BOOK NEWS
The Vancouver Writers Fest wrapped up our 25th anniversary year on Sunday, breaking all previous attendance records. More than 100 Canadian and international authors appeared at events on Granville Island, coming from Australia, the UK, Ireland, the US, France, New Zealand, South Africa, China, Somalia and Pakistan. There is an increasing appetite in this city for engaging discussions and storytelling from the world’s greatest writers…if you judge success by the number of sold-out events, this was the most successful Festival in its 25-year history.
Hal Wake
Artistic Director
Thank you to all of you who turned out for remarkable events with Margaret Atwood, Jane Urquhart, Junot Díaz, Chris Cleave, Chip Kidd, Louise Penny and others. Check out our website for festival photos: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/media/photosoftheday.
Continue Your Festival Experience
The Electric Company’s Initiation Trilogy, which was part of this year’s Festival, continues with 7 more shows this week. These three theatrical pieces are intimate adaptations of three poems by Elizabeth Bachinsky, Marita Dachsel and Jennica Harper presented in secret locations on Granville Island.
Click here for more information. http://www.vancouvertix.com/onstage.htm
Tonight, use the code RED BOOTS to see Initiation Trilogy for just $20; tickets available online or at the door.
AWARDS & LISTS
The prize that used to be Orange has been saved–and re-branded. The Women's Prize for Fiction has now been launched; Kate Mosse tells how an award so important to writers and the industry was saved.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/13/orange-prize-wfp-books
However, the Man Asian literary prize has lost its sponsorship.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/18/man-asian-literary-prize-loses-sponsorship
October was a big month for Chinese writers. Mo Yan was recently awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature. That same week, Liao Yiwu received this year's Peace Prize of the German Book Trade. And in early October, the Taiwan poet and scholar Yang Muwas was awarded the Newman Prize for Chinese Literature.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/18/world/asia/18iht-letter18.html?r=1
Irish journalist Gene Kerrigan has won the Gold Dagger for the best crime novel of the year for The Rage. Winners in other categories can be found here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/18/gene-kerrigan-gold-dagger-crime-novel?CMP=EMCNEWEML1355
Novels by Angela Carter, Graham Greene, James Kelman, Cormac McCarthy, Caryl Phillips and Muriel Spark have been short-listed for the James Tait Black Prize, celebrating the 250th anniversary of English literature study at the University of Edinburgh. The winning book will be announced in December.
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/james-tait-black-prize-six-authors-shortlisted-for-britains-oldest-literary-award-8220314.html
Sean Borodale joins Simon Armitage, Sharon Olds and Kathleen Jamie on the shortlist for the TS Eliot prize for poetry. The prizewinner will be announced January 14.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/23/ts-eliot-prize-poetry-shortlist
Winners of The Walrus magazine's inaugural poetry contest are: Meira Cook, for The Devil's Advocate and Bardia Sinaee, for Barnacle Goose Ballad. Cook receives $5,000 for the Walrus Poetry Prize while Sinaee wins $1,000 for capturing the Readers' Choice Award. Both poems will be published in the December issue of The Walrus magazine.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/1274225--walrus-magazine-announces-winners-of-its-inaugural-poetry-contest
YOUNG READERS
Words + Numbers = Wumbers. The text intersperses words with numbers that, when read aloud, complete various sentences. For age 6 and up.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/Kids+Words+numbers+Wumbers/7383221/story.html#ixzz29uTDHYKC
Who Could That Be at This Hour? marks the welcome return of Lemony Snicket, who narrates a mystery tale from when he was 12. What is a bombinating beast, and why would anyone make a statue of it, much less steal it? This, and other alliterative oddities, are at the center of Who Could That Be at This Hour? For readers 8 and up.
http://www.latimes.com/features/books/jacketcopy/la-ca-jc-lemony-snicket-20121021,0,6108653.story
Here is a trailer:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/childrens-books-site/2012/oct/18/lemony-snicket-trailer
NEWS & FEATURES
A discussion during a Festival event has resulted in the establishment of a new literary prize—the Rosalind Prize for Fiction (named for the protagonist of Shakespeare's As You Like It).
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/canadas-orange-prize-why-we-created-an-award-just-for-female-writers/article4633045/
Raymond Souster, the prolific Toronto poet who helped advance the careers of Canada's most famous writers, has died at the age of 91. A resident of Toronto all his life, Souster wrote more than 50 works of poetry, much of it about Toronto. Critic Robert Fulford called him "the poet-in-chief of Toronto."
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/story/2012/10/22/raymond-souster-obit.html
Douglas & McIntyre, one of Canada's largest remaining independent publishers has filed for bankruptcy protection.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2012/10/22/douglas-mcintyre-files-for-bankruptcy-protection/
In a twist of bitter irony for the Canadian publishing industry, the founder of D&M Publishing won the inaugural Ivy award for contributions to Canadian publishing. the same day his company filed for bankruptcy protection.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/1276276--award-and-bankruptcy-for-publisher-scott-mcintyre
D&M, which includes Douglas & McIntyre and Greystone Books, says it plans to continue operations while it restructures.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2012/10/22/bc-publisher-douglas-mcintyre-bankruptcy.html
In a move that has left comic book fans around the world stunned, Clark Kent, better known as Superman, has quit his job at The Daily Planet. In a "Jerry Maguire-type moment", Kent stands up in front of his colleagues, rails against the paper's editorial direction, and quits.
http://www.theage.com.au/entertainment/books/newsflash-as-clark-kent-quits-daily-planet-20121023-282gn.html#ixzz2A6I5A69b
Books and educational toys can make a child smarter, but they also influence how the brain grows, according to new research presented at the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience. The findings point to a "sensitive period" early in life during which the developing brain is strongly influenced by environmental factors.
http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2012/10/books-growing- brain/all/1?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+wired%2Findex+%28Wired%3A+Top+Stories%29
In the most recent New Yorker, Larissa Macfarquhar writes about Hilary Mantel's capacity to revitalize historical fiction.
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2012/10/15/121015fa_fact_macfarquhar?currentPage=all
A recent issue of The Guardian includes The Long QT, a short story by Hilary Mantel.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/19/hilary-mantel-short-story-the-long-qt
J.R.R. Tolkien began writing The Fall of Arthur a few years before he wrote The Hobbit. The previously unseen 299-page poem of Arthurian legend—The Fall of Arthur—draws on tales of ancient Britain rather than Middle-earth. This story of King Arthur, knights and princesses, swords, sorcery, quests and betrayals, will be published next spring.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/09/jrr-tolkien-new-poem-king-arthur
Johnny Depp is getting into book publishing, helping run a publishing imprint with the same name as his production company, Infinitum Nihil ("Nothing is forever"). The imprint will be part of HarperCollins Publishers, which announced Monday that Depp will seek "authentic, outspoken and visionary ideas and voices."
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/1272256--johnny-depp-getting-into-book-publishing-biz
The Independent (UK) reports that readers who complain that novels are too bloated and baggy these days will welcome the news of the first Twitter Fiction Festival next month. It won't take place in a physical space; it will occur online, under the hashtag #twitterfiction. And it has so few rules, the organizers are asking contributors to make them up. Will it get followers?
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/features/will-a-twit-fic-lit-fest-get-followers-8219894.html
John Barber notes that there are increasing numbers of writers emerging from creative-writing programs, and wonders whether they can find readers. Bill Gaston, author and professor of creative-writing, is convinced that the spread of professional training has elevated the stature of Canadian literature.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/writers-graduating-by-the-bushel-but-can-they-find-readers/article4625110/
In the November 8, 2012 issue of The New York Review of Books, Allan Gurganus honours John Cheever as he turns 100, reflecting on Cheever as teacher, friend, a man with old world courtesy, snobbery, and mischief.
http://www.nybooks.com/articles/archives/2012/nov/08/john-cheever-turns-100/?pagination=false
The competition for shopper dollars is always fierce during the winter holidays. Last year, no retailer was as aggressive as Amazon, which boldly stole customers with a price-checking app promotion. This year, bricks-and-mortar giants such as Best Buy, Target, and Walmart are taking the fight to Amazon.
http://business.time.com/2012/10/18/for-2012-holidays-war-is-on-against-amazon-target-matches-online-rival-prices/#ixzz29xyG9nRW
Amazon profits from a tax loophole In Britain, forcing UK publishers to pay 20% VAT (sales tax) on ebook sales, while the Luxembourg-based company itself pays only 3% VAT on digital books sold to UK readers.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2012/oct/21/amazon-forces-publishers-pay-vat-ebook
While in Vancouver for the Festival, Cory Doctorow spoke with The Tyee about Canada's problematic copyright policies, and what the harm is in hiding copyright protections from users. He also talked about Bill C-11 and the worries around digital locks, or software embedded in digital media to restrict usage.
http://thetyee.ca/Books/2012/10/20/Cory-Doctorow-Copyright/?utm_source=mondayheadlines&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=221012
BOOKS & WRITERS
In an interview, Joanne Harris, the British author of Chocolat, explains why the niqab plays a central role in Peaches for Monsieur le Curé. "Because I'd written books about identity and perception, it just struck me as a very natural thing to progress to", says Harris.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/1274522--ifoa-2012-an-interview-with-joanne-harris
She is the most famous mother in history, yet her story is unknown. Colm Tóibín's The Testament of Mary voices the grief-filled thoughts of Mary, as she pieces together the events that led to the death of her son, Jesus. In an interview, Tóibín describes the origins of the book. Read an extract here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/19/testament-of-mary-colm-toibin-extract
M.G. Vassanji's The Magic of Saida is a dense novel about culture and family, writes Candace Fertile. Kamal Punja, born in East Africa to an African mother and Indian father, became a wealthy doctor in Edmonton and decided to go back to Africa to find his childhood love.
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Vassanji+novel+weaves+history+with+plot+African+tale+awakening/7381778/story.html#ixzz29y50PkN2
Sharon Olds' Stag's Leap is an out-of-the-ordinary collection that goes beyond the confessional. Olds, who has always had a gift for describing intimacy, has, in a sense, had these poems thrown at her by life, writes Kate Kellaway. They are stunning, says Kellaway.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/21/stags-leap-sharon-olds-review
This year is the bicentennial of the first publication of Grimms' Fairy Tales. In celebration, Philip Pullman has written a new collection in Grimm Tales for Young and Old, retelling his 50 favourites from the original 200 stories, and reiterating the oral tradition from which these stories come.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/05/grimm-tales-philip-pullman-review
The Globe and Mail includes Miranda Hill's short story, The Idea of Kentucky.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/short-story-the-idea-of-kentucky/article4623276/
About 90 million baby girls went "missing" in India in the last two decades because of what is euphemistically called "prenatal selection." The word "missing" implies a mystery, but everyone knows why fewer female babies than normal are born in India every year. Shauna Singh Baldwin cites the statistics, but offers readers hope that attitudes are changing.
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Shauna+Singh+Baldwin+Selector+Souls+Unnatural+selection/7417137/story.html#ixzz29zGaoU7S
Writing about Alice Munro's Dear Life, Carrie Snyder says "These stories are perfect. Of course they are." From the title itself, which is both a radiant address and a reference to the much darker image of a mother holding her baby "for dear life," Dear Life is a collection as rich and surprising as any in Alice Munro's deep career, writes Snyder.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2012/10/19/book-review-dear-life-by-alice-munro/
Just in time for Halloween, Margaret Atwood has co-written a serialized zombie novel with a promising British author—Naomi Alderman—that will be posted chapter by chapter on the Canadian-based story-sharing website Wattpad.
http://www.montrealgazette.com/aphasia+comes+just+before+insatiable+craving+street+cart+mini+wieners/7436140/story.html#ixzz2ACOZL6uN
An excerpt is here:
http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/books/Excerpt+from+Margaret+Atwood+zombie+tale+Their+skulls/7436145/story.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
THE WRITER'S STUDIO (SFU)
Participants in The Writer's Studio 2012 (@ SFU Harbour Centre) are pleased to announce the launch of emerge 2012, an anthology of new work -- Fiction, Poetry, Non-Fiction -- at the W2 Media Cafe, Woodward's Atrium, 111 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25th, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm (Doors open at 6:30 pm) -- FREE ADMISSION -- Come early to secure a seat!!
CAROLINE ADDERSON
Meet the author of A History of Forgetting, Sitting Practice and The Sky is Falling. Tuesday, October 30 at 10:00am. City Centre Library, 10350 University Drive, Surrey. To register, phone 604-598-7426.
WEYMAN CHAN
Reading by the author of Chinese Blue. Tuesday, October 30 at 3:30pm, free. Irving K. Barber Learning Centre, 1961 East Mall, Point Grey campus, UBC. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
SCOTIABANK GILLER LIGHT BASH
Come and celebrate the Giller Prize, Canada's richest literary award for Canadian Fiction. Tuesday, October 30 at 5:00pm. Cost: $25. Studio 700, CBC Broadcast Centre, 700 Hamilton Street, Vancouver. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.gillerlightbash.ca.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Michael Kenyon (A Year at River Mountain) and Grant Lawrence (Adventures in Solitude). Thursday, November 1 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore at Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, plaza level. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
MARINA ENDICOTT
Marina Endicott discusses her novel The Little Shadows. Thursday, November 1 at 7:00 PM. Christianne's Lyceum. 3696 W. 8th Ave. $20 (includes refreshments). To reserve your space call 604.733.1356 or email lyceum@christiannehayward.com. More information at www.christiannehayward.com.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features Diana E. Hayes + Taryn Hubbard + Open Mic. Thursday, Nov. 1 at 7:00pm. (Sign up for open mic at 7, readings begin at 7:30). Hosts: Daniela Elza & Timothy Shay. Suggested donation at the door: $5. Our new location is @Cafe Montmartre, 4362 Main Street, Vancouver. All are welcome. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
ETERNAL HYDRA
Anton Piatigorsky's fascinating, award-winning play Eternal Hydra will open Touchstone's 2012/13 season. Sex, identity politics and the myth of genius are some of the themes tackled, as the play looks for the truth about the origins of a long lost literary masterpiece. http://www.touchstonetheatre.com/productions/eternal-hydra
CELEBRATE SCIENCE
The third annual Celebrate Science, a Festival of Science Writers for Children and Youth-and Canada's only science writer's festival-will be held November 3rd at UBC's Beaty Biodiversity Museum, in conjunction with Family Science Day. Events include a panel discussion with top science writers for children, a keynote speech and introduction by the Dean of Education, and storytelling for younger children as well as hands on science activities. The event is free and open to the public and includes admission to the Beaty Museum. http://blogs.ubc.ca/celebratescience.
LLOYD ROBERTSON
legendary broadcaster and the longest-serving TV news anchor in Canadian history, talks about his extraordinary career and the fascinating anecdotes shared in his memoir, The Kind of Life It's Been. Saturday, November 3 at 2:00pm. Chapters Granville, 2505 Granville St., Vancouver. More information at 604-731-7822.
LEMONY SNICKET
"Who Could That Be at This Hour?" is Lemony Snicket's autobiographical account of his childhood and is the first book in the new series called All the Wrong Questions. Don't miss hearing all the truth (and more) from Lemony himself. Tuesday, November 6 at 6:30pm. Cost: $5. West Point Grey United Church sanctuary, 4595 8th Ave. W. More information at www.kidsbooks.
JOURNEY WITH NO MAPS
Author Sandra Djwa presents her biography of poet and artist P.K. Page. Wednesday, November 7 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye rooms, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at www.vpl.ca.
111 WEST COAST LITERARY PORTRAITS
Photographer Barry Peterson discusses his new book that featuring rare portraits of writers who have lived in B.C., accompanied by excerpts of their writing. Guest writers will also speak at the event. Wednesday, November 7 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. For more information and to register, phone 604-299-8955.
2012 ALCUIN BOOK AUCTION
The Alcuin Society will hold an auction of new books submitted to the Awards for Excellence in Book Design in Canada in March, 2012, as well as books which won awards in 2011. Saturday, November 10 at 11:00am. Cost: $18 and includes a light lunch. University Golf Club, 5185 University Blvd., Vancouver. For reservations, email awards@alcuinsociety.com.
Upcoming
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Readings of works by Robin Blaser, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Robert Hayden, Glyn Hughes and Roy Kiyooka. Sunday, November 11 at 3:00pm. Admission by donation. Project Space, 222 East Georgia Street. More information at deadpoetslive.com.
JEEGAREH MA
Author Rahela Nayebzadah reads from her new book. Tuesday, November 13 at 6:30pm, free. Tommy Douglas branch, Burnaby Public Library, 7311 Kingsway, Burnaby. More information at www.bpl.bc.ca.
GARRY THOMAS MORSE
Writer Garry Thomas Morse reads from his new book of fiction Minor Episodes/Major Ruckus, concerning surrealist and speculative genres. Wednesday, November 14 at 7:00pm, free. Peter Kaye room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at www.vpl.ca.
CARRIE MAC
Reading by the award-winning author of teen novels ‘The Opposite of Tidy', 'The Beckoners', 'The Gryphon Project', the Triskelia trilogy, and others. Wednesday, November 14 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. More information at 604-297-4803.
JACQUELINE PEARCE
Meet the author of The Truth About Rats (and Dogs), Dog House Blues, The Reunion and The Trickster. Monday, November 19 at 1:30pm. Newton Library, SPL, 13795 70 Ave., Surrey. More information at 604-598-7408.
PLAY CHTHONICS
Readings by Garry Thomas Morse and Brad Cran. Wednesday, November 21 at 5:00pm. Piano lounge, Green College, UBC.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Dani Couture (Algoma) and Julie Wilson (Seen Reading). Thursday, November 22 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore at Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, Plaza level. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
A READING
Authors John Francis Hughes and George Bowering read from their recent non-fiction collections Nobody Rides for Free: a Drifter in the Americas and The Diamond Alphabet: Baseball in Shorts. Wednesday, November 28 at 7:00pm, free. Meeting room, level 3, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at www.vpl.ca.
CARMEN AGUIRRE
Reading by the author of Something Fierce: Memoirs of a Revolutionary Daughter. Wednesday, November 28 at 7:00pm. North Vancouver City Library, 120 14th Street W., North Vancouver.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Thursday, October 18, 2012
VWF Hot Sheet #3
It's Festival Week!
Tickets are still available for all the events below and others.
See you on Granville Island!
Check out our Festival Photos of the Day by Chris Cameron.
Electric Company: Initiation Trilogy
"With Initiation Trilogy, I had NO idea what to expect. I was just thrilled to have gotten tickets (bought them a month in advance!) I don't want to ruin or spoil the experience for anyone, so I won't go into what the show is actually about. Let's just say it's three separate experiences, all of which are equally as amazing and creative as the next. Based upon three different books of poetry, the scenes that they set out for you are so far apart and so different from one another yet at the same time hold a recurring theme of some sort of "initiation." - Fun! Fun! Vancouver
For dates and times and to purchase tickets, click here!
Thursday, October 18
Event 40: Women and Literature | 8:00pm | Waterfront Theatre
Gillian Jerome | Gail Jones | Kate Mosse | Susan Swan
In this so-called post-feminist world, does the literary and critical environment reflect what's really happening? This panel of award-winning writers from Australia, the UK and Canada, will have a lot to say on the topic. Join us for a lively discussion with four insightful writers.
Friday, October 19
Event 42: Past Times | 10:00am | Granville Island Stage
Bill Gaston | Simonetta Agnello Hornby | Annabel Lyon | Kate Mosse | Kim Scott
Delving into the past for stories is a common approach for many writers and in the hands of these skillful storytellers, history lives again. Get ready for a morning of time travel, from Carcassonne to Aristotle's Greece.
Event 43: Humour with a Bite | 10:00am | Performance Works
Anne Fleming | Chan Koonchung | Shari Lapeña | Emily Schultz | Linda Svendsen
Tickle your funny bone with a morning of satire. From political humour to authors who play with clichés, this event is perfect for anyone who likes to start their day with a laugh!
Event 47: The Ghost of a Story | 1:00pm | Granville Island Stage
John Burnside | Tess Gallagher | Susan Musgrave | Seán Virgo
Myth, allegory, folk tales, ghosts and spirits have been part of storytelling from the beginning of time. These four writers all weave in the powerful device of the unreal–using aspects of the supernatural to create modern-day tales that are firmly rooted in reality, but take flight into other realms.
Event 50: The Human Carnival | 1:00pm | Improv Centre
Anne Fleming | A. L Kennedy | Rebecca Rosenblum | Jessica Westhead
Off-kilter, slightly twisted characters are perfect fodder for fiction. You might not want to have them to dinner, but they're great fun to have in your head for a while. A.L. Kennedy's nomadic, tormented psychic, Jessica Westhead's misfits and neurotic protagonists. Rebecca Rosenblum's lonely, frail stoics and Anne Fleming's characters who have uncomfortable relationships with both real and unreal people. You'll meet the human carnival this afternoon.
Upcoming Festival Highlights
Saturday, October 20
Event 56: Forgive But Not Forget | 10:30am | Performance Works
In the face of wrongs perpetrated against entire cultures, can those involved move on with any trust and harmony?
Event 59: Chan Koonchung in Conversation with Charles Foran | 10:30am |Improv Centre
Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear first-hand from Chan Koonchung, the author of a radical satire set in China that could change lives, his own included.
Tickets are still available for all the events below and others.
See you on Granville Island!
Check out our Festival Photos of the Day by Chris Cameron.
Electric Company: Initiation Trilogy
"With Initiation Trilogy, I had NO idea what to expect. I was just thrilled to have gotten tickets (bought them a month in advance!) I don't want to ruin or spoil the experience for anyone, so I won't go into what the show is actually about. Let's just say it's three separate experiences, all of which are equally as amazing and creative as the next. Based upon three different books of poetry, the scenes that they set out for you are so far apart and so different from one another yet at the same time hold a recurring theme of some sort of "initiation." - Fun! Fun! Vancouver
For dates and times and to purchase tickets, click here!
Thursday, October 18
Event 40: Women and Literature | 8:00pm | Waterfront Theatre
Gillian Jerome | Gail Jones | Kate Mosse | Susan Swan
In this so-called post-feminist world, does the literary and critical environment reflect what's really happening? This panel of award-winning writers from Australia, the UK and Canada, will have a lot to say on the topic. Join us for a lively discussion with four insightful writers.
Friday, October 19
Event 42: Past Times | 10:00am | Granville Island Stage
Bill Gaston | Simonetta Agnello Hornby | Annabel Lyon | Kate Mosse | Kim Scott
Delving into the past for stories is a common approach for many writers and in the hands of these skillful storytellers, history lives again. Get ready for a morning of time travel, from Carcassonne to Aristotle's Greece.
Event 43: Humour with a Bite | 10:00am | Performance Works
Anne Fleming | Chan Koonchung | Shari Lapeña | Emily Schultz | Linda Svendsen
Tickle your funny bone with a morning of satire. From political humour to authors who play with clichés, this event is perfect for anyone who likes to start their day with a laugh!
Event 47: The Ghost of a Story | 1:00pm | Granville Island Stage
John Burnside | Tess Gallagher | Susan Musgrave | Seán Virgo
Myth, allegory, folk tales, ghosts and spirits have been part of storytelling from the beginning of time. These four writers all weave in the powerful device of the unreal–using aspects of the supernatural to create modern-day tales that are firmly rooted in reality, but take flight into other realms.
Event 50: The Human Carnival | 1:00pm | Improv Centre
Anne Fleming | A. L Kennedy | Rebecca Rosenblum | Jessica Westhead
Off-kilter, slightly twisted characters are perfect fodder for fiction. You might not want to have them to dinner, but they're great fun to have in your head for a while. A.L. Kennedy's nomadic, tormented psychic, Jessica Westhead's misfits and neurotic protagonists. Rebecca Rosenblum's lonely, frail stoics and Anne Fleming's characters who have uncomfortable relationships with both real and unreal people. You'll meet the human carnival this afternoon.
Upcoming Festival Highlights
Saturday, October 20
Event 56: Forgive But Not Forget | 10:30am | Performance Works
In the face of wrongs perpetrated against entire cultures, can those involved move on with any trust and harmony?
Event 59: Chan Koonchung in Conversation with Charles Foran | 10:30am |Improv Centre
Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear first-hand from Chan Koonchung, the author of a radical satire set in China that could change lives, his own included.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
VWF Hot Sheet #2
It's Festival Week!
Tickets are still available for all the events below and others.
See you on Granville Island!
Check out our Festival Photos of the Day by Chris Cameron.
Electric Company: Initiation Trilogy
Inspired by three provocative poetry collections, Initiation Trilogy is an intimate journey through secret locations on Granville Island. Hailed as "the future of poetry readings" by the Vancouver Sun, this innovative, highly visual show explores themes of femininity, sexuality, and cultural identity. For dates and times, click here.
Thursday, October 18
Event 40: Women and Literature | 8:00pm | Waterfront Theatre
Gillian Jerome | Gail Jones | Kate Mosse | Susan Swan
In this so-called post-feminist world, does the literary and critical environment reflect what's really happening? This panel of award-winning writers from Australia, the UK and Canada, will have a lot to say on the topic. Join us for a lively discussion with four insightful writers.
Friday, October 19
Event 43: Humour with a Bite | 10:00am | Performance Works
Anne Fleming | Chan Koonchung | Shari Lapeña | Emily Schultz | Linda Svendsen
Tickle your funny bone with a morning of satire. From political humour to authors who play with clichés, this event is perfect for anyone who likes to start their day with a laugh!
Event 47: The Ghost of a Story | 1:00pm | Granville Island Stage
John Burnside | Tess Gallagher | Susan Musgrave | Seán Virgo
Myth, allegory, folk tales, ghosts and spirits have been part of storytelling from the beginning of time. These four writers all weave in the powerful device of the unreal–using aspects of the supernatural to create modern-day tales that are firmly rooted in reality, but take flight into other realms.
Event 50: The Human Carnival | 1:00pm | Improv Centre
Anne Fleming | A. L Kennedy | Rebecca Rosenblum | Jessica Westhead
Off-kilter, slightly twisted characters are perfect fodder for fiction. You might not want to have them to dinner, but they're great fun to have in your head for a while. A.L. Kennedy's nomadic, tormented psychic, Jessica Westhead's misfits and neurotic protagonists. Rebecca Rosenblum's lonely, frail stoics and Anne Fleming's characters who have uncomfortable relationships with both real and unreal people. You'll meet the human carnival this afternoon.
Upcoming Festival Highlights
Saturday, October 20
Event 56: Forgive But Not Forget | 10:30am | Performance Works
In the face of wrongs perpetrated against entire cultures, can those involved move on with any trust and harmony?
Event 59: Chan Koonchung in Conversation with Charles Foran | 10:30am |Improv Centre
Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear first-hand from Chan Koonchung, the author of a radical satire set in China that could change lives, his own included.
Tickets are still available for all the events below and others.
See you on Granville Island!
Check out our Festival Photos of the Day by Chris Cameron.
Electric Company: Initiation Trilogy
Inspired by three provocative poetry collections, Initiation Trilogy is an intimate journey through secret locations on Granville Island. Hailed as "the future of poetry readings" by the Vancouver Sun, this innovative, highly visual show explores themes of femininity, sexuality, and cultural identity. For dates and times, click here.
Thursday, October 18
Event 40: Women and Literature | 8:00pm | Waterfront Theatre
Gillian Jerome | Gail Jones | Kate Mosse | Susan Swan
In this so-called post-feminist world, does the literary and critical environment reflect what's really happening? This panel of award-winning writers from Australia, the UK and Canada, will have a lot to say on the topic. Join us for a lively discussion with four insightful writers.
Friday, October 19
Event 43: Humour with a Bite | 10:00am | Performance Works
Anne Fleming | Chan Koonchung | Shari Lapeña | Emily Schultz | Linda Svendsen
Tickle your funny bone with a morning of satire. From political humour to authors who play with clichés, this event is perfect for anyone who likes to start their day with a laugh!
Event 47: The Ghost of a Story | 1:00pm | Granville Island Stage
John Burnside | Tess Gallagher | Susan Musgrave | Seán Virgo
Myth, allegory, folk tales, ghosts and spirits have been part of storytelling from the beginning of time. These four writers all weave in the powerful device of the unreal–using aspects of the supernatural to create modern-day tales that are firmly rooted in reality, but take flight into other realms.
Event 50: The Human Carnival | 1:00pm | Improv Centre
Anne Fleming | A. L Kennedy | Rebecca Rosenblum | Jessica Westhead
Off-kilter, slightly twisted characters are perfect fodder for fiction. You might not want to have them to dinner, but they're great fun to have in your head for a while. A.L. Kennedy's nomadic, tormented psychic, Jessica Westhead's misfits and neurotic protagonists. Rebecca Rosenblum's lonely, frail stoics and Anne Fleming's characters who have uncomfortable relationships with both real and unreal people. You'll meet the human carnival this afternoon.
Upcoming Festival Highlights
Saturday, October 20
Event 56: Forgive But Not Forget | 10:30am | Performance Works
In the face of wrongs perpetrated against entire cultures, can those involved move on with any trust and harmony?
Event 59: Chan Koonchung in Conversation with Charles Foran | 10:30am |Improv Centre
Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear first-hand from Chan Koonchung, the author of a radical satire set in China that could change lives, his own included.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
VWF Hot Sheet #1
It's Festival Week!
Tickets are still available for all the events below and others.
See you on Granville Island!
Upcoming Festival Highlights
Event 9: Grand Openings | 8:00pm | Performance Works
Marie Darrieussecq | Junot Díaz | Nuruddin Farah | Rawi Hage | Simonetta Agnello Hornby | Gail Jones | Kyo Maclear
Seven of the world's most internationally acclaimed writers open the Festival: IMPAC Dublin Literary Award-winning author Rawi Hage (Canada), distinguished author Marie Darrieussecq (France), Pulitzer Prize-winner Junot Díaz (US), perennial Nobel Prize in Literature nominee Nuruddin Farah (Somalia), multi award-winner Simonetta Agnello Hornby (Italy), IMPAC, Man Booker and Orange Prize nominee Gail Jones (Australia) and Kyo Maclear (Canada), who was shortlisted for the Amazon.ca First Novel Award.
Event 22: An Intimate Evening with Junot Díaz | 6:00pm | Performance Works
Junot Díaz
Junot Díaz's first novel, The Brief and Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, won the Pulitzer Prize and his latest collection of gritty and street-wise stories, This is How You Lose Her, is sure to be a hit. Dont miss this rare opportunity to meet one of the most compelling voices of our time.
Event 25: Uprooted | 8:00pm | Waterfront Theatre
Nuruddin Farah | Zakes Mda | M.G. Vassanji
These four writers left their homeland because of political or economic turmoil, and their exile deeply unsettled their personal path, but resulted in a rich artistic payoff, full of wide-ranging social observations.
Event 27: Spoken World | 9:00pm | Performance Works
C.R. Avery | Ivan E. Coyote | Lemn Sissay
Three renowned performers with musical accompaniment: storyteller Ivan Coyote takes her audience from laughter to tears, UK's Lemn Sissay is an official Olympic poet, and Vancouver's C.R. Avery, beatbox poet, harmonica player, raconteur and one-man band, has performed around the world. Be moved. Be amazed. Be there.
Event 40: Women and Literature | 8:00pm | Waterfront Theatre
Gillian Jerome | Gail Jones | Kate Mosse | Susan Swan
In this so-called post-feminist world, does the literary and critical environment reflect what's really happening? This panel of award-winning writers from Australia, the UK and Canada, will have a lot to say on the topic. Join us for a lively discussion with four insightful writers.
Event 43: Humour with a Bite | 10:00am | Performance Works
Anne Fleming | Chan Koonchung | Shari Lapeña | Emily Schultz | Linda Svendsen
Tickle your funny bone with a morning of satire. From political humour to authors who play with clichés, this event is perfect for anyone who likes to start their day with a laugh!
Event 47: The Ghost of a Story | 1:00pm | Granville Island Stage
John Burnside | Tess Gallagher | Susan Musgrave | Seán Virgo
Tess Gallagher, Seán Virgo, Susan Musgrave and John Burnside weave together myth, allegory and folk tales about the supernatural to delight readers and add intrigue to their writing.
Tickets are still available for all the events below and others.
See you on Granville Island!
Upcoming Festival Highlights
Event 9: Grand Openings | 8:00pm | Performance Works
Marie Darrieussecq | Junot Díaz | Nuruddin Farah | Rawi Hage | Simonetta Agnello Hornby | Gail Jones | Kyo Maclear
Seven of the world's most internationally acclaimed writers open the Festival: IMPAC Dublin Literary Award-winning author Rawi Hage (Canada), distinguished author Marie Darrieussecq (France), Pulitzer Prize-winner Junot Díaz (US), perennial Nobel Prize in Literature nominee Nuruddin Farah (Somalia), multi award-winner Simonetta Agnello Hornby (Italy), IMPAC, Man Booker and Orange Prize nominee Gail Jones (Australia) and Kyo Maclear (Canada), who was shortlisted for the Amazon.ca First Novel Award.
Event 22: An Intimate Evening with Junot Díaz | 6:00pm | Performance Works
Junot Díaz
Junot Díaz's first novel, The Brief and Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, won the Pulitzer Prize and his latest collection of gritty and street-wise stories, This is How You Lose Her, is sure to be a hit. Dont miss this rare opportunity to meet one of the most compelling voices of our time.
Event 25: Uprooted | 8:00pm | Waterfront Theatre
Nuruddin Farah | Zakes Mda | M.G. Vassanji
These four writers left their homeland because of political or economic turmoil, and their exile deeply unsettled their personal path, but resulted in a rich artistic payoff, full of wide-ranging social observations.
Event 27: Spoken World | 9:00pm | Performance Works
C.R. Avery | Ivan E. Coyote | Lemn Sissay
Three renowned performers with musical accompaniment: storyteller Ivan Coyote takes her audience from laughter to tears, UK's Lemn Sissay is an official Olympic poet, and Vancouver's C.R. Avery, beatbox poet, harmonica player, raconteur and one-man band, has performed around the world. Be moved. Be amazed. Be there.
Event 40: Women and Literature | 8:00pm | Waterfront Theatre
Gillian Jerome | Gail Jones | Kate Mosse | Susan Swan
In this so-called post-feminist world, does the literary and critical environment reflect what's really happening? This panel of award-winning writers from Australia, the UK and Canada, will have a lot to say on the topic. Join us for a lively discussion with four insightful writers.
Event 43: Humour with a Bite | 10:00am | Performance Works
Anne Fleming | Chan Koonchung | Shari Lapeña | Emily Schultz | Linda Svendsen
Tickle your funny bone with a morning of satire. From political humour to authors who play with clichés, this event is perfect for anyone who likes to start their day with a laugh!
Event 47: The Ghost of a Story | 1:00pm | Granville Island Stage
John Burnside | Tess Gallagher | Susan Musgrave | Seán Virgo
Tess Gallagher, Seán Virgo, Susan Musgrave and John Burnside weave together myth, allegory and folk tales about the supernatural to delight readers and add intrigue to their writing.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Book News Vol. 7 No. 38
BOOK NEWS
2012 Festival - Hal's Picks
I always look forward to the readings at our Grand Openings event (9). It is always a trip around the world and this year is no exception with writers from France, Italy, Somalia and Mexico, as well as some great Canadians. I guarantee you'll discover someone you don't know you will want to read in the future.
Past Times (event#42) will bring together five writers who have taken very different approaches to the writing of historical fiction. The stories they tell range through centuries and continents, but give us characters who are vividly drawn and brimming with life. Great writers and great stories.
Tickets for all the 2012 Festival events are selling fast. Visit our website for a full overview. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca.
UPCOMING EVENT
Literati Gala
A fundraising dinner in support of the Festival's Spreading the Word education program. Hosted by Gloria Macarenko.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Reception: 6:00 pm; Dinner: 7:30 pm
Tickets: $175
Call 604-681-6330 ext 109 or book online.
VIRTUAL FESTIVAL
Listen to the last installment in our series of audio archives from past Festival events. This week you'll hear Michael Chabon who recently appeared at our special event September 26, 2012. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/multimedia/audio-archives.
AWARDS & LISTS
Chinese writer Mo Yan was awarded the 2012 Nobel Prize in literature today. Described as "one of the most famous, oft-banned and widely pirated of all Chinese writers", Mo Yan is known in the West for two of his novels which were the basis of the film Red Sorghum. The Swedish Academy, which selects the winners of the prestigious award, praised Mo's "hallucinatory realism" saying it "merges folk tales, history and the contemporary."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/chinas-mo-yan-wins-nobel-prize-in-literature/article4603865/
Rawi Hage's newest work, Carnival has been short listed for the Paragraphe Hugh MacLennan Prize for Fiction, as well as for the Writers' Trust Fiction Prize. He will be appearing at the festival in events 9 and 26.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/books/story/2012/10/10/qwf-award-noms.html
Fiction writers Junot Diaz and Dave Eggers are among the finalists announced Wednesday for the National Book Awards, the prestigious U.S. awards for literature. Diaz will be appearing at the festival in events 9 and 22.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/story/2012/10/10/national-book-award-noms.html
Renné Benoit, illustrator of Big City Bees has been short listed for the 2012 Governor General's Literary Award in the Children's Literature Illustration category.
http://www.dmpibooks.com/author/renne-benoit
Six "magisterial" books "which have the ability to change our view of the world" have been short listed for the Samuel Johnson prize for non-fiction. These include Wade Davis's Into the Silence. The complete list is here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/05/six-magisterial-shortlist-samuel-johnson-prize
The novelist Andrew Krivak, who wrote The Sojourn and Adam Hochschild's To End All Wars have won the 2012 Dayton Literary Peace Prize for fiction and nonfiction.
http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/09/30/winners-named-for-dayton-literary-peace-prize/?ref=booksupdate&nl=books&emc=edit_bk_20121005
Syrian author Samar Yazbek–forced into exile by response to her account of the revolution–has been honoured as 'international writer of courage' and her book A Woman in the Crosshairs, sharing the PEN/Pinter prize with poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/09/syrian-author-pen-pinter-prize
2012 FESTIVAL AUTHORS FOR YOUNG READERS
Landlubbers and young fishers will learn to identify such items as wobblers, flashers and hoochies, the difference between a stern and a bow, a wheelhouse and a steering wheel, and the joy of fishing, thanks to Kim La Fave's illustrations enhancing Gary Kent's story, Gubby Builds a Boat. For ages 5 and up. (events 20, 31)
http://www.quillandquire.com/bfe/forms/Fishing%20with%20gubby.pdf
Readers of Susan Nielsen's Dear George Clooney, Please Marry My Mom and The Reluctant Journal of Henry K. Larsen, as well as Susan Juby's Alice, I Think, and Bright's Like will have an opportunity to discover how these authors transform written stories into television series. What's the difference between reading and seeing the stories? For grades 8 to 12. (event 1)
http://www.susanjuby.com/brightslight.htm http://www.fabbityfabbookreviews.com/2012/09/review-reluctant-journal-of-henry-k.html?spref=fb
Many students in Lower Mainland schools have become involved in their communities, in environmental issues—including creating gardens—but they may not know what other students are doing. In this event, Janet Wilson and a number of young people, will share their stories. Grades 3 to 6. (event 16)
Sometimes, people feel down in the dumps, even if they are grown-ups or when they are kids. Kyo Maclear's Spork and Virginia Wolf describe some grown-ups who feel down in the dumps and how their friends help them; Sheree Fitch's imagination in Night Sky Wheel Ride will cheer us up. Grades 2 to 4. (event 33)
2012 Festival Authors
The latest issue of TIME magazine reports that Margaret Atwood is joining another avant garde group: authors of serialized e-books. Atwood's book Positron is being serialized by Byliner, The author spoke to TIME about writing in installments, turning her work into TV, interacting with readers—and why books don't need saving.
http://entertainment.time.com/2012/10/08/margaret-atwood-on-serial-fiction-and-the-future-of-the-book/#ixzz28pK1uX65
In her review of M.G. Vassanji's The Magic of Saida, Jennifer Hunter writes that there are glimmers of how such 19th century writers as Russian novelist Fydor Dostoevsky and Polish novelist Joseph Conrad have been major influences on Vassanji's most recent work. There are glimmers of how these 19th century writers, with their focus on men emotionally removed from their societies, have imbued Vassanji's unique storytelling, says Hunter. (events 23, 25)
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/1266137--m-g-vassanji-s-the-magic-of-saida-review
In books and in films, we are surrounded, and affected by ghouls and spirits, ghosts and mythic thrillers, expressed in different media—John Burnside's thriller, Tess Gallagher's poems, Seán Virgo's new collection of short stories and an afterlife adventure novel by Susan Musgrave: tales that are firmly rooted in reality, but take flight into other worlds. (event 47)
Experiences, or remembrances, of Cambodia's genocide, oppression in South Africa, and first contact between Aboriginals and early settlers in Australia prompt the recognition of the need for reconciliation--without forgetting. Kim Scott's Benang: from the Heart, Zakes Mda's Sometimes There Is a Void and Madeleine Thien's Dogs at the Perimeter together have the capacity to provoke a thoughtful, if challenging conversation. (event 56)
Given the Canadian government's particular interest in China, a conversation between Chan Koonchung and Charles Foran is timely indeed. Chan continues to live freely in Beijing, many Chinese read Chan's The Fat Years, and yet it remains true that, whether or not you are a Chinese dissident, is up to the state. (event 59)
NEWS & FEATURES
The Orange prize has been saved by such private donors as Cherie Blair and Martha Lane Fox after organisers failed to find a sponsor when Orange stopped its sponsorship.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/08/orange-prize-private-donors-sponsor
Biz, a well-known Quebec nationalist singer, has requested that his book be withdrawn from consideration for a Governor General's Literary Award because he is "not a subject of Her Majesty."
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/1266260--governor-general-s-literary-award-nod-snubbed-by-quebec-author
If most novel-readers are female, why are at least half of Canadian novel writers still men? asks Russell Smith. And men are not reading much fiction. Smith quotes Stacey Madden's four suggestions for exciting the male child about made-up stories, beginning with telling them that reading is rebellious.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/hey-kids-reading-novels-will-make-you-rich-and-other-lies-worth-telling/article4587109/
The 15 winners of this year's Foyle Young Poets award, open to 11-17-year-olds from around the world, have been announced. Chosen from a record 7,351 entries to the competition, the winning poems can be found here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/childrens-books-site/2012/oct/04/national-poetry-day-foyle-young-poets
Margaret Atwood offers advice on writing while traveling on airplanes. Bring Pencils (note the plural), stay limber, get a thesaurus, and follow the eight further morsels of writerly wisdom.
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2012/10/bring-pencils-on-planes-and-other-writing-advice-from-margaret-atwood/263300/
Do you know a young book lover who also dreams of being a CBC Radio host? Here's their chance! Enter to win the position of co-host with Sheryl MacKay in a special Studio One Book Club on October 18 at CBC Vancouver in partnership with the Vancouver Writers Festival. The guest is Shane Peacock, author of The Boy Sherlock Holmes series, who is nominated for this year's TD Canadian Children's Literature Award. All the details are on www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub, but don't delay-contest ends October 14!
COMMUNITY EVENTS
BLUEBACKS AND SILVER BRIGHTS
Local author Norman Safarik and his son, Allan Safarik, read from their captivating memoir set during the pinnacle of West Coast fishing. Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm. McGill Branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. More information and registration at 604-299-8955.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Darren Bifford (Wedding in Fire Country) and Grant Lawrence (Adventures in Solitude). Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore at Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, plaza level. More information at robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
RAINA TELGEMEIER
Meet the author/illustrator of Smile as she presents her newest graphic novel Drama. Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm. Complete details, ticket purchase and other appearances in the Lower Mainland can be found here: www.kidsbooks.ca.
111 WEST COAST LITERARY PORTRAITS BOOK LAUNCH
Celebrate the first five years in trade publishing with the launch of 111 West Coast Literary Portraits-Photographs by Barry Peterson and Blaise Enright, text by BC authors, introduction by Alan Twigg. Thursday, October 11, 8 pm, 2012 (Doors open at 7:30 pm) at Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street, Vancouver.
JIAN GHOMESHI
Author will be on the CBC Vancouver plaza meeting fans and signing copies of his new book, 1982. Friday, October 12 at 3:00pm. CBC Plaza, 700 Hamilton Street. More information at www.cbc.ca/bc/community.
THE INVASION ANGLE
A book launch and reading featuring Spencer Gordon, Nathaniel G. Moore, Elizabeth Bachinsky and Dina Del Bucchia. Hosted by Sean Cranbury. Friday, October 12 at 7:00pm, free. W2 Media Cafe, 111 West Hastings. Details at realvancouverwriters.org.
LISA GENOVA
Meet the bestselling author of Still Alice and Left Neglected, as she talks about and signs her newest novel, Love Anthony, an unforgettable story about motherhood, autism, and love. Saturday, October 13 at 2:00pm. Chapters Robson, 788 Robson Street. More information at 604-682-4066.
SYLVIA TAYLOR
Author launches her new book The Fisher Queen: A Deckhand's Tales of the BC Coast. Saturday, October 13 at 6:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye rooms, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at www.vpl.ca.
VISIBLE VERSE FESTIVAL
Program includes entries from 56 international artists and 100 videopoems from Australia, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Norway, Russia, the U.S. and Canada. Saturday, October 13 at 7pm, Pacific Cinemathque, 1131 Howe St, Vancouver. More information at http://www.cinematheque.bc.ca/visible-verse-festival-2012.
WAYSON CHOI SPECIAL TRIBUTE EVENING
The evening will take the audience on a 73-year journey back in time to witness the remarkable life of this literary iconic born in Vancouver's Chinatown in 1939. Sunday, October 14 at 6:00pm. For tickets and more information, visit chinesecanadian.ubc.ca.
JON KLASSEN
Author of I Want My Hat Back presents his new book This Is Not My Hat. Tuesday, October 16 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $25. Kidsbooks on Broadway. For more information and registration, call 604-738-5335 or email general@kidsbooks.ca.
LUNCH POEMS @ SFU
Jen Currin and Dorothy Trujillo Lusk featured at October 17 lunch poems @SFU. Presented by SFU Public Square, 12-1pm in SFU Harbour Centre's Teck Gallery (515 W Hastings St.). Free admission, no registration required. lunch poems @ SFU hosts well-known and up-and-coming poets on the third Wednesday of every month. For more information visit www.facebook.com/LunchPoemsAtSFU.
KENNETH OPPEL
Author presents his most recent novel This Dark Endeavour: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein. Wednesday, October 17 at 2:00pm. 3rd floor, G. Paul Singh room, North Vancouver Public Library, 120 14th Street West, North Vancouver. More information at www.cnv.org.
CONFLICT TIGER
Screening of the film that inspired John Vaillant's The Tiger. Wednesday, October 17 at 7:00pm. A fundraiser with a suggested donation of $10, though no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Djavad Mowafaghian Cinema, SFU's Goldcorp Centre for the Arts, 149 W. Hastings Street. More information at http://sfuwoodwards.ca/index.php/events/details/screening-of-conflict-tiger-with-john-valliant.
LUCY FALCONE
Meet the author of The Devil, the Banshee, and Me with her latest novel The Midnight Curse. Thursday, October 18 at 10:00am. Cloverdale Library, 5642 176A Street, Surrey. To register, phone 604-598-7326.
THE {NEW/OLD} BOOK
The Alcuin Society is pleased to announce the presentation of the 30th Awards for Excellence in Book Design in Canada as a part of a special one-day symposium dedicated to the history and future of the printed and electronic book. Headlining the evening portion of our event is celebrated book cover designer Chip Kidd. Thursday, October 18. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information and to register, visit http://blog.alcuinsociety.com.
BOOK LAUNCH
Launch of Sandra Hayes-Gardiner's book One Life, Growing Up in The Pas and Joan-Dianne Smith's poetry collection, All Things Considered. Friday, October 19 at 4:30pm. Cooper's Boating, Mast Tower Road, Granville Island.
Upcoming
CORY DOCTOROW
Meet this outspoken and controversial author/blogger/podcaster and hear his take on technology, sci-fi and writing. Sunday, October 21 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $23.50 and include a copy of his new book Pirate Cinema. West Point Grey United Church, 4595 8th Ave. W. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit kidsbooks.ca.
NVCL LOCAL AUTHOR SERIES
Readings by Zsuzsi Gartner and Fran Bourassa. Wednesday, October 24 at 6:30pm. 3rd floor, G. Paul Singh room, North Vancouver Public Library, 120 14th Street West, North Vancouver. More information at www.cnv.org.
THE WRITER'S STUDIO (SFU)
Participants in The Writer's Studio 2012 (@ SFU Harbour Centre) are pleased to announce the launch of emerge 2012, an anthology of new work -- Fiction, Poetry, Non-Fiction -- at the W2 Media Cafe, Woodward's Atrium, 111 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25th, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm (Doors open at 6:30 pm) -- FREE ADMISSION -- Come early to secure a seat!!
CAROLINE ADDERSON
Meet the author of A History of Forgetting, Sitting Practice and The Sky is Falling. Tuesday, October 30 at 10:00am. City Centre Library, 10350 University Drive, Surrey. To register, phone 604-598-7426.
WEYMAN CHAN
Reading by the author of Chinese Blue. Tuesday, October 30 at 3:30pm, free. Irving K. Barber Learning Centre, 1961 East Mall, Point Grey campus, UBC. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Michael Kenyon (A Year at River Mountain) and Grant Lawrence (Adventures in Solitude). Thursday, November 1 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore at Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, plaza level. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
ETERNAL HYDRA
Anton Piatigorsky's fascinating, award-winning play Eternal Hydra will open Touchstone's 2012/13 season. Sex, identity politics and the myth of genius are some of the themes tackled, as the play looks for the truth about the origins of a long lost literary masterpiece. http://www.touchstonetheatre.com/productions/eternal-hydra
CELEBRATE SCIENCE
The third annual Celebrate Science, a Festival of Science Writers for Children and Youth-and Canada's only science writer's festival-will be held November 3rd at UBC's Beaty Biodiversity Museum, in conjunction with Family Science Day. Events include a panel discussion with top science writers for children, a keynote speech and introduction by the Dean of Education, and storytelling for younger children as well as hands on science activities. The event is free and open to the public and includes admission to the Beaty Museum. http://blogs.ubc.ca/celebratescience.
JOURNEY WITH NO MAPS
Author Sandra Djwa presents her biography of poet and artist P.K. Page. Wednesday, November 7 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye rooms, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at www.vpl.ca.
111 WEST COAST LITERARY PORTRAITS
Photographer Barry Peterson discusses his new book that featuring rare portraits of writers who have lived in B.C., accompanied by excerpts of their writing. Guest writers will also speak at the event. Wednesday, November 7 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. For more information and to register, phone 604-299-8955.
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Readings of works by Robin Blaser, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Robert Hayden, Glyn Hughes and Roy Kiyooka. Sunday, November 11 at 3:00pm. Admission by donation. Project Space, 222 East Georgia Street. More information at deadpoetslive.com.
GARRY THOMAS MORSE
Writer Garry Thomas Morse reads from his new book of fiction Minor Episodes/Major Ruckus, concerning surrealist and speculative genres. Wednesday, November 14 at 7:00pm, free. Peter Kaye room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at www.vpl.ca.
CARRIE MAC
Reading by the award-winning author of teen novels ‘The Opposite of Tidy', 'The Beckoners', 'The Gryphon Project', the Triskelia trilogy, and others. Wednesday, November 14 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. More information at 604-297-4803.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Dani Couture (Algoma) and Julie Wilson (Seen Reading). Thursday, November 22 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore at Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, Plaza level. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
2012 Festival - Hal's Picks
I always look forward to the readings at our Grand Openings event (9). It is always a trip around the world and this year is no exception with writers from France, Italy, Somalia and Mexico, as well as some great Canadians. I guarantee you'll discover someone you don't know you will want to read in the future.
Past Times (event#42) will bring together five writers who have taken very different approaches to the writing of historical fiction. The stories they tell range through centuries and continents, but give us characters who are vividly drawn and brimming with life. Great writers and great stories.
Tickets for all the 2012 Festival events are selling fast. Visit our website for a full overview. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca.
UPCOMING EVENT
Literati Gala
A fundraising dinner in support of the Festival's Spreading the Word education program. Hosted by Gloria Macarenko.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Reception: 6:00 pm; Dinner: 7:30 pm
Tickets: $175
Call 604-681-6330 ext 109 or book online.
VIRTUAL FESTIVAL
Listen to the last installment in our series of audio archives from past Festival events. This week you'll hear Michael Chabon who recently appeared at our special event September 26, 2012. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/multimedia/audio-archives.
AWARDS & LISTS
Chinese writer Mo Yan was awarded the 2012 Nobel Prize in literature today. Described as "one of the most famous, oft-banned and widely pirated of all Chinese writers", Mo Yan is known in the West for two of his novels which were the basis of the film Red Sorghum. The Swedish Academy, which selects the winners of the prestigious award, praised Mo's "hallucinatory realism" saying it "merges folk tales, history and the contemporary."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/chinas-mo-yan-wins-nobel-prize-in-literature/article4603865/
Rawi Hage's newest work, Carnival has been short listed for the Paragraphe Hugh MacLennan Prize for Fiction, as well as for the Writers' Trust Fiction Prize. He will be appearing at the festival in events 9 and 26.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/books/story/2012/10/10/qwf-award-noms.html
Fiction writers Junot Diaz and Dave Eggers are among the finalists announced Wednesday for the National Book Awards, the prestigious U.S. awards for literature. Diaz will be appearing at the festival in events 9 and 22.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/story/2012/10/10/national-book-award-noms.html
Renné Benoit, illustrator of Big City Bees has been short listed for the 2012 Governor General's Literary Award in the Children's Literature Illustration category.
http://www.dmpibooks.com/author/renne-benoit
Six "magisterial" books "which have the ability to change our view of the world" have been short listed for the Samuel Johnson prize for non-fiction. These include Wade Davis's Into the Silence. The complete list is here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/05/six-magisterial-shortlist-samuel-johnson-prize
The novelist Andrew Krivak, who wrote The Sojourn and Adam Hochschild's To End All Wars have won the 2012 Dayton Literary Peace Prize for fiction and nonfiction.
http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/09/30/winners-named-for-dayton-literary-peace-prize/?ref=booksupdate&nl=books&emc=edit_bk_20121005
Syrian author Samar Yazbek–forced into exile by response to her account of the revolution–has been honoured as 'international writer of courage' and her book A Woman in the Crosshairs, sharing the PEN/Pinter prize with poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/09/syrian-author-pen-pinter-prize
2012 FESTIVAL AUTHORS FOR YOUNG READERS
Landlubbers and young fishers will learn to identify such items as wobblers, flashers and hoochies, the difference between a stern and a bow, a wheelhouse and a steering wheel, and the joy of fishing, thanks to Kim La Fave's illustrations enhancing Gary Kent's story, Gubby Builds a Boat. For ages 5 and up. (events 20, 31)
http://www.quillandquire.com/bfe/forms/Fishing%20with%20gubby.pdf
Readers of Susan Nielsen's Dear George Clooney, Please Marry My Mom and The Reluctant Journal of Henry K. Larsen, as well as Susan Juby's Alice, I Think, and Bright's Like will have an opportunity to discover how these authors transform written stories into television series. What's the difference between reading and seeing the stories? For grades 8 to 12. (event 1)
http://www.susanjuby.com/brightslight.htm http://www.fabbityfabbookreviews.com/2012/09/review-reluctant-journal-of-henry-k.html?spref=fb
Many students in Lower Mainland schools have become involved in their communities, in environmental issues—including creating gardens—but they may not know what other students are doing. In this event, Janet Wilson and a number of young people, will share their stories. Grades 3 to 6. (event 16)
Sometimes, people feel down in the dumps, even if they are grown-ups or when they are kids. Kyo Maclear's Spork and Virginia Wolf describe some grown-ups who feel down in the dumps and how their friends help them; Sheree Fitch's imagination in Night Sky Wheel Ride will cheer us up. Grades 2 to 4. (event 33)
2012 Festival Authors
The latest issue of TIME magazine reports that Margaret Atwood is joining another avant garde group: authors of serialized e-books. Atwood's book Positron is being serialized by Byliner, The author spoke to TIME about writing in installments, turning her work into TV, interacting with readers—and why books don't need saving.
http://entertainment.time.com/2012/10/08/margaret-atwood-on-serial-fiction-and-the-future-of-the-book/#ixzz28pK1uX65
In her review of M.G. Vassanji's The Magic of Saida, Jennifer Hunter writes that there are glimmers of how such 19th century writers as Russian novelist Fydor Dostoevsky and Polish novelist Joseph Conrad have been major influences on Vassanji's most recent work. There are glimmers of how these 19th century writers, with their focus on men emotionally removed from their societies, have imbued Vassanji's unique storytelling, says Hunter. (events 23, 25)
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/1266137--m-g-vassanji-s-the-magic-of-saida-review
In books and in films, we are surrounded, and affected by ghouls and spirits, ghosts and mythic thrillers, expressed in different media—John Burnside's thriller, Tess Gallagher's poems, Seán Virgo's new collection of short stories and an afterlife adventure novel by Susan Musgrave: tales that are firmly rooted in reality, but take flight into other worlds. (event 47)
Experiences, or remembrances, of Cambodia's genocide, oppression in South Africa, and first contact between Aboriginals and early settlers in Australia prompt the recognition of the need for reconciliation--without forgetting. Kim Scott's Benang: from the Heart, Zakes Mda's Sometimes There Is a Void and Madeleine Thien's Dogs at the Perimeter together have the capacity to provoke a thoughtful, if challenging conversation. (event 56)
Given the Canadian government's particular interest in China, a conversation between Chan Koonchung and Charles Foran is timely indeed. Chan continues to live freely in Beijing, many Chinese read Chan's The Fat Years, and yet it remains true that, whether or not you are a Chinese dissident, is up to the state. (event 59)
NEWS & FEATURES
The Orange prize has been saved by such private donors as Cherie Blair and Martha Lane Fox after organisers failed to find a sponsor when Orange stopped its sponsorship.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/08/orange-prize-private-donors-sponsor
Biz, a well-known Quebec nationalist singer, has requested that his book be withdrawn from consideration for a Governor General's Literary Award because he is "not a subject of Her Majesty."
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/1266260--governor-general-s-literary-award-nod-snubbed-by-quebec-author
If most novel-readers are female, why are at least half of Canadian novel writers still men? asks Russell Smith. And men are not reading much fiction. Smith quotes Stacey Madden's four suggestions for exciting the male child about made-up stories, beginning with telling them that reading is rebellious.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/hey-kids-reading-novels-will-make-you-rich-and-other-lies-worth-telling/article4587109/
The 15 winners of this year's Foyle Young Poets award, open to 11-17-year-olds from around the world, have been announced. Chosen from a record 7,351 entries to the competition, the winning poems can be found here:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/childrens-books-site/2012/oct/04/national-poetry-day-foyle-young-poets
Margaret Atwood offers advice on writing while traveling on airplanes. Bring Pencils (note the plural), stay limber, get a thesaurus, and follow the eight further morsels of writerly wisdom.
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2012/10/bring-pencils-on-planes-and-other-writing-advice-from-margaret-atwood/263300/
Do you know a young book lover who also dreams of being a CBC Radio host? Here's their chance! Enter to win the position of co-host with Sheryl MacKay in a special Studio One Book Club on October 18 at CBC Vancouver in partnership with the Vancouver Writers Festival. The guest is Shane Peacock, author of The Boy Sherlock Holmes series, who is nominated for this year's TD Canadian Children's Literature Award. All the details are on www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub, but don't delay-contest ends October 14!
COMMUNITY EVENTS
BLUEBACKS AND SILVER BRIGHTS
Local author Norman Safarik and his son, Allan Safarik, read from their captivating memoir set during the pinnacle of West Coast fishing. Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm. McGill Branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. More information and registration at 604-299-8955.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Darren Bifford (Wedding in Fire Country) and Grant Lawrence (Adventures in Solitude). Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore at Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, plaza level. More information at robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
RAINA TELGEMEIER
Meet the author/illustrator of Smile as she presents her newest graphic novel Drama. Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm. Complete details, ticket purchase and other appearances in the Lower Mainland can be found here: www.kidsbooks.ca.
111 WEST COAST LITERARY PORTRAITS BOOK LAUNCH
Celebrate the first five years in trade publishing with the launch of 111 West Coast Literary Portraits-Photographs by Barry Peterson and Blaise Enright, text by BC authors, introduction by Alan Twigg. Thursday, October 11, 8 pm, 2012 (Doors open at 7:30 pm) at Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street, Vancouver.
JIAN GHOMESHI
Author will be on the CBC Vancouver plaza meeting fans and signing copies of his new book, 1982. Friday, October 12 at 3:00pm. CBC Plaza, 700 Hamilton Street. More information at www.cbc.ca/bc/community.
THE INVASION ANGLE
A book launch and reading featuring Spencer Gordon, Nathaniel G. Moore, Elizabeth Bachinsky and Dina Del Bucchia. Hosted by Sean Cranbury. Friday, October 12 at 7:00pm, free. W2 Media Cafe, 111 West Hastings. Details at realvancouverwriters.org.
LISA GENOVA
Meet the bestselling author of Still Alice and Left Neglected, as she talks about and signs her newest novel, Love Anthony, an unforgettable story about motherhood, autism, and love. Saturday, October 13 at 2:00pm. Chapters Robson, 788 Robson Street. More information at 604-682-4066.
SYLVIA TAYLOR
Author launches her new book The Fisher Queen: A Deckhand's Tales of the BC Coast. Saturday, October 13 at 6:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye rooms, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at www.vpl.ca.
VISIBLE VERSE FESTIVAL
Program includes entries from 56 international artists and 100 videopoems from Australia, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Norway, Russia, the U.S. and Canada. Saturday, October 13 at 7pm, Pacific Cinemathque, 1131 Howe St, Vancouver. More information at http://www.cinematheque.bc.ca/visible-verse-festival-2012.
WAYSON CHOI SPECIAL TRIBUTE EVENING
The evening will take the audience on a 73-year journey back in time to witness the remarkable life of this literary iconic born in Vancouver's Chinatown in 1939. Sunday, October 14 at 6:00pm. For tickets and more information, visit chinesecanadian.ubc.ca.
JON KLASSEN
Author of I Want My Hat Back presents his new book This Is Not My Hat. Tuesday, October 16 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $25. Kidsbooks on Broadway. For more information and registration, call 604-738-5335 or email general@kidsbooks.ca.
LUNCH POEMS @ SFU
Jen Currin and Dorothy Trujillo Lusk featured at October 17 lunch poems @SFU. Presented by SFU Public Square, 12-1pm in SFU Harbour Centre's Teck Gallery (515 W Hastings St.). Free admission, no registration required. lunch poems @ SFU hosts well-known and up-and-coming poets on the third Wednesday of every month. For more information visit www.facebook.com/LunchPoemsAtSFU.
KENNETH OPPEL
Author presents his most recent novel This Dark Endeavour: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein. Wednesday, October 17 at 2:00pm. 3rd floor, G. Paul Singh room, North Vancouver Public Library, 120 14th Street West, North Vancouver. More information at www.cnv.org.
CONFLICT TIGER
Screening of the film that inspired John Vaillant's The Tiger. Wednesday, October 17 at 7:00pm. A fundraiser with a suggested donation of $10, though no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Djavad Mowafaghian Cinema, SFU's Goldcorp Centre for the Arts, 149 W. Hastings Street. More information at http://sfuwoodwards.ca/index.php/events/details/screening-of-conflict-tiger-with-john-valliant.
LUCY FALCONE
Meet the author of The Devil, the Banshee, and Me with her latest novel The Midnight Curse. Thursday, October 18 at 10:00am. Cloverdale Library, 5642 176A Street, Surrey. To register, phone 604-598-7326.
THE {NEW/OLD} BOOK
The Alcuin Society is pleased to announce the presentation of the 30th Awards for Excellence in Book Design in Canada as a part of a special one-day symposium dedicated to the history and future of the printed and electronic book. Headlining the evening portion of our event is celebrated book cover designer Chip Kidd. Thursday, October 18. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information and to register, visit http://blog.alcuinsociety.com.
BOOK LAUNCH
Launch of Sandra Hayes-Gardiner's book One Life, Growing Up in The Pas and Joan-Dianne Smith's poetry collection, All Things Considered. Friday, October 19 at 4:30pm. Cooper's Boating, Mast Tower Road, Granville Island.
Upcoming
CORY DOCTOROW
Meet this outspoken and controversial author/blogger/podcaster and hear his take on technology, sci-fi and writing. Sunday, October 21 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $23.50 and include a copy of his new book Pirate Cinema. West Point Grey United Church, 4595 8th Ave. W. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit kidsbooks.ca.
NVCL LOCAL AUTHOR SERIES
Readings by Zsuzsi Gartner and Fran Bourassa. Wednesday, October 24 at 6:30pm. 3rd floor, G. Paul Singh room, North Vancouver Public Library, 120 14th Street West, North Vancouver. More information at www.cnv.org.
THE WRITER'S STUDIO (SFU)
Participants in The Writer's Studio 2012 (@ SFU Harbour Centre) are pleased to announce the launch of emerge 2012, an anthology of new work -- Fiction, Poetry, Non-Fiction -- at the W2 Media Cafe, Woodward's Atrium, 111 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25th, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm (Doors open at 6:30 pm) -- FREE ADMISSION -- Come early to secure a seat!!
CAROLINE ADDERSON
Meet the author of A History of Forgetting, Sitting Practice and The Sky is Falling. Tuesday, October 30 at 10:00am. City Centre Library, 10350 University Drive, Surrey. To register, phone 604-598-7426.
WEYMAN CHAN
Reading by the author of Chinese Blue. Tuesday, October 30 at 3:30pm, free. Irving K. Barber Learning Centre, 1961 East Mall, Point Grey campus, UBC. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Michael Kenyon (A Year at River Mountain) and Grant Lawrence (Adventures in Solitude). Thursday, November 1 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore at Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, plaza level. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
ETERNAL HYDRA
Anton Piatigorsky's fascinating, award-winning play Eternal Hydra will open Touchstone's 2012/13 season. Sex, identity politics and the myth of genius are some of the themes tackled, as the play looks for the truth about the origins of a long lost literary masterpiece. http://www.touchstonetheatre.com/productions/eternal-hydra
CELEBRATE SCIENCE
The third annual Celebrate Science, a Festival of Science Writers for Children and Youth-and Canada's only science writer's festival-will be held November 3rd at UBC's Beaty Biodiversity Museum, in conjunction with Family Science Day. Events include a panel discussion with top science writers for children, a keynote speech and introduction by the Dean of Education, and storytelling for younger children as well as hands on science activities. The event is free and open to the public and includes admission to the Beaty Museum. http://blogs.ubc.ca/celebratescience.
JOURNEY WITH NO MAPS
Author Sandra Djwa presents her biography of poet and artist P.K. Page. Wednesday, November 7 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen & Peter Kaye rooms, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at www.vpl.ca.
111 WEST COAST LITERARY PORTRAITS
Photographer Barry Peterson discusses his new book that featuring rare portraits of writers who have lived in B.C., accompanied by excerpts of their writing. Guest writers will also speak at the event. Wednesday, November 7 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. For more information and to register, phone 604-299-8955.
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Readings of works by Robin Blaser, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Robert Hayden, Glyn Hughes and Roy Kiyooka. Sunday, November 11 at 3:00pm. Admission by donation. Project Space, 222 East Georgia Street. More information at deadpoetslive.com.
GARRY THOMAS MORSE
Writer Garry Thomas Morse reads from his new book of fiction Minor Episodes/Major Ruckus, concerning surrealist and speculative genres. Wednesday, November 14 at 7:00pm, free. Peter Kaye room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at www.vpl.ca.
CARRIE MAC
Reading by the award-winning author of teen novels ‘The Opposite of Tidy', 'The Beckoners', 'The Gryphon Project', the Triskelia trilogy, and others. Wednesday, November 14 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. More information at 604-297-4803.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Dani Couture (Algoma) and Julie Wilson (Seen Reading). Thursday, November 22 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore at Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, Plaza level. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Book News Vol. 7 No. 37
BOOK NEWS
2012 Festival - Hal's Picks
A few years ago I read an article in the New Yorker magazine about the celebrated writer Raymond Carver's sometimes contentious relationship with his editor Gordon Lish. It was a fascinating, compelling story. When I asked Carver's partner Tess Gallagher if she would come and talk about it and her own relationship with Carver a few years ago, she demurred. But now she is coming and for anyone interested in Raymond Carver and his stories or the creative tension between editor and writer, this is a must see event (event 61).
It might have been obvious to all of you, but it came as a bit of a revelation to me when I was putting the Festival together, how important the element of "time" is in fiction. Time can be compressed, expanded, fractured. A writer can dwell on a minute for pages or make things travel at the speed of light. "Time Passages" (event 75) brings together international authors Gail Jones and Emily Perkins together with Canadians M.A.C. Farrant and Sean Virgo to talk about playing with time.
Tickets for all the 2012 Festival events are selling fast. Visit our website for a full overview. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca.
UPCOMING EVENT
Literati Gala
A fundraising dinner in support of the Festival's Spreading the Word education program. Hosted by Gloria Macarenko.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Reception: 6:00 pm; Dinner: 7:30 pm
Tickets: $175
Call 604-681-6330 ext 109 or book online.
VIRTUAL FESTIVAL
Listen to the penultimate installment in our series of audio archives from past Festival events. This week you'll hear "And Introducing" from 2011 featuring Michael Christie, Rosemary Nixon, Thomas Pletzinger and Harry Whitehead. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/multimedia/audio-archives.
AWARDS & LISTS
Junot Diaz has been awarded a John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Genius grant, one of 23 MacArthur Fellows for 2012.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/02/arts/macarthur-fellows-named-for-2012.html?_r=1&ref=macarthurjohndandcatherinetfoundation
Festival authors Nancy Richler for The Imposter Bride, Kim Thúy for Ru and Russell Wangersky for Whirl Away, along with Will Ferguson for 419, and Alix Ohlin for Inside, also on the short list for the Rogers Writers' Trust Fiction Prize, have been short listed for the Scotiabank Giller Prize, Canada's most distinguished literary prize.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/1264774--giller-fiction-prize-shortlist-announced
Jorie Graham has become the first American woman ever to win one of the UK's most prestigious poetry accolades, the Forward prize for best collection.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/01/forwardprizeforpoetry-poetry
Festival authors Vincent Lam and Carrie Snyder are among the authors shortlisted for the $250,000 Governor General's Literary Awards. Nahlah Ayed and Noah Richler are nominated in the non-fiction category; Wade Davis, Tamas Dobozy, Robert Hough, Ross King, Vincent Lam, Carrie Snyder and Linda Spalding are nominated in the fiction category.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/1265333--governor-general-s-awards-vincent-lam-among-authors-shortlisted
2012 FESTIVAL AUTHORS FOR YOUNG READERS
Shane Peacock has written five novels in his award-winning Boy Sherlock Holmes series, as well as stories located in Newfoundland, northern Ontario, and the badlands in Drumheller, Alberta, as well as the only Young Adult book about Canada's prime ministers.
http://www.shanepeacock.ca/reviews.html
In Rick Scott's The Great Gazzoon, in the tiny mountain Kingdom of Jabbi Cragg, Gazoon Wazoo is supposed to be practicing for the terrifying Walk across the Wire between the towering peaks of Mount Lanadoon. (events 2, 14)
http://www.gazzoon.com/whats-the-story
Meet Richard Scrimger's Bunny (short for Bernard) O'Toole–mentally slow, physically strong and fast–the observant, nonjudgmental narrator of this convoluted but enjoyable fable of Toronto gang life recorded in believable, phonetically spelled prose. Age 10 to 14. (events 5, 35)
Sarah Tsiang's approach to Warriors and Wailers: One Hundred Ancient Chinese Jobs You Might Have Relished or Reviled is incredibly reader friendly. Though the stylistic approach to the subject matter is encyclopaedic, the humorous descriptions will definitely engage young readers. Ages 10 to 13. (events 4, 8)
http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol18/no35/warriors.html
2012 Festival Authors
During the first ten years of A.L. Kennedy's career as a writer, she earned her living by working with writers who had "special needs". "Disabled writers made me the writer I am today", says Kennedy, "giving me a faith in words and their potential which doesn't shake, even when everything else is in disarray. They are a way to change worlds." It was impossible not to notice that something as simple as being heard and respected could change someone's life, concludes Kennedy. (events 50, 53)
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2012/sep/25/disabled-writers-faith-in-words
Dennis Lee has written so many books he can't remember how many, but those who grew up on Alligator Pie, The Ice Cream Store, Bubblegum Delicious and Lizzie's Lion remember them vividly, even after they've "graduated" to poetry and prose for adults–in Civil Elegies, The Bard of the Universe, and The Difficulty of Living on Other Planets, among many other books. (events 67, 74)
http://www.library.utoronto.ca/canpoetry/lee/pub.htm
Whether or not you are a Chinese dissident is up to the state, writes Chan Koonchung. When The Fat Years was published in Hong Kong and Taiwan (2009), it wasn't available inside China until daring mainstream dailies and news magazines openly wrote about the book. Someone put it on the Internet within the Chinese firewall and most readers in China read the book by downloading it as free content before it was deleted. That The Fat Years is fiction and not officially published in China may have spared the author considerable trouble. International reviewers have called The Fat Years a dystopian novel, and compared it to George Orwell's 1984, a book still seriously read by intellectuals in China. (events 43, 59)
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/chinese-must-not-forget-the-past-warns-author-of-the-fat-years/article549632/
NEWS & FEATURES
Somali-Canadian poet and rapper K'naan has written a children's book about his immigrant experience. When I Get Older: The Story Behind Wavin' Flag (Tundra Books) offers a window into his growing up in Somalia, the decision to flee the country following the 1991 outbreak of civil war, and the challenges K'naan faced in adjusting to life in New York and Toronto. The book includes vibrant illustrations by Rudy Gutierrez as well as a brief summary on the history of Somalia.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/story/2012/09/25/books-knaan.html
British authors have sounded a warning over the decline of non-fiction for children, particularly boys. They argue that "once, there were hundreds of such books available, covering every topic imaginable–but the market for them has almost vanished. Not because children don't want to know about the real world. And then there's the belief that the Internet provides all the information anyone needs."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/sep/28/decline-childrens-non-fiction-must-stop
Do you know a young book lover who also dreams of being a CBC Radio host? Here's their chance! Enter to win the position of co-host with Sheryl MacKay in a special Studio One Book Club on October 18 at CBC Vancouver in partnership with the Vancouver Writers Festival. The guest is Shane Peacock, author of the Boy Sherlock Holmes series, who is nominated for this year's TD Canadian Children's Literature Award. All the details are on www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub, but don't delay-contest ends October 14!
COMMUNITY EVENTS
TWS READING SERIES
Featuring guest author poet Daniela Elza, with special guest readers Esmeralda Cabral and Jennifer Irvine. Thursday, October 4 at 7:00pm, free. Cottage Bistro, 4470 Main Street. For more information, call 778-782-8000.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features Maxine Gadd+Ronna Bloom (from Toronto) + Open Mic. Thursday, October 4th at 7:00pm (Sign up for open mic at 7, readings begin at 7:30). Suggested donation at the door: $5. Our new location is @Cafe Montmartre, 4362 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
ROB STEWART
Pacific Arbour Speaker Series presents Award winning filmmaker of Sharkwater, Rob Stewart, Friday, October 5 @ 7:30pm. Stewart's new release Save the Humans turns his focus from animal activism to saving the planet. NSCU Centre at Capilano U/2055 Purcell Way/ Info: 604.990.7810/capilanou.ca/nscucentre.
SHAUNA SINGH BALDWIN
Author reads from her newest book Selector of Souls. Wednesday, October 10 at7:00pm. Centre for Indo Canadian Studies, UFV. More information at www.ufv.ca/cics.
BLUEBACKS AND SILVER BRIGHTS
Local author Norman Safarik and his son, Allan Safarik, read from their captivating memoir set during the pinnacle of West Coast fishing. Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm. McGill Branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. More information and registration at 604-299-8955.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Darren Bifford (Wedding in Fire Country) and Grant Lawrence (Adventures in Solitude). Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore at Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, plaza level. More information at robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
RAINA TELGEMEIER
Meet the author/illustrator of Smile as she presents her newest graphic novel Drama. Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm. Complete details, ticket purchase and other appearances in the Lower Mainland can be found here: www.kidsbooks.ca.
111 WEST COAST LITERARY PORTRAITS BOOK LAUNCH
Celebrate the first five years in trade publishing with the launch of 111 West Coast Literary Portraits-Photographs by Barry Peterson and Blaise Enright, text by BC authors, introduction by Alan Twigg. Thursday, October 11, 8 pm, 2012 (Doors open at 7:30 pm) at Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street, Vancouver.
THE INVASION ANGLE
A book launch and reading featuring Spencer Gordon, Nathaniel G. Moore, Elizabeth Bachinsky and Dina Del Bucchia. Hosted by Sean Cranbury. Friday, October 12 at 7:00pm, free. W2 Media Cafe, 111 West Hastings. Details at realvancouverwriters.org.
VISIBLE VERSE FESTIVAL
Program includes entries from 56 international artists and 100 videopoems from Australia, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Norway, Russia, the U.S. and Canada. Saturday, October 13 at 7pm, Pacific Cinemathque, 1131 Howe St, Vancouver. More information at http://www.cinematheque.bc.ca/visible-verse-festival-2012.
Upcoming
JON KLASSEN
Author of I Want My Hat Back presents his new book This Is Not My Hat. Tuesday, October 16 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $25. Kidsbooks on Broadway. For more information and registration, call 604-738-5335 or email general@kidsbooks.ca.
KENNETH OPPEL
Author presents his most recent novel This Dark Endeavour: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein. Wednesday, October 17 at 2:00pm. 3rd floor, G. Paul Singh room, North Vancouver Public Library, 120 14th Street West, North Vancouver. More information at www.cnv.org.
THE {NEW/OLD} BOOK
The Alcuin Society is pleased to announce the presentation of the 30th Awards for Excellence in Book Design in Canada as a part of a special one-day symposium dedicated to the history and future of the printed and electronic book. Headlining the evening portion of our event is celebrated book cover designer Chip Kidd. Thursday, October 18. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information and to register, visit http://blog.alcuinsociety.com.
BOOK LAUNCH
Launch of Sandra Hayes-Gardiner's book One Life, Growing Up in The Pas and Joan-Dianne Smith's poetry collection, All Things Considered. Friday, October 19 at 4:30pm. Cooper's Boating, Mast Tower Road, Granville Island.
CORY DOCTOROW
Meet this outspoken and controversial author/blogger/podcaster and hear his take on technology, sci-fi and writing. Sunday, October 21 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $23.50 and include a copy of his new book Pirate Cinema. West Point Grey United Church, 4595 8th Ave. W. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit kidsbooks.ca.
NVCL LOCAL AUTHOR SERIES
Readings by Zsuzsi Gartner and Fran Bourassa. Wednesday, October 24 at 6:30pm. 3rd floor, G. Paul Singh room, North Vancouver Public Library, 120 14th Street West, North Vancouver. More information at www.cnv.org.
THE WRITER'S STUDIO (SFU)
Participants in The Writer's Studio 2012 (@ SFU Harbour Centre) are pleased to announce the launch of emerge 2012, an anthology of new work -- Fiction, Poetry, Non-Fiction -- at the W2 Media Cafe, Woodward's Atrium, 111 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25th, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm (Doors open at 6:30 pm) -- FREE ADMISSION -- Come early to secure a seat!!
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Michael Kenyon (A Year at River Mountain) and Grant Lawrence (Adventures in Solitude). Thursday, November 1 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore at Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, plaza level. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
CELEBRATE SCIENCE
The third annual Celebrate Science, a Festival of Science Writers for Children and Youth-and Canada's only science writer's festival-will be held November 3rd at UBC's Beaty Biodiversity Museum, in conjunction with Family Science Day. Events include a panel discussion with top science writers for children, a keynote speech and introduction by the Dean of Education, and storytelling for younger children as well as hands on science activities. The event is free and open to the public and includes admission to the Beaty Museum. http://blogs.ubc.ca/celebratescience.
111 WEST COAST LITERARY PORTRAITS
Photographer Barry Peterson discusses his new book that featuring rare portraits of writers who have lived in B.C., accompanied by excerpts of their writing. Guest writers will also speak at the event. Wednesday, November 7 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. For more information and to register, phone 604-299-8955.
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Readings of works by Robin Blaser, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Robert Hayden, Glyn Hughes and Roy Kiyooka. Sunday, November 11 at 3:00pm. Admission by donation. Project Space, 222 East Georgia Street. More information at deadpoetslive.com.
CARRIE MAC
Reading by the award-winning author of teen novels ‘The Opposite of Tidy', 'The Beckoners', 'The Gryphon Project', the Triskelia trilogy, and others. Wednesday, November 14 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. More information at 604-297-4803.
2012 Festival - Hal's Picks
A few years ago I read an article in the New Yorker magazine about the celebrated writer Raymond Carver's sometimes contentious relationship with his editor Gordon Lish. It was a fascinating, compelling story. When I asked Carver's partner Tess Gallagher if she would come and talk about it and her own relationship with Carver a few years ago, she demurred. But now she is coming and for anyone interested in Raymond Carver and his stories or the creative tension between editor and writer, this is a must see event (event 61).
It might have been obvious to all of you, but it came as a bit of a revelation to me when I was putting the Festival together, how important the element of "time" is in fiction. Time can be compressed, expanded, fractured. A writer can dwell on a minute for pages or make things travel at the speed of light. "Time Passages" (event 75) brings together international authors Gail Jones and Emily Perkins together with Canadians M.A.C. Farrant and Sean Virgo to talk about playing with time.
Tickets for all the 2012 Festival events are selling fast. Visit our website for a full overview. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca.
UPCOMING EVENT
Literati Gala
A fundraising dinner in support of the Festival's Spreading the Word education program. Hosted by Gloria Macarenko.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Reception: 6:00 pm; Dinner: 7:30 pm
Tickets: $175
Call 604-681-6330 ext 109 or book online.
VIRTUAL FESTIVAL
Listen to the penultimate installment in our series of audio archives from past Festival events. This week you'll hear "And Introducing" from 2011 featuring Michael Christie, Rosemary Nixon, Thomas Pletzinger and Harry Whitehead. Details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/multimedia/audio-archives.
AWARDS & LISTS
Junot Diaz has been awarded a John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Genius grant, one of 23 MacArthur Fellows for 2012.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/02/arts/macarthur-fellows-named-for-2012.html?_r=1&ref=macarthurjohndandcatherinetfoundation
Festival authors Nancy Richler for The Imposter Bride, Kim Thúy for Ru and Russell Wangersky for Whirl Away, along with Will Ferguson for 419, and Alix Ohlin for Inside, also on the short list for the Rogers Writers' Trust Fiction Prize, have been short listed for the Scotiabank Giller Prize, Canada's most distinguished literary prize.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/1264774--giller-fiction-prize-shortlist-announced
Jorie Graham has become the first American woman ever to win one of the UK's most prestigious poetry accolades, the Forward prize for best collection.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/oct/01/forwardprizeforpoetry-poetry
Festival authors Vincent Lam and Carrie Snyder are among the authors shortlisted for the $250,000 Governor General's Literary Awards. Nahlah Ayed and Noah Richler are nominated in the non-fiction category; Wade Davis, Tamas Dobozy, Robert Hough, Ross King, Vincent Lam, Carrie Snyder and Linda Spalding are nominated in the fiction category.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/article/1265333--governor-general-s-awards-vincent-lam-among-authors-shortlisted
2012 FESTIVAL AUTHORS FOR YOUNG READERS
Shane Peacock has written five novels in his award-winning Boy Sherlock Holmes series, as well as stories located in Newfoundland, northern Ontario, and the badlands in Drumheller, Alberta, as well as the only Young Adult book about Canada's prime ministers.
http://www.shanepeacock.ca/reviews.html
In Rick Scott's The Great Gazzoon, in the tiny mountain Kingdom of Jabbi Cragg, Gazoon Wazoo is supposed to be practicing for the terrifying Walk across the Wire between the towering peaks of Mount Lanadoon. (events 2, 14)
http://www.gazzoon.com/whats-the-story
Meet Richard Scrimger's Bunny (short for Bernard) O'Toole–mentally slow, physically strong and fast–the observant, nonjudgmental narrator of this convoluted but enjoyable fable of Toronto gang life recorded in believable, phonetically spelled prose. Age 10 to 14. (events 5, 35)
Sarah Tsiang's approach to Warriors and Wailers: One Hundred Ancient Chinese Jobs You Might Have Relished or Reviled is incredibly reader friendly. Though the stylistic approach to the subject matter is encyclopaedic, the humorous descriptions will definitely engage young readers. Ages 10 to 13. (events 4, 8)
http://www.umanitoba.ca/cm/vol18/no35/warriors.html
2012 Festival Authors
During the first ten years of A.L. Kennedy's career as a writer, she earned her living by working with writers who had "special needs". "Disabled writers made me the writer I am today", says Kennedy, "giving me a faith in words and their potential which doesn't shake, even when everything else is in disarray. They are a way to change worlds." It was impossible not to notice that something as simple as being heard and respected could change someone's life, concludes Kennedy. (events 50, 53)
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/booksblog/2012/sep/25/disabled-writers-faith-in-words
Dennis Lee has written so many books he can't remember how many, but those who grew up on Alligator Pie, The Ice Cream Store, Bubblegum Delicious and Lizzie's Lion remember them vividly, even after they've "graduated" to poetry and prose for adults–in Civil Elegies, The Bard of the Universe, and The Difficulty of Living on Other Planets, among many other books. (events 67, 74)
http://www.library.utoronto.ca/canpoetry/lee/pub.htm
Whether or not you are a Chinese dissident is up to the state, writes Chan Koonchung. When The Fat Years was published in Hong Kong and Taiwan (2009), it wasn't available inside China until daring mainstream dailies and news magazines openly wrote about the book. Someone put it on the Internet within the Chinese firewall and most readers in China read the book by downloading it as free content before it was deleted. That The Fat Years is fiction and not officially published in China may have spared the author considerable trouble. International reviewers have called The Fat Years a dystopian novel, and compared it to George Orwell's 1984, a book still seriously read by intellectuals in China. (events 43, 59)
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/chinese-must-not-forget-the-past-warns-author-of-the-fat-years/article549632/
NEWS & FEATURES
Somali-Canadian poet and rapper K'naan has written a children's book about his immigrant experience. When I Get Older: The Story Behind Wavin' Flag (Tundra Books) offers a window into his growing up in Somalia, the decision to flee the country following the 1991 outbreak of civil war, and the challenges K'naan faced in adjusting to life in New York and Toronto. The book includes vibrant illustrations by Rudy Gutierrez as well as a brief summary on the history of Somalia.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/story/2012/09/25/books-knaan.html
British authors have sounded a warning over the decline of non-fiction for children, particularly boys. They argue that "once, there were hundreds of such books available, covering every topic imaginable–but the market for them has almost vanished. Not because children don't want to know about the real world. And then there's the belief that the Internet provides all the information anyone needs."
http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/sep/28/decline-childrens-non-fiction-must-stop
Do you know a young book lover who also dreams of being a CBC Radio host? Here's their chance! Enter to win the position of co-host with Sheryl MacKay in a special Studio One Book Club on October 18 at CBC Vancouver in partnership with the Vancouver Writers Festival. The guest is Shane Peacock, author of the Boy Sherlock Holmes series, who is nominated for this year's TD Canadian Children's Literature Award. All the details are on www.cbc.ca/bc/bookclub, but don't delay-contest ends October 14!
COMMUNITY EVENTS
TWS READING SERIES
Featuring guest author poet Daniela Elza, with special guest readers Esmeralda Cabral and Jennifer Irvine. Thursday, October 4 at 7:00pm, free. Cottage Bistro, 4470 Main Street. For more information, call 778-782-8000.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features Maxine Gadd+Ronna Bloom (from Toronto) + Open Mic. Thursday, October 4th at 7:00pm (Sign up for open mic at 7, readings begin at 7:30). Suggested donation at the door: $5. Our new location is @Cafe Montmartre, 4362 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
ROB STEWART
Pacific Arbour Speaker Series presents Award winning filmmaker of Sharkwater, Rob Stewart, Friday, October 5 @ 7:30pm. Stewart's new release Save the Humans turns his focus from animal activism to saving the planet. NSCU Centre at Capilano U/2055 Purcell Way/ Info: 604.990.7810/capilanou.ca/nscucentre.
SHAUNA SINGH BALDWIN
Author reads from her newest book Selector of Souls. Wednesday, October 10 at7:00pm. Centre for Indo Canadian Studies, UFV. More information at www.ufv.ca/cics.
BLUEBACKS AND SILVER BRIGHTS
Local author Norman Safarik and his son, Allan Safarik, read from their captivating memoir set during the pinnacle of West Coast fishing. Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm. McGill Branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. More information and registration at 604-299-8955.
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Darren Bifford (Wedding in Fire Country) and Grant Lawrence (Adventures in Solitude). Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore at Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, plaza level. More information at robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
RAINA TELGEMEIER
Meet the author/illustrator of Smile as she presents her newest graphic novel Drama. Thursday, October 11 at 7:00pm. Complete details, ticket purchase and other appearances in the Lower Mainland can be found here: www.kidsbooks.ca.
111 WEST COAST LITERARY PORTRAITS BOOK LAUNCH
Celebrate the first five years in trade publishing with the launch of 111 West Coast Literary Portraits-Photographs by Barry Peterson and Blaise Enright, text by BC authors, introduction by Alan Twigg. Thursday, October 11, 8 pm, 2012 (Doors open at 7:30 pm) at Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street, Vancouver.
THE INVASION ANGLE
A book launch and reading featuring Spencer Gordon, Nathaniel G. Moore, Elizabeth Bachinsky and Dina Del Bucchia. Hosted by Sean Cranbury. Friday, October 12 at 7:00pm, free. W2 Media Cafe, 111 West Hastings. Details at realvancouverwriters.org.
VISIBLE VERSE FESTIVAL
Program includes entries from 56 international artists and 100 videopoems from Australia, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Norway, Russia, the U.S. and Canada. Saturday, October 13 at 7pm, Pacific Cinemathque, 1131 Howe St, Vancouver. More information at http://www.cinematheque.bc.ca/visible-verse-festival-2012.
Upcoming
JON KLASSEN
Author of I Want My Hat Back presents his new book This Is Not My Hat. Tuesday, October 16 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $25. Kidsbooks on Broadway. For more information and registration, call 604-738-5335 or email general@kidsbooks.ca.
KENNETH OPPEL
Author presents his most recent novel This Dark Endeavour: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein. Wednesday, October 17 at 2:00pm. 3rd floor, G. Paul Singh room, North Vancouver Public Library, 120 14th Street West, North Vancouver. More information at www.cnv.org.
THE {NEW/OLD} BOOK
The Alcuin Society is pleased to announce the presentation of the 30th Awards for Excellence in Book Design in Canada as a part of a special one-day symposium dedicated to the history and future of the printed and electronic book. Headlining the evening portion of our event is celebrated book cover designer Chip Kidd. Thursday, October 18. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia Street. For more information and to register, visit http://blog.alcuinsociety.com.
BOOK LAUNCH
Launch of Sandra Hayes-Gardiner's book One Life, Growing Up in The Pas and Joan-Dianne Smith's poetry collection, All Things Considered. Friday, October 19 at 4:30pm. Cooper's Boating, Mast Tower Road, Granville Island.
CORY DOCTOROW
Meet this outspoken and controversial author/blogger/podcaster and hear his take on technology, sci-fi and writing. Sunday, October 21 at 7:00pm. Tickets: $23.50 and include a copy of his new book Pirate Cinema. West Point Grey United Church, 4595 8th Ave. W. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit kidsbooks.ca.
NVCL LOCAL AUTHOR SERIES
Readings by Zsuzsi Gartner and Fran Bourassa. Wednesday, October 24 at 6:30pm. 3rd floor, G. Paul Singh room, North Vancouver Public Library, 120 14th Street West, North Vancouver. More information at www.cnv.org.
THE WRITER'S STUDIO (SFU)
Participants in The Writer's Studio 2012 (@ SFU Harbour Centre) are pleased to announce the launch of emerge 2012, an anthology of new work -- Fiction, Poetry, Non-Fiction -- at the W2 Media Cafe, Woodward's Atrium, 111 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 25th, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm (Doors open at 6:30 pm) -- FREE ADMISSION -- Come early to secure a seat!!
ROBSON READING SERIES
Readings by Michael Kenyon (A Year at River Mountain) and Grant Lawrence (Adventures in Solitude). Thursday, November 1 at 7:00pm, free. UBC Bookstore at Robson Square, 800 Robson Street, plaza level. More information at www.robsonreadingseries.ubc.ca.
CELEBRATE SCIENCE
The third annual Celebrate Science, a Festival of Science Writers for Children and Youth-and Canada's only science writer's festival-will be held November 3rd at UBC's Beaty Biodiversity Museum, in conjunction with Family Science Day. Events include a panel discussion with top science writers for children, a keynote speech and introduction by the Dean of Education, and storytelling for younger children as well as hands on science activities. The event is free and open to the public and includes admission to the Beaty Museum. http://blogs.ubc.ca/celebratescience.
111 WEST COAST LITERARY PORTRAITS
Photographer Barry Peterson discusses his new book that featuring rare portraits of writers who have lived in B.C., accompanied by excerpts of their writing. Guest writers will also speak at the event. Wednesday, November 7 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. For more information and to register, phone 604-299-8955.
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Readings of works by Robin Blaser, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Robert Hayden, Glyn Hughes and Roy Kiyooka. Sunday, November 11 at 3:00pm. Admission by donation. Project Space, 222 East Georgia Street. More information at deadpoetslive.com.
CARRIE MAC
Reading by the award-winning author of teen novels ‘The Opposite of Tidy', 'The Beckoners', 'The Gryphon Project', the Triskelia trilogy, and others. Wednesday, November 14 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert St. More information at 604-297-4803.
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