BOOK NEWS
Virtual Festival
The second recording in our newly launched series of archived events from Festivals-past features Tomson Highway. In a 2003 appearance at the Festival Canadian Cree writer and playwright Tomson Highway was the embodiment of trickster from myth and legend. And then he played the piano. http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/multimedia/audio-archives
A Dram Come True
Chat with scotch experts while you enjoy delicious and distinguished single malts. The silent auction will feature: Member's Legacy Caperdonich 1967, The Arran Malt Single Malt, Amrut Cask Strength Indian Single Malt, Bruichladdich Organic Single Malt 2003, Balvenie 12 year old "Double Wood" finish, Dewar Rattry Cask Collection 14 year old, Laphroaig Single Malt 1999, Glenfarclas Single Malt, and Murray McDavid Vancouver Club Special Bottling. Signed first edition books include Last Night in Twisted River by John Irving, Year of the Flood by Margaret Atwood, One on One by Peter Mansbridge, and many other select items. Details and photos from last year here: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/dramcometrue.
Join us!
Only four days left for new members to be entered into the draw for a stellar collection of 2010 BC Book Prize finalists! Join now. Thank you to the BC Book Prizes for donating this fabulous prize. Click for more information, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/get-involved/joinus.
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, Corduroy Mansions. Complete details on our website, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/specialevents.
Alexander McCall Smith is one of the many travelers whose plans were altered by Eyjafjallajökull’s volcanic ash. Since he was unable to fulfill several engagements, McCall Smith plans interactive online sessions on his website.
http://www.randomhouse.com/features/mccallsmith/main.php
AWARDS & LISTS
"The best book won" says Sam Jordison about the winner of The Lost Man Booker Prize.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2010/may/21/jg-farrell-troubles-lost-booker
Robert J. Sawyer has won the Best Novel (English) Award and Laurent McAllister Best Novel (French) in the 2010 Prix Aurora Awards.
http://www.prix-aurora-awards.ca/English/home.htm
The longlist for the Theakstons Old Peculier crime novel of the year award has been announced. The prize will be awarded July 22.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/21/theakstons-crime-prize-writing-women
Students have chosen a new story in a detective series starring a young Sherlock Holmes as the winner of the 2010 Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Children's Book Awards.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/05/26/schwartz-awards-winners.html
The U.K.'s Debut Dagger competition has helped launch the careers of several Canadian crime-writers.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/05/25/f-debut-dagger-contest-louise-penny.html
Author/visual artist Gloria Vanderbilt has announced the establishment of the annual Gloria Vanderbilt Short Fiction Prize, worth $2,000, to be awarded to an emerging Canadian writer in honour of Vanderbilt’s late son, Carter V. Cooper.
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/811052--fiorito-gloria-vanderbilt-announces-canadian-fiction-prize
James W. Nichol’s Death Spiral, presented at the 2009 Festival, is one of the five nominees for the Arthur Ellis Awards.
http://crimewriterscanada.com/cwcNew/pages/CCC/CCC%20Current%20issue.htm
American writer Junot Diaz, who captured a Pulitzer Prize for fiction for 2008, has been elected to the Pulitzer board for a 3-year term.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/05/22/diaz-pulitzer-board.html
This year's Guardian Hay festival will include an award, judged by actor and writer Stephen Fry, the unofficial king of Twitter, for 'the most beautiful tweet' ever written.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/23/stephen-fry-guardian-hay-festival-twitter
NEWS & FEATURES
A new study published in the journal Research in Social Stratification and Mobility shows a strong correlation between a child’s academic achievement and the number of books his or her parents own.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/facts-and-arguments/a-universal-malady-mammoths-legacy-the-boss-gets-two-of-you/article1580796/
There will be at least 50 events throughout this summer honouring the 50th anniversary of To Kill A Mockingbird.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/25/books/25mock.html?ref=arts
The Australian quotes John Ralston Saul’s focus, in A Fair Country, on the fallacy of modern philosophy, the false divide between fiction and non-fiction, and the lack of aboriginality in history writing, among other ssues.
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/arts/the-great-fallacy-of-western-philosophy/story-e6frg8nf-1225868272657
Douglas Coupland has donated his archives to the University of British Columbia.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/a-generation-x-pack-rat-forfeits-his-treasures/article1576592/?cmpid=
Among the letters to Juliet from all around the world are the 5,000-plus letters received by the Club di Giuiietta each year.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/may/19/dear-juliet-letters-shakespeares-heroine
Desperate science fiction author Peter Riley is offering a cash incentive to read his novel.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/21/cash-for-readers-novelist
Henning Mankell, Swedish author of the Kurt Wallender mysteries, describes how and why he is turning his attention to helping Africans tell their life stories.
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/article7132028.ece
Robert Fisk, the distinguished Middle East correspondent, is writing about food? Well, yes.
http://www.independent.co.uk/opinion/commentators/fisk/robert-fisk-tea-with-bin-ladenand-other-stories-1977311.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
The Montreal Gazette has a rave review of a series of children’s books, with their unique view of childhood. Written by Norwegian author, Stian Hole, the books are now translated and distributed in North America.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Kids+Stian+Hole+unique+view+childhood/3018859/story.html
Interviews with the author and the translator may be found here:
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Author+illustrator+Stian+Hole+complete+interview/3018938/story.html
and here: http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Translator+Bartlett+complete+interview/3018870/story.html
Jack Batten, in his review in The Star, describes the third book in Stieg Larsson’s Millennium Trilogy, as “the best of the lot”; Peter Robinson, in the Globe, “a superior page-turner”.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/812156--millennium-trilogy-closes-with-the-best-of-the-lot
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-the-girl-who-kicket-the-horneds-nest-by-stieg-larsson/article1577151/
Now attention turns to the row about Larsson’s legacy and the unfinished fourth manuscript.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/23/magazine/23Larsson-t.html?nl=books&emc=booksupdateemb5
Alone in Berlin, a little-known thriller about the German resistance against the Nazis has become a surprise UK bestseller–more than 60 years after it was written.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/23/hans-fallada-thriller-surprise-hit
In her review of The Dead Republic, Elizabeth Grove-White writes that Henry Smart remains one of Roddy Doyle’s great characters.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-the-dead-republic-by-roddy-doyle/article1577070/
This week’s New Yorker includes Ash, a new short story by Doyle, begun before Eyjafjallajökull’s volcanic ash appeared, he claims.
http://www.newyorker.com/fiction/features/2010/05/24/100524fi_fiction_doyle
The New Yorker explores this further in a Q and A.
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2010/05/this-week-in-fiction-roddy-doyle.html
Marilynne Robinson’s Absence of Mind “is a gush of fresh air in the controversy over science and religion”, writes John Gray. Robinson “may be the only living novelist who has made a genuine contribution to philosophical reflection.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-absence-of-mind-by-marilynne-robinson/article1577176/
Martin Levin pursues some of the issues in an interview with Marilynne Robinson.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/scientific-fundamentalism-goes-off-the-rails/article1577193/
Sarah Hampson interviews Ryan Knighton on the background to his latest book, C’mon Papa: Dispatches from a Dad in the Dark.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/family-and-relationships/daddy-in-the-dark-author-ryan-knightons-story-of-life-as-a-blind-father/article1578860/
Those who heard Jackie Kay during her Festival appearances during the 90s will remember her amusing comments about being a partly Nigerian girl, adopted by a white Scottish couple. This year, she has published the memoir Red Dust Road. Here is an extract that describes her meeting with her real African father.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/23/jackie-kay-memoir-red-dust-extract
COMMUNITY EVENTS
JOHN JUNG
Reading by the author of Southern Fried Rice: Life in a Chinese Laundry in the Deep South. Thursday, May 27 at 6:00pm. Foo's Ho Ho Restaurant, 120 E. Pender.
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.
MASHED POETICS IV
A night of music and spoken word featuring a performance by Guns N' Roses tribute band Mr. Brownstone plus local poets and comedic troupe Pump Trolley writing and performing new work in response to the Appetite for Destruction album. Thursday, May 27 at 7:30pm. Tickets $10. Cottage Bistro, 4470 Main Street.
JUDY FONG BATES
Reading by the author of The Year Finding Memory. Friday, May 28 at 5:00pm. Rm 301, Irving K. Barber Centre, 1961 East Mall, UBC. For more information, phone 604.822.6799.
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.
CREAMIER:CONTEMPORARY ART IN CULTURE
Book launch of the latest edition to Phaidon's world-renowned Cream series that includes three local artists. Saturday, May 29 at 11:00am. Tickets and more information at www.casv.ca. Vancity Theatre, 1181 Seymour Street.
HENRY CHOW AND OTHER STORIES
Readings by Asian-Canadian writers including Evelyn Lau, Marty Chan, Kagan Goh and Kellee Ngan. Saturday, May 29 at 2:00pm. Rm 120 C.K. Choi Building, 1855 West Mall, UBC. For more information, phone 604.822.6799.
2010 HAIKU INVITATIONAL
While the cherry blossoms bloom from March through May, you are invited to write your haiku with fresh inspiration. The poems will be judged during the summer and winners announced in the fall 2010. Winning poems will then be featured during the 2011 festival. The deadline for the next round of haiku submissions is May 31, 2010. More information at www.vcbf.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.
JOHN TURK
Reading and book signing by the author of The Raven's Gift. Monday, May 31 at 6:30pm, free. Ecomarine Ocean Kayak Centre, 1668 Duranleau Street, Granville Island. More information at www.ecomarine.com.
ERICA EHM
Author and TV personality will sign copies of her new book The Mischievous Mom at the Art Gallery. Tuesday, June 1 at 4:00pm. Vancouver Kidsbooks, 3083 West Broadway. More information at www.kidsbooks.ca.
WAX POETIC
A live broadcast in support featuring a spoken-word program with Paul Fischer, Duncan Shields, the Vancouver Storyteller Society's Naomi Steinberg, and hosts Diane Laloge and S.R. Duncan. Tuesday, June 1 at 8:30pm. Suggested donation: $5-$10. Cafe Deux Soleils (2096 Commercial Drive). More information at www.poetryradio.blogspot.com.
JACKIE TIMOTHY
Stories told by Jackie Timothy, the Vancouver Public Library's First Nations Storyteller-in-Residence. Wednesday, June 2 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
WALT WHITMAN'S SECRET
In George Fetherling's wonderfully imagined novel, Walt Whitman's secret isn't his homosexuality but another one entirely. Wednesday, June 2 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.
MICHELE GENEST
Join author for a cooking demonstration and book signing from her new cookbook The Boreal Gourmet: Adventures in Northern Cooking. Thursday, June 3 at 6:00pm. Tickets $45 and include a copy of the cookbook. Barbara-Jo's Books to Cooks, 1740 2nd Ave. W. For more information, phone 604.688.6755.
THE NIGHTS ALSO
Author Anna Swanson launches her new book of poetry. Thursday, June 3 at 7:00pm. Cafe Montmartre, 4362 Main Street.
IT'S ADVENTURE
Rene Cormier, a motorcycle and a goal: to go around the world with no idea of what to expect. Join Rene for a slideshow and readings from his book of the experience, The University of Gravel Roads. Saturday, June 5 at 3:00pm, free. West End Community Centre, Joe Fortes Branch, 870 Denman Street. For more information please contact Joe Fortes Branch at 604-665-3972.
SUSAN JUBY
Author reads from her memoir, Nice Recovery. Monday, June 7 at 7:30pm, free. Alice MacKay Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street.
Upcoming
BOOK TALKS
A monthly book club presented by Pandora's Collective and the VPL will be discussing Jose Saramago's "The Cave". Wednesday, June 9 at 6:30pm. Britannia Library, 1661 Napier. For more information or to register contact: booktalks@yahoo.ca.
CHARLES DEMERS
writer and performer Charles Demers examines the who, what, where, when, why, and how of Vancouver in his new book Vancouver Special. Wednesday, June 9 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye Rooms, Lower Level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Andrew Binks and Sarah Roberts. Thursday, June 10 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore, Robson Square, Plaza Level, 800 Robson Street. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
WE, OUR STORIES
The 18th annual Vancouver International Storytelling Festival features local and international artists & storytellers RC Weslowski, Allison Cox, Little Woo, Wang Su Ma, Jacques Lalonde, Kwii ge ii wans (Roberta Kennedy), Erin Graham, Mary Gavan, Zamir Dhanji, Chris Murdoch and others. June 11-13, 2010. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, 578 Carrall Street. For complete details, visit www.vancouverstorytelling.org.
THE LIFE AND ART OF GEORGE FERTIG
Opening and book launch of the George Fertig Retrospective. Saturday, June 12 at 1:00pm. Burnaby Art Gallery, 6344 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby.
NEIL PASRICHA
Reading and book signing by the author of The Book of Awesome. Saturday, June 12 at 2:00pm. Chapters Robson and Howe, 788 Robson Street. More information at 604.682.4066.
JACQUELINE CAREY
New York Times bestselling author Jacqueline Carey reads from Namah's Curse, book two of her lushly imagined Namah trilogy featuring daughter of Alba, Moirin. Monday, June 14 at 7:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen Room, Lower Level, Central Library, 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, May 27, 2010
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Book News Vol. 5 No. 23
BOOK NEWS
Virtual Festival
Today we launch a new weekly feature in Book News: archive recordings from Festivals-past. Each Thursday from now until the Festival, we will release a recording of an author interview or reading. Our inaugural sound bite showcases the poet laureate of the UK, Carol Ann Duffy, who had the audience at the 2009 Poetry Bash rolling in the aisles. http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/multimedia/audio-archives
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/events/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/get-involved/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for May 31: a stellar collection of 2010 BC Book Prize finalists! Thank you to the BC Book Prizes for donating this fabulous prize.
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, Corduroy Mansions. Complete details on our website, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/specialevents.
A recent review by Alexander McCall Smith of a book by Helen Simonson reveals McCall Smith's approach to writing.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/07/books/review/Smith-t.html
AWARDS & LISTS
French novelist and film director Philippe Claudel, and his translator, are the joint winners of the Independent Foreign Fiction Prize for the novel Brodeck’s Report.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/features/philippe-claudel-wins-independent-foreign-fiction-prize-1972537.html
Victoria writer Deborah Willis and Sarah Roberts of Gibsons, B.C. have been shortlisted for the Danuta Gleed Literary Award.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/05/17/literary-award-danutagleed-writersunion.html
J.G. Farrell's historical novel Troubles, the first title in his British Empire trilogy, has won the Booker Prize (the ‘lost’ Booker) four decades after the book's publication.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/jg-farrells-troubles-wins-lost-booker-prize/article1574150/
The English Opium Eater: A Biography of Thomas De Quincey by Robert Morrison, an English professor at Queen’s University has been shortlisted for the U.K.'s most venerable literary award, the James Tait Black Memorial Prize.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/05/18/tait-black-nominees.html
The winners of the 2010 Alberta Book Publishing Awards, the Alberta Literary Awards, and the highly anticipated Alberta Readers’ Choice Award have been announced.
http://www.cbabook.org/files/News/2010%20Alberta%20Book%20Award%20Gala%20Winners.pdf
NEWS & FEATURES
Take our word for it, because there is no link to Internet confirmation of this news. The third book in Stieg Larsson's Millennium Trilogy is available in Canada, as of May 27!
Germaine Greer defends the literary worth of old wives' tales.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/15/germaine-greer-old-wives-tales
Stay away if you know what's good for you! Crawford Kilian lists the 10 most harmful novels for aspiring writers.
http://thetyee.ca/Books/2010/05/14/TenHarmfulNovels/
The new British Cabinet includes a published author. Vince Cable, MP, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats, holds the portfolio of Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/features/boyd-tonkin-a-real-bestseller-joins-the-cabinet-1972704.html
Bill Bryson has a new book on the origins of modern life. Here is an extract on the journey from cesspit to cistern.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2010/may/17/bill-bryson-toilet
Author Denise Chong knows well the impact of the West‘s fear of offending Beijing.The nervousness isn't limited to Canada.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/16/books/review/Parker-t.html?nl=books&emc=booksupdateemb3
Wimbledon has appointed poet Matt Harvey its first writer in residence and its first official poet.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2010/may/19/matt-harvey-appointed-wimbledon-poet
Eleven candidates are vying for the position of Oxford professor of poetry. Voting for the candidates opens May 21, closes June 18.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/18/oxford-professor-of-poetry-oxforduniversity
BOOKS & WRITERS
The Independent recommends reading Anne Michaels' The Winter Vault “for the eerily majestic music of her voice…”
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/reviews/the-winter-vault-by-anne-michaels-1972557.html
Martin Amis' writing continues to engender strong views. Lisa Moore in the Globe and Mail finds Amis' The Pregnant Widow laugh-out-loud funny; Michiko Kakutani in the NY Times calls it “remarkably tedious”.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-the-pregnant-widow-by-martin-amis/article1569180/
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/11/books/11book.html?scp=1&sq=Michiko%20Kakutani%20on%20Martin%20Amis&st=cse
The Dragon and the Stars, edited by two Chinese Canadians, is an anthology of new fantastic fiction works by 18 English-language writers from the Chinese diaspora.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Fantastic+fiction+Stories+from+Chinese+Diaspora/3027708/story.html
Donna Bailey Nurse describes Steven Heighton's new (this month) book Every Lost Country as a “glorious novel”'; the Gazette describes it as “nuanced—and gripping.”
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/809774--every-lost-country-drama-at-the-top-of-the-world
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/Differing+degrees+desperation+Steven+Heighton+novel+Every+Lost+Country+nuanced+gripping/3024414/story.html
Heighton published the poetry collection Patient Frame in April, has just completed a week-long guest editorship of The Afterword, at the National Post, and has written a 10 year memo, a list of do's, don'ts and assorted advice to a younger Steven Heighton.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2010/05/16/steven-heighton-ten-year-memoranda/
The World Is a Ball: The Joy, Madness and Meaning of Soccer by the Globe and Mail's TV critic John Doyle is described by the Montreal Gazette as “a perfect Canadian's primer for the imminent World Cup”.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/perfect+primer+world+game+John+Doyle+soccer+World+Ball+sets+stage+South+Africa+2010/3023835/story.html
Molly Worthen describes Marci McDonald's The Armageddon Factor as more responsible than some, but with an over-reliance on American sources.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-the-armageddon-factor-by-marci-mcdonald/article1569099/
Douglas Todd says McDonald makes a decent case.
http://www.vancouversun.com/life/book+digs+deep+into+Christian+political+activism+Canada/3040772/story.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
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.
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.
DJ MACHALE
Reading by the author of his new book The Light. Wednesday, May 26 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $5. Vancouver Kidsbooks, 3083 West Broadway. More information and to purchase tickets, visit www.kidsbooks.ca.
SPIRITUAL SMORGASBORG
An Evening of Poetry with Sandy Shreve, Richard Osler, Susan McCaslin, KIen Klonsky and Kate Braid. Wednesday, May 26 at 7:00pm, free. The Wired Monk, 2610 4th Ave. W. For more details, visit www.merton.ca.
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.
JOHN JUNG
Reading by the author of Southern Fried Rice: Life in a Chinese Laundry in the Deep South. Thursday, May 27 at 6:00pm. Foo's Ho Ho Restaurant, 120 E. Pender.
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.
JUDY FONG BATES
Reading by the author of The Year Finding Memory. Friday, May 28 at 5:00pm. Rm 301, Irving K. Barber Centre, 1961 East Mall, UBC. For more information, phone 604.822.6799.
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.
HENRY CHOW AND OTHER STORIES
Readings by Asian-Canadian writers including Evelyn Lau, Marty Chan, Kagan Goh and Kellee Ngan. Saturday, May 29 at 2:00pm. Rm 120 C.K. Choi Building, 1855 West Mall, UBC. For more information, phone 604.822.6799.
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.
JOHN TURK
Reading and book signing by the author of The Raven's Gift. Monday, May 31 at 6:30pm, free. Ecomarine Ocean Kayak Centre, 1668 Duranleau Street, Granville Island. More information at www.ecomarine.com.
Upcoming
ERICA EHM
Author and TV personality will sign copies of her new book The Mischievous Mom at the Art Gallery. Tuesday, June 1 at 4:00pm. Vancouver Kidsbooks, 3083 West Broadway. More information at www.kidsbooks.ca.
MICHELE GENEST
Join author for a cooking demonstration and book signing from her new cookbook The Boreal Gourmet: Adventures in Northern Cooking. Thursday, June 3 at 6:00pm. Tickets $45 and include a copy of the cookbook. Barbara-Jo's Books to Cooks, 1740 2nd Ave. W. For more information, phone 604.688.6755.
BOOK TALKS
A monthly book club presented by Pandora's Collective and the VPL will be discussing Jose Saramago's "The Cave". Wednesday, June 9 at 6:30pm. Britannia Library, 1661 Napier. For more information or to register contact: booktalks@yahoo.ca.
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.
Virtual Festival
Today we launch a new weekly feature in Book News: archive recordings from Festivals-past. Each Thursday from now until the Festival, we will release a recording of an author interview or reading. Our inaugural sound bite showcases the poet laureate of the UK, Carol Ann Duffy, who had the audience at the 2009 Poetry Bash rolling in the aisles. http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/multimedia/audio-archives
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/events/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/get-involved/joinus.
Every two weeks we will draw the name of a new member to win an exciting prize. The prize for May 31: a stellar collection of 2010 BC Book Prize finalists! Thank you to the BC Book Prizes for donating this fabulous prize.
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, Corduroy Mansions. Complete details on our website, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/specialevents.
A recent review by Alexander McCall Smith of a book by Helen Simonson reveals McCall Smith's approach to writing.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/07/books/review/Smith-t.html
AWARDS & LISTS
French novelist and film director Philippe Claudel, and his translator, are the joint winners of the Independent Foreign Fiction Prize for the novel Brodeck’s Report.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/features/philippe-claudel-wins-independent-foreign-fiction-prize-1972537.html
Victoria writer Deborah Willis and Sarah Roberts of Gibsons, B.C. have been shortlisted for the Danuta Gleed Literary Award.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/05/17/literary-award-danutagleed-writersunion.html
J.G. Farrell's historical novel Troubles, the first title in his British Empire trilogy, has won the Booker Prize (the ‘lost’ Booker) four decades after the book's publication.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/jg-farrells-troubles-wins-lost-booker-prize/article1574150/
The English Opium Eater: A Biography of Thomas De Quincey by Robert Morrison, an English professor at Queen’s University has been shortlisted for the U.K.'s most venerable literary award, the James Tait Black Memorial Prize.
http://www.cbc.ca/arts/books/story/2010/05/18/tait-black-nominees.html
The winners of the 2010 Alberta Book Publishing Awards, the Alberta Literary Awards, and the highly anticipated Alberta Readers’ Choice Award have been announced.
http://www.cbabook.org/files/News/2010%20Alberta%20Book%20Award%20Gala%20Winners.pdf
NEWS & FEATURES
Take our word for it, because there is no link to Internet confirmation of this news. The third book in Stieg Larsson's Millennium Trilogy is available in Canada, as of May 27!
Germaine Greer defends the literary worth of old wives' tales.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/15/germaine-greer-old-wives-tales
Stay away if you know what's good for you! Crawford Kilian lists the 10 most harmful novels for aspiring writers.
http://thetyee.ca/Books/2010/05/14/TenHarmfulNovels/
The new British Cabinet includes a published author. Vince Cable, MP, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats, holds the portfolio of Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/features/boyd-tonkin-a-real-bestseller-joins-the-cabinet-1972704.html
Bill Bryson has a new book on the origins of modern life. Here is an extract on the journey from cesspit to cistern.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2010/may/17/bill-bryson-toilet
Author Denise Chong knows well the impact of the West‘s fear of offending Beijing.The nervousness isn't limited to Canada.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/16/books/review/Parker-t.html?nl=books&emc=booksupdateemb3
Wimbledon has appointed poet Matt Harvey its first writer in residence and its first official poet.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2010/may/19/matt-harvey-appointed-wimbledon-poet
Eleven candidates are vying for the position of Oxford professor of poetry. Voting for the candidates opens May 21, closes June 18.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2010/may/18/oxford-professor-of-poetry-oxforduniversity
BOOKS & WRITERS
The Independent recommends reading Anne Michaels' The Winter Vault “for the eerily majestic music of her voice…”
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/reviews/the-winter-vault-by-anne-michaels-1972557.html
Martin Amis' writing continues to engender strong views. Lisa Moore in the Globe and Mail finds Amis' The Pregnant Widow laugh-out-loud funny; Michiko Kakutani in the NY Times calls it “remarkably tedious”.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-the-pregnant-widow-by-martin-amis/article1569180/
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/11/books/11book.html?scp=1&sq=Michiko%20Kakutani%20on%20Martin%20Amis&st=cse
The Dragon and the Stars, edited by two Chinese Canadians, is an anthology of new fantastic fiction works by 18 English-language writers from the Chinese diaspora.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Fantastic+fiction+Stories+from+Chinese+Diaspora/3027708/story.html
Donna Bailey Nurse describes Steven Heighton's new (this month) book Every Lost Country as a “glorious novel”'; the Gazette describes it as “nuanced—and gripping.”
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/809774--every-lost-country-drama-at-the-top-of-the-world
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/Differing+degrees+desperation+Steven+Heighton+novel+Every+Lost+Country+nuanced+gripping/3024414/story.html
Heighton published the poetry collection Patient Frame in April, has just completed a week-long guest editorship of The Afterword, at the National Post, and has written a 10 year memo, a list of do's, don'ts and assorted advice to a younger Steven Heighton.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2010/05/16/steven-heighton-ten-year-memoranda/
The World Is a Ball: The Joy, Madness and Meaning of Soccer by the Globe and Mail's TV critic John Doyle is described by the Montreal Gazette as “a perfect Canadian's primer for the imminent World Cup”.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/perfect+primer+world+game+John+Doyle+soccer+World+Ball+sets+stage+South+Africa+2010/3023835/story.html
Molly Worthen describes Marci McDonald's The Armageddon Factor as more responsible than some, but with an over-reliance on American sources.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/books/review-the-armageddon-factor-by-marci-mcdonald/article1569099/
Douglas Todd says McDonald makes a decent case.
http://www.vancouversun.com/life/book+digs+deep+into+Christian+political+activism+Canada/3040772/story.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
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.
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.
DJ MACHALE
Reading by the author of his new book The Light. Wednesday, May 26 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $5. Vancouver Kidsbooks, 3083 West Broadway. More information and to purchase tickets, visit www.kidsbooks.ca.
SPIRITUAL SMORGASBORG
An Evening of Poetry with Sandy Shreve, Richard Osler, Susan McCaslin, KIen Klonsky and Kate Braid. Wednesday, May 26 at 7:00pm, free. The Wired Monk, 2610 4th Ave. W. For more details, visit www.merton.ca.
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.
JOHN JUNG
Reading by the author of Southern Fried Rice: Life in a Chinese Laundry in the Deep South. Thursday, May 27 at 6:00pm. Foo's Ho Ho Restaurant, 120 E. Pender.
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.
JUDY FONG BATES
Reading by the author of The Year Finding Memory. Friday, May 28 at 5:00pm. Rm 301, Irving K. Barber Centre, 1961 East Mall, UBC. For more information, phone 604.822.6799.
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.
HENRY CHOW AND OTHER STORIES
Readings by Asian-Canadian writers including Evelyn Lau, Marty Chan, Kagan Goh and Kellee Ngan. Saturday, May 29 at 2:00pm. Rm 120 C.K. Choi Building, 1855 West Mall, UBC. For more information, phone 604.822.6799.
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.
JOHN TURK
Reading and book signing by the author of The Raven's Gift. Monday, May 31 at 6:30pm, free. Ecomarine Ocean Kayak Centre, 1668 Duranleau Street, Granville Island. More information at www.ecomarine.com.
Upcoming
ERICA EHM
Author and TV personality will sign copies of her new book The Mischievous Mom at the Art Gallery. Tuesday, June 1 at 4:00pm. Vancouver Kidsbooks, 3083 West Broadway. More information at www.kidsbooks.ca.
MICHELE GENEST
Join author for a cooking demonstration and book signing from her new cookbook The Boreal Gourmet: Adventures in Northern Cooking. Thursday, June 3 at 6:00pm. Tickets $45 and include a copy of the cookbook. Barbara-Jo's Books to Cooks, 1740 2nd Ave. W. For more information, phone 604.688.6755.
BOOK TALKS
A monthly book club presented by Pandora's Collective and the VPL will be discussing Jose Saramago's "The Cave". Wednesday, June 9 at 6:30pm. Britannia Library, 1661 Napier. For more information or to register contact: booktalks@yahoo.ca.
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
Book News Vol. 5 No. 22
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.
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 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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
