at rsvpcanada@randomhouse.com.
TOM WAYMAN
Author launches his novel Woodstock Rising. Wednesday, May 12 at 7:30pm, free. Vancouver Public Library, Central Branch, Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, 350 West Georgia Street.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by David Derry, Jon Paul Fiorentino, and Matthew Hooton. Thursday, May 13 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
PULSE
Launch of Lydia Kwa's new novel. Sunday, May 16 at 6:00pm, free. Rhizome Cafe, 317 East Broadway. More information at www.peoplescoopbookstore.com.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The third writer in the series, Steven Galloway will read from and sign his works. Monday, May 17 at 7:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
Upcoming
SKAGIT RIVER POETRY FESTIVAL
Features three days of poetry performances, conversations, interviews, workshops, films, feasting, singing, strumming and storytelling in La Conner, Washington. May 20-22, 2010. For full details, visit www.skagitriverpoetry.org.
WRITE ON BOWEN!
Early-bird registration is now being accepted for the 3rd annual Write on Bowen Festival for Writers and Readers. July 2-4, 2010. For the full Festival line-up and registration details, visit www.biac.ca/writersfestival.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Book News Vol. 5 No. 20
BOOK NEWS
A Dram Come True
The Vancouver International Writers Festival presents the eighth annual Single Malt Scotch Whisky Sampling. Enjoy the superb, complex flavours of a variety of rare and distinguished single malts. Scotch experts will be on hand to enhance the experience. Rare malts and other select items will also be available at auction. Details here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/dramcometrue
Spreading the Word Video online now!
Now children can experience Festival events online! Travel to penguin colonies in Antarctica, be inspired by a group of young activists, learn creative ways to conserve, all from your classroom or home! http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/schools/spreadtheword
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for May 14: A lifetime subscription to Geist. Note: subscription is non-transferable and must be sent to a Canadian mailing address.
Special Event
Peter Carey
Tickets are still available for our event featuring Peter Carey in conversation with Hal Wake at the Frederic Wood Theatre.
In this interview with the NY Times, Peter Carey talks about why, after twenty years living in the US, he was finally able to write about the country in his new novel Parrot and Olivier in America, his reason for moving there from Australia in the first place, and what he's working on now.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/27/books/27carey.html?ref=books
AWARDS & LISTS
The winners of the 2010 BC Book Prizes were announced at a gala this past Saturday in Victoria. Among those celebrated was debut novelist Cathleen With who was awarded the Ethel Wilson Fiction Prize for Having Faith in the Polar Girls' Prison.
http://www.bcbookprizes.ca/winners/2010.
Check out photos of the event at the BC Book Prizes Flickr page.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bcbookprizes/
Newfoundland author Jessica Grant has won the Amazon.ca First Novel Award for Come, Thou Tortoise. Head judge Stuart Woods called Grant's novel "a heartfelt tale full to the brim with warm sentiment and the gentle absurdities of contemporary life."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/jessica-grant-wins-first-novel-award/article1549453/
Dany Laferrière has been awarded the Blue Metropolis International Literary Grand Prix, a $10,000 lifetime achievement award.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Author+Dany+Laferri%c3%a8re+accepts+Blue+Metropolis/2938515/story.html
American Edward P. Jones and Australian Nam Le are the latest winners of the PEN/Malamud Award for short fiction. The award typically celebrates one established and one emerging writer each year for excellence in the art of the short story.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/26/pen-short-story-le-jones.html
The shortlists for the Arthur Ellis crime writing awards have been announced. 2009 Festival attendees James Nichol and Tim Wynne Jones are contenders in different categories.
http://crimewriterscanada.com/cwcNew/pages/CCC/CCC%20Current%20issue.htm#Shortlist_for_Best_Crime_Novel_
NEWS & FEATURES
Sophia Books, which has been operating in Vancouver since 1975, has decided to permanently close its doors at the end of May.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/after-30-years-in-business-multilingual-book-store-to-close/article1548488/
Writer Alan Sillitoe, a leading figure of the so-called angry young men of British fiction, has died at age 82.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/25/sillitoe-obit.html
A read-in at Tyee School protests provincial budget cuts in education. "More cut backs to libraries and librarians would be yet another blow to the already besieged public education system," said the head of a parent action committee at the Tyee school.
http://www.vancouverobserver.com/blogs/education/2010/04/27/read-tyee-school-protests-provincial-budget-cuts-education
BOOKS & WRITERS
The Toronto Star is taken with Andrea Levy's new novel The Long Song, in particular its narrator's "comic flair."
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/800025--the-long-song-a-high-wind-in-jamaica
The Montreal Gazette writes that Miguel Syjuco'’s debut novel Ilustrado "shows a depth and command most writers achieve only after many years of trial and error."
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Miguel+Syjuco+makes+remarkable+debut+with+Ilustrado/2911166/story.html
Both the Globe & Mail and the Montreal Gazette praise Michael Helm's new novel Cities of Refuge.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Novelist+Michael+Helm+earns+seriousness+Cities+Refuge/2943645/story.html
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-cities-of-refuge-by-michael-helm/article1544884/
Of Dionne Brand's new poetry collection Ossuaries, Sonnet L'Abbé's writes it is "a difficult, but beautiful, exhumation, a furious dirge for an era not yet passed."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-ossuaries-by-dionne-brand/article1544436/
Helen Simpson's debut novel Major Pettigrew's Last Stand "is at times violent, at times melodramatic, but almost always pitch-perfect in its demonstration of how ridiculous our small ignorances can be – and how magnificent we are when we rise above them."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-major-pettigrews-last-stand-by-helen-simonson/article1543107/
In this essay Diane Warren talks about the ideas she set out to explore in her novel Cool Water, in which she parallels the journey of a modern-day cowboy with that of two cowboys 100 years earlier.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/its-all-in-the-footwear/article1548466/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ALAN HAIG-BROWN
Award-winning author Alan Haig-Brown launches Still Fishin': The BC Fishing Industry Revisited. Sunday, May 2 at 2:00pm, free. Britannia Heritage Shipyard, 5180 Westwater Drive, Richmond. For more information, visit www.richmond.ca/britannia or email info@harbourpublishing.com.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The second writer in the series, Anosh Irani will read from and sign his works. Sunday, May 2 at 3:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
EMMA DONOGHUE
Author reads from her new young adult anthology, How Beautiful the Ordinary and introduces her literary history, Inseparable: Desire Between Women in Literature. Monday, May 3 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
VANCOUVER POETRY SLAM
Van Slam featuring Magpie Ulysses. Monday, May 3 at 8:00pm. Admission: $5/$3. Cafe Deux Soleils (2096 Commercial). More information at www.vancouverpoetryhouse.com.
CROSS-BORDER POLLINATION READING SERIES
Readings by Camille T. Dungy, Marguerite Pigeon, Ray Hsu, Mary Cornish and David Zieroth. Tuesday, May 4 at 7:00pm. W2 Storyeum, 151 W. Cordova.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Canada's own international best-selling fantasy fiction author Guy Gavriel Kay is coming to the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! His new novel "Under Heaven" is getting rave reviews! It's set during the glory of the Tang Dynasty in China and is an adventure that has everything readers around the world love about Guy's epic stories. Come join the discussion with Guy Gavriel Kay in the intimate setting of Studio One on Wednesday May 5 at 6:30 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
MOTHER, WRITER
This Mother's Day, celebrate the intersection of creation and creativity with award-winning authors Catherine Owen, Rachel Rose, Luanne Armstrong, and Dorothy Woodend. Wednesday, May 5 at 7:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
ROBERT J. SAWYER
Launch of Hugo and Nebula award-winner's new novel, Watch. Wednesday, May 5 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
THREE POETS + MUSICIANS
Poets Jamie Reid, Kim Goldberg, and Peter Trower read from their works at event that includes music by guitarist Craig McCaul and drummer Niko Friesen. Saturday, May 8 at 8:00pm, free. W2 Storyeum (151 W. Cordova). More information at dadababy@shaw.ca.
LINDY HUGHES
Book signing by the author of It Never Stays in Vegas. Sunday, May 9 at 10:00am. Dundarave Starbucks, 2416 Marine Drive, West Vancouver.
RYAN KNIGHTON
Author reads from his critically acclaimed memoir C'mon Papa, Dispatches from a Dad in the Dark. Sunday, May 9 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $10/$12. Capilano Performing Arts Theatre, 2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver.
CANADIAN WRITERS ON GRIEF AND MOURNING
Some of Canada's best writers address their own losses in The Heart Does Break: Canadian Writers on Grief and Mourning. Featuring Jean Baird and George Bowering. Monday, May 10 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
KATHY PAGE
Author introduces her new novel The Find. Monday, May 10 at 7:30pm, free. ArtSpring Theatre, Salt Spring Island.
Upcoming
RODDY DOYLE
Join Booker Prize winner Roddy Doyle for a launch of his new book The Dead Republic. Tuesday, May 11 at 7:00pm. Chapters Robson, 788 Robson.
BRUCE HUNTER
Part fictional memoir, part social history, Bruce Hunter's new novel In The Bear's House is a coming of age story about a deaf child who is sent to live in the wilderness on historic Kootenay Plains in west central Alberta. Wednesday, May 12 at 12:15pm, free. Britannia Branch, 1661 Napier Street.
TOM WAYMAN
Author launches his novel Woodstock Rising. Wednesday, May 12 at 7:30pm, free. Vancouver Public Library, Central Branch, Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, 350 West Georgia Street.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by David Derry, Jon Paul Fiorentino, and Matthew Hooton. Thursday, May 13 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
WRITE ON BOWEN!
Early-bird registration is now being accepted for the 3rd annual Write on Bowen Festival for Writers and Readers. July 2-4, 2010. For the full Festival line-up and registration details, visit www.biac.ca/writersfestival.
A Dram Come True
The Vancouver International Writers Festival presents the eighth annual Single Malt Scotch Whisky Sampling. Enjoy the superb, complex flavours of a variety of rare and distinguished single malts. Scotch experts will be on hand to enhance the experience. Rare malts and other select items will also be available at auction. Details here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/dramcometrue
Spreading the Word Video online now!
Now children can experience Festival events online! Travel to penguin colonies in Antarctica, be inspired by a group of young activists, learn creative ways to conserve, all from your classroom or home! http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/schools/spreadtheword
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for May 14: A lifetime subscription to Geist. Note: subscription is non-transferable and must be sent to a Canadian mailing address.
Special Event
Peter Carey
Tickets are still available for our event featuring Peter Carey in conversation with Hal Wake at the Frederic Wood Theatre.
In this interview with the NY Times, Peter Carey talks about why, after twenty years living in the US, he was finally able to write about the country in his new novel Parrot and Olivier in America, his reason for moving there from Australia in the first place, and what he's working on now.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/27/books/27carey.html?ref=books
AWARDS & LISTS
The winners of the 2010 BC Book Prizes were announced at a gala this past Saturday in Victoria. Among those celebrated was debut novelist Cathleen With who was awarded the Ethel Wilson Fiction Prize for Having Faith in the Polar Girls' Prison.
http://www.bcbookprizes.ca/winners/2010.
Check out photos of the event at the BC Book Prizes Flickr page.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bcbookprizes/
Newfoundland author Jessica Grant has won the Amazon.ca First Novel Award for Come, Thou Tortoise. Head judge Stuart Woods called Grant's novel "a heartfelt tale full to the brim with warm sentiment and the gentle absurdities of contemporary life."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/jessica-grant-wins-first-novel-award/article1549453/
Dany Laferrière has been awarded the Blue Metropolis International Literary Grand Prix, a $10,000 lifetime achievement award.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Author+Dany+Laferri%c3%a8re+accepts+Blue+Metropolis/2938515/story.html
American Edward P. Jones and Australian Nam Le are the latest winners of the PEN/Malamud Award for short fiction. The award typically celebrates one established and one emerging writer each year for excellence in the art of the short story.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/26/pen-short-story-le-jones.html
The shortlists for the Arthur Ellis crime writing awards have been announced. 2009 Festival attendees James Nichol and Tim Wynne Jones are contenders in different categories.
http://crimewriterscanada.com/cwcNew/pages/CCC/CCC%20Current%20issue.htm#Shortlist_for_Best_Crime_Novel_
NEWS & FEATURES
Sophia Books, which has been operating in Vancouver since 1975, has decided to permanently close its doors at the end of May.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/after-30-years-in-business-multilingual-book-store-to-close/article1548488/
Writer Alan Sillitoe, a leading figure of the so-called angry young men of British fiction, has died at age 82.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/25/sillitoe-obit.html
A read-in at Tyee School protests provincial budget cuts in education. "More cut backs to libraries and librarians would be yet another blow to the already besieged public education system," said the head of a parent action committee at the Tyee school.
http://www.vancouverobserver.com/blogs/education/2010/04/27/read-tyee-school-protests-provincial-budget-cuts-education
BOOKS & WRITERS
The Toronto Star is taken with Andrea Levy's new novel The Long Song, in particular its narrator's "comic flair."
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/800025--the-long-song-a-high-wind-in-jamaica
The Montreal Gazette writes that Miguel Syjuco'’s debut novel Ilustrado "shows a depth and command most writers achieve only after many years of trial and error."
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Miguel+Syjuco+makes+remarkable+debut+with+Ilustrado/2911166/story.html
Both the Globe & Mail and the Montreal Gazette praise Michael Helm's new novel Cities of Refuge.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Novelist+Michael+Helm+earns+seriousness+Cities+Refuge/2943645/story.html
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-cities-of-refuge-by-michael-helm/article1544884/
Of Dionne Brand's new poetry collection Ossuaries, Sonnet L'Abbé's writes it is "a difficult, but beautiful, exhumation, a furious dirge for an era not yet passed."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-ossuaries-by-dionne-brand/article1544436/
Helen Simpson's debut novel Major Pettigrew's Last Stand "is at times violent, at times melodramatic, but almost always pitch-perfect in its demonstration of how ridiculous our small ignorances can be – and how magnificent we are when we rise above them."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-major-pettigrews-last-stand-by-helen-simonson/article1543107/
In this essay Diane Warren talks about the ideas she set out to explore in her novel Cool Water, in which she parallels the journey of a modern-day cowboy with that of two cowboys 100 years earlier.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/its-all-in-the-footwear/article1548466/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ALAN HAIG-BROWN
Award-winning author Alan Haig-Brown launches Still Fishin': The BC Fishing Industry Revisited. Sunday, May 2 at 2:00pm, free. Britannia Heritage Shipyard, 5180 Westwater Drive, Richmond. For more information, visit www.richmond.ca/britannia or email info@harbourpublishing.com.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The second writer in the series, Anosh Irani will read from and sign his works. Sunday, May 2 at 3:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
EMMA DONOGHUE
Author reads from her new young adult anthology, How Beautiful the Ordinary and introduces her literary history, Inseparable: Desire Between Women in Literature. Monday, May 3 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
VANCOUVER POETRY SLAM
Van Slam featuring Magpie Ulysses. Monday, May 3 at 8:00pm. Admission: $5/$3. Cafe Deux Soleils (2096 Commercial). More information at www.vancouverpoetryhouse.com.
CROSS-BORDER POLLINATION READING SERIES
Readings by Camille T. Dungy, Marguerite Pigeon, Ray Hsu, Mary Cornish and David Zieroth. Tuesday, May 4 at 7:00pm. W2 Storyeum, 151 W. Cordova.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Canada's own international best-selling fantasy fiction author Guy Gavriel Kay is coming to the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! His new novel "Under Heaven" is getting rave reviews! It's set during the glory of the Tang Dynasty in China and is an adventure that has everything readers around the world love about Guy's epic stories. Come join the discussion with Guy Gavriel Kay in the intimate setting of Studio One on Wednesday May 5 at 6:30 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
MOTHER, WRITER
This Mother's Day, celebrate the intersection of creation and creativity with award-winning authors Catherine Owen, Rachel Rose, Luanne Armstrong, and Dorothy Woodend. Wednesday, May 5 at 7:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
ROBERT J. SAWYER
Launch of Hugo and Nebula award-winner's new novel, Watch. Wednesday, May 5 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
THREE POETS + MUSICIANS
Poets Jamie Reid, Kim Goldberg, and Peter Trower read from their works at event that includes music by guitarist Craig McCaul and drummer Niko Friesen. Saturday, May 8 at 8:00pm, free. W2 Storyeum (151 W. Cordova). More information at dadababy@shaw.ca.
LINDY HUGHES
Book signing by the author of It Never Stays in Vegas. Sunday, May 9 at 10:00am. Dundarave Starbucks, 2416 Marine Drive, West Vancouver.
RYAN KNIGHTON
Author reads from his critically acclaimed memoir C'mon Papa, Dispatches from a Dad in the Dark. Sunday, May 9 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $10/$12. Capilano Performing Arts Theatre, 2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver.
CANADIAN WRITERS ON GRIEF AND MOURNING
Some of Canada's best writers address their own losses in The Heart Does Break: Canadian Writers on Grief and Mourning. Featuring Jean Baird and George Bowering. Monday, May 10 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
KATHY PAGE
Author introduces her new novel The Find. Monday, May 10 at 7:30pm, free. ArtSpring Theatre, Salt Spring Island.
Upcoming
RODDY DOYLE
Join Booker Prize winner Roddy Doyle for a launch of his new book The Dead Republic. Tuesday, May 11 at 7:00pm. Chapters Robson, 788 Robson.
BRUCE HUNTER
Part fictional memoir, part social history, Bruce Hunter's new novel In The Bear's House is a coming of age story about a deaf child who is sent to live in the wilderness on historic Kootenay Plains in west central Alberta. Wednesday, May 12 at 12:15pm, free. Britannia Branch, 1661 Napier Street.
TOM WAYMAN
Author launches his novel Woodstock Rising. Wednesday, May 12 at 7:30pm, free. Vancouver Public Library, Central Branch, Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, 350 West Georgia Street.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by David Derry, Jon Paul Fiorentino, and Matthew Hooton. Thursday, May 13 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
WRITE ON BOWEN!
Early-bird registration is now being accepted for the 3rd annual Write on Bowen Festival for Writers and Readers. July 2-4, 2010. For the full Festival line-up and registration details, visit www.biac.ca/writersfestival.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Book News Vol. 5 No. 19
BOOK NEWS
A Dram Come True
The Vancouver International Writers Festival presents the eighth annual Single Malt Scotch Whisky Sampling. Enjoy the superb, complex flavours of a variety of rare and distinguished single malts. Scotch experts will be on hand to enhance the experience. Rare malts and other select items will also be available at auction. Details here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/dramcometrue
Canada Meets Japan: A Conversation of Authors
Join distinguished Japanese authors Takashi Atoda, Eto Mori and Jiro Asada in conversation with Vancouverites Steven Galloway, Nancy Lee and Timothy Taylor, and featuring PEN Canada spokesperson Douglas Coupland. Free admission but please pre-register: https://websurvey.sfu.ca/cgi-bin/WebObjects/WebSurvey.woa/wa/survey?54993916. For complete details, visit our website: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/communitypartner.
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for April 30: a copy of Peter Carey's new book Parrot and Olivier in America!
Special Event
Peter Carey
Tickets are still available for our event featuring Peter Carey in conversation with Hal Wake at the Frederic Wood Theatre.
Vancouver's Annabel Lyon calls Peter Carey's Parrot and Olivier in America "funny, bawdy, brainy and moving…an utter delight."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-parrot-oliver-in-america-by-peter-carey/article1536849/
AWARDS & LISTS
Shandi Mitchell has won Atlantic Canada's largest literary prize for her debut novel Under this Broken Sky.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/16/ns-randall-fiction-prize.html
Barbara Kingsolver, Lorrie Moore and Hilary Mantel are among the finalists for Britain's Orange Prize.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/hilary-mantel-barbara-kingsolver-among-orange-prize-finalists/article1540509/
Three emerging Ontario writers have been shortlisted for the RBC Bronwen Wallace Award for Emerging Writers.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/21/prize-bronwen-wallace-finalists.html#ixzz0lrFUFw4t
The Examiner lists the 50 most memorable author vs. author put-downs. For example, Vladimir Nabokov on Ernest Hemingway: "As to Hemingway, I read him for the first time in the early 'forties, something about bells, balls and bulls, and loathed it."
http://www.examiner.com/x-562-Book-Examiner~y2010m4d16-The-50-best-author-vs-author-putdowns-of-all-time
NEWS & FEATURES
Quill & Quire looks at the implications for Canadian authors, publishers and agents unable to attend the London Book Fair due to Iceland's volcanic eruption.
http://www.quillandquire.com/google/article.cfm?article_id=11250
The New Yorker asks: "Can the iPad topple the Kindle, and save the book business?"
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2010/04/26/100426fa_fact_auletta
A recent BBC Radio 4 documentary asked medical historians, psychiatrists and literary specialists to give their diagnoses of the 'mad' heroines of classic Victorian fiction.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8622367.stm
How does Giller Prize winning author Joseph Boyden measure success? Find out here.
http://www.moneysense.ca/2010/04/16/what-does-success-mean-to-author-joseph-boyden/
Yann Martel responds to the "clobbering" some reviewers have given his latest novel beatrice & virgil.
http://www.nationalpost.com/todays-paper/story.html?id=2936399
HarperCollinsCanada announced Wednesday that Ottawa-born singer-songwriter Bruce Cockburn's memoir will be published in April 2012.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/music/story/2010/04/22/cockburn-bruce-memoir.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
Until his novel Tinkers won the Pulitzer Prize last week, Paul Harding was a relative unknown. Both The NY Times and the Boston Globe talk to the author about his journey from drumming in a now defunct band to being the at the centre of the literary world's buzz.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/19/books/19harding.html?ref=books
http://www.boston.com/ae/books/articles/2010/04/15/word_of_mouth_helped_propel_mass_novelist_to_pulitzer/?page=full
Both the Globe & Mail and the Montreal Gazette enjoy the "raunch and raw emotion" in Globe columnist Russell Smith's novel Girl Crazy.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-girl-crazy-by-russell-smith/article1536741/
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Russell+Smith+Girl+Crazy+skilled+Justin+meets+adventuresome+Jenna/2910978/story.html
In 1996 David Foster Wallace granted David Lipsky a rare interview that was never published. Now Lipsky has turned the transcripts into a book, one that fans and biographers will no doubt devour but that ultimately feels "half-baked" according to the Globe & Mail and the LA Times.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-although-of-course-you-end-up-becoming-yourself-by-david-lipsky/article1536769/
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/la-ca-david-lipsky11-2010apr11,0,5582193.story
The Globe & Mail writes that Toronto author Brian Joseph Davis's latest collection of stories, Ronald Reagan, My Father, is a "hit-and-miss smorgasbord of the bizarre."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-ronald-reagan-my-father-by-brian-joseph-davis/article1539189/
Of Darwin's Bastards, an anthology of edited by Zsuzsi Gartner, the Georgia Straight writes: "If it’s best to greet the great unknown with a grin on your face, this book will help put one there."
http://www.straight.com/article-318863/vancouver/future-ruled-bastards
The Collected Stories of Deborah Eisenberg contains, in their entirety, the four books of stories Eisenberg has written over a 20 year span. The resulting tome is a wonder of "remarkable language [and] unconventional story-telling."
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/18/books/review/Thompson-t.html?ref=books
Quill & Quire writes that Montreal author Miguel Syjuco's debut novel Ilustrado lives up to the accolades it has already received, namely the Man Asian Literary Prize and the Palanca Award (the Pulitzer of the Philippines).
http://www.quillandquire.com/reviews/review.cfm?review_id=6824
Andrea Levy's first four novels looked at the lives of Caribbean immigrants living in Britain. Her new novel The Long Song, however, is set in Jamaica and tells the story of a young Jamaican girl, the daughter of a white overseer and a plantation worker. In this article Levy explains why, until now, she never wanted to "do a book about slavery."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/andrea-levy-she-couldnt-remain-silent-on-slavery-any-longer/article1540982/
Pulitzer Prize winning poet Louise Glück talks about why she doesn't like National Poetry Month and the profound affect teaching has had on her life and work.
http://www.yaledailynews.com/news/art-news/2010/04/13/gluck-fuses-poetry-teaching-style/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Celebration with Gillian Jerome, Laisha Rosnau and Gregory Scofield. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
POETRY READING
A poetry reading by Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. The Fort Gallery, 9048 Glover Rd., Fort Langley, BC.
ARTHUR ELLIS AWARDS
Join the Crime Writers of Canada for a panel discussion of crime writing and presentation of the Arthur Ellis Awards shortlist release event. Thursday, April 22 at 7:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
ANN ERIKSSON
Author reads from her new novel, Falling from Grace. Thursday, April, 22 at 7:30pm, free. Meeting Room, Level 3, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
PLANET EARTH POETRY
Launch of Daniela Elza, Peter Morin, and Onjana Yawnghwe's book 4 Poets. Friday, April 23 at 7:30pm, $3 at the door. The Black Stilt Coffee House, 103-1633 Hillside Avenue, Victoria. For more details contact planetearthpoetry@gmail.com.
TEMPERING THE CLIMATE
A poetry reading by Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin, followed by a "Gathering Peaces" workshop. Saturday, April 24. Free reading at 1:00pm, workshop at 2:00pm (tickets are $20). Canadian Memorial Centre for Peace, the Fireside Room, 1825 W. 16th Avenue, Vancouver. More information at 604.731.3101.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Yann Martel's highly anticipated new novel beatrice & virgil is a bewitching story about a famous, yet struggling author, an eccentric taxidermist, a donkey and a howler monkey. Meet the author of Life of Pi in the intimate setting of Studio One on Sunday April 25 at 3 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
WORLD POETRY GALA
World Poetry celebrates it's 9th anniversary. Join hosts Ariadne Sawyer and Alejandro Mujica-Olea for poetry, music and an awards presentation. A tribute to past award winners and World Poetry ambassadors. Monday, April 26 at 6:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
YANN MARTEL WITH ANOSH IRANI
Capilano University Pacific Arbour Speaker Series presents Man Booker prize winner Yann Martel (Life of Pi) with Anosh Irani, award-winning playwright and best-selling author of The Song of Kahunsha, a 2007 Canada Reads finalist. Monday, April 26 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $15/$13. Kay Meek Centre, North Vancouver. More information at http://www.capilanou.ca/news-events/performing-arts/season-performances/Speaker.html.
VANCOUVER POETRY SLAM
Youth Poetry Slam Team Finals featuring Nathaniel Larochette. Monday, April 26 at 8:00pm. Admission: $5. Cafe Deux Soleils (2096 Commercial). More information at www.vancouverpoetryhouse.com.
THE MAQUINNA LINE
Celebrate the publication of Vancouver actress and playwright Norma Macmillan's lost novel. Tuesday, April, 27 at 7:00pm. Railway Club (579 Dunsmuir).
LORRI NEILSEN GLENN, EVE JOSEPH AND JOHN DONLAN
Join poets as they read from their latest collections. Celebrate Brick Books' 35th anniversary! Tuesday, April 27 at 7:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
TALON'S 2010 CROSS-CANADA POETRY TOUR
Readings by derek beaulieu, Ken Belford, George Bowering, Weyman Chan, Stephen Collis, Frank Davey, Garry Thomas Morse, and Ken Norris. Wednesday, April 28 at 8:00pm, free. Heritage Hall (3102 Main). More information at www.talonbooks.com.
ALAN HAIG-BROWN
Award-winning author Alan Haig-Brown launches Still Fishin': The BC Fishing Industry Revisited. Sunday, May 2 at 2:00pm, free. Britannia Heritage Shipyard, 5180 Westwater Drive, Richmond. For more information, visit www.richmond.ca/britannia or email info@harbourpublishing.com.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The second writer in the series, Anosh Irani will read from and sign his works. Sunday, May 2 at 3:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
EMMA DONOGHUE
Author reads from her new young adult anthology, How Beautiful the Ordinary and introduces her literary history, Inseparable: Desire Between Women in Literature. Monday, May 3 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
Upcoming
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Canada's own international best-selling fantasy fiction author Guy Gavriel Kay is coming to the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! His new novel "Under Heaven" is getting rave reviews! It's set during the glory of the Tang Dynasty in China and is an adventure that has everything readers around the world love about Guy's epic stories. Come join the discussion with Guy Gavriel Kay in the intimate setting of Studio One on Wednesday May 5 at 6:30 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
ROBERT J. SAWYER
Launch of Hugo and Nebula award-winner's new novel, Watch. Wednesday, May 5 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
RYAN KNIGHTON
Author reads from his critically acclaimed memoir C'mon Papa, Dispatches from a Dad in the Dark. Sunday, May 9 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $10/$12. Capilano Performing Arts Theatre, 2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver.
KATHY PAGE
Author introduces her new novel The Find. Monday, May 10 at 7:30pm, free. ArtSpring Theatre, Salt Spring Island.
TOM WAYMAN
Author launches his novel Woodstock Rising. Wednesday, May 12 at 7:30pm, free. Vancouver Public Library, Central Branch, Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, 350 West Georgia Street.
WRITE ON BOWEN!
Early-bird registration is now being accepted for the 3rd annual Write on Bowen Festival for Writers and Readers. July 2-4, 2010. For the full Festival line-up and registration details, visit www.biac.ca/writersfestival.
A Dram Come True
The Vancouver International Writers Festival presents the eighth annual Single Malt Scotch Whisky Sampling. Enjoy the superb, complex flavours of a variety of rare and distinguished single malts. Scotch experts will be on hand to enhance the experience. Rare malts and other select items will also be available at auction. Details here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/dramcometrue
Canada Meets Japan: A Conversation of Authors
Join distinguished Japanese authors Takashi Atoda, Eto Mori and Jiro Asada in conversation with Vancouverites Steven Galloway, Nancy Lee and Timothy Taylor, and featuring PEN Canada spokesperson Douglas Coupland. Free admission but please pre-register: https://websurvey.sfu.ca/cgi-bin/WebObjects/WebSurvey.woa/wa/survey?54993916. For complete details, visit our website: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/communitypartner.
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for April 30: a copy of Peter Carey's new book Parrot and Olivier in America!
Special Event
Peter Carey
Tickets are still available for our event featuring Peter Carey in conversation with Hal Wake at the Frederic Wood Theatre.
Vancouver's Annabel Lyon calls Peter Carey's Parrot and Olivier in America "funny, bawdy, brainy and moving…an utter delight."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-parrot-oliver-in-america-by-peter-carey/article1536849/
AWARDS & LISTS
Shandi Mitchell has won Atlantic Canada's largest literary prize for her debut novel Under this Broken Sky.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/16/ns-randall-fiction-prize.html
Barbara Kingsolver, Lorrie Moore and Hilary Mantel are among the finalists for Britain's Orange Prize.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/hilary-mantel-barbara-kingsolver-among-orange-prize-finalists/article1540509/
Three emerging Ontario writers have been shortlisted for the RBC Bronwen Wallace Award for Emerging Writers.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/21/prize-bronwen-wallace-finalists.html#ixzz0lrFUFw4t
The Examiner lists the 50 most memorable author vs. author put-downs. For example, Vladimir Nabokov on Ernest Hemingway: "As to Hemingway, I read him for the first time in the early 'forties, something about bells, balls and bulls, and loathed it."
http://www.examiner.com/x-562-Book-Examiner~y2010m4d16-The-50-best-author-vs-author-putdowns-of-all-time
NEWS & FEATURES
Quill & Quire looks at the implications for Canadian authors, publishers and agents unable to attend the London Book Fair due to Iceland's volcanic eruption.
http://www.quillandquire.com/google/article.cfm?article_id=11250
The New Yorker asks: "Can the iPad topple the Kindle, and save the book business?"
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2010/04/26/100426fa_fact_auletta
A recent BBC Radio 4 documentary asked medical historians, psychiatrists and literary specialists to give their diagnoses of the 'mad' heroines of classic Victorian fiction.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8622367.stm
How does Giller Prize winning author Joseph Boyden measure success? Find out here.
http://www.moneysense.ca/2010/04/16/what-does-success-mean-to-author-joseph-boyden/
Yann Martel responds to the "clobbering" some reviewers have given his latest novel beatrice & virgil.
http://www.nationalpost.com/todays-paper/story.html?id=2936399
HarperCollinsCanada announced Wednesday that Ottawa-born singer-songwriter Bruce Cockburn's memoir will be published in April 2012.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/music/story/2010/04/22/cockburn-bruce-memoir.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
Until his novel Tinkers won the Pulitzer Prize last week, Paul Harding was a relative unknown. Both The NY Times and the Boston Globe talk to the author about his journey from drumming in a now defunct band to being the at the centre of the literary world's buzz.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/19/books/19harding.html?ref=books
http://www.boston.com/ae/books/articles/2010/04/15/word_of_mouth_helped_propel_mass_novelist_to_pulitzer/?page=full
Both the Globe & Mail and the Montreal Gazette enjoy the "raunch and raw emotion" in Globe columnist Russell Smith's novel Girl Crazy.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-girl-crazy-by-russell-smith/article1536741/
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Russell+Smith+Girl+Crazy+skilled+Justin+meets+adventuresome+Jenna/2910978/story.html
In 1996 David Foster Wallace granted David Lipsky a rare interview that was never published. Now Lipsky has turned the transcripts into a book, one that fans and biographers will no doubt devour but that ultimately feels "half-baked" according to the Globe & Mail and the LA Times.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-although-of-course-you-end-up-becoming-yourself-by-david-lipsky/article1536769/
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/la-ca-david-lipsky11-2010apr11,0,5582193.story
The Globe & Mail writes that Toronto author Brian Joseph Davis's latest collection of stories, Ronald Reagan, My Father, is a "hit-and-miss smorgasbord of the bizarre."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-ronald-reagan-my-father-by-brian-joseph-davis/article1539189/
Of Darwin's Bastards, an anthology of edited by Zsuzsi Gartner, the Georgia Straight writes: "If it’s best to greet the great unknown with a grin on your face, this book will help put one there."
http://www.straight.com/article-318863/vancouver/future-ruled-bastards
The Collected Stories of Deborah Eisenberg contains, in their entirety, the four books of stories Eisenberg has written over a 20 year span. The resulting tome is a wonder of "remarkable language [and] unconventional story-telling."
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/18/books/review/Thompson-t.html?ref=books
Quill & Quire writes that Montreal author Miguel Syjuco's debut novel Ilustrado lives up to the accolades it has already received, namely the Man Asian Literary Prize and the Palanca Award (the Pulitzer of the Philippines).
http://www.quillandquire.com/reviews/review.cfm?review_id=6824
Andrea Levy's first four novels looked at the lives of Caribbean immigrants living in Britain. Her new novel The Long Song, however, is set in Jamaica and tells the story of a young Jamaican girl, the daughter of a white overseer and a plantation worker. In this article Levy explains why, until now, she never wanted to "do a book about slavery."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/andrea-levy-she-couldnt-remain-silent-on-slavery-any-longer/article1540982/
Pulitzer Prize winning poet Louise Glück talks about why she doesn't like National Poetry Month and the profound affect teaching has had on her life and work.
http://www.yaledailynews.com/news/art-news/2010/04/13/gluck-fuses-poetry-teaching-style/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Celebration with Gillian Jerome, Laisha Rosnau and Gregory Scofield. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
POETRY READING
A poetry reading by Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. The Fort Gallery, 9048 Glover Rd., Fort Langley, BC.
ARTHUR ELLIS AWARDS
Join the Crime Writers of Canada for a panel discussion of crime writing and presentation of the Arthur Ellis Awards shortlist release event. Thursday, April 22 at 7:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
ANN ERIKSSON
Author reads from her new novel, Falling from Grace. Thursday, April, 22 at 7:30pm, free. Meeting Room, Level 3, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
PLANET EARTH POETRY
Launch of Daniela Elza, Peter Morin, and Onjana Yawnghwe's book 4 Poets. Friday, April 23 at 7:30pm, $3 at the door. The Black Stilt Coffee House, 103-1633 Hillside Avenue, Victoria. For more details contact planetearthpoetry@gmail.com.
TEMPERING THE CLIMATE
A poetry reading by Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin, followed by a "Gathering Peaces" workshop. Saturday, April 24. Free reading at 1:00pm, workshop at 2:00pm (tickets are $20). Canadian Memorial Centre for Peace, the Fireside Room, 1825 W. 16th Avenue, Vancouver. More information at 604.731.3101.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Yann Martel's highly anticipated new novel beatrice & virgil is a bewitching story about a famous, yet struggling author, an eccentric taxidermist, a donkey and a howler monkey. Meet the author of Life of Pi in the intimate setting of Studio One on Sunday April 25 at 3 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
WORLD POETRY GALA
World Poetry celebrates it's 9th anniversary. Join hosts Ariadne Sawyer and Alejandro Mujica-Olea for poetry, music and an awards presentation. A tribute to past award winners and World Poetry ambassadors. Monday, April 26 at 6:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
YANN MARTEL WITH ANOSH IRANI
Capilano University Pacific Arbour Speaker Series presents Man Booker prize winner Yann Martel (Life of Pi) with Anosh Irani, award-winning playwright and best-selling author of The Song of Kahunsha, a 2007 Canada Reads finalist. Monday, April 26 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $15/$13. Kay Meek Centre, North Vancouver. More information at http://www.capilanou.ca/news-events/performing-arts/season-performances/Speaker.html.
VANCOUVER POETRY SLAM
Youth Poetry Slam Team Finals featuring Nathaniel Larochette. Monday, April 26 at 8:00pm. Admission: $5. Cafe Deux Soleils (2096 Commercial). More information at www.vancouverpoetryhouse.com.
THE MAQUINNA LINE
Celebrate the publication of Vancouver actress and playwright Norma Macmillan's lost novel. Tuesday, April, 27 at 7:00pm. Railway Club (579 Dunsmuir).
LORRI NEILSEN GLENN, EVE JOSEPH AND JOHN DONLAN
Join poets as they read from their latest collections. Celebrate Brick Books' 35th anniversary! Tuesday, April 27 at 7:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
TALON'S 2010 CROSS-CANADA POETRY TOUR
Readings by derek beaulieu, Ken Belford, George Bowering, Weyman Chan, Stephen Collis, Frank Davey, Garry Thomas Morse, and Ken Norris. Wednesday, April 28 at 8:00pm, free. Heritage Hall (3102 Main). More information at www.talonbooks.com.
ALAN HAIG-BROWN
Award-winning author Alan Haig-Brown launches Still Fishin': The BC Fishing Industry Revisited. Sunday, May 2 at 2:00pm, free. Britannia Heritage Shipyard, 5180 Westwater Drive, Richmond. For more information, visit www.richmond.ca/britannia or email info@harbourpublishing.com.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The second writer in the series, Anosh Irani will read from and sign his works. Sunday, May 2 at 3:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
EMMA DONOGHUE
Author reads from her new young adult anthology, How Beautiful the Ordinary and introduces her literary history, Inseparable: Desire Between Women in Literature. Monday, May 3 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
Upcoming
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Canada's own international best-selling fantasy fiction author Guy Gavriel Kay is coming to the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! His new novel "Under Heaven" is getting rave reviews! It's set during the glory of the Tang Dynasty in China and is an adventure that has everything readers around the world love about Guy's epic stories. Come join the discussion with Guy Gavriel Kay in the intimate setting of Studio One on Wednesday May 5 at 6:30 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
ROBERT J. SAWYER
Launch of Hugo and Nebula award-winner's new novel, Watch. Wednesday, May 5 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
RYAN KNIGHTON
Author reads from his critically acclaimed memoir C'mon Papa, Dispatches from a Dad in the Dark. Sunday, May 9 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $10/$12. Capilano Performing Arts Theatre, 2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver.
KATHY PAGE
Author introduces her new novel The Find. Monday, May 10 at 7:30pm, free. ArtSpring Theatre, Salt Spring Island.
TOM WAYMAN
Author launches his novel Woodstock Rising. Wednesday, May 12 at 7:30pm, free. Vancouver Public Library, Central Branch, Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, 350 West Georgia Street.
WRITE ON BOWEN!
Early-bird registration is now being accepted for the 3rd annual Write on Bowen Festival for Writers and Readers. July 2-4, 2010. For the full Festival line-up and registration details, visit www.biac.ca/writersfestival.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Book News Vol. 5 No. 18
BOOK NEWS
A Dram Come True
The Vancouver International Writers Festival presents the eighth annual Single Malt Scotch Whisky Sampling. Enjoy the superb, complex flavours of a variety of rare and distinguished single malts. Scotch experts will be on hand to enhance the experience. Rare malts and other select items will also be available at auction. Details here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/dramcometrue
Canada Meets Japan: A Conversation of Authors
Join distinguished Japanese authors Takashi Atoda, Eto Mori and Jiro Asada in conversation with Vancouverites Steven Galloway, Nancy Lee and Timothy Taylor, and featuring PEN Canada spokesperson Douglas Coupland. Free admission but please pre-register: https://websurvey.sfu.ca/cgi-bin/WebObjects/WebSurvey.woa/wa/survey?54993916. For complete details, visit our website: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/communitypartner.
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for April 30: a copy of Peter Carey's new book Parrot and Olivier in America!
Special Event
Peter Carey
Tickets are still available for our event featuring Peter Carey in conversation with Hal Wake at the Frederic Wood Theatre.
Salon is bursting with praise for Peter Carey’s latest, Parrot and Olivier in America.
http://www.salon.com/books/laura_miller/index.html?story=/books/laura_miller/2010/04/11/parrot_and_olivier_in_america
AWARDS & LISTS
And the winners of the 2010 Pulitzer Prizes are…
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/12/pulitzer-winners.html
British-Indian writer Rana Dasgupta has won the Commonwealth Writers' Prize for best book, and Australian Glenda Guest has won for best first book.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/12/commonwealth-prize.html
The shortlist for the IMPAC Dublin literary award includes Zoe Heller, Joseph O’Neill, Marilynne Robinson and more.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/12/impac-dublin-shortlist.html
NEWS & FEATURES
A move vehemently opposed by Canadian booksellers is going ahead: the federal government has approved Amazon’s plan to build a warehouse in Canada.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-investor/amazon-cleared-to-open-warehouse/article1531726/
New studies dubbed 'neuro lit crit’ explore how great writing affects the hard wiring inside our heads.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2010/apr/11/brain-scans-probe-books-imagination
At recent tribute to Paul Quarrington, CanLit, CanRock and CanStage luminaries came out to celebrate the late author’s life.
http://network.nationalpost.com/NP/blogs/afterword/archive/2010/04/14/a-tribute-to-paul-quarrington.aspx
Have a little fun and improve your reading speed and comprehension.
http://www.spreeder.com/app.php?intro=1
And for those of you who want to write, this article in the Atlantic Monthly suggests you avoid books that call themselves writing manuals.
http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2010/04/how-to-write-in-700-easy-lessons/8043/
BOOKS & WRITERS
The reviews of Yann Martel’s new novel beatrice & virgil are decidedly mixed. The Globe & Mail and the Montreal Gazette sing the book’s praises, while Quill & Quire and the Toronto Star are less glowing.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-beatrice-virgil-by-yann-martel/article1528941/
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Yann+Martel+beatrice+virgil+Seeing/2782643/story.html
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/bookreviews/article/792900--pevere-yann-martel-sets-the-bar-very-high-in-beatrice-virgil
http://www.quillandquire.com/reviews/review.cfm?review_id=6821
In Diane Warren’s new novel Cool Water the author “takes up the challenge of portraying a present-day prairie town…as a metaphor for the changing agrarian West.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-cool-water-by-dianne-warren/article1529209/
The Globe & Mail reviews Anne Carson's “complex and moving” tribute to her late brother Michael.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-nox-an-epitaph-for-my-brother-by-anne-carson/article1529174/
George Fetherling’s latest novel Walt Whitman’s Secret “is a resonant, shimmering work that stakes a claim on posterity,” writes the Globe & Mail.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-walt-whitmans-secret-by-george-fetherling/article1529203/
The NY Times reviews Italian author Paulo Giordano’s hit novel, The Solitude of Prime Numbers.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/11/books/review/Schillinger-t.html?ref=books
The Globe & Mail talks with Anosh Irani about his new novel Dahanu Road and the world premiere of his play My Granny the Goldfish at the Vancouver Arts Club’s Revue Theatre, opening April 21.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/anosh-iranis-story-born-from-history/article1533264/
JMG Le Clézio, who won the Nobel prize in literature in 2008, grants the Guardian a rare interview.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/apr/10/le-clezio-nobel-prize-profile
The Guardian profiles David Mitchell, perhaps the “only British novelist under 50 whose work has had an academic conference dedicated to it.”
http://www.guardian.co.uk/theobserver/2010/apr/11/observer-profile-david-mitchell
Lorrie Moore talks about why she wants to write more novels, and what it’s like to be in her “joker years.”
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/apr/11/lorrie-moore-gate-stairs-interview
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ROBSON READING SERIES
George McWhirter reading from Solar Poems/Poemas Solares, his translation of the work of the renowned Mexican poet-activist Homero Aridjis. Thursday, April 15 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Library/Bookstore-Robson Square, Plaza Level, 800 Robson Street.
subTERRAIN
Celebrate Vancouver's literary past, present, and perhaps future with the launch of issue 54/55 which features profiles of, and choice excerpts from, some of Vancouver's best writers. Thursday, April 15 at 7:00pm. Cafe Montmarte, 4362 Main Street.
DARWIN'S BASTARDS
Douglas & McIntyre launch Darwin's Bastards: Astounding Tales from Tomorrow. Featuring: Laura Trunkey, Jay Brown, Paul Carlucci, Adam Lewis Schroeder, Annabel Lyon, Oliver Kellhammer, Timothy Taylor, Lee Henderson. Wear your best costumes from the future! Friday, April 16 at 8:00pm. The Wise Hall, 1882 Adanac Street.
UNLEASHED
Talk and book signing by dog trainer and author Brad Pattison. Saturday, April 17 at 2:00pm, free. Chapters Robson, 788 Robson Street, Vancouver.
JEFF DERKSEN
Reading by the author of Annhiliated Time. Friday, April 16 at 8:00pm. Admission $3-$5 sliding scale. Also, a workshop with Nancy Gillespie on Saturday, April 17 at 2:30pm. Admission $10-$15 sliding scale. 3rd Floor, W2 Perel Building (112 West Hastings). More information at www.kswnet.org.
VISITING POETS SALON & READING
Readings by Penn Kemp and Catherine Owen. Saturday, April 17 at 7:30pm. Josef & Heather's Place, Bowen Island. To RSVP, get directions and ferry information, email hshaley@emspace.com or call 604.947.9386.
NORTH SHORE WRITERS FESTIVAL
Featuring readings and talks by Canadian authors including Annabel Lyon, author of The Golden Mean, Joy Fielding, author of Still Life, Mad River Road, and See Jane Run, and Anosh Irani, author of Dahanu Road. April 19-22. More information and locations at www.northshorewritersfestival.ca.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers concerned with social change. The first event features Joan Macleod reading from and sign her works. Monday, April 19 at 7:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
VANCOUVER POETRY SLAM
Finals Night featuring Joaquin Zihuatanejo. Monday, April 19 at 8:00pm. Admission: $12 in advance/$13 online/$15 at the door. The Rio Theatre, 1660 East Broadway. More information at www.vancouverpoetryhouse.com
THE HIDDEN PLACES UNCOVERED
An evening of art and poetry collaboration presented by the Sidney and Gertrude Zack Gallery and Pandora's Collective. Tuesday, April 20 at 7:00pm. Sidney and Gertrude Zack Gallery, 950 W. 41st Ave. Complete information at www.pandorascollective.com.
SPOKEN INK
Readings by poets Rob Taylor and David Zieroth. Tuesday, April 20 at 7:30pm. La Fontana Cafe (101-3701 East Hastings). More information at www.burnabywritersnews.blogspot.com.
DINING ON AMBROSIA
Join prize-winning bards Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin for an evening of poetry with ancient planetary mother goddesses. Wednesday, April 21 at 6:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA
Authors and panelists Eileen Cook, RG Hart and Susan Lyons discuss what makes a romance and the big business of romance writing. Wednesday, April 21 at 6:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
EVE LAZARUS AND CLAUDIA CORNWALL
Authors of The Life & Art of Frank Molnar, Jack Hardman & Leroy Jensen read from their new book. Wednesday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. Books will be available for purchase. Lynn Valley Library (1277 Lynn Valley Road, North Vancouver).
AL PURDY CELEBRATION READING
Come read your favourite Al Purdy poem or one of your own poems for, or about Al, or in Al's style. Wednesday, April 21. Happy Isle Cafe, Dorman Road, (Bowen Island). More information at 604.947.0017.
NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Celebration with Gillian Jerome, Laisha Rosnau and Gregory Scofield. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
POETRY READING
A poetry reading by Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. The Fort Gallery, 9048 Glover Rd., Fort Langley, BC.
ARTHUR ELLIS AWARDS
Join the Crime Writers of Canada for a panel discussion of crime writing and presentation of the Arthur Ellis Awards shortlist release event. Thursday, April 22 at 7:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
ANN ERIKSSON
Author reads from her new novel, Falling from Grace. Thursday, April, 22 at 7:30pm, free. Meeting Room, Level 3, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
PLANET EARTH POETRY
Launch of Daniela Elza, Peter Morin, and Onjana Yawnghwe's book 4 Poets. Friday, April 23 at 7:30pm, $3 at the door. The Black Stilt Coffee House, 103-1633 Hillside Avenue, Victoria. For more details contact planetearthpoetry@gmail.com.
TEMPERING THE CLIMATE
A poetry reading by Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin, followed by a "Gathering Peaces" workshop. Saturday, April 24. Free reading at 1:00pm, workshop at 2:00pm (tickets are $20). Canadian Memorial Centre for Peace, the Fireside Room, 1825 W. 16th Avenue, Vancouver. More information at 604.731.3101.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Yann Martel's highly anticipated new novel beatrice & virgil is a bewitching story about a famous, yet struggling author, an eccentric taxidermist, a donkey and a howler monkey. Meet the author of Life of Pi in the intimate setting of Studio One on Sunday April 25 at 3 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
Upcoming
WORLD POETRY GALA
World Poetry celebrates it's 9th anniversary. Join hosts Ariadne Sawyer and Alejandro Mujica-Olea for poetry, music and an awards presentation. A tribute to past award winners and World Poetry ambassadors. Monday, April 26 at 6:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
YANN MARTEL
Capilano University Pacific Arbour Speaker Series presents Man Booker prize winner Yann Martel (Life of Pi) with Anosh Irani, award-winning playwright and best-selling author of The Song of Kahunsha, a 2007 Canada Reads finalist. Monday, April 26 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $15/$13. Kay Meek Centre, North Vancouver. More information at http://www.capilanou.ca/news-events/performing-arts/season-performances/Speaker.html.
LORRI NEILSEN GLENN, EVE JOSEPH AND JOHN DONLAN
Join poets as they read from their latest collections. Celebrate Brick Books' 35th anniversary! Tuesday, April 27 at 7:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
TALON'S 2010 CROSS-CANADA POETRY TOUR
Readings by derek beaulieu, Ken Belford, George Bowering, Weyman Chan, Stephen Collis, Frank Davey, Garry Thomas Morse, and Ken Norris. Wednesday, April 28 at 8:00pm, free. Heritage Hall (3102 Main). More information at www.talonbooks.com.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The second writer in the series, Anosh Irani will read from and sign his works. Monday, May 3 at 7:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Canada's own international best-selling fantasy fiction author Guy Gavriel Kay is coming to the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! His new novel "Under Heaven" is getting rave reviews! It's set during the glory of the Tang Dynasty in China and is an adventure that has everything readers around the world love about Guy's epic stories. Come join the discussion with Guy Gavriel Kay in the intimate setting of Studio One on Wednesday May 5 at 6:30 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
RYAN KNIGHTON
Author reads from his critically acclaimed memoir C’mon Papa, Dispatches from a Dad in the Dark. Sunday, May 9 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $10/$12. Capilano Performing Arts Theatre, 2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver.
WRITE ON BOWEN!
Early-bird registration is now being accepted for the 3rd annual Write on Bowen Festival for Writers and Readers. July 2-4, 2010. For the full Festival line-up and registration details, visit www.biac.ca/writersfestival.
A Dram Come True
The Vancouver International Writers Festival presents the eighth annual Single Malt Scotch Whisky Sampling. Enjoy the superb, complex flavours of a variety of rare and distinguished single malts. Scotch experts will be on hand to enhance the experience. Rare malts and other select items will also be available at auction. Details here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/dramcometrue
Canada Meets Japan: A Conversation of Authors
Join distinguished Japanese authors Takashi Atoda, Eto Mori and Jiro Asada in conversation with Vancouverites Steven Galloway, Nancy Lee and Timothy Taylor, and featuring PEN Canada spokesperson Douglas Coupland. Free admission but please pre-register: https://websurvey.sfu.ca/cgi-bin/WebObjects/WebSurvey.woa/wa/survey?54993916. For complete details, visit our website: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/communitypartner.
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for April 30: a copy of Peter Carey's new book Parrot and Olivier in America!
Special Event
Peter Carey
Tickets are still available for our event featuring Peter Carey in conversation with Hal Wake at the Frederic Wood Theatre.
Salon is bursting with praise for Peter Carey’s latest, Parrot and Olivier in America.
http://www.salon.com/books/laura_miller/index.html?story=/books/laura_miller/2010/04/11/parrot_and_olivier_in_america
AWARDS & LISTS
And the winners of the 2010 Pulitzer Prizes are…
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/12/pulitzer-winners.html
British-Indian writer Rana Dasgupta has won the Commonwealth Writers' Prize for best book, and Australian Glenda Guest has won for best first book.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/12/commonwealth-prize.html
The shortlist for the IMPAC Dublin literary award includes Zoe Heller, Joseph O’Neill, Marilynne Robinson and more.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/12/impac-dublin-shortlist.html
NEWS & FEATURES
A move vehemently opposed by Canadian booksellers is going ahead: the federal government has approved Amazon’s plan to build a warehouse in Canada.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-investor/amazon-cleared-to-open-warehouse/article1531726/
New studies dubbed 'neuro lit crit’ explore how great writing affects the hard wiring inside our heads.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2010/apr/11/brain-scans-probe-books-imagination
At recent tribute to Paul Quarrington, CanLit, CanRock and CanStage luminaries came out to celebrate the late author’s life.
http://network.nationalpost.com/NP/blogs/afterword/archive/2010/04/14/a-tribute-to-paul-quarrington.aspx
Have a little fun and improve your reading speed and comprehension.
http://www.spreeder.com/app.php?intro=1
And for those of you who want to write, this article in the Atlantic Monthly suggests you avoid books that call themselves writing manuals.
http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2010/04/how-to-write-in-700-easy-lessons/8043/
BOOKS & WRITERS
The reviews of Yann Martel’s new novel beatrice & virgil are decidedly mixed. The Globe & Mail and the Montreal Gazette sing the book’s praises, while Quill & Quire and the Toronto Star are less glowing.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-beatrice-virgil-by-yann-martel/article1528941/
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Yann+Martel+beatrice+virgil+Seeing/2782643/story.html
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/bookreviews/article/792900--pevere-yann-martel-sets-the-bar-very-high-in-beatrice-virgil
http://www.quillandquire.com/reviews/review.cfm?review_id=6821
In Diane Warren’s new novel Cool Water the author “takes up the challenge of portraying a present-day prairie town…as a metaphor for the changing agrarian West.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-cool-water-by-dianne-warren/article1529209/
The Globe & Mail reviews Anne Carson's “complex and moving” tribute to her late brother Michael.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-nox-an-epitaph-for-my-brother-by-anne-carson/article1529174/
George Fetherling’s latest novel Walt Whitman’s Secret “is a resonant, shimmering work that stakes a claim on posterity,” writes the Globe & Mail.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-walt-whitmans-secret-by-george-fetherling/article1529203/
The NY Times reviews Italian author Paulo Giordano’s hit novel, The Solitude of Prime Numbers.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/11/books/review/Schillinger-t.html?ref=books
The Globe & Mail talks with Anosh Irani about his new novel Dahanu Road and the world premiere of his play My Granny the Goldfish at the Vancouver Arts Club’s Revue Theatre, opening April 21.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/anosh-iranis-story-born-from-history/article1533264/
JMG Le Clézio, who won the Nobel prize in literature in 2008, grants the Guardian a rare interview.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/apr/10/le-clezio-nobel-prize-profile
The Guardian profiles David Mitchell, perhaps the “only British novelist under 50 whose work has had an academic conference dedicated to it.”
http://www.guardian.co.uk/theobserver/2010/apr/11/observer-profile-david-mitchell
Lorrie Moore talks about why she wants to write more novels, and what it’s like to be in her “joker years.”
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/apr/11/lorrie-moore-gate-stairs-interview
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ROBSON READING SERIES
George McWhirter reading from Solar Poems/Poemas Solares, his translation of the work of the renowned Mexican poet-activist Homero Aridjis. Thursday, April 15 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Library/Bookstore-Robson Square, Plaza Level, 800 Robson Street.
subTERRAIN
Celebrate Vancouver's literary past, present, and perhaps future with the launch of issue 54/55 which features profiles of, and choice excerpts from, some of Vancouver's best writers. Thursday, April 15 at 7:00pm. Cafe Montmarte, 4362 Main Street.
DARWIN'S BASTARDS
Douglas & McIntyre launch Darwin's Bastards: Astounding Tales from Tomorrow. Featuring: Laura Trunkey, Jay Brown, Paul Carlucci, Adam Lewis Schroeder, Annabel Lyon, Oliver Kellhammer, Timothy Taylor, Lee Henderson. Wear your best costumes from the future! Friday, April 16 at 8:00pm. The Wise Hall, 1882 Adanac Street.
UNLEASHED
Talk and book signing by dog trainer and author Brad Pattison. Saturday, April 17 at 2:00pm, free. Chapters Robson, 788 Robson Street, Vancouver.
JEFF DERKSEN
Reading by the author of Annhiliated Time. Friday, April 16 at 8:00pm. Admission $3-$5 sliding scale. Also, a workshop with Nancy Gillespie on Saturday, April 17 at 2:30pm. Admission $10-$15 sliding scale. 3rd Floor, W2 Perel Building (112 West Hastings). More information at www.kswnet.org.
VISITING POETS SALON & READING
Readings by Penn Kemp and Catherine Owen. Saturday, April 17 at 7:30pm. Josef & Heather's Place, Bowen Island. To RSVP, get directions and ferry information, email hshaley@emspace.com or call 604.947.9386.
NORTH SHORE WRITERS FESTIVAL
Featuring readings and talks by Canadian authors including Annabel Lyon, author of The Golden Mean, Joy Fielding, author of Still Life, Mad River Road, and See Jane Run, and Anosh Irani, author of Dahanu Road. April 19-22. More information and locations at www.northshorewritersfestival.ca.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers concerned with social change. The first event features Joan Macleod reading from and sign her works. Monday, April 19 at 7:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
VANCOUVER POETRY SLAM
Finals Night featuring Joaquin Zihuatanejo. Monday, April 19 at 8:00pm. Admission: $12 in advance/$13 online/$15 at the door. The Rio Theatre, 1660 East Broadway. More information at www.vancouverpoetryhouse.com
THE HIDDEN PLACES UNCOVERED
An evening of art and poetry collaboration presented by the Sidney and Gertrude Zack Gallery and Pandora's Collective. Tuesday, April 20 at 7:00pm. Sidney and Gertrude Zack Gallery, 950 W. 41st Ave. Complete information at www.pandorascollective.com.
SPOKEN INK
Readings by poets Rob Taylor and David Zieroth. Tuesday, April 20 at 7:30pm. La Fontana Cafe (101-3701 East Hastings). More information at www.burnabywritersnews.blogspot.com.
DINING ON AMBROSIA
Join prize-winning bards Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin for an evening of poetry with ancient planetary mother goddesses. Wednesday, April 21 at 6:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA
Authors and panelists Eileen Cook, RG Hart and Susan Lyons discuss what makes a romance and the big business of romance writing. Wednesday, April 21 at 6:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
EVE LAZARUS AND CLAUDIA CORNWALL
Authors of The Life & Art of Frank Molnar, Jack Hardman & Leroy Jensen read from their new book. Wednesday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. Books will be available for purchase. Lynn Valley Library (1277 Lynn Valley Road, North Vancouver).
AL PURDY CELEBRATION READING
Come read your favourite Al Purdy poem or one of your own poems for, or about Al, or in Al's style. Wednesday, April 21. Happy Isle Cafe, Dorman Road, (Bowen Island). More information at 604.947.0017.
NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Celebration with Gillian Jerome, Laisha Rosnau and Gregory Scofield. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
POETRY READING
A poetry reading by Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. The Fort Gallery, 9048 Glover Rd., Fort Langley, BC.
ARTHUR ELLIS AWARDS
Join the Crime Writers of Canada for a panel discussion of crime writing and presentation of the Arthur Ellis Awards shortlist release event. Thursday, April 22 at 7:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
ANN ERIKSSON
Author reads from her new novel, Falling from Grace. Thursday, April, 22 at 7:30pm, free. Meeting Room, Level 3, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
PLANET EARTH POETRY
Launch of Daniela Elza, Peter Morin, and Onjana Yawnghwe's book 4 Poets. Friday, April 23 at 7:30pm, $3 at the door. The Black Stilt Coffee House, 103-1633 Hillside Avenue, Victoria. For more details contact planetearthpoetry@gmail.com.
TEMPERING THE CLIMATE
A poetry reading by Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin, followed by a "Gathering Peaces" workshop. Saturday, April 24. Free reading at 1:00pm, workshop at 2:00pm (tickets are $20). Canadian Memorial Centre for Peace, the Fireside Room, 1825 W. 16th Avenue, Vancouver. More information at 604.731.3101.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Yann Martel's highly anticipated new novel beatrice & virgil is a bewitching story about a famous, yet struggling author, an eccentric taxidermist, a donkey and a howler monkey. Meet the author of Life of Pi in the intimate setting of Studio One on Sunday April 25 at 3 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
Upcoming
WORLD POETRY GALA
World Poetry celebrates it's 9th anniversary. Join hosts Ariadne Sawyer and Alejandro Mujica-Olea for poetry, music and an awards presentation. A tribute to past award winners and World Poetry ambassadors. Monday, April 26 at 6:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
YANN MARTEL
Capilano University Pacific Arbour Speaker Series presents Man Booker prize winner Yann Martel (Life of Pi) with Anosh Irani, award-winning playwright and best-selling author of The Song of Kahunsha, a 2007 Canada Reads finalist. Monday, April 26 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $15/$13. Kay Meek Centre, North Vancouver. More information at http://www.capilanou.ca/news-events/performing-arts/season-performances/Speaker.html.
LORRI NEILSEN GLENN, EVE JOSEPH AND JOHN DONLAN
Join poets as they read from their latest collections. Celebrate Brick Books' 35th anniversary! Tuesday, April 27 at 7:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
TALON'S 2010 CROSS-CANADA POETRY TOUR
Readings by derek beaulieu, Ken Belford, George Bowering, Weyman Chan, Stephen Collis, Frank Davey, Garry Thomas Morse, and Ken Norris. Wednesday, April 28 at 8:00pm, free. Heritage Hall (3102 Main). More information at www.talonbooks.com.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The second writer in the series, Anosh Irani will read from and sign his works. Monday, May 3 at 7:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Canada's own international best-selling fantasy fiction author Guy Gavriel Kay is coming to the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! His new novel "Under Heaven" is getting rave reviews! It's set during the glory of the Tang Dynasty in China and is an adventure that has everything readers around the world love about Guy's epic stories. Come join the discussion with Guy Gavriel Kay in the intimate setting of Studio One on Wednesday May 5 at 6:30 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
RYAN KNIGHTON
Author reads from his critically acclaimed memoir C’mon Papa, Dispatches from a Dad in the Dark. Sunday, May 9 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $10/$12. Capilano Performing Arts Theatre, 2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver.
WRITE ON BOWEN!
Early-bird registration is now being accepted for the 3rd annual Write on Bowen Festival for Writers and Readers. July 2-4, 2010. For the full Festival line-up and registration details, visit www.biac.ca/writersfestival.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Book News Vol. 5 No. 17
BOOK NEWS
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for April 16: two tickets to the Arts Club Theatre production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, June 21–June 30. Information: www.artsclub.com.
The Arts Club Theatre is presenting Anosh Irani's latest play My Granny the Goldfish at the newly refurbished Revue Stage. Book News subscribers, receive an exclusive 2-for-1 ticket deal on My Granny the Goldfish tickets purchased before April 15 (Monday or Tuesday night performances only). Just use the promo code WFGRAN when you book online (http://secure.vancouvertix.com/tickets/production.aspx?performanceNumber=3007) or by phone at 604-687-1644. For more information, download the poster (60KB) here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/files/u3/MyGrannytheGoldfish.pdf:
Special Events
Peter Carey
Brush up on all things Peter Carey before the event on May 7. His website offers a smorgasbord of interviews, reviews and background on the author, who is perhaps best known for his Booker Prize winning novels Oscar and Lucinda and True History of the Kelly Gang. http://petercareybooks.com/
Ian McEwan
There are still tickets left to see Ian McEwan on April 15th. To keep up with news and reviews of Solar, follow the author on Facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ian-McEwan-Website/305499726425
Ian McEwan will be interviewed by Jerry Wasserman. Details at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/specialevents. VIWF members: Receive a $2 member discount for Ian McEwan event tickets! Join us: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
AWARDS & LISTS
The nominees for the Griffin Poetry Prizes have been announced. To celebrate the prize's 10th anniversary, the award has doubled from $100,000 to $200,000.
http://www.griffinpoetryprize.com/awards_shortlist.php
Canadian authors Robert J. Sawyer and Robert Charles Wilson are among the finalists for the Hugo Award, considered the top prize for science fiction in the world.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/05/sawyer-hugo-award.html
Among the contenders for the inaugural Walter Scott prize for historical fiction, worth £25,000, are three finalists for last year's booker: Adam Foulds, Hilary Mantel and Simon Mawer.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/apr/01/booker-rivals-walter-scott-prize-shortlist
The Toronto Star lists 11 hot spring books, among them Yann Martel's Beatrice and Virgil and Chevy Stevens' Still Missing.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/785860--11-hot-books-to-watch-for-this-spring
Stan Persky is the winner of the 2010 Lieutenant-Governor's Award for Literary Excellence, it was announced Wednesday night at the BC Book Prize Soiree at the Listel Hotel.
http://www.vancouversun.com/life/Stan+Persky+awarded+literary+honour/2776857/story.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
Yann Martel talks about the difficulties of writing the follow up to his bestseller Life of Pi. Despite the 9 years between books, the many rewrites and heated conversations with his publisher, beatrice & virgil managed to fetch a $3-million advance.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/yann-martels-post-modern-holocaust-allegory-fetches-3-million-advance/article1525641/
T.F. Rigelhof, novelist, critic and professor, talks about his latest project, an informal overview of Canadian writing called Hooked on Canadian Books: The Good, the Better, and the Best Canadian Novels since 1984.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/home+CanLit/2754206/story.html#ixzz0kWqFAksv
The Globe & Mail writes that "if you like your novels deeply intelligent and emotionally rich" you should probably check out Chang-Rae Lee's The Surrendered.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-the-surrendered-by-chang-rae-lee/article1524626/
The NY Times looks at Booker Prize winner John Banville's two latest novels, The Infinities and Elegy for April, the first written under the author's name and the second credited to Benjamin Black, his crime-writing pseudonym.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/05/books/05book.html?ref=books
Poet Geoffrey Hill, considered by many to be the UK's best hope for Literature's Nobel Prize, has released his Selected Poems, a collection spanning five-plus decades. Read a review in the Globe & Mail.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-selected-poems-by-geoffrey-hill/article1523567/
Michael Winter reviews David Carpenter's new memoir, A Hunter's Confession, in which the author recounts his boyhood hunting with his father and how, over the years, his attitude toward the sport has changed.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-a-hunters-confession-by-david-carpenter/article1520173/
Lisa Foad, ReLit winner for Fiction in 2009, reviews Andrew Kaufman's "quirky, tender, fantastical page-turner," The Waterproof Bible.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-the-waterproof-bible-by-andrew-kaufman/article1520309/
George Fetherling's third novel Walt Whitman's Secret focuses on the last years of Whitman's life as observed by his real-life friend Horace Traubel. In this review, Candace Fertile promises that the book will inspire readers to "drag out their copies of Leaves of Grass to experience Whitman's genius again."
http://www.quillandquire.com/reviews/review.cfm?review_id=6803
Another novel about the life of a literary great, The Secret Life of Emily Dickinson by Jerome Charyn, also receives a favourable review.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-the-secret-life-of-emily-dickinson-by-jerome-charyn/article1520568/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
WRITING THE NEW CANADIAN LANDSCAPE
Reading by Pamela Mordecai (Pink Icing and other stories) and George Sipos (The Geography of Arrival). Thursday, April 8 at 7:00pm. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
OCCUPYING MINDS
Readings by poets Clin Burnham, Stephen Collis, Jeff Derksen, Kim Duff, Reg Johanson, Larissa Lai, Donato Mancini, and Cecily Nicholson. Thursday, April 8 at 7:00pm, free. Langara College (100 W. 49th). More information at www.langara.bc.ca/public-art/.
THE BALLAD OF KNUCKLES MCGRAW
Launch of Surrey author Lois Peterson's new book for children followed by a writing/storytelling workshop for children 6 to 11. Saturday, April 10 at 1:00pm, free. Newton Library (13795-70 Avenue, Surrey). More information and registration at www.loispeterson.net.
SISTER SPIT
Featuring Michelle Tea, Lynn Breedlove, Elisha Lim, Lenelle Moise, Len Plass, Nicole J. Georges, and Annie Danger. Saturday, April 10 at 8:00pm. Sliding scale $15-20. Rhizome Cafe (317 E. Broadway). More information at www.rhizomecafe.ca.
JOYLAND
Joyland co-founders Brian Joseph Davis and Emily Schultz are reading with Vancouver authors Claire Gibson, Dan Schwartz, Shay Wilson, and Rob Peters. Hosted by Kevin Chong. Sunday, April 11 at 7:00pm, free. W2, 112 West Hastings Street.
VANCOUVER POETRY SLAM
Instant Poetry Slam featuring Jon Sands. Monday, April 12 at 8:00pm. Admission: $5/$3. Cafe Deux Soleils (2096 Commercial). More information at www.vancouverpoetryhouse.com.
SCIENCE FICTION BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP
First meeting for the second science fiction book group and discussion of Alastair Reynold's The Prefect. Wednesday, April 14 at 7:00pm. The Grind & Gallery (4124 Main). More information at darthbuddy2000@yahoo.ca.
JACKIE TIMOTHY
Stories told by VPL's 2010 First Nations storyteller-in-residence. Wednesday, April 14 at 7:00pm, free. Mount Pleasant Branch, 1 Kingsway. For more information, phone 604.331.3603.
ANGELA LONG AND SUSAN MUSGRAVE
Poets read of what they've learned and observed from the tip of a remote archipelago at the north end of the world. Wednesday, April 14 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye rooms, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia. More information at 604.331.3603.
ROBSON READING SERIES
George McWhirter reading from Solar Poems/Poemas Solares, his translation of the work of the renowned Mexican poet-activist Homero Aridjis. Thursday, April 15 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Library/Bookstore-Robson Square, Plaza Level, 800 Robson Street.
subTERRAIN
Celebrate Vancouver's literary past, present, and perhaps future with the launch of issue 54/55 which features profiles of, and choice excerpts from, some of Vancouver's best writers. Thursday, April 15 at 7:00pm. Cafe Montmarte, 4362 Main Street.
VISITING POETS SALON & READING
Readings by Penn Kemp and Catherine Owen. Saturday, April 17 at 7:30pm. Josef & Heather's Place, Bowen Island. To RSVP, get directions and ferry information, email hshaley@emspace.com or call 604.947.9386.
Upcoming
NORTH SHORE WRITERS FESTIVAL
Featuring readings and talks by Canadian authors including Annabel Lyon, author of The Golden Mean, Joy Fielding, author of Still Life, Mad River Road, and See Jane Run, and Anosh Irani, author of Dahanu Road. April 19-22. More information and locations at www.northshorewritersfestival.ca.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The first writer in the series, Joan Macleod will read from and sign her works. Monday, April 19 at 7:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
THE HIDDEN PLACES UNCOVERED
An evening of art and poetry collaboration presented by the Sidney and Gertrude Zack Gallery and Pandora's Collective. Tuesday, April 20 at 7:00pm. Sidney and Gertrude Zack Gallery, 950 W. 41st Ave. Complete information at www.pandorascollective.com.
DINING ON AMBROSIA
Join prize-winning bards Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin for an evening of poetry with ancient planetary mother goddesses. Wednesday, April 21 at 6:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA
Authors and panelists Eileen Cook, RG Hart and Susan Lyons discuss what makes a romance and the big business of romance writing. Wednesday, April 21 at 6:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
AL PURDY CELEBRATION READING
Come read your favourite Al Purdy poem or one of your own poems for, or about Al, or in Al's style. Wednesday, April 21. Happy Isle Cafe, Dorman Road, (Bowen Island). More information at 604.947.0017.
NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Celebration with Gillian Jerome, Laisha Rosnau and Gregory Scofield. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
POETRY READING
A poetry reading by Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. The Fort Gallery, 9048 Glover Rd., Fort Langley, BC.
ARTHUR ELLIS AWARDS
Join the Crime Writers of Canada for a panel discussion of crime writing and presentation of the Arthur Ellis Awards shortlist release event. Thursday, April 22 at 7:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
ANN ERIKSSON
Author reads from her new novel, Falling from Grace. Thursday, April, 22 at 7:30pm, free. Meeting Room, Level 3, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
PLANET EARTH POETRY
Launch of Daniela Elza, Peter Morin, and Onjana Yawnghwe's book 4 Poets. Friday, April 23 at 7:30pm, $3 at the door. The Black Stilt Coffee House, 103-1633 Hillside Avenue, Victoria. For more details contact planetearthpoetry@gmail.com.
TEMPERING THE CLIMATE
A poetry reading by Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin, followed by a "Gathering Peaces" workshop. Saturday, April 24. Free reading at 1:00pm, workshop at 2:00pm (tickets are $20). Canadian Memorial Centre for Peace, the Fireside Room, 1825 W. 16th Avenue, Vancouver. More information at 604.731.3101.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Yann Martel's highly anticipated new novel beatrice & virgil is about to hit bookstores in early April, and you can meet him in the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! The new book is a bewitching story about a famous, yet struggling author, an eccentric taxidermist, a donkey and a howler monkey. Meet the author of Life of Pi in the intimate setting of Studio One on Sunday April 25 at 3 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
WORLD POETRY GALA
World Poetry celebrates it's 9th anniversary. Join hosts Ariadne Sawyer and Alejandro Mujica-Olea for poetry, music and an awards presentation. A tribute to past award winners and World Poetry ambassadors. Monday, April 26 at 6:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
YANN MARTEL
Capilano University Pacific Arbour Speaker Series presents Yann Martel with Anosh Irani. Yann Martel is the author of the internationally acclaimed Man Booker prize-winning novel Life of Pi. Anosh Irani, the award-winning playwright and best-selling author whose novel, The Song of Kahunsha, was a 2007 Canada Reads finalist. Monday, April 26 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $15/$13. Kay Meek Centre, North Vancouver. More information at http://www.capilanou.ca/news-events/performing-arts/season-performances/Speaker.html.
LORRI NEILSEN GLENN, EVE JOSEPH AND JOHN DONLAN
Join poets as they read from their latest collections. Celebrate Brick Books' 35th anniversary! Tuesday, April 27 at 7:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
TALON'S 2010 CROSS-CANADA POETRY TOUR
Readings by derek beaulieu, Ken Belford, George Bowering, Weyman Chan, Stephen Collis, Frank Davey, Garry Thomas Morse, and Ken Norris. Wednesday, April 28 at 8:00pm, free. Heritage Hall (3102 Main). More information at www.talonbooks.com.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Canada's own international best-selling fantasy fiction author Guy Gavriel Kay is coming to the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! His new novel "Under Heaven" is getting rave reviews! It's set during the glory of the Tang Dynasty in China and is an adventure that has everything readers around the world love about Guy's epic stories. Come join the discussion with Guy Gavriel Kay in the intimate setting of Studio One on Wednesday May 5 at 6:30 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for April 16: two tickets to the Arts Club Theatre production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, June 21–June 30. Information: www.artsclub.com.
The Arts Club Theatre is presenting Anosh Irani's latest play My Granny the Goldfish at the newly refurbished Revue Stage. Book News subscribers, receive an exclusive 2-for-1 ticket deal on My Granny the Goldfish tickets purchased before April 15 (Monday or Tuesday night performances only). Just use the promo code WFGRAN when you book online (http://secure.vancouvertix.com/tickets/production.aspx?performanceNumber=3007) or by phone at 604-687-1644. For more information, download the poster (60KB) here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/files/u3/MyGrannytheGoldfish.pdf:
Special Events
Peter Carey
Brush up on all things Peter Carey before the event on May 7. His website offers a smorgasbord of interviews, reviews and background on the author, who is perhaps best known for his Booker Prize winning novels Oscar and Lucinda and True History of the Kelly Gang. http://petercareybooks.com/
Ian McEwan
There are still tickets left to see Ian McEwan on April 15th. To keep up with news and reviews of Solar, follow the author on Facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ian-McEwan-Website/305499726425
Ian McEwan will be interviewed by Jerry Wasserman. Details at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/specialevents. VIWF members: Receive a $2 member discount for Ian McEwan event tickets! Join us: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
AWARDS & LISTS
The nominees for the Griffin Poetry Prizes have been announced. To celebrate the prize's 10th anniversary, the award has doubled from $100,000 to $200,000.
http://www.griffinpoetryprize.com/awards_shortlist.php
Canadian authors Robert J. Sawyer and Robert Charles Wilson are among the finalists for the Hugo Award, considered the top prize for science fiction in the world.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/04/05/sawyer-hugo-award.html
Among the contenders for the inaugural Walter Scott prize for historical fiction, worth £25,000, are three finalists for last year's booker: Adam Foulds, Hilary Mantel and Simon Mawer.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/apr/01/booker-rivals-walter-scott-prize-shortlist
The Toronto Star lists 11 hot spring books, among them Yann Martel's Beatrice and Virgil and Chevy Stevens' Still Missing.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/785860--11-hot-books-to-watch-for-this-spring
Stan Persky is the winner of the 2010 Lieutenant-Governor's Award for Literary Excellence, it was announced Wednesday night at the BC Book Prize Soiree at the Listel Hotel.
http://www.vancouversun.com/life/Stan+Persky+awarded+literary+honour/2776857/story.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
Yann Martel talks about the difficulties of writing the follow up to his bestseller Life of Pi. Despite the 9 years between books, the many rewrites and heated conversations with his publisher, beatrice & virgil managed to fetch a $3-million advance.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/yann-martels-post-modern-holocaust-allegory-fetches-3-million-advance/article1525641/
T.F. Rigelhof, novelist, critic and professor, talks about his latest project, an informal overview of Canadian writing called Hooked on Canadian Books: The Good, the Better, and the Best Canadian Novels since 1984.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/home+CanLit/2754206/story.html#ixzz0kWqFAksv
The Globe & Mail writes that "if you like your novels deeply intelligent and emotionally rich" you should probably check out Chang-Rae Lee's The Surrendered.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-the-surrendered-by-chang-rae-lee/article1524626/
The NY Times looks at Booker Prize winner John Banville's two latest novels, The Infinities and Elegy for April, the first written under the author's name and the second credited to Benjamin Black, his crime-writing pseudonym.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/05/books/05book.html?ref=books
Poet Geoffrey Hill, considered by many to be the UK's best hope for Literature's Nobel Prize, has released his Selected Poems, a collection spanning five-plus decades. Read a review in the Globe & Mail.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-selected-poems-by-geoffrey-hill/article1523567/
Michael Winter reviews David Carpenter's new memoir, A Hunter's Confession, in which the author recounts his boyhood hunting with his father and how, over the years, his attitude toward the sport has changed.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-a-hunters-confession-by-david-carpenter/article1520173/
Lisa Foad, ReLit winner for Fiction in 2009, reviews Andrew Kaufman's "quirky, tender, fantastical page-turner," The Waterproof Bible.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-the-waterproof-bible-by-andrew-kaufman/article1520309/
George Fetherling's third novel Walt Whitman's Secret focuses on the last years of Whitman's life as observed by his real-life friend Horace Traubel. In this review, Candace Fertile promises that the book will inspire readers to "drag out their copies of Leaves of Grass to experience Whitman's genius again."
http://www.quillandquire.com/reviews/review.cfm?review_id=6803
Another novel about the life of a literary great, The Secret Life of Emily Dickinson by Jerome Charyn, also receives a favourable review.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-the-secret-life-of-emily-dickinson-by-jerome-charyn/article1520568/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
WRITING THE NEW CANADIAN LANDSCAPE
Reading by Pamela Mordecai (Pink Icing and other stories) and George Sipos (The Geography of Arrival). Thursday, April 8 at 7:00pm. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
OCCUPYING MINDS
Readings by poets Clin Burnham, Stephen Collis, Jeff Derksen, Kim Duff, Reg Johanson, Larissa Lai, Donato Mancini, and Cecily Nicholson. Thursday, April 8 at 7:00pm, free. Langara College (100 W. 49th). More information at www.langara.bc.ca/public-art/.
THE BALLAD OF KNUCKLES MCGRAW
Launch of Surrey author Lois Peterson's new book for children followed by a writing/storytelling workshop for children 6 to 11. Saturday, April 10 at 1:00pm, free. Newton Library (13795-70 Avenue, Surrey). More information and registration at www.loispeterson.net.
SISTER SPIT
Featuring Michelle Tea, Lynn Breedlove, Elisha Lim, Lenelle Moise, Len Plass, Nicole J. Georges, and Annie Danger. Saturday, April 10 at 8:00pm. Sliding scale $15-20. Rhizome Cafe (317 E. Broadway). More information at www.rhizomecafe.ca.
JOYLAND
Joyland co-founders Brian Joseph Davis and Emily Schultz are reading with Vancouver authors Claire Gibson, Dan Schwartz, Shay Wilson, and Rob Peters. Hosted by Kevin Chong. Sunday, April 11 at 7:00pm, free. W2, 112 West Hastings Street.
VANCOUVER POETRY SLAM
Instant Poetry Slam featuring Jon Sands. Monday, April 12 at 8:00pm. Admission: $5/$3. Cafe Deux Soleils (2096 Commercial). More information at www.vancouverpoetryhouse.com.
SCIENCE FICTION BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP
First meeting for the second science fiction book group and discussion of Alastair Reynold's The Prefect. Wednesday, April 14 at 7:00pm. The Grind & Gallery (4124 Main). More information at darthbuddy2000@yahoo.ca.
JACKIE TIMOTHY
Stories told by VPL's 2010 First Nations storyteller-in-residence. Wednesday, April 14 at 7:00pm, free. Mount Pleasant Branch, 1 Kingsway. For more information, phone 604.331.3603.
ANGELA LONG AND SUSAN MUSGRAVE
Poets read of what they've learned and observed from the tip of a remote archipelago at the north end of the world. Wednesday, April 14 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye rooms, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia. More information at 604.331.3603.
ROBSON READING SERIES
George McWhirter reading from Solar Poems/Poemas Solares, his translation of the work of the renowned Mexican poet-activist Homero Aridjis. Thursday, April 15 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Library/Bookstore-Robson Square, Plaza Level, 800 Robson Street.
subTERRAIN
Celebrate Vancouver's literary past, present, and perhaps future with the launch of issue 54/55 which features profiles of, and choice excerpts from, some of Vancouver's best writers. Thursday, April 15 at 7:00pm. Cafe Montmarte, 4362 Main Street.
VISITING POETS SALON & READING
Readings by Penn Kemp and Catherine Owen. Saturday, April 17 at 7:30pm. Josef & Heather's Place, Bowen Island. To RSVP, get directions and ferry information, email hshaley@emspace.com or call 604.947.9386.
Upcoming
NORTH SHORE WRITERS FESTIVAL
Featuring readings and talks by Canadian authors including Annabel Lyon, author of The Golden Mean, Joy Fielding, author of Still Life, Mad River Road, and See Jane Run, and Anosh Irani, author of Dahanu Road. April 19-22. More information and locations at www.northshorewritersfestival.ca.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The first writer in the series, Joan Macleod will read from and sign her works. Monday, April 19 at 7:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
THE HIDDEN PLACES UNCOVERED
An evening of art and poetry collaboration presented by the Sidney and Gertrude Zack Gallery and Pandora's Collective. Tuesday, April 20 at 7:00pm. Sidney and Gertrude Zack Gallery, 950 W. 41st Ave. Complete information at www.pandorascollective.com.
DINING ON AMBROSIA
Join prize-winning bards Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin for an evening of poetry with ancient planetary mother goddesses. Wednesday, April 21 at 6:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA
Authors and panelists Eileen Cook, RG Hart and Susan Lyons discuss what makes a romance and the big business of romance writing. Wednesday, April 21 at 6:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
AL PURDY CELEBRATION READING
Come read your favourite Al Purdy poem or one of your own poems for, or about Al, or in Al's style. Wednesday, April 21. Happy Isle Cafe, Dorman Road, (Bowen Island). More information at 604.947.0017.
NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Celebration with Gillian Jerome, Laisha Rosnau and Gregory Scofield. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
POETRY READING
A poetry reading by Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. The Fort Gallery, 9048 Glover Rd., Fort Langley, BC.
ARTHUR ELLIS AWARDS
Join the Crime Writers of Canada for a panel discussion of crime writing and presentation of the Arthur Ellis Awards shortlist release event. Thursday, April 22 at 7:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
ANN ERIKSSON
Author reads from her new novel, Falling from Grace. Thursday, April, 22 at 7:30pm, free. Meeting Room, Level 3, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
PLANET EARTH POETRY
Launch of Daniela Elza, Peter Morin, and Onjana Yawnghwe's book 4 Poets. Friday, April 23 at 7:30pm, $3 at the door. The Black Stilt Coffee House, 103-1633 Hillside Avenue, Victoria. For more details contact planetearthpoetry@gmail.com.
TEMPERING THE CLIMATE
A poetry reading by Penn Kemp and Susan McCaslin, followed by a "Gathering Peaces" workshop. Saturday, April 24. Free reading at 1:00pm, workshop at 2:00pm (tickets are $20). Canadian Memorial Centre for Peace, the Fireside Room, 1825 W. 16th Avenue, Vancouver. More information at 604.731.3101.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Yann Martel's highly anticipated new novel beatrice & virgil is about to hit bookstores in early April, and you can meet him in the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! The new book is a bewitching story about a famous, yet struggling author, an eccentric taxidermist, a donkey and a howler monkey. Meet the author of Life of Pi in the intimate setting of Studio One on Sunday April 25 at 3 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
WORLD POETRY GALA
World Poetry celebrates it's 9th anniversary. Join hosts Ariadne Sawyer and Alejandro Mujica-Olea for poetry, music and an awards presentation. A tribute to past award winners and World Poetry ambassadors. Monday, April 26 at 6:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
YANN MARTEL
Capilano University Pacific Arbour Speaker Series presents Yann Martel with Anosh Irani. Yann Martel is the author of the internationally acclaimed Man Booker prize-winning novel Life of Pi. Anosh Irani, the award-winning playwright and best-selling author whose novel, The Song of Kahunsha, was a 2007 Canada Reads finalist. Monday, April 26 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $15/$13. Kay Meek Centre, North Vancouver. More information at http://www.capilanou.ca/news-events/performing-arts/season-performances/Speaker.html.
LORRI NEILSEN GLENN, EVE JOSEPH AND JOHN DONLAN
Join poets as they read from their latest collections. Celebrate Brick Books' 35th anniversary! Tuesday, April 27 at 7:30pm, free. Peter Kaye Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
TALON'S 2010 CROSS-CANADA POETRY TOUR
Readings by derek beaulieu, Ken Belford, George Bowering, Weyman Chan, Stephen Collis, Frank Davey, Garry Thomas Morse, and Ken Norris. Wednesday, April 28 at 8:00pm, free. Heritage Hall (3102 Main). More information at www.talonbooks.com.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Canada's own international best-selling fantasy fiction author Guy Gavriel Kay is coming to the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! His new novel "Under Heaven" is getting rave reviews! It's set during the glory of the Tang Dynasty in China and is an adventure that has everything readers around the world love about Guy's epic stories. Come join the discussion with Guy Gavriel Kay in the intimate setting of Studio One on Wednesday May 5 at 6:30 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Book News Vol. 5 No. 16
BOOK NEWS
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for April 16: two tickets to the Arts Club Theatre production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, June 21–June 30. Information: http://www.artsclub.com/.
Special Events
Ian McEwan
Ian McEwan will be interviewed by Jerry Wasserman. Details at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/specialevents. VIWF members: Receive a $2 member discount for Ian McEwan event tickets! Join us: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Peter Carey
The Vancouver International Writers Festival and Random House of Canada present the Man Booker Prize for Fiction winner and the author of Oscar and Lucinda and True History of the Kelly Gang in conversation with Hal Wake. Details at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/specialevents.
AWARDS & LISTS
St. John's writer Jessica Grant has won the Winterset Award for her debut novel Come, Thou Tortoise.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/03/26/grant-winterset-award-326.html
The inaugural Ted Hughes award for new work in poetry, founded by Carol Ann Duffy, goes to Alice Oswald.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/mar/30/alice-oswald-ted-hughes-award
The shortlists for two poetry prizes, the Gerald Lampert and Pat Lowther Memorial Awards have been announced.
http://www.poets.ca/linktext/awards.htm
More shortlists, this time for the Canadian Booksellers Association awards. Nominated in the fiction category: Michael Crummey, Annabel Lyon and Linden MacIntyre.
http://www.cbabook.org/files/LibrisAwards/CBALibrisShortlistAnnouncement10.pdf
The Alcuin Society announces the 30 best-designed books of 2010.
http://www.alcuinsociety.com/blog/index.html
AbeBooks presents the top ten books written by librarians.
http://www.abebooks.com/books/Newsletters/100322/000-librarB.shtml?cm_mmc=nl-_-nl-_-000-librarB-_-h-online
NEWS & FEATURES
With Yann Martel on the road promoting his new novel, Steven Galloway steps in to recommend Paul Quarrington’s novel King Leary to Stephen Harper. http://www.whatisstephenharperreading.ca/2010/03/15/book-number-77-king-leary-by-paul-quarrington/
The National Post talks with publisher Louise Dennys about Knopf’s Fresh Face of Fiction program which has launched many careers over the past 15 years, among them the abovementioned Jessica Grant.
http://www.nationalpost.com/arts/story.html?id=2730491
Some educators think that ditching the traditional class-assigned novel and letting students choose the books they want to read may make them better readers in the long run. http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/family-and-relationships/letting-students-choose-books-could-make-them-better-readers/article1515629/
Five of the six largest publishers in North America are banding together to control e-book prices.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/cost-of-e-books-to-rise-as-publishers-band-together-to-control-price/article1518707/
Speaking of e-books, in the increasingly digital age, will we still be able to judge books by their covers?
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/31/books/31covers.html?ref=books
BOOKS & WRITERS
The Globe & Mail profiles Canada’s latest publishing sensation, Chevy Stevens, a debut novelist from Vancouver Island.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/from-teddy-bears-to-crime-writing/article1513428/
Chitra Banerjee’s new novel One Amazing Thing developed out of her experiences working as a volunteer with Katrina evacuees and witnessing the contradictory ways people respond to disaster.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-one-amazing-thing-by-chitra-banerjee-divakaruni/article1513432/
Spanish author Javier Marias may just be “the best novelist you’ve never heard of.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-your-face-tomorrow-by-javier-maras/article1515793/
Darwin’s Bastards, an anthology of speculative fiction edited by Zsuzsi Gartner, receives a great review in the Globe & Mail.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-darwins-bastards-edited-by-zsuzsi-gartner/article1513441/
Vanity Fair weighs in on the hype about Stieg Larrson’s Millennium trilogy.
http://www.vanityfair.com/culture/features/2009/12/hitchens-200912
The Guardian looks at The Dead Republic, the final book in Roddy Doyle’s trilogy featuring protagonist Henry Holt.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/mar/28/dead-republic-roddy-doyle-review
The Globe & Mail talks with Danielle Trussoni about her debut novel Angelology in which angels are the new vampires.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/danielle-trussonis-dark-angels/article1517644/
Zoe Whittall is moved by A.L. Kennedy’s collection of stories about “loners trying not to be.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-what-becomes-by-al-kennedy/article1513450/
A.L. Kennedy herself amuses us yet again, this week with her blog post about novel-writing which she likens to suffering “a long term illness.”
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2010/mar/29/al-kennedy-work-in-progress
The Guardian catches up with Michael Chabon in London to chat about his new collection of essays, Manhood for Amateurs, and what he’s working on now.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/mar/27/michael-chabon-interview-christopher-tayler
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ROBSON READING SERIES SPECIAL EVENT
Reading by Randall Maggs, author of Night Work: The Sawchuk Poems and poet Elizabeth Bachinsky, author of God of Missed Connections to celebrate Brick Books 35th anniversary. Thursday, April 1 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
UP CHUTE CREEK
Melody Hessing reads from her book. Thursday, April 1 at 7:00pm, free. Meeting room, level 3, VPL Central Library, 350 W. Georgia. More information at http://www.vpl.ca/.
VANCOUVER POETRY SLAM
Vancouver Poetry Slam semi-final 1. Monday, April 5 at 8:00pm. Admission: $5/$3. Cafe Deux Soleils (2096 Commercial). More information at http://www.vancouverpoetryhouse.com/.
NEIL SAFIER
Author reads from his award-winning book, Measuring the New World Enlightenment Science and South America. Tuesday, April 6 at 3:00pm. Room 302, Dodson Room, Irving K. Barber Learning Centre (1961 East Mall).
BC BOOK PRIZES SOIREE
Mix and mingle with nominated authors while supporting the BC Book Prizes on Tour program. Enter to win great door prizes and bid for weekend getaways, prize-winning books, and other treats in a Silent Auction. Wednesday, April 7 at 7:00pm, free. The Listel Hotel, Impressionist Gallery Room, 1300 Robson Street, Vancouver. Information at http://www.bcbookprizes.ca/events/archive/soiree-2010.
PLAY CHTHONICS READING SERIES
Readings by Canadian poets Jeff Derkson and Adam Dickinson. Wednesday, April 7 at 7:39pm, free. Green College (6201 Cecil Green Park Road, UBC). More information at gjerome@interchange.ubc.ca.
WRITING THE NEW CANADIAN LANDSCAPE
Reading by Pamela Mordecai (Pink Icing and other stories) and George Sipos (The Geography of Arrival). Thursday, April 8 at 7:00pm. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
THE BALLAD OF KNUCKLES MCGRAW
Launch of Surrey author Lois Peterson's new book for children followed by a writing/storytelling workshop for children 6 to 11. Saturday, April 10 at 1:00pm, free. Newton Library (13795-70 Avenue, Surrey). More information and registration at http://www.loispeterson.net/.
Upcoming
JACKIE TIMOTHY
Stories told by VPL's 2010 First Nations storyteller-in-residence. Wednesday, April 14 at 7:00pm, free. Mount Pleasant Branch, 1 Kingsway. For more information, phone 604.331.3603.
ANGELA LONG AND SUSAN MUSGRAVE
Poets read of what they've learned and observed from the tip of a remote archipelago at the north end of the world. Wednesday, April 14 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye rooms, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia. More information at 604.331.3603.
VISITING POETS SALON & READING
Readings by Penn Kemp and Catherine Owen. Saturday, April 17 at 7:30pm. Josef & Heather's Place, Bowen Island. To RSVP, get directions and ferry information, email hshaley@emspace.com or call 604.947.9386.
NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Celebration with Gillian Jerome, Laisha Rosnau and Gregory Scofield. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The first writer in the series, Joan Macleod will read from and sign her works. Monday, April 19 at 7:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Yann Martel's highly anticipated new novel beatrice & virgil is about to hit bookstores in early April, and you can meet him in the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! The new book is a bewitching story about a famous, yet struggling author, an eccentric taxidermist, a donkey and a howler monkey. Meet the author of Life of Pi in the intimate setting of Studio One on Sunday April 25 at 3 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
YANN MARTEL
Capilano University Pacific Arbour Speaker Series presents Yann Martel with Anosh Irani. Yann Martel is the author of the internationally acclaimed Man Booker prize-winning novel Life of Pi. Anosh Irani, the award-winning playwright and best-selling author whose novel, The Song of Kahunsha, was a 2007 Canada Reads finalist. Monday, April 26 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $15/$13. Kay Meek Centre, North Vancouver. More information at http://www.capilanou.ca/news-events/performing-arts/season-performances/Speaker.html.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Canada's own international best-selling fantasy fiction author Guy Gavriel Kay is coming to the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! His new novel "Under Heaven" is getting rave reviews! It's set during the glory of the Tang Dynasty in China and is an adventure that has everything readers around the world love about Guy's epic stories. Come join the discussion with Guy Gavriel Kay in the intimate setting of Studio One on Wednesday May 5 at 6:30 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
Join us!
Our membership drive continues with exciting new incentives to join, as well as the benefits of membership:...discounts, earlybird tickets, we could go on... Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for April 16: two tickets to the Arts Club Theatre production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, June 21–June 30. Information: http://www.artsclub.com/.
Special Events
Ian McEwan
Ian McEwan will be interviewed by Jerry Wasserman. Details at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/specialevents. VIWF members: Receive a $2 member discount for Ian McEwan event tickets! Join us: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/supportus/joinus.
Peter Carey
The Vancouver International Writers Festival and Random House of Canada present the Man Booker Prize for Fiction winner and the author of Oscar and Lucinda and True History of the Kelly Gang in conversation with Hal Wake. Details at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/specialevents.
AWARDS & LISTS
St. John's writer Jessica Grant has won the Winterset Award for her debut novel Come, Thou Tortoise.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/03/26/grant-winterset-award-326.html
The inaugural Ted Hughes award for new work in poetry, founded by Carol Ann Duffy, goes to Alice Oswald.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/mar/30/alice-oswald-ted-hughes-award
The shortlists for two poetry prizes, the Gerald Lampert and Pat Lowther Memorial Awards have been announced.
http://www.poets.ca/linktext/awards.htm
More shortlists, this time for the Canadian Booksellers Association awards. Nominated in the fiction category: Michael Crummey, Annabel Lyon and Linden MacIntyre.
http://www.cbabook.org/files/LibrisAwards/CBALibrisShortlistAnnouncement10.pdf
The Alcuin Society announces the 30 best-designed books of 2010.
http://www.alcuinsociety.com/blog/index.html
AbeBooks presents the top ten books written by librarians.
http://www.abebooks.com/books/Newsletters/100322/000-librarB.shtml?cm_mmc=nl-_-nl-_-000-librarB-_-h-online
NEWS & FEATURES
With Yann Martel on the road promoting his new novel, Steven Galloway steps in to recommend Paul Quarrington’s novel King Leary to Stephen Harper. http://www.whatisstephenharperreading.ca/2010/03/15/book-number-77-king-leary-by-paul-quarrington/
The National Post talks with publisher Louise Dennys about Knopf’s Fresh Face of Fiction program which has launched many careers over the past 15 years, among them the abovementioned Jessica Grant.
http://www.nationalpost.com/arts/story.html?id=2730491
Some educators think that ditching the traditional class-assigned novel and letting students choose the books they want to read may make them better readers in the long run. http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/family-and-relationships/letting-students-choose-books-could-make-them-better-readers/article1515629/
Five of the six largest publishers in North America are banding together to control e-book prices.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/cost-of-e-books-to-rise-as-publishers-band-together-to-control-price/article1518707/
Speaking of e-books, in the increasingly digital age, will we still be able to judge books by their covers?
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/31/books/31covers.html?ref=books
BOOKS & WRITERS
The Globe & Mail profiles Canada’s latest publishing sensation, Chevy Stevens, a debut novelist from Vancouver Island.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/from-teddy-bears-to-crime-writing/article1513428/
Chitra Banerjee’s new novel One Amazing Thing developed out of her experiences working as a volunteer with Katrina evacuees and witnessing the contradictory ways people respond to disaster.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-one-amazing-thing-by-chitra-banerjee-divakaruni/article1513432/
Spanish author Javier Marias may just be “the best novelist you’ve never heard of.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-your-face-tomorrow-by-javier-maras/article1515793/
Darwin’s Bastards, an anthology of speculative fiction edited by Zsuzsi Gartner, receives a great review in the Globe & Mail.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-darwins-bastards-edited-by-zsuzsi-gartner/article1513441/
Vanity Fair weighs in on the hype about Stieg Larrson’s Millennium trilogy.
http://www.vanityfair.com/culture/features/2009/12/hitchens-200912
The Guardian looks at The Dead Republic, the final book in Roddy Doyle’s trilogy featuring protagonist Henry Holt.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/mar/28/dead-republic-roddy-doyle-review
The Globe & Mail talks with Danielle Trussoni about her debut novel Angelology in which angels are the new vampires.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/danielle-trussonis-dark-angels/article1517644/
Zoe Whittall is moved by A.L. Kennedy’s collection of stories about “loners trying not to be.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-what-becomes-by-al-kennedy/article1513450/
A.L. Kennedy herself amuses us yet again, this week with her blog post about novel-writing which she likens to suffering “a long term illness.”
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2010/mar/29/al-kennedy-work-in-progress
The Guardian catches up with Michael Chabon in London to chat about his new collection of essays, Manhood for Amateurs, and what he’s working on now.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/mar/27/michael-chabon-interview-christopher-tayler
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ROBSON READING SERIES SPECIAL EVENT
Reading by Randall Maggs, author of Night Work: The Sawchuk Poems and poet Elizabeth Bachinsky, author of God of Missed Connections to celebrate Brick Books 35th anniversary. Thursday, April 1 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
UP CHUTE CREEK
Melody Hessing reads from her book. Thursday, April 1 at 7:00pm, free. Meeting room, level 3, VPL Central Library, 350 W. Georgia. More information at http://www.vpl.ca/.
VANCOUVER POETRY SLAM
Vancouver Poetry Slam semi-final 1. Monday, April 5 at 8:00pm. Admission: $5/$3. Cafe Deux Soleils (2096 Commercial). More information at http://www.vancouverpoetryhouse.com/.
NEIL SAFIER
Author reads from his award-winning book, Measuring the New World Enlightenment Science and South America. Tuesday, April 6 at 3:00pm. Room 302, Dodson Room, Irving K. Barber Learning Centre (1961 East Mall).
BC BOOK PRIZES SOIREE
Mix and mingle with nominated authors while supporting the BC Book Prizes on Tour program. Enter to win great door prizes and bid for weekend getaways, prize-winning books, and other treats in a Silent Auction. Wednesday, April 7 at 7:00pm, free. The Listel Hotel, Impressionist Gallery Room, 1300 Robson Street, Vancouver. Information at http://www.bcbookprizes.ca/events/archive/soiree-2010.
PLAY CHTHONICS READING SERIES
Readings by Canadian poets Jeff Derkson and Adam Dickinson. Wednesday, April 7 at 7:39pm, free. Green College (6201 Cecil Green Park Road, UBC). More information at gjerome@interchange.ubc.ca.
WRITING THE NEW CANADIAN LANDSCAPE
Reading by Pamela Mordecai (Pink Icing and other stories) and George Sipos (The Geography of Arrival). Thursday, April 8 at 7:00pm. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
THE BALLAD OF KNUCKLES MCGRAW
Launch of Surrey author Lois Peterson's new book for children followed by a writing/storytelling workshop for children 6 to 11. Saturday, April 10 at 1:00pm, free. Newton Library (13795-70 Avenue, Surrey). More information and registration at http://www.loispeterson.net/.
Upcoming
JACKIE TIMOTHY
Stories told by VPL's 2010 First Nations storyteller-in-residence. Wednesday, April 14 at 7:00pm, free. Mount Pleasant Branch, 1 Kingsway. For more information, phone 604.331.3603.
ANGELA LONG AND SUSAN MUSGRAVE
Poets read of what they've learned and observed from the tip of a remote archipelago at the north end of the world. Wednesday, April 14 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye rooms, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia. More information at 604.331.3603.
VISITING POETS SALON & READING
Readings by Penn Kemp and Catherine Owen. Saturday, April 17 at 7:30pm. Josef & Heather's Place, Bowen Island. To RSVP, get directions and ferry information, email hshaley@emspace.com or call 604.947.9386.
NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Celebration with Gillian Jerome, Laisha Rosnau and Gregory Scofield. Thursday, April 22 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore Library, Robson Square, 800 Robson Street.
WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE READING SERIES
Visit the intimate living room at Historic Joy Kogawa House for a series of small salon evenings with five writers who use literature to call for social change and justice and as a tool for social transformation. The first writer in the series, Joan Macleod will read from and sign her works. Monday, April 19 at 7:30pm, admission by donation. Historic Joy Kogawa House, 1450 64th Ave. W. More information here: http://www.kogawahouse.com/node/181.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Yann Martel's highly anticipated new novel beatrice & virgil is about to hit bookstores in early April, and you can meet him in the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! The new book is a bewitching story about a famous, yet struggling author, an eccentric taxidermist, a donkey and a howler monkey. Meet the author of Life of Pi in the intimate setting of Studio One on Sunday April 25 at 3 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
YANN MARTEL
Capilano University Pacific Arbour Speaker Series presents Yann Martel with Anosh Irani. Yann Martel is the author of the internationally acclaimed Man Booker prize-winning novel Life of Pi. Anosh Irani, the award-winning playwright and best-selling author whose novel, The Song of Kahunsha, was a 2007 Canada Reads finalist. Monday, April 26 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $15/$13. Kay Meek Centre, North Vancouver. More information at http://www.capilanou.ca/news-events/performing-arts/season-performances/Speaker.html.
STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
Canada's own international best-selling fantasy fiction author Guy Gavriel Kay is coming to the CBC Radio Studio One Book Club! His new novel "Under Heaven" is getting rave reviews! It's set during the glory of the Tang Dynasty in China and is an adventure that has everything readers around the world love about Guy's epic stories. Come join the discussion with Guy Gavriel Kay in the intimate setting of Studio One on Wednesday May 5 at 6:30 pm. The only way to get in, is to win! Go to www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub to enter for free tickets.
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