BOOK NEWS
Incite @ VPL
Coming up in May, we are offering two installments of Incite in one week! A special Incite on May 9 features Bernhard Schlink, author of The Reader, reading from his new novel The Weekend, and on Wednesday, May 11 Zsuzsi Gartner discusses her latest book, Better Living Through Plastic Explosives, and singer-songwriter Sylvia Tyson reads from her debut novel, Joyner's Dream.
Reviews from the recent Incite event with Joyce Carol Oates and Johanna Skibsrud:
Remarkable, courageous and generous reading. Thank you!
A wonderful evening in every way.
A true thrill to hear Joyce Carol Oates-a rare treat. Thank you.
Admission is free
Alice MacKay room, Central Library
Let us know you're coming by registering here, http://incitevpl.eventbrite.com. Please note that registration is so that we know how many people to expect. Admission on the night is always on a first-come-first-served basis.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Elizabeth Hay & Miriam Toews - May 5, 2011
Two of Canada's most acclaimed and beloved writers will discuss their new books, Alone in the Classroom and Irma Voth. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/haytoews.
Elaine Kalman Naves, writing of Miriam Toews's Irma Voth, says that in this compelling and beautiful novel, an authentic voice shows increasing range and maturity.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Review+Increasing+range+maturity+shown+Miriam+Toews+Irma+Voth/4575673/story.html
Kelly Patterson says that Elizabeth Hay's new novel, Alone in the Classroom is a multilayered tale, the novel at once a love story, a murder mystery and a journey into the darkest chambers of the human heart.
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Books+heart+darkness/4665789/story.html
Steven Brown writes that Alone in the Classroom is a rich story of human relationships.
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/rich+story+human+relationships/4683251/story.html
A Dram Come True - May 13, 2011
There are still tickets available for A Dram Come True but they are going fast! Join us for a scintillating evening of scotch whisky sampling and enjoy a variety of rare and distinguished single malts. "The light music of whiskey falling into a glass - an agreeable interlude." - James Joyce
Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/dramcometrue
Mellissa Fung - May 28, 2011
CBC Journalist Mellissa Fung will discuss her soon to be released memoir, Under an Afghan Sky, with Kirk LaPointe. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/fung
AWARDS & LISTS
Established writers and first-timers alike—including Gurjinder Basran, Stephen Collis, John Vaillant, Dan Savard, Maggie de Vries, Julie Flett, and Grant Lawrence, were honoured at a Vancouver gala for the 27th annual BC Book Prizes last week. Vancouver poet George Bowering was presented with the Lieutenant-Governor's Award for Literary Excellence.
http://www.vancouversun.com/Dual+culture+novel+garners+Book+Prize+fiction+award/4661271/story.html
Shelagh D. Grant's Polar Imperative: A History of Arctic Sovereignty in North America is one of the five titles nominated for the J.W. Dafoe Book Prize for outstanding non-fiction writing about Canada, Canadians and the nation's role in international affairs.
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Polar+Imperative+Prize/4663894/story.html
Pigeon English by Stephen Kelman is among 10 first books longlisted for the £10,000 Desmond Elliott award.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/20/debut-novel-longlisted-10000-prize
Science fiction has historically been viewed as a male-dominated genre, but four out of five novels in line for this year's Hugo best novel award are by female authors.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/26/women-hugo-awards-shortlist
Alison Pick's Far to Go and Charles Foran's Mordecai: The Life and Times are among the winners of the 2011 Helen and Stan Vine Canadian Jewish Book Awards.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2011/04/21/alison-pick-and-charles-foran-among-winners-of-canadian-jewish-book-awards/
In an arrangement with The Globe and Mail, the authors of the five books nominated for the 2010/2011 Donner Prize have written short essays touching on the issues they raised in their books.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/the-donner-prize-essays-the-nominated-authors-speak-out/article1999220/
NEWS & FEATURES
British Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy has brought together a collection of wedding vows written by leading poets, including one of her own.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/23/wedding-carol-ann-duffy-poetry
Canadian mountain climber and film-maker Pat Morrow is in Greg Mortensen's corner. "No foreign-aid project (I have) documented over the years impressed me more than Mr. Mortenson's efforts," says Morrow.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/canadian-climber-condemns-witch-hunt-for-mortenson/article1995333/
There are three articles in the New Yorker about l'affaire Mortensen and the building of schools. Peter Hessler, with a Peace Corps background, and a number of thoughtful comments attached to Hessler's article identify a range of issues.
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/newsdesk/2011/04/greg-mortenson-peter-hessler.html
Irish debut novelist Kathleen MacMahon has landed a £600,000 advance from Little, Brown Book Group for So This Is How It Ends, a love story between an American banker and an out-of-work Irish architect. The book will be published next year.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/20/publisher-debut-novel-600000
A year ago, an explosion on the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig killed 11 men and sent millions of gallons of oil gushing into the Gulf of Mexico. The Guardian asked eight authors to give their fictional takes on oil.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/15/oil-stories
"Writers should feel guilty for not telling the truth," says Yan Lianke, author of Dream of Ding Village, in an in-depth interview with Clarissa Sebag-Montefiore.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/features/blood-price-of-fear-and-greed-yan-liankes-novel-exposes-the-truth-about-chinas-hidden-epidemic-2267762.html
What kind of literature appeals to a global audience and can "direct, unmediated contact" between a writer and their reader survive translation? asks Tim Parks.
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/the_tls/article7174216.ece
The difficulty of translating fiction isn't finding the correct equivalent for each word, writes Helen Stevenson. It is about finding the voice. Translators must read with their ears.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/21/translators-read-with-ears
Nobody becomes a writer because of his or her tremendous ease with social interactions and the spontaneity of the spoken word, says Elif Batuman in her reflection on how life changed when she published the hit book, The Possessed.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/21/elif-batuman-bestseller-life
In an interview with Vit Wagner, Libyan author Hasham Matar insists his novels are not autobiographical, no matter how many apparent parallels exist. And he welcomes the ambiguity now possible in Libya.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/978982--hisham-matar-ambiguity-as-political-and-artistic-maturity
Emma Donoghue has written an essay on the need to put a stop to the Mummy Wars. "When it comes to motherhood, our culture can be hugely judgmental."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/apr/23/emma-donoghue-mummy-wars-parenting
The author of more than 20 novels, Philip Kerr is best known for the ones featuring his series character Bernie Gunther. Kerr talks to Mark Feeney about Gunther, his alter ego.
http://articles.boston.com/2011-04-21/ae/29460166_1_bernie-gunther-dead-rise-guantanamo
How does a poet ensure his work lives forever? It comes down to the durability of your material. Experimental poet Christian Bök is using a 'chemical alphabet' to translate a short verse into a sequence of extremophile DNA.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2011/apr/24/dna-poem-christian-bok-xenotext
A young Michael Chabon read that someone had so loved a book he penned his name on the flyleaf—in blood. Chabon at once undertook the same procedure in The Phantom Tollbooth. An anniversary edition will be published this fall.
http://www.nybooks.com/blogs/nyrblog/2011/apr/21/michael-chabon-phantom-tollbooth-wonder-words/
The literary betrayal of one of Robert Louis Stevenson's fairytales is to be avenged in the first collected edition of the great Scottish writer's little-known Samoan fairytales—which will be out in 2013.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/24/robert-louis-stevenson-fairytales
BOOKS & WRITERS
Stella Clarke says, of Geraldine Brooks' new book Caleb's Crossing, "With great empathy and poignancy, a shadowed piece of the past is turned into the light."
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/arts/lessons-in-life-of-an-unknown-scholar/story-e6frg8nf-1226037122725
Julie Wheelwright explores the long and adventurous life of her distant relative in Esther: Puritan Child, Native Daughter, Mother Superior, in a fascinating portrait of 18th century New England and New France, and the battles over land, religion and hunting.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/esther-the-remarkable-true-story-of-esther-wheelwright-by-julie-wheelwright/article1995708/
Mark Medley says that in the Canadian poetry community, Ken Babstock is a rising star, if not a supernova. Some observers are proclaiming Methodist Hatchet, Babstock's latest collection, the frontrunner for next year's Griffin Prize.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2011/04/22/hatchet-job-ken-babstock-returns-with-his-fourth-collection-of-poetry/#more-31481
Julia Pascal writes that as soon as she had read Janet Malcolm's Iphegenia in Forest Hills, she felt impelled to read it again.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/reviews/iphigenia-in-forest-hills-by-janet-malcolm-2270948.html
Through the prism of an unhappy marriage, Jane Smiley's Private Life looks at a period from the end of the American Civil War to Pearl Harbour. Its evocation of late 19th-century American domestic life is superb, says Emma Hagestadt.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/reviews/private-life-by-jane-smiley-2270961.html
John Berger tells an anecdote in his new book Bento's Sketchbook which, at face value, is emblematic of his career as combative art critic, radical writer and consistent challenger of institutional power.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/culture/2011/apr/23/john-berger-life-in-writing
The author's father, grandfather, uncle and aunt were assassinated. Fatima Bhutto's Songs of Blood and Sword, says John Dugdale, is more than a detective inquiry into the events of a Jacobean tragedy in which a dynasty is inexorably eliminated.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/23/songs-blood-sword-bhutto-review
In her review of Kathleen Winter's Annabel, Leyla Sanai writes "Winter has a strikingly mellifluous voice, and she has created a potent story exploring gender categorisation and humanity."
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/reviews/annabel-by-kathleen-winter-2273982.html
Francine Prose‘s My New American Life is a twist on the immigrant's tale, with anxiety transformed into compassion, says Susan Salter Reynolds.
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/books/la-ca-francine-prose-20110424,0,3121699.story
Earth could use a biography, says Geoffrey Mohan. Tim Flannery has delivered a provocative one in Here on Earth.
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/books/la-et-0422-book-20110422,0,4826577.story
Lisa Appignanesi's All About Love: Anatomy of an Unruly Emotion is an ambitious dissection of the most intangible human emotion, writes Salley Vickers.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/24/all-about-love-lisa-appignanesi
Rudy Wiebe is best known for his historical novels, but he has also been writing short stories. His Collected Stories 1995-2010 is an impressive record of a life of intelligent craftsmanship and moral engagement, says Tom Sandborn.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/rudy-wiebe-collected-stories-1955-2010/article1995990/
Anuradha Roy's An Atlas of Impossible Longing convinces us that bold sagas with larger-than-life characters are still possible in a post-modern world, says Marie Arana.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/books/book-review-an-atlas-of-impossible-longing/2011/04/11/AFE4tbkE_story.html
Randy Boyagoda's Beggar's Feast is a rags-to-riches picaresque about the clash of worlds and the revenge of empires. Mark Anthony Jarman says the book is a satirical feast.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/beggars-feast-by-randy-boyagoda/article1995687/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
AN EVENING WITH THE ARTHURS
Crime Writers of Canada announce the short lists for the Arthur Ellis Award for Canadian Crime Writing, including Best Novel and Best First Novel. Thursday, April 28 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact VPL - Popular Reading Library at 604-331-3691.
COASTAL CRIME WAVE
Discussion of current issues in crime writing features panelists and authors Kay Stewart, Debra Purdy Kong, David Russell, Melanie Jackson, and Robin Spano. Thursday, April 28 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at www.vpl.ca.
2011 DTES WRITERS' JAMBOREE
Writers' event features mini-manuscript consultations, roundtable discussions, professional skills workshops, and guest author readings by Brian Payton, Evelyn Lau, and Gregory Scofield. Friday, April 29. From 10am to 830pm. Free admission. Carnegie Community Centre, 401 Main Street. More information at www.thewritersstudio.ca.
PLAY CHTHONICS READING SERIES
Readings by Lee Maracle and Wayde Compton. Friday, April 29 at 7:00pm, free. Rhizome Cafe, 317 East Broadway. More information at playchtonics.blogspot.com.
CRIC CRAC
The Vancouver Society of Storytelling presents an evening of storytelling featuring performances by storytellers Sheila Clark, Jane Slemon, Max Tell, and musician Adrian Dyck of the North Shore Sinfonia Orchestra. Sunday, May 1 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $8/$6. Silk Purse Arts Centre, 1570 Argyle Ave., West Vancouver. More information at wong.wingsiu@telus.net.
BREATHING THE PAGE
Betsy Warland, author of Breathing the Page: Reading the Act of Writing, will discuss her collection of essays about the language and craft of writing. Wednesday, May 4 at 7:00pm, free. Ardea Books & Art, 2025 4th Ave. W. More information at 604-734-2025.
AN EVENING WITH COACH HOUSE BOOKS
Readings by poet Helen Guri, author of Match and Alan Reid, author of Isobel & Emile. Thursday, May 5 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Library/Bookstore at Robson Square, Plaza Level, 800 Robson St. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
SUSAN MCCASLIN
Poet launches her new volume Demeter Goes Skydiving. With host Liz Bachinsky and soprano Rachel Landrecht. Saturday, May 7 at 7:00pm. Canadian Memorial Centre for Peace, 1825 W. 16th Ave., Vancouver. More information: Vivian@canadianmemorial.org.
Upcoming
THIS INNOCENT CORNER
Peggy Herring reads from her debut novel set in Bangladesh and Salt Spring Island. The reading will be accompanied by a slide show by international development photographer Shehzad Noorani. Tuesday, May 10 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street. More information at 604-331-3691.
ROB TAYLOR
Author launches his debut collection of poetry, The Other Side of Ourselves. Saturday, May 14 at 7:00pm, free. Rowan's Roof Restaurant and Lounge, 2340 4th Ave. W.
ROBERT W. MACKAY AND BEN NUTTALL-SMITH
Two Vancouver authors will give dynamic presentations from historical novels set 1000 years apart. Monday, May 16 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 West Georgia Street. More information at 604-331-3691.
ROBERT WHITAKER
Award-winning science and history writer Robert Whitaker reads. Monday, May 16 at 7:00pm, free. Peter Kaye room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
BRUCE FRASER
The author will read from his book On Potato Mountain: a Chilcotin Mystery. Wednesday, May 18 at 6:30pm, free. Firehall Meeting Room, Firehall Branch, 1455 10th Ave. W. For more information please contact Firehall Branch at 604-665-3970.
THE CUCUMBER TREE
Author Bob Ross discusses his book The Cucumber Tree: Memories of a Vancouver Boyhood in celebration of the 14th Annual Dunbar Salmonberry Days festival. Wednesday, May 18 at 6:30pm, free. Dunbar Branch, 4515 Dunbar Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-665-3968.
CHESTER BROWN
Author reads from his new graphic novel, Paying For It, a contemporary defense of the world's oldest profession. Wednesday, May 18 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
ORCA BOOK LAUNCH
Six Orca authors celebrate the release of their books for young readers. Wednesday, May 18 at 7:00pm, free. Ardea Books & Art, 2025 4th Ave. W. More information at 604-734-2025.
I FEEL GREAT ABOUT MY HANDS
Join Shari Graydon and other contributors to the new anthology, I Feel Great About My Hands, a collection of stories from remarkable women who revel in the joys of aging. Wednesday, May 18 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
CBC STUDIO ONE BOOK CLUB
The CBC Studio One Book Club presents three of B.C.'s hottest garden bloggers with new books - Andrea Bellamy with Sugar Snaps and Strawberries and Christina Symons & John Gillespie with Everyday Eden. Thursday, May 19th, 6:30 pm, at the CBC Broadcast Centre. Free tickets www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub.
MARC KAUFMAN
Reading and discussion by the author of First Contact. Thursday, May 19 at 7:00pm, 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.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Book News Vol. 6 No. 15
BOOK NEWS
Incite @ VPL
The next installment of Incite (http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/incite) will feature Joyce Carol Oates and Johanna Skibsrud.
7:30 pm on Wednesday, April 20
http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/inciteapril20
Admission is free
Alice MacKay room, Central Library
Let us know you're coming by registering here, http://incitevpl.eventbrite.com. Please note that registration is so that we know how many people to expect. Admission on the night is always on a first-come-first-served basis.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Simon Winchester - April 18, 2011
The bestselling author of Krakatoa, returns to the natural world with his epic new book, a "biography" of the Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic: Great Sea Battles, Heroic Discoveries, Titanic Storms, and a Vast Ocean of a Million Stories. http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/winchester.
Elizabeth Hay & Miriam Toews - May 5, 2011
Two of Canada's most acclaimed and beloved writers will discuss their new books, Alone in the Classroom and Irma Voth. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/haytoews.
A Dram Come True - May 13, 2011
Presenting the ninth annual single malt scotch whisky sampling. Join us for an evening of scotch whisky sampling and enjoy a variety of rare and distinguished single malts. "The light music of whiskey falling into a glass - an agreeable interlude." - James Joyce
Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/dramcometrue
AWARDS & LISTS
Canadian author Michael Crummey's historical novel Galore has been shortlisted for the International IMPAC Dublin award, the world's richest literary prize for a single work of fiction. Galore is among 10 books shortlisted for the prize.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/canadian-author-michael-crummey-shortlisted-for-lucrative-impac-award/article1981797/
Canadian writers Emma Donoghue and Kathleen Winter are among the six authors shortlisted for Britain's Orange Prize for fiction by women.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/three-debuts-make-the-orange-prize-shortlist-2266873.html
Orange prize 2011 shortlist in pictures, along with reviews.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/gallery/2011/apr/12/orange-prize-shortlist-pictures?CMP=EMCGT_130411&
Nobel prize winner Orhan Pamuk's and Norweigian author Per Petterson head a star-studded list of global authors shortlisted for the 2011 Independent foreign fiction prize.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/11/independent-foreign-fiction-prize-shortlist-pamuk
CBC's online books portal is launching a new version of Canada Reads devoted to collections of poetry. Panelists will defend their selections online and in essays published in the National Post over the next three weeks.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/books/story/2011/04/08/canada-reads-poetry.html
NEWS & FEATURES
First-time novelists make up half the shortlist for the 2011 Orange prize for fiction, indicating "the rude health of women's writing", according to this year's chair of judges Bettany Hughes.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/12/orange-prize-shortlist
Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian and Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World are two of the most challenged books in the U.S., according to the American Library Association.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/12/brave-new-world-challenged-books
The Tyee includes Geoff D’Auria’s interview of Timothy Taylor on The Blue Light Project, the languages of street art, celebrity, and religion—accompanied by a photo essay.
http://thetyee.ca/Books/2011/04/08/BlueLightProject/
The Bodleian Library and the German Literary Archive at Marbach have agreed jointly to purchase a collection of more than 100 letters and postcards from Franz Kafka to his sister. New archival material about Kafka is a rarity.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/apr/07/kafka-bodleian-library-german-literary-archive-ottla
David Orr, the poetry critic for The New York Times, asks: why should we read poetry? He provides his own answer.
http://www.npr.org/2011/04/09/135217933/a-poetry-critic-asks-why-bother?ft=1&f=1008
What’s wrong with popularizing poetry? asks Sam Leith. Garrison Keillor—radio host and laureate of small-town wholesomeness—is publishing 77 Love Sonnets, a book of poetry. The modernist poet August Kleinzahler is enraged.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/10/sam-leith-garrison-keillor-august-kleinzahler?CMP=EMCGT_110411&
A dozen students from as many Ontario high schools matched their skills at poetry recitation at the first Poetry in Voice competition this week. This project was launched by Griffin Poetry Trust benefactor Scott Griffin.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/970532--poetry-in-voice-well-versed-students-set-for-finals
Writer and critic of Islam Ayaan Hirsi Ali tells Andrew Anthony how she's learned to embrace nomadism.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/apr/10/ayaan-hirsi-ali-nomad-memoir
An avid Dr Seuss fan has discovered lost stories from the 1950's.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/childrens-books-site/2011/apr/07/lost-dr-seuss-stories-published
Billy Collins, former U.S. poet laureate, who has sold more than one million books of poetry, says radio has been instrumental in building his audience.
http://www.npr.org/2011/04/06/135181560/collins-values-accessible-poetry-not-pretension?ft=1&f=1008
Withdrawing Arts Council England support for the Poetry Book Society is like tearing down a beautiful, slightly quirky, multi-purpose hotel, in which the glitzy ballroom (TS Eliot prize) is more visible than the kitchens (book club), writes Peter Porter.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2011/apr/05/poetry-book-society-poets
A small press loses money on every book that Amazon sells.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2011/apr/07/amazon-profits-small-publisher-losses
Charlie Cooper reports that dystopian fiction is swiftly taking over; vampires and werewolves are being cast aside and replaced with post-apocalyptic societies and climate catastrophe.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/doomed-the-new-teen-book-genre-2265785.html
Tim Adams interviews the artist Karen Green, widow of David Foster Wallace, about the struggle to deal with her loss and her decision to publish Wallace’s unfinished work, The Pale King.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/10/karen-green-david-foster-wallace-interview
Readers of Book News will have noticed that the Guardian is a regular source of book reviews and news. As from today, the guardian.co.uk/books is radically expanded, with a lot more room for readers to join the conversation.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2011/apr/13/guardian-books
Author T.J. Waters muses on signing e-readers.
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/14/fashion/14NOTICED.html?_r=2&nl=todaysheadlines&emc=tha26
BOOKS & WRITERS
Recently imprisoned Chinese artist, architect and activist Ai Weiwei posted to his blog every day for four years.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/2011/apr/09/ai-weiwei-writings-interviews-review
Irma Voth reflects Miriam Toews’ increasing range and maturity, says Elaine Kalman Naves.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Review+Increasing+range+maturity+shown+Miriam+Toews+Irma+Voth/4575673/story.html
Stephen Finucan adds: "There is something quite mesmerizing about Toews’ prose. It’s to do with the rhythm of her language."
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/971751--irma-voth-by-miriam-toews
While three of Michael Crummey’s books have been published in the United States to critical praise, Galore—with its unforgettable place of the imagination—will win him a permanent place in American readers’ hearts, writes Kevin O’Kelly.
http://articles.boston.com/2011-03-30/ae/29362718_1_dead-fish-family-feuds-fishing-season
"How are we going to survive unless we turn our hearts to stone?" This question, posed in Antanas Sileika’s Underground, characterizes this compelling chronicle of Lithuanian partisans’ struggle against Soviet occupation, writes Donna Bailey Nurse.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/underground-by-antanas-sileika/article1976566/
Philip Hensher reviews Melvyn Bragg’s account of King James version of the Bible on its 400th anniversary considering it as a book, rather patchy in quality: some of it wonderfully entertaining.
http://www.spectator.co.uk/books/6845543/great-among-the-nations.thtml
Editor Michael Pietsch explains how he pieced together the manuscript of David Foster Wallace's novel The Pale King.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/08/david-foster-wallace-pale-king
An extract from Chapter 22 of David Foster Wallace's posthumous novel is here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/09/pale-king-david-foster-wallace-extract
Jeff Turrentine finds The Pale King affecting, even if unfinished.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/books/david-foster-wallaces-pale-king-plot-takes-back-seat-to-mood-and-ideas/2011/04/07/AFs46sxC_story.html
In The Pursuit of Italy, David Gilmour claims that only two Italians between ancient times and the 19th century entertained the idea that Italy was, might, or ought to be a unified country.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/reviews/the-pursuit-of-italy-by-david-gilmour-2264682.html
Having served as poet-in-residence at the 2010 Olympic Games, Priscilla Uppal revisits many of the Games’ highlights in Winter Sport. In Goran Simic’s Sunrise in the Eyes of the Snowman, winter is more of an occasional metaphorical presence.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/971754--poetry-priscila-uppal-and-goran-simic
Everyone in the whole world is 48. That's what it can feel like, after reading the tightly themed stories of mid-life angst in Roddy Doyle’s Bullfighting, says Gerard Woodward.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/09/bullfighting-roddy-doyle-short-stories-review
Margaret Macmillan says of Jonathan Steinberg's Bismarck: A Life, "Steinberg has done an excellent job of explaining the man himself and his long and momentous career."
http://www.spectator.co.uk/books/6808128/iron-in-the-blood-.thtml
"Maybe there is no such thing as a lucky break", remarks Nell Gilby, star of Esther Freud's novel, featuring a cohort of students making it – or not – through a pretentious drama school and a decade of acting life.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/reviews/lucky-break-by-esther-freud-2264672.html
Notwithstanding, Louis de Bernières' new collection of short stories, is a celebration of English eccentricity. But even in Notwithstanding, the past is not what it’s cracked up to be, writes Susan Mansfield.
http://scotlandonsunday.scotsman.com/bookreviews/Book-review-Notwithstanding.5720948.jp
Nicholas Lezard laughed out loud as he read Justin Halpern’s Sh*t My Dad Says.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/09/dad-says-justin-halpern-review
As she wrote Lyrics Alley, longlisted for the Orange prize, Leila Aboulela could not have known that the era in which she set her novel would resonate so strongly with early 2011.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/09/leila-aboulela-lyrics-alley-review
There are few Southern African-based books that do what you'd least expect of them, writes Jason Wallace. This, though, is what Lauren Liebenberg has accomplished with The West Rand Jive Cats Boxing Club.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/09/west-rand-jive-cats-liebenberg-review
November is an unusual title to launch in spring but there is every reason to cheer. It’s Sean O'Brien's first collection since The Drowned Book, which won the Forward and TS Eliot prizes, and it’s masterly, writes Kate Kellaway.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/10/sean-obrien-november-poetry-review
The Finkler Question earned Howard Jacobson his first Man Booker Prize at the age of 68. The enthusiastic response to the novel has left Jacobson with no time to return to his unfinished manuscript—about literary failure.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/968031--howard-jacobson-the-vindication-of-a-booker-prize
Randy Boyagoda writes that our reading Montecore, by award-winning Tunisian-Swedish writer Jonas Hassen Khemiri will be enjoyable and offer insight about an important dimension of the signal geopolitical event of the present moment.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/montecore-by-jonas-hassen-khemiri/article1977616/
Glen Downey says that Christian Cameron’s King of the Bosporus gives readers everything they could hope for in a work of historical fiction: exemplary pacing, non-stop action and that most elusive of all traits, verisimilitude.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/tyrant-king-of-the-bosporus-by-christian-cameron/article1971967/
Double Agents Unmasked by Peter-Ferdinand Koch, released on the 50th anniversary of the trial of Adolf Eichmann, describes how the post-war intelligence services were riddled with former SS men implicated in the Holocaust.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/nazi-who-arrested-anne-frank-became-a-spy-for-west-germany-2266077.html
In his new book, The Good Book: A Secular Bible, A.C. Grayling sets out his manifesto for rational thought, believing, says Decca Aitkenhead, that all of us are capable of understanding philosophy.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/03/grayling-good-book-atheism-philosophy
Marsha Lederman of the Globe and Mail interviews Olympic poet Shane Koyczan.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/theatre/shane-koyczan-from-bullied-boy-to-olympic-poet/article1983787/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ANOTHER HOME INVASION
A one-woman performance of local playwright Joan MacLeod's story of confronting life's challenges with humour and dignity. Now until April 23. New Revue Stage, 1601 Johnston Street. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://ow.ly/4rwr4.
NORTH SHORE WRITERS FESTIVAL
The 12th annual festival features author presentations from John Furlong, Grant Lawrence, Ryan Knighton, Timothy Taylor, Caroline Adderson, Dianne Warren and Meeru Dhalwala. April 11 to 16. North Vancouver City Library, North Vancouver District Public Library, and West Vancouver Memorial Library. For complete information, visit http://www.northshorewritersfestival.ca.
POETRY AROUND THE WORLD
Celebrate National Poetry Month with an evening of poetry and spoken-word readings featuring Bonnie Nish, Daniela Elza, Ashok Bhargava, Franci Louann and Warren Dean Fulton. Thursday, April 14 at 6:30pm, free. Renfrew Public Library, 2969 22nd Ave. E.. More information at 604-441-0169.
JUSTIN LUKYN
Reading by the author of Henry Pepper. Friday, April 15 at 8:00pm, free. People's Co-op Bookstore, 1391 Commercial Drive. More information at http://www.newstarbooks.com/news.php?news_id=40111.
LIT FEST NEW WEST
Spoken word performances and slam poetry for all ages. Features C.R. Avery. Friday, April 15 at 8:30pm. The Back Room of the Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster.
NON-FICTION WRITING CONTEST
EVENT is both a literary journal showcasing fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction and a sponsor of an annual non-fiction contest. The deadline for submissions to the 2011 EVENT Non-Fiction Contest is April 15, 2011. Three winners will each receive $500 (plus publication payment). Publication in EVENT 40/3 (December 2011). Submission details here: http://event.douglas.bc.ca.
ANNE PERDUE
Author reads from her short story collection I'm a Registered Nurse Not a Whore. Saturday, April 16 at 6:00pm, free. Ardea Books & Art, 2025 4th Ave. W. More information at 604-734-2025.
VALERIE PARKS
Author launches her second book of poetry, Pathways. Sunday, April 17 at 2:30pm. Renaissance Books, 43 Sixth Street, New Westminster.
BETSY WARLAND
Author reads from her book Breathing the Page, discusses writing ideas, and answers audience questions. Sunday, April 17 at 4:00pm, free. People's Co-op Bookstore, 1391 Commercial Drive. More information at www.peoplescoopbookstore.com.
VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL
The inaugural Vancouver International Poetry Festival will harness the diversity of spoken word in Canada and beyond to present a world-class spoken word festival that showcases the best that Canada has to offer, as well as exploring and expanding the boundaries of contemporary spoken word. April 18-23, 2011. For complete details, visit http://vancouverpoetryfestival.com.
ANNABEL LYON
The North Shore Writers Association presents the author of The Golden Mean who will discuss her writing experiences. Monday, April 18 at 7:00pm. Free for members, $5 for non-members. Capilano Public Library, North Vancouver. More information at http://www.nswriters.bc.ca/node/95.
CASSANDRA CLARE AND HOLLY BLACK
Meet the authors of The City of Fallen Angels and Red Glove for a book reading and signing. Monday, April 18 at 7:00pm. Chapters Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway. More information at 604-431-0463.
PEN-IN-HAND
Poetry and prose reading featuring Walk Myself Home: An Anthology to End Violence Against Women, with Janet Marie Rogers, Arleen Paré, Rhonda Ganz and other contributors to the book. Monday, April 18 at 7:30pm. Cost: $3. Serious Coffee, 230 Cook Street, Victoria.
THE HULLABALOO LAST CHANCE YOUTH POETRY SLAM
The Last Chance Slam is open to all students who attend a senior high school in BC and that school is NOT already participating in Hullabaloo. Wednesday, April 20; doors and registration at 5pm. Cost: $5/$3, no one turned away for lack of funds. The Havana Theatre, 1212 Commercial Drive. More information at 604-215-9230 or rcarcee@yahoo.ca.
BC BOOK PRIZES GALA
The 27th annual Lieutenant Governor's BC Book Prize Gala hosted by Canada's award-winning comedy duo Bob Robertson and Linda Cullen. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $55; purchase deadline is April 15. Kay Meek Centre, 1700 Mathers Avenue, West Vancouver. For complete details and to order tickets, visit www.bcbookprizes.ca.
SCIENCE FICTION BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP
Read and discuss Paolo Bacigalupi's biopunk novel The Windup Girl. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. The Grind & Gallery, 4124 Main Street. More information at darthbuddy2000@yahoo.ca.
FREEHAND BOOKS LAUNCH
Launch of new titles from Kristen den Hartog, Michael Murphy, and Ian Williams. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. Ardea Books & Art, 2025 4th Ave. W. More information at 604-734-2025.
125 POETRY READINGS IN ONE DAY
To combat the image of poets as sedentary word-hermits, Ray Hsu, Kim Fu, Kevin Spenst and Andrea Bennett are going to jog through 125 different readings venues in one day. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. Meeting room, level 3, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
CELEBRATE NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Readings by Jacob McArthur Mooney, Susan Musgrave and Matt Rader. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Library/Bookstore at Robson Square, Plaza Level, 800 Robson St. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
AN EVENING WITH LEE HENDERSON
Join the author for a discussion about his novel The Man Game. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm. Tickets are $20, call 604-733-1356 or email lyceum@christiannehayward.com to register. Christianne's Lyceum, 3696 8th Ave. W.
Upcoming
TISH COHEN
Bestselling author reads from her new novel The Truth About Delilah Blue. Tuesday, April 26 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kay rooms, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
ZSUZSI GARTNER
Author launches her new book Better Living Through Plastic Explosives. Books will be available for sale: a limited edition dust jacket design by Marianna Gartner will be included with all book purchases. Wednesday, April 27 at 7:00pm, free. W2 Storyeum, 151 W. Cordova.
AN EVENING WITH THE ARTHURS
Crime Writers of Canada announce the short lists for the Arthur Ellis Award for Canadian Crime Writing, including Best Novel and Best First Novel. Thursday, April 28 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact VPL - Popular Reading Library at 604-331-3691.
2011 DTES WRITERS' JAMBOREE
Writers' event features mini-manuscript consultations, roundtable discussions, professional skills workshops, and guest author readings by Brian Payton, Evelyn Lau, and Gregory Scofield. Friday, April 29. From 10am to 830pm. Free admission. Carnegie Community Centre, 401 Main Street. More information at www.thewritersstudio.ca.
PLAY CHTHONICS READING SERIES
Readings by Lee Maracle and Wayde Compton. Friday, April 29 at 7:00pm, free. Rhizome Cafe, 317 East Broadway. More information at playchtonics.blogspot.com.
Incite @ VPL
The next installment of Incite (http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/incite) will feature Joyce Carol Oates and Johanna Skibsrud.
7:30 pm on Wednesday, April 20
http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/inciteapril20
Admission is free
Alice MacKay room, Central Library
Let us know you're coming by registering here, http://incitevpl.eventbrite.com. Please note that registration is so that we know how many people to expect. Admission on the night is always on a first-come-first-served basis.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Simon Winchester - April 18, 2011
The bestselling author of Krakatoa, returns to the natural world with his epic new book, a "biography" of the Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic: Great Sea Battles, Heroic Discoveries, Titanic Storms, and a Vast Ocean of a Million Stories. http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/winchester.
Elizabeth Hay & Miriam Toews - May 5, 2011
Two of Canada's most acclaimed and beloved writers will discuss their new books, Alone in the Classroom and Irma Voth. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/haytoews.
A Dram Come True - May 13, 2011
Presenting the ninth annual single malt scotch whisky sampling. Join us for an evening of scotch whisky sampling and enjoy a variety of rare and distinguished single malts. "The light music of whiskey falling into a glass - an agreeable interlude." - James Joyce
Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/dramcometrue
AWARDS & LISTS
Canadian author Michael Crummey's historical novel Galore has been shortlisted for the International IMPAC Dublin award, the world's richest literary prize for a single work of fiction. Galore is among 10 books shortlisted for the prize.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/canadian-author-michael-crummey-shortlisted-for-lucrative-impac-award/article1981797/
Canadian writers Emma Donoghue and Kathleen Winter are among the six authors shortlisted for Britain's Orange Prize for fiction by women.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/three-debuts-make-the-orange-prize-shortlist-2266873.html
Orange prize 2011 shortlist in pictures, along with reviews.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/gallery/2011/apr/12/orange-prize-shortlist-pictures?CMP=EMCGT_130411&
Nobel prize winner Orhan Pamuk's and Norweigian author Per Petterson head a star-studded list of global authors shortlisted for the 2011 Independent foreign fiction prize.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/11/independent-foreign-fiction-prize-shortlist-pamuk
CBC's online books portal is launching a new version of Canada Reads devoted to collections of poetry. Panelists will defend their selections online and in essays published in the National Post over the next three weeks.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/books/story/2011/04/08/canada-reads-poetry.html
NEWS & FEATURES
First-time novelists make up half the shortlist for the 2011 Orange prize for fiction, indicating "the rude health of women's writing", according to this year's chair of judges Bettany Hughes.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/12/orange-prize-shortlist
Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian and Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World are two of the most challenged books in the U.S., according to the American Library Association.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/12/brave-new-world-challenged-books
The Tyee includes Geoff D’Auria’s interview of Timothy Taylor on The Blue Light Project, the languages of street art, celebrity, and religion—accompanied by a photo essay.
http://thetyee.ca/Books/2011/04/08/BlueLightProject/
The Bodleian Library and the German Literary Archive at Marbach have agreed jointly to purchase a collection of more than 100 letters and postcards from Franz Kafka to his sister. New archival material about Kafka is a rarity.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/apr/07/kafka-bodleian-library-german-literary-archive-ottla
David Orr, the poetry critic for The New York Times, asks: why should we read poetry? He provides his own answer.
http://www.npr.org/2011/04/09/135217933/a-poetry-critic-asks-why-bother?ft=1&f=1008
What’s wrong with popularizing poetry? asks Sam Leith. Garrison Keillor—radio host and laureate of small-town wholesomeness—is publishing 77 Love Sonnets, a book of poetry. The modernist poet August Kleinzahler is enraged.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/10/sam-leith-garrison-keillor-august-kleinzahler?CMP=EMCGT_110411&
A dozen students from as many Ontario high schools matched their skills at poetry recitation at the first Poetry in Voice competition this week. This project was launched by Griffin Poetry Trust benefactor Scott Griffin.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/970532--poetry-in-voice-well-versed-students-set-for-finals
Writer and critic of Islam Ayaan Hirsi Ali tells Andrew Anthony how she's learned to embrace nomadism.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/apr/10/ayaan-hirsi-ali-nomad-memoir
An avid Dr Seuss fan has discovered lost stories from the 1950's.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/childrens-books-site/2011/apr/07/lost-dr-seuss-stories-published
Billy Collins, former U.S. poet laureate, who has sold more than one million books of poetry, says radio has been instrumental in building his audience.
http://www.npr.org/2011/04/06/135181560/collins-values-accessible-poetry-not-pretension?ft=1&f=1008
Withdrawing Arts Council England support for the Poetry Book Society is like tearing down a beautiful, slightly quirky, multi-purpose hotel, in which the glitzy ballroom (TS Eliot prize) is more visible than the kitchens (book club), writes Peter Porter.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2011/apr/05/poetry-book-society-poets
A small press loses money on every book that Amazon sells.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2011/apr/07/amazon-profits-small-publisher-losses
Charlie Cooper reports that dystopian fiction is swiftly taking over; vampires and werewolves are being cast aside and replaced with post-apocalyptic societies and climate catastrophe.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/doomed-the-new-teen-book-genre-2265785.html
Tim Adams interviews the artist Karen Green, widow of David Foster Wallace, about the struggle to deal with her loss and her decision to publish Wallace’s unfinished work, The Pale King.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/10/karen-green-david-foster-wallace-interview
Readers of Book News will have noticed that the Guardian is a regular source of book reviews and news. As from today, the guardian.co.uk/books is radically expanded, with a lot more room for readers to join the conversation.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2011/apr/13/guardian-books
Author T.J. Waters muses on signing e-readers.
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/14/fashion/14NOTICED.html?_r=2&nl=todaysheadlines&emc=tha26
BOOKS & WRITERS
Recently imprisoned Chinese artist, architect and activist Ai Weiwei posted to his blog every day for four years.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/2011/apr/09/ai-weiwei-writings-interviews-review
Irma Voth reflects Miriam Toews’ increasing range and maturity, says Elaine Kalman Naves.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Review+Increasing+range+maturity+shown+Miriam+Toews+Irma+Voth/4575673/story.html
Stephen Finucan adds: "There is something quite mesmerizing about Toews’ prose. It’s to do with the rhythm of her language."
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/971751--irma-voth-by-miriam-toews
While three of Michael Crummey’s books have been published in the United States to critical praise, Galore—with its unforgettable place of the imagination—will win him a permanent place in American readers’ hearts, writes Kevin O’Kelly.
http://articles.boston.com/2011-03-30/ae/29362718_1_dead-fish-family-feuds-fishing-season
"How are we going to survive unless we turn our hearts to stone?" This question, posed in Antanas Sileika’s Underground, characterizes this compelling chronicle of Lithuanian partisans’ struggle against Soviet occupation, writes Donna Bailey Nurse.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/underground-by-antanas-sileika/article1976566/
Philip Hensher reviews Melvyn Bragg’s account of King James version of the Bible on its 400th anniversary considering it as a book, rather patchy in quality: some of it wonderfully entertaining.
http://www.spectator.co.uk/books/6845543/great-among-the-nations.thtml
Editor Michael Pietsch explains how he pieced together the manuscript of David Foster Wallace's novel The Pale King.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/08/david-foster-wallace-pale-king
An extract from Chapter 22 of David Foster Wallace's posthumous novel is here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/09/pale-king-david-foster-wallace-extract
Jeff Turrentine finds The Pale King affecting, even if unfinished.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/books/david-foster-wallaces-pale-king-plot-takes-back-seat-to-mood-and-ideas/2011/04/07/AFs46sxC_story.html
In The Pursuit of Italy, David Gilmour claims that only two Italians between ancient times and the 19th century entertained the idea that Italy was, might, or ought to be a unified country.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/reviews/the-pursuit-of-italy-by-david-gilmour-2264682.html
Having served as poet-in-residence at the 2010 Olympic Games, Priscilla Uppal revisits many of the Games’ highlights in Winter Sport. In Goran Simic’s Sunrise in the Eyes of the Snowman, winter is more of an occasional metaphorical presence.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/971754--poetry-priscila-uppal-and-goran-simic
Everyone in the whole world is 48. That's what it can feel like, after reading the tightly themed stories of mid-life angst in Roddy Doyle’s Bullfighting, says Gerard Woodward.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/09/bullfighting-roddy-doyle-short-stories-review
Margaret Macmillan says of Jonathan Steinberg's Bismarck: A Life, "Steinberg has done an excellent job of explaining the man himself and his long and momentous career."
http://www.spectator.co.uk/books/6808128/iron-in-the-blood-.thtml
"Maybe there is no such thing as a lucky break", remarks Nell Gilby, star of Esther Freud's novel, featuring a cohort of students making it – or not – through a pretentious drama school and a decade of acting life.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/reviews/lucky-break-by-esther-freud-2264672.html
Notwithstanding, Louis de Bernières' new collection of short stories, is a celebration of English eccentricity. But even in Notwithstanding, the past is not what it’s cracked up to be, writes Susan Mansfield.
http://scotlandonsunday.scotsman.com/bookreviews/Book-review-Notwithstanding.5720948.jp
Nicholas Lezard laughed out loud as he read Justin Halpern’s Sh*t My Dad Says.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/09/dad-says-justin-halpern-review
As she wrote Lyrics Alley, longlisted for the Orange prize, Leila Aboulela could not have known that the era in which she set her novel would resonate so strongly with early 2011.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/09/leila-aboulela-lyrics-alley-review
There are few Southern African-based books that do what you'd least expect of them, writes Jason Wallace. This, though, is what Lauren Liebenberg has accomplished with The West Rand Jive Cats Boxing Club.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/09/west-rand-jive-cats-liebenberg-review
November is an unusual title to launch in spring but there is every reason to cheer. It’s Sean O'Brien's first collection since The Drowned Book, which won the Forward and TS Eliot prizes, and it’s masterly, writes Kate Kellaway.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/10/sean-obrien-november-poetry-review
The Finkler Question earned Howard Jacobson his first Man Booker Prize at the age of 68. The enthusiastic response to the novel has left Jacobson with no time to return to his unfinished manuscript—about literary failure.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/968031--howard-jacobson-the-vindication-of-a-booker-prize
Randy Boyagoda writes that our reading Montecore, by award-winning Tunisian-Swedish writer Jonas Hassen Khemiri will be enjoyable and offer insight about an important dimension of the signal geopolitical event of the present moment.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/montecore-by-jonas-hassen-khemiri/article1977616/
Glen Downey says that Christian Cameron’s King of the Bosporus gives readers everything they could hope for in a work of historical fiction: exemplary pacing, non-stop action and that most elusive of all traits, verisimilitude.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/tyrant-king-of-the-bosporus-by-christian-cameron/article1971967/
Double Agents Unmasked by Peter-Ferdinand Koch, released on the 50th anniversary of the trial of Adolf Eichmann, describes how the post-war intelligence services were riddled with former SS men implicated in the Holocaust.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/nazi-who-arrested-anne-frank-became-a-spy-for-west-germany-2266077.html
In his new book, The Good Book: A Secular Bible, A.C. Grayling sets out his manifesto for rational thought, believing, says Decca Aitkenhead, that all of us are capable of understanding philosophy.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/03/grayling-good-book-atheism-philosophy
Marsha Lederman of the Globe and Mail interviews Olympic poet Shane Koyczan.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/theatre/shane-koyczan-from-bullied-boy-to-olympic-poet/article1983787/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ANOTHER HOME INVASION
A one-woman performance of local playwright Joan MacLeod's story of confronting life's challenges with humour and dignity. Now until April 23. New Revue Stage, 1601 Johnston Street. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://ow.ly/4rwr4.
NORTH SHORE WRITERS FESTIVAL
The 12th annual festival features author presentations from John Furlong, Grant Lawrence, Ryan Knighton, Timothy Taylor, Caroline Adderson, Dianne Warren and Meeru Dhalwala. April 11 to 16. North Vancouver City Library, North Vancouver District Public Library, and West Vancouver Memorial Library. For complete information, visit http://www.northshorewritersfestival.ca.
POETRY AROUND THE WORLD
Celebrate National Poetry Month with an evening of poetry and spoken-word readings featuring Bonnie Nish, Daniela Elza, Ashok Bhargava, Franci Louann and Warren Dean Fulton. Thursday, April 14 at 6:30pm, free. Renfrew Public Library, 2969 22nd Ave. E.. More information at 604-441-0169.
JUSTIN LUKYN
Reading by the author of Henry Pepper. Friday, April 15 at 8:00pm, free. People's Co-op Bookstore, 1391 Commercial Drive. More information at http://www.newstarbooks.com/news.php?news_id=40111.
LIT FEST NEW WEST
Spoken word performances and slam poetry for all ages. Features C.R. Avery. Friday, April 15 at 8:30pm. The Back Room of the Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster.
NON-FICTION WRITING CONTEST
EVENT is both a literary journal showcasing fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction and a sponsor of an annual non-fiction contest. The deadline for submissions to the 2011 EVENT Non-Fiction Contest is April 15, 2011. Three winners will each receive $500 (plus publication payment). Publication in EVENT 40/3 (December 2011). Submission details here: http://event.douglas.bc.ca.
ANNE PERDUE
Author reads from her short story collection I'm a Registered Nurse Not a Whore. Saturday, April 16 at 6:00pm, free. Ardea Books & Art, 2025 4th Ave. W. More information at 604-734-2025.
VALERIE PARKS
Author launches her second book of poetry, Pathways. Sunday, April 17 at 2:30pm. Renaissance Books, 43 Sixth Street, New Westminster.
BETSY WARLAND
Author reads from her book Breathing the Page, discusses writing ideas, and answers audience questions. Sunday, April 17 at 4:00pm, free. People's Co-op Bookstore, 1391 Commercial Drive. More information at www.peoplescoopbookstore.com.
VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL
The inaugural Vancouver International Poetry Festival will harness the diversity of spoken word in Canada and beyond to present a world-class spoken word festival that showcases the best that Canada has to offer, as well as exploring and expanding the boundaries of contemporary spoken word. April 18-23, 2011. For complete details, visit http://vancouverpoetryfestival.com.
ANNABEL LYON
The North Shore Writers Association presents the author of The Golden Mean who will discuss her writing experiences. Monday, April 18 at 7:00pm. Free for members, $5 for non-members. Capilano Public Library, North Vancouver. More information at http://www.nswriters.bc.ca/node/95.
CASSANDRA CLARE AND HOLLY BLACK
Meet the authors of The City of Fallen Angels and Red Glove for a book reading and signing. Monday, April 18 at 7:00pm. Chapters Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway. More information at 604-431-0463.
PEN-IN-HAND
Poetry and prose reading featuring Walk Myself Home: An Anthology to End Violence Against Women, with Janet Marie Rogers, Arleen Paré, Rhonda Ganz and other contributors to the book. Monday, April 18 at 7:30pm. Cost: $3. Serious Coffee, 230 Cook Street, Victoria.
THE HULLABALOO LAST CHANCE YOUTH POETRY SLAM
The Last Chance Slam is open to all students who attend a senior high school in BC and that school is NOT already participating in Hullabaloo. Wednesday, April 20; doors and registration at 5pm. Cost: $5/$3, no one turned away for lack of funds. The Havana Theatre, 1212 Commercial Drive. More information at 604-215-9230 or rcarcee@yahoo.ca.
BC BOOK PRIZES GALA
The 27th annual Lieutenant Governor's BC Book Prize Gala hosted by Canada's award-winning comedy duo Bob Robertson and Linda Cullen. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $55; purchase deadline is April 15. Kay Meek Centre, 1700 Mathers Avenue, West Vancouver. For complete details and to order tickets, visit www.bcbookprizes.ca.
SCIENCE FICTION BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP
Read and discuss Paolo Bacigalupi's biopunk novel The Windup Girl. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. The Grind & Gallery, 4124 Main Street. More information at darthbuddy2000@yahoo.ca.
FREEHAND BOOKS LAUNCH
Launch of new titles from Kristen den Hartog, Michael Murphy, and Ian Williams. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. Ardea Books & Art, 2025 4th Ave. W. More information at 604-734-2025.
125 POETRY READINGS IN ONE DAY
To combat the image of poets as sedentary word-hermits, Ray Hsu, Kim Fu, Kevin Spenst and Andrea Bennett are going to jog through 125 different readings venues in one day. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. Meeting room, level 3, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
CELEBRATE NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Readings by Jacob McArthur Mooney, Susan Musgrave and Matt Rader. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Library/Bookstore at Robson Square, Plaza Level, 800 Robson St. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
AN EVENING WITH LEE HENDERSON
Join the author for a discussion about his novel The Man Game. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm. Tickets are $20, call 604-733-1356 or email lyceum@christiannehayward.com to register. Christianne's Lyceum, 3696 8th Ave. W.
Upcoming
TISH COHEN
Bestselling author reads from her new novel The Truth About Delilah Blue. Tuesday, April 26 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kay rooms, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
ZSUZSI GARTNER
Author launches her new book Better Living Through Plastic Explosives. Books will be available for sale: a limited edition dust jacket design by Marianna Gartner will be included with all book purchases. Wednesday, April 27 at 7:00pm, free. W2 Storyeum, 151 W. Cordova.
AN EVENING WITH THE ARTHURS
Crime Writers of Canada announce the short lists for the Arthur Ellis Award for Canadian Crime Writing, including Best Novel and Best First Novel. Thursday, April 28 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact VPL - Popular Reading Library at 604-331-3691.
2011 DTES WRITERS' JAMBOREE
Writers' event features mini-manuscript consultations, roundtable discussions, professional skills workshops, and guest author readings by Brian Payton, Evelyn Lau, and Gregory Scofield. Friday, April 29. From 10am to 830pm. Free admission. Carnegie Community Centre, 401 Main Street. More information at www.thewritersstudio.ca.
PLAY CHTHONICS READING SERIES
Readings by Lee Maracle and Wayde Compton. Friday, April 29 at 7:00pm, free. Rhizome Cafe, 317 East Broadway. More information at playchtonics.blogspot.com.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Book News Vol. 6 No. 14
BOOK NEWS
Incite @ VPL
The next installment of Incite (http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/incite) will feature Joyce Carol Oates and Johanna Skibsrud.
7:30 pm on Wednesday, April 20
http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/inciteapril20
Admission is free
Alice MacKay room, Central Library
Let us know you're coming by registering here, http://incitevpl.eventbrite.com. Please note that registration is so that we know how many people to expect. Admission on the night is always on a first-come-first-served basis.
Special 2-for-1 tickets to see Another Home Invasion
Buy any ticket for any performance and get the second one for free! But don't dilly-dally, this offer expires April 10 (Not valid in combination with any other offer, promotion, discount, or on previously purchased tickets.). Use promotion code AHIWF when you order online: http://secure.vancouvertix.com/tickets/production.aspx?PID=3989
SPECIAL EVENTS
Howard Jacobson - April 13, 2011
(2010 Man Booker award winner)
The Finkler Question is a scorching story of friendship and loss, exclusion and belonging, and of the wisdom and humanity of maturity. Funny, furious, unflinching, this extraordinary novel shows one of our finest writers at his brilliant best. Presented in partnership with the Jewish Book Festival. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jacobson.
Simon Winchester - April 18, 2011
The bestselling author of Krakatoa, returns to the natural world with his epic new book, a "biography" of the Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic: Great Sea Battles, Heroic Discoveries, Titanic Storms, and a Vast Ocean of a Million Stories. http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/winchester.
Elizabeth Hay & Miriam Toews - May 5, 2011
Two of Canada's most acclaimed and beloved writers will discuss their new books, Alone in the Classroom and Irma Voth. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/haytoews.
A Dram Come True - May 13, 2011
Presenting the ninth annual single malt scotch whisky sampling. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/dramcometrue
AWARDS & LISTS
Philip Roth, Philip Pullman, and Anne Tyler, along with Rohinton Mistry, are among the thirteen shortlisted nominees for the Man Booker Internatonal prize.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/mar/30/man-booker-prize-nominees-announced
Nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney, Syrian poet Adonis, and Toronto Poet Laureate Dionne Brand are among those shortlisted for the 2011 Griffin Poetry Prize.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2011/04/05/seamus-heaney-dionne-brand-among-nominees-for-griffin-poetry-prize/#more-29572
Five writers—include Red Green and Terry Fallis—have been shortlisted for the Stephen Leacock Memorial Medal for Humour.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/books/story/2011/04/01/leacock-medal.html
Toronto's Dionne Brand, Manitoba's Di Brandt and Vancouver's Evelyn Lau are among the poets who have been shortlisted for this year's Pat Lowther prize.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/story/2011/04/04/poetry-prizes.html
April is poetry month: to celebrate, the League of Canadian Poets has released the shortlists for the 2011 Pat Lowther and the Gerald Lampert Awards.
http://www.poets.ca/
Leonard Cohen has won the 2011 Glenn Gould Prize.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/music/article/968253--leonard-cohen-wins-50-000-gould-prize
Garth Martens, a construction worker from Victoria who writes poetry, was awarded the $5,000 RBC Bronwen Wallace Award for Emerging Writers on Tuesday.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/books/story/2011/04/05/bronwen-wallace-prize.html
NEWS & FEATURES
An electronic book titled 2:46 (the hour the earthquake struck) with contributions from volunteers, including sci-fi writer William Gibson, is expected to go on sale this Friday, with proceeds going to the Japanese Red Cross.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/sci-fi-writer-william-gibson-among-contributors-to-japan-fundraising-book/article1971468/
John Le Carré explains his refusal to be considered for the Man Booker International Prize.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/le-carr233-refuses-to-join-man-booker-race-2257664.html
Gillian Slovo asks when it's right to impose a cultural boycott, a particular challenge for her as she is a product of her South African heritage and the new president of English PEN.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/02/gillian-slovo-author-author
The P.E.I. government is being lobbied to reverse a decision to close down its program of support for Island publishers. "To withdraw this support for publishing PEI books means...the possible loss of a publishing company", said Acorn Press.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/books/story/2011/03/31/pei-publisher-subsidy-government-584.html
Deborah Orr writes that her own favourite diet guidance doesn't come from science fact, but science fiction: Oryx and Crake, the dystopian novel by Margaret Atwood.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/mar/31/margaret-atwood-diet-guru
Rick Gekoski writes about "The damnable task of being a Man Booker International prize judge."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2011/mar/30/man-booker-prize-international
David Lodge speculates as to why so many writers have been attracted by the biographical novel: in his case, Henry James (2006) and now, H.G. Wells.
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/the_tls/article7173602.ece
The boundaries of romance have spread, and family life has evolved. Lisa Appignanesi writes about how love in literature has changed.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/features/mothers-sons-and-other-lovers-how-love-in-literature-has-changed-2258472.html
Single people claim the bookstore is good for finding romance; here's an eyewitness account.
http://www.slate.com/id/2289786/
Some book marketers have been developing video trailers to promote books. As the videos live on, they continue to market the books years after the video was posted.
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11093/1136649-51.stm?cmpid=entertainment.xml#ixzz1ITxFxpab
On Thursday, the B.C. Library Association will launch The Library Book: A History of Service to British Columbia. Written by Dave Obee of the Times Colonist, the book describes Andrew Carnegie's influence, despite never having visited B.C.
http://www.timescolonist.com/news/Philanthropist+gave+birth+Victoria+libraries/4551399/story.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
The Finkler Question earned Howard Jacobson his first Man Booker Prize at the age of 68. The enthusiastic response to the novel has left Jacobson with no time to return to his unfinished manuscript—about literary failure.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/968031--howard-jacobson-the-vindication-of-a-booker-prize
Joyce Carol Oates' memoir A Widow's Story "describes her own transformation, not through art but through pain, from wife into widow" says Ruth Franklin.
http://www.bookforum.com/inprint/017_05/7024
Two baseball hero books to begin the spring: one about Hank Greenberg curious, intelligent, the first Jewish baseball superstar, the other Joe DiMaggio who, in retirement, demanded to be introduced as the “greatest living ballplayer.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/hank-greenberg-the-hero-who-didnt-want-to-be-one-by-mark-kurlansky/article1963354/
How long do you hold on to the past? This is a major theme of Sarita Mandanna's debut novel Tiger Hills, a multi-generational family saga that spans late 19th and early 20th century India.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/965873--sarita-mandanna-debut-novelist
In his new book, The Good Book: A Secular Bible, A.C. Grayling sets out his manifesto for rational thought, believing, says Decca Aitkenhead, that all of us are capable of understanding philosophy.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/03/grayling-good-book-atheism-philosophy
Kenneth Turan writes that Henning Mankell's Wallander books are more successful as literature than the books in which the detective does not appear. With The Troubled Man, Mankell ups his game and enters John le Carré territory.
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/books/la-et-book-20110330,0,6029427.story
After David Foster Wallace died, his agent found several chapters of the novel The Pale King. Wallace's editor spent two years assembling and editing the papers; the resulting book will be published April 15.
http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,2062341,00.html#ixzz1IBYz4gln
Joel Yanofsky writes that David Bezmozgis's The Free World feels undeniably Russian—imbued with the conflict between the human concerns of its characters and the cruel indifference of history.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Free+last+with+nowhere/4545433/story.html
Leah Hager Cohen says that “the novel reminds us again and again that life is essentially ridiculous.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/the-free-world-by-david-bezmozgis/article1967022/
Antonas Sileika's Underground is a very different story of émigrés, told through the medium of a political military/spy thriller, and based on real-life resistance in Lithuania.
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Unearthing+little+known+piece+20th+century+history/4548867/story.html
At the age of 30, Rupinder Gill decided to experience things denied her in growing up in a traditional Indian home. Her memoir On the Outside Looking Indian is both amusing and challenging.
http://www.vancouversun.com/Adolescence+more+second+time+around/4548866/story.html
Emily Donaldson describes the book as a charming, witty chronicle of the trials and tribulations of one woman's belated attempt at a second childhood.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/967726--on-the-outside-looking-indian-by-rupinder-gill
Patrick Ness is deeply moved by Johanna Skibsrud's The Sentimentalists. A grown daughter's investigation into her father's Vietnam war memories shows what it must be like to be 40 years removed from memories that still haunt.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/02/johanna-skibsrud-the-sentimentalists-review
Lesley McDowell says David Lodge's writing a biographical novel about H.G. Wells is an interesting technique, well suited to a subject who has quite a bit of explaining to do.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/reviews/a-man-of-parts-by-david-lodge-2260499.html
Jim Bartley writes that the deadlocked society of apartheid is strikingly rendered in Dawn Promislow's Jewels.
http://aol.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/ArticleNews/aolstory/TGAM/20110402/BOBARTLEY0402ATL
In the final pages of A Book of Secrets: Illegitimate daughters, absent fathers, Michael Holroyd reveals this book to be his last, a release not only for himself but also for all his characters.
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/the_tls/article7173246.ece
Paula L. Woods writes that One of Our Thursdays is Missing, like other Jasper Fforde novels, is jampacked with spot-on parody, puns and wry observations.
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/la-et-book-20110324,0,6005166.story
In Tim Wynne-Jones's latest young-adult thriller Blink & Caution, survival of the fittest is a major theme: Blink and Caution are the names of two key characters.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/blink-caution-by-tim-wynne-jones/article1967583/
Bryan Lynch reports that Opening Doors in Vancouver's East End: Strathcona, compiled by poet Daphne Marlatt and artist-author Carole Itter, is an invaluable record of the neighbourhood's early evolution.
http://www.straight.com/article-383922/vancouver/opening-doors-revives-strathconas-rich-past
In Use and Abuse of Literature, Marjorie Garber poses the central questions of a literate person's life: What do we mean by literature? Why study it? Is there a form of writing that is not literary?
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/03/26/RV581IFQJ1.DTL#ixzz1I8itpSvL
That Michael Connelly is very good comes as no surprise, even given that he publishes two books a year. Reviewer Richard Raynor picked up The Fifth Witness and found he couldn't put it down until he'd finished it.
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/books/la-et-book-20110405,0,6160502.story
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ANOTHER HOME INVASION
A one-woman performance of local playwright Joan MacLeod's story of confronting life's challenges with humour and dignity. Now until April 23. New Revue Stage, 1601 Johnston Street. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://ow.ly/4rwr4.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Ryan Knighton and Ed Macdonald. Thursday, April 7 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Library/Bookstore at Robson Square, Plaza Level, 800 Robson St. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
THREE POETS READING
New books of poetry presented by Cathy Ford, bill bissett and Mona Fertig. Saturday, April 9 at 3:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye rooms, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. For more information please contact VPL - Literature and Social Science at 604-331-3738.
NORTH SHORE WRITERS FESTIVAL
The 12th annual festival features author presentations from John Furlong, Grant Lawrence, Ryan Knighton, Timothy Taylor, Caroline Adderson, Dianne Warren and Meeru Dhalwala. April 11 to 16. North Vancouver City Library, North Vancouver District Public Library, and West Vancouver Memorial Library. For complete information, visit http://www.northshorewritersfestival.ca.
FRIENDS OF THE VPL
The Friends of Vancouver Public Library board has appointed a Nominating Committee to seek new Directors for the coming year. Monday, April 11 at 5:30pm. VPL board room. level 7, Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia Street. Please visit friendsofthevpl.ca for more information and an invitation to attend a reception for those interested in becoming involved with Friends of VPL.
RAISE SHIT!
Come join Susan Boyd, Donald MacPherson and Bud Osborn discuss their book Raise Shit! Social Action Saving Lives, which explores the community activism in Vancouver's DTES that led to the opening of the first safe injection site. Wednesday, April 13 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact VPL - Literature and Social Science at 604-331-3738.
POETRY AROUND THE WORLD
Celebrate National Poetry Month with an evening of poetry and spoken-word readings featuring Bonnie Nish, Daniela Elza, Ashok Bhargava, Franci Louann and Warren Dean Fulton. Thursday, April 14 at 6:30pm, free. Renfrew Public Library, 2969 22nd Ave. E.. More information at 604-441-0169.
JUSTIN LUKYN
Reading by the author of Henry Pepper. Friday, April 15 at 8:00pm, free. People's Co-op Bookstore, 1391 Commercial Drive. More information at http://www.newstarbooks.com/news.php?news_id=40111.
LIT FEST NEW WEST
Spoken word performances and slam poetry for all ages. Features C.R. Avery. Friday, April 15 at 8:30pm. The Back Room of the Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster.
NON-FICTION WRITING CONTEST
EVENT is both a literary journal showcasing fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction and a sponsor of an annual non-fiction contest. The deadline for submissions to the 2011 EVENT Non-Fiction Contest is April 15, 2011. Three winners will each receive $500 (plus publication payment). Publication in EVENT 40/3 (December 2011). Submission details here: http://event.douglas.bc.ca.
ANNE PERDUE
Author reads from her short story collection I'm a Registered Nurse Not a Whore. Saturday, April 16 at 6:00pm, free. Ardea Books & Art, 2025 4th Ave. W. More information at ardeabooksandart.com.
VALERIE PARKS
Author launches her second book of poetry, Pathways. Sunday, April 17 at 2:30pm. Renaissance Books, 43 Sixth Street, New Westminster.
Upcoming
VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL
The inaugural Vancouver International Poetry Festival will harness the diversity of spoken word in Canada and beyond to present a world-class spoken word festival that showcases the best that Canada has to offer, as well as exploring and expanding the boundaries of contemporary spoken word. April 18-23, 2011. For complete details, visit http://vancouverpoetryfestival.com.
PEN-IN-HAND
Poetry and prose reading featuring Walk Myself Home: An Anthology to End Violence Against Women, with Janet Marie Rogers, Arleen Paré, Rhonda Ganz and other contributors to the book. Monday, April 18 at 7:30pm. Cost: $3. Serious Coffee, 230 Cook Street, Victoria.
FREEHAND BOOKS LAUNCH
Launch of new titles from Kristen den Hartog, Michael Murphy, and Ian Williams. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. Ardea Books & Art, 2025 4th Ave. W. More information at ardeabooksandart.com.
125 POETRY READINGS IN ONE DAY
To combat the image of poets as sedentary word-hermits, Ray Hsu, Kim Fu, Kevin Spenst and Andrea Bennett are going to jog through 125 different readings venues in one day. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. Meeting room, level 3, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
CELEBRATE NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Readings by Jacob McArthur Mooney, Susan Musgrave and Matt Rader. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Library/Bookstore at Robson Square, Plaza Level, 800 Robson St. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
AN EVENING WITH LEE HENDERSON
Join the author for a discussion about his novel The Man Game. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm. Tickets are $20, call 604-733-1356 or email lyceum@christiannehayward.com to register. Christianne's Lyceum, 3696 8th Ave. W.
TISH COHEN
Bestselling author reads from her new novel The Truth About Delilah Blue. Tuesday, April 26 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kay rooms, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
AN EVENING WITH THE ARTHURS
Crime Writers of Canada announce the short lists for the Arthur Ellis Award for Canadian Crime Writing, including Best Novel and Best First Novel. Thursday, April 28 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact VPL - Popular Reading Library at 604-331-3691.
2011 DTES WRITERS' JAMBOREE
Writers' event features mini-manuscript consultations, roundtable discussions, professional skills workshops, and guest author readings by Brian Payton, Evelyn Lau, and Gregory Scofield. Friday, April 29. From 10am to 830pm. Free admission. Carnegie Community Centre, 401 Main Street. More information at www.thewritersstudio.ca.
PLAY CHTHONICS READING SERIES
Readings by Lee Maracle and Wayde Compton. Friday, April 29 at 7:00pm, free. Rhizome Cafe, 317 East Broadway. More information at playchtonics.blogspot.com.
Incite @ VPL
The next installment of Incite (http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/incite) will feature Joyce Carol Oates and Johanna Skibsrud.
7:30 pm on Wednesday, April 20
http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/inciteapril20
Admission is free
Alice MacKay room, Central Library
Let us know you're coming by registering here, http://incitevpl.eventbrite.com. Please note that registration is so that we know how many people to expect. Admission on the night is always on a first-come-first-served basis.
Special 2-for-1 tickets to see Another Home Invasion
Buy any ticket for any performance and get the second one for free! But don't dilly-dally, this offer expires April 10 (Not valid in combination with any other offer, promotion, discount, or on previously purchased tickets.). Use promotion code AHIWF when you order online: http://secure.vancouvertix.com/tickets/production.aspx?PID=3989
SPECIAL EVENTS
Howard Jacobson - April 13, 2011
(2010 Man Booker award winner)
The Finkler Question is a scorching story of friendship and loss, exclusion and belonging, and of the wisdom and humanity of maturity. Funny, furious, unflinching, this extraordinary novel shows one of our finest writers at his brilliant best. Presented in partnership with the Jewish Book Festival. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jacobson.
Simon Winchester - April 18, 2011
The bestselling author of Krakatoa, returns to the natural world with his epic new book, a "biography" of the Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic: Great Sea Battles, Heroic Discoveries, Titanic Storms, and a Vast Ocean of a Million Stories. http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/winchester.
Elizabeth Hay & Miriam Toews - May 5, 2011
Two of Canada's most acclaimed and beloved writers will discuss their new books, Alone in the Classroom and Irma Voth. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/haytoews.
A Dram Come True - May 13, 2011
Presenting the ninth annual single malt scotch whisky sampling. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/dramcometrue
AWARDS & LISTS
Philip Roth, Philip Pullman, and Anne Tyler, along with Rohinton Mistry, are among the thirteen shortlisted nominees for the Man Booker Internatonal prize.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/mar/30/man-booker-prize-nominees-announced
Nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney, Syrian poet Adonis, and Toronto Poet Laureate Dionne Brand are among those shortlisted for the 2011 Griffin Poetry Prize.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2011/04/05/seamus-heaney-dionne-brand-among-nominees-for-griffin-poetry-prize/#more-29572
Five writers—include Red Green and Terry Fallis—have been shortlisted for the Stephen Leacock Memorial Medal for Humour.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/books/story/2011/04/01/leacock-medal.html
Toronto's Dionne Brand, Manitoba's Di Brandt and Vancouver's Evelyn Lau are among the poets who have been shortlisted for this year's Pat Lowther prize.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/story/2011/04/04/poetry-prizes.html
April is poetry month: to celebrate, the League of Canadian Poets has released the shortlists for the 2011 Pat Lowther and the Gerald Lampert Awards.
http://www.poets.ca/
Leonard Cohen has won the 2011 Glenn Gould Prize.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/music/article/968253--leonard-cohen-wins-50-000-gould-prize
Garth Martens, a construction worker from Victoria who writes poetry, was awarded the $5,000 RBC Bronwen Wallace Award for Emerging Writers on Tuesday.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/books/story/2011/04/05/bronwen-wallace-prize.html
NEWS & FEATURES
An electronic book titled 2:46 (the hour the earthquake struck) with contributions from volunteers, including sci-fi writer William Gibson, is expected to go on sale this Friday, with proceeds going to the Japanese Red Cross.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/sci-fi-writer-william-gibson-among-contributors-to-japan-fundraising-book/article1971468/
John Le Carré explains his refusal to be considered for the Man Booker International Prize.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/le-carr233-refuses-to-join-man-booker-race-2257664.html
Gillian Slovo asks when it's right to impose a cultural boycott, a particular challenge for her as she is a product of her South African heritage and the new president of English PEN.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/02/gillian-slovo-author-author
The P.E.I. government is being lobbied to reverse a decision to close down its program of support for Island publishers. "To withdraw this support for publishing PEI books means...the possible loss of a publishing company", said Acorn Press.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/books/story/2011/03/31/pei-publisher-subsidy-government-584.html
Deborah Orr writes that her own favourite diet guidance doesn't come from science fact, but science fiction: Oryx and Crake, the dystopian novel by Margaret Atwood.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/mar/31/margaret-atwood-diet-guru
Rick Gekoski writes about "The damnable task of being a Man Booker International prize judge."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2011/mar/30/man-booker-prize-international
David Lodge speculates as to why so many writers have been attracted by the biographical novel: in his case, Henry James (2006) and now, H.G. Wells.
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/the_tls/article7173602.ece
The boundaries of romance have spread, and family life has evolved. Lisa Appignanesi writes about how love in literature has changed.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/features/mothers-sons-and-other-lovers-how-love-in-literature-has-changed-2258472.html
Single people claim the bookstore is good for finding romance; here's an eyewitness account.
http://www.slate.com/id/2289786/
Some book marketers have been developing video trailers to promote books. As the videos live on, they continue to market the books years after the video was posted.
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11093/1136649-51.stm?cmpid=entertainment.xml#ixzz1ITxFxpab
On Thursday, the B.C. Library Association will launch The Library Book: A History of Service to British Columbia. Written by Dave Obee of the Times Colonist, the book describes Andrew Carnegie's influence, despite never having visited B.C.
http://www.timescolonist.com/news/Philanthropist+gave+birth+Victoria+libraries/4551399/story.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
The Finkler Question earned Howard Jacobson his first Man Booker Prize at the age of 68. The enthusiastic response to the novel has left Jacobson with no time to return to his unfinished manuscript—about literary failure.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/968031--howard-jacobson-the-vindication-of-a-booker-prize
Joyce Carol Oates' memoir A Widow's Story "describes her own transformation, not through art but through pain, from wife into widow" says Ruth Franklin.
http://www.bookforum.com/inprint/017_05/7024
Two baseball hero books to begin the spring: one about Hank Greenberg curious, intelligent, the first Jewish baseball superstar, the other Joe DiMaggio who, in retirement, demanded to be introduced as the “greatest living ballplayer.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/hank-greenberg-the-hero-who-didnt-want-to-be-one-by-mark-kurlansky/article1963354/
How long do you hold on to the past? This is a major theme of Sarita Mandanna's debut novel Tiger Hills, a multi-generational family saga that spans late 19th and early 20th century India.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/965873--sarita-mandanna-debut-novelist
In his new book, The Good Book: A Secular Bible, A.C. Grayling sets out his manifesto for rational thought, believing, says Decca Aitkenhead, that all of us are capable of understanding philosophy.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/03/grayling-good-book-atheism-philosophy
Kenneth Turan writes that Henning Mankell's Wallander books are more successful as literature than the books in which the detective does not appear. With The Troubled Man, Mankell ups his game and enters John le Carré territory.
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/books/la-et-book-20110330,0,6029427.story
After David Foster Wallace died, his agent found several chapters of the novel The Pale King. Wallace's editor spent two years assembling and editing the papers; the resulting book will be published April 15.
http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,2062341,00.html#ixzz1IBYz4gln
Joel Yanofsky writes that David Bezmozgis's The Free World feels undeniably Russian—imbued with the conflict between the human concerns of its characters and the cruel indifference of history.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/books/Free+last+with+nowhere/4545433/story.html
Leah Hager Cohen says that “the novel reminds us again and again that life is essentially ridiculous.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/the-free-world-by-david-bezmozgis/article1967022/
Antonas Sileika's Underground is a very different story of émigrés, told through the medium of a political military/spy thriller, and based on real-life resistance in Lithuania.
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Unearthing+little+known+piece+20th+century+history/4548867/story.html
At the age of 30, Rupinder Gill decided to experience things denied her in growing up in a traditional Indian home. Her memoir On the Outside Looking Indian is both amusing and challenging.
http://www.vancouversun.com/Adolescence+more+second+time+around/4548866/story.html
Emily Donaldson describes the book as a charming, witty chronicle of the trials and tribulations of one woman's belated attempt at a second childhood.
http://www.thestar.com/news/books/article/967726--on-the-outside-looking-indian-by-rupinder-gill
Patrick Ness is deeply moved by Johanna Skibsrud's The Sentimentalists. A grown daughter's investigation into her father's Vietnam war memories shows what it must be like to be 40 years removed from memories that still haunt.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2011/apr/02/johanna-skibsrud-the-sentimentalists-review
Lesley McDowell says David Lodge's writing a biographical novel about H.G. Wells is an interesting technique, well suited to a subject who has quite a bit of explaining to do.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/reviews/a-man-of-parts-by-david-lodge-2260499.html
Jim Bartley writes that the deadlocked society of apartheid is strikingly rendered in Dawn Promislow's Jewels.
http://aol.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/ArticleNews/aolstory/TGAM/20110402/BOBARTLEY0402ATL
In the final pages of A Book of Secrets: Illegitimate daughters, absent fathers, Michael Holroyd reveals this book to be his last, a release not only for himself but also for all his characters.
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/the_tls/article7173246.ece
Paula L. Woods writes that One of Our Thursdays is Missing, like other Jasper Fforde novels, is jampacked with spot-on parody, puns and wry observations.
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/la-et-book-20110324,0,6005166.story
In Tim Wynne-Jones's latest young-adult thriller Blink & Caution, survival of the fittest is a major theme: Blink and Caution are the names of two key characters.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/books/blink-caution-by-tim-wynne-jones/article1967583/
Bryan Lynch reports that Opening Doors in Vancouver's East End: Strathcona, compiled by poet Daphne Marlatt and artist-author Carole Itter, is an invaluable record of the neighbourhood's early evolution.
http://www.straight.com/article-383922/vancouver/opening-doors-revives-strathconas-rich-past
In Use and Abuse of Literature, Marjorie Garber poses the central questions of a literate person's life: What do we mean by literature? Why study it? Is there a form of writing that is not literary?
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/03/26/RV581IFQJ1.DTL#ixzz1I8itpSvL
That Michael Connelly is very good comes as no surprise, even given that he publishes two books a year. Reviewer Richard Raynor picked up The Fifth Witness and found he couldn't put it down until he'd finished it.
http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/books/la-et-book-20110405,0,6160502.story
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ANOTHER HOME INVASION
A one-woman performance of local playwright Joan MacLeod's story of confronting life's challenges with humour and dignity. Now until April 23. New Revue Stage, 1601 Johnston Street. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://ow.ly/4rwr4.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Ryan Knighton and Ed Macdonald. Thursday, April 7 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Library/Bookstore at Robson Square, Plaza Level, 800 Robson St. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
THREE POETS READING
New books of poetry presented by Cathy Ford, bill bissett and Mona Fertig. Saturday, April 9 at 3:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye rooms, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. For more information please contact VPL - Literature and Social Science at 604-331-3738.
NORTH SHORE WRITERS FESTIVAL
The 12th annual festival features author presentations from John Furlong, Grant Lawrence, Ryan Knighton, Timothy Taylor, Caroline Adderson, Dianne Warren and Meeru Dhalwala. April 11 to 16. North Vancouver City Library, North Vancouver District Public Library, and West Vancouver Memorial Library. For complete information, visit http://www.northshorewritersfestival.ca.
FRIENDS OF THE VPL
The Friends of Vancouver Public Library board has appointed a Nominating Committee to seek new Directors for the coming year. Monday, April 11 at 5:30pm. VPL board room. level 7, Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia Street. Please visit friendsofthevpl.ca for more information and an invitation to attend a reception for those interested in becoming involved with Friends of VPL.
RAISE SHIT!
Come join Susan Boyd, Donald MacPherson and Bud Osborn discuss their book Raise Shit! Social Action Saving Lives, which explores the community activism in Vancouver's DTES that led to the opening of the first safe injection site. Wednesday, April 13 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact VPL - Literature and Social Science at 604-331-3738.
POETRY AROUND THE WORLD
Celebrate National Poetry Month with an evening of poetry and spoken-word readings featuring Bonnie Nish, Daniela Elza, Ashok Bhargava, Franci Louann and Warren Dean Fulton. Thursday, April 14 at 6:30pm, free. Renfrew Public Library, 2969 22nd Ave. E.. More information at 604-441-0169.
JUSTIN LUKYN
Reading by the author of Henry Pepper. Friday, April 15 at 8:00pm, free. People's Co-op Bookstore, 1391 Commercial Drive. More information at http://www.newstarbooks.com/news.php?news_id=40111.
LIT FEST NEW WEST
Spoken word performances and slam poetry for all ages. Features C.R. Avery. Friday, April 15 at 8:30pm. The Back Room of the Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster.
NON-FICTION WRITING CONTEST
EVENT is both a literary journal showcasing fiction, poetry, and creative non-fiction and a sponsor of an annual non-fiction contest. The deadline for submissions to the 2011 EVENT Non-Fiction Contest is April 15, 2011. Three winners will each receive $500 (plus publication payment). Publication in EVENT 40/3 (December 2011). Submission details here: http://event.douglas.bc.ca.
ANNE PERDUE
Author reads from her short story collection I'm a Registered Nurse Not a Whore. Saturday, April 16 at 6:00pm, free. Ardea Books & Art, 2025 4th Ave. W. More information at ardeabooksandart.com.
VALERIE PARKS
Author launches her second book of poetry, Pathways. Sunday, April 17 at 2:30pm. Renaissance Books, 43 Sixth Street, New Westminster.
Upcoming
VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL
The inaugural Vancouver International Poetry Festival will harness the diversity of spoken word in Canada and beyond to present a world-class spoken word festival that showcases the best that Canada has to offer, as well as exploring and expanding the boundaries of contemporary spoken word. April 18-23, 2011. For complete details, visit http://vancouverpoetryfestival.com.
PEN-IN-HAND
Poetry and prose reading featuring Walk Myself Home: An Anthology to End Violence Against Women, with Janet Marie Rogers, Arleen Paré, Rhonda Ganz and other contributors to the book. Monday, April 18 at 7:30pm. Cost: $3. Serious Coffee, 230 Cook Street, Victoria.
FREEHAND BOOKS LAUNCH
Launch of new titles from Kristen den Hartog, Michael Murphy, and Ian Williams. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. Ardea Books & Art, 2025 4th Ave. W. More information at ardeabooksandart.com.
125 POETRY READINGS IN ONE DAY
To combat the image of poets as sedentary word-hermits, Ray Hsu, Kim Fu, Kevin Spenst and Andrea Bennett are going to jog through 125 different readings venues in one day. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. Meeting room, level 3, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
CELEBRATE NATIONAL POETRY MONTH
Readings by Jacob McArthur Mooney, Susan Musgrave and Matt Rader. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Library/Bookstore at Robson Square, Plaza Level, 800 Robson St. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
AN EVENING WITH LEE HENDERSON
Join the author for a discussion about his novel The Man Game. Thursday, April 21 at 7:00pm. Tickets are $20, call 604-733-1356 or email lyceum@christiannehayward.com to register. Christianne's Lyceum, 3696 8th Ave. W.
TISH COHEN
Bestselling author reads from her new novel The Truth About Delilah Blue. Tuesday, April 26 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kay rooms, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact Vancouver Public Library at 604-331-3603.
AN EVENING WITH THE ARTHURS
Crime Writers of Canada announce the short lists for the Arthur Ellis Award for Canadian Crime Writing, including Best Novel and Best First Novel. Thursday, April 28 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information please contact VPL - Popular Reading Library at 604-331-3691.
2011 DTES WRITERS' JAMBOREE
Writers' event features mini-manuscript consultations, roundtable discussions, professional skills workshops, and guest author readings by Brian Payton, Evelyn Lau, and Gregory Scofield. Friday, April 29. From 10am to 830pm. Free admission. Carnegie Community Centre, 401 Main Street. More information at www.thewritersstudio.ca.
PLAY CHTHONICS READING SERIES
Readings by Lee Maracle and Wayde Compton. Friday, April 29 at 7:00pm, free. Rhizome Cafe, 317 East Broadway. More information at playchtonics.blogspot.com.
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