BOOK NEWS
2013 Festival - October 22-27
We're just 27 days out from the Festival—the excitement is mounting! Tickets are still available for Festival events with Sarah Dunant, Xiaolu Guo, Maureen Johnson, Wayne Johnston, Colin Mochrie, Lisa Moore, Jo Nesbø, George Packer, Eric Schlosser, Maggie Stiefvater, Mary Swan, Michel Tremblay, Scott Turow, Alan Weisman and many more. Complete Festival details including a downloadable PDF of the program guide are available online (http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/) , or if you want a copy of the real thing, visit your local bookstore or Vancouver library branch, or our box office.
Check out this week’s edition of VWF's Artistic Director Hal Wake's Festival picks, this one's about poetry and music at the Festival.
http://youtu.be/cnPXg1eJMdc
VWF Writing Contests for Adults and Youth
Submit your finest prose and poetry to the 15th annual Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry & Short Story Contest, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest. The top entries in poetry and fiction will be published in subTerrain magazine and receive cash prizes. New this year is our writing contest for BC students in grades 8-12 which also awards cash prizes, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
SPECIAL EVENTS
J.B. MacKinnon
The independent journalist and award-winning author of The 100-Mile Diet talks about his new book, The Once and Future World, providing an eye-opening account of nature as it was, as it is and as it could be. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jbmackinnon.
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, October 3 at 7:30pm
Frederic Wood Theatre
6354 Crescent Road, UBC
The Literati Gala Cabaret
The VWF's fundraising gala on October 21 is hosted by CBC's Gloria Macarenko and features a Literary Cabaret performance with Sal Ferreras and Poetic License, celebrating the Lit Cab's 25th year. Tickets are $175; available at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/literatigala. Corporate tables are also available-call 604 681 6330 ext 104. Literati supports the VWF's Spreading the Word education program. Presenting sponsor: Scotia Private Client Group
Reception sponsor: Vancouver Film School.
Jung Chang
The best-selling author of the books Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China and Mao: The Unknown Story talks about her groundbreaking new biography, Empress Dowager Cixi. Sponsored by SFU Library Services. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jungchang
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, November 21 at 7:30pm
Waterfront Theatre
1412 Cartwright Street, Granville Island
FESTIVAL AUTHORS
As part of the run-up to Word Vancouver (formerly known as Word on the Street), the Georgia Straight is asking some authors what reading experiences shaped their early lives. What is the book that changed your life? According to Shaena Lambert, it's Little Women.
http://www.straight.com/life/427876/book-changed-your-life-shaena-lambert
Amber Dawn was also asked the same question. For her, it was The Chrysalids, by John Wyndham.
http://www.straight.com/life/428291/book-changed-your-life-amber-dawn
In an interview with The Globe and Mail, Eric Schlosser discusses his new book, Command and Control, not only within the context of the Cold War, but also in terms of present-day threats.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/dr-strangelove-redux-eric-schlosser-on-our-greatest-threat/article14440194/
David Sedaris' writing has finally made it to the big screen, in a film adaptation of his essay, C.O.G. But movies have always been important to him. "The only thing I ever walked out of was 'Dr. Doolittle' with Eddie Murphy...it's remarkable what I'll sit through—it really is."
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/22/movies/david-sedaris-on-films-hes-watched-and-rewatched.html
In D.W. Wilson's first novel, Ballistics, a young man searches for his estranged father. Now, he has created a list of the "top ten absent fathers in literature" for The Guardian. Unsurprisingly, it's filled with characters from Canadian novels, many of which were written by Writers Fest attendees past and present.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2013/sep/18/dw-wilson-top-10-absent-fathers-literature
Mary Novik has been included in the Georgia Straight's Best of Vancouver issue. In this interview, she discusses her new historical novel, Muse, a tale of romance and intrigue. Muse tells the story of a 14th century female clairvoyant scribe in Avignon, France, who also just happens to be an imagined lover of the famous humanist Petrarch.
http://www.straight.com/life/425321/bov-2013-muse-mary-noviks-heroine-enchants-poets-and-popes
Andrew Pyper's new novel, The Demonologist, is being developed for film. It tells the story of a Paradise Lost scholar who must use his knowledge of demonic mythology to rescue his daughter from the underworld.
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/universal-imagemovers-tap-jonathan-herman-630531
Much has been made of Joseph Boyden's new novel The Orenda. But the writing of it didn't come easy at first. It was only after meeting the aboriginal historian George Sioui that "the dam broke." "It was like I'd gotten on a river at the beginning of this novel and the current picked me up, and by this point the rapids are coming and I'm flying down that river for those last hundred pages just holding on."
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/2013/09/17/joseph_boyden_on_the_orenda_his_latest_gillernominated_novel_interview.html
Anthony De Sa's Kicking the Sky has been reviewed in The Globe and Mail. According to the reviewer, "If it isn't on the Toronto Book Award list, I'll be shocked".
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/anthony-de-sas-first-novel-walks-down-the-dark-end-of-the-street/article14443557/
Alan Weisman's book, Countdown, has just hit the shelves. In this interview, he discusses why humanity's mere existence is a big, big problem.
http://www.salon.com/2013/09/24/alan_weisman_just_by_existing_were_contributing_to_the_problem/singleton/
AWARDS & LISTS
Writers Fest author J.B. MacKinnon has been nominated for the Hilary Weston Writers' Trust Prize. There are five nominees for the $60,000 non-fiction award, and the winner will be announced in Toronto on October 21.
http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/Vancouver+author+MacKinnon+gets+Writers+Trust+Prize/8929196/story.html
Priscila Uppal, another Writers Fest author, has also been named as a finalist for the Hilary Weston Writers' Trust Prize. Her book, Projection: Encounters with my Runaway Mother, is a memoir about the author's search for her estranged mother.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2013/09/18/graeme-smith-priscila-uppal-among-finalists-for-hilary-weston-writers-trust-prize-for-non-fiction/
The longlist for the 2013 National Book Award for Fiction has been released. Writers Fest author Rachel Kushner is among the nominees, for her novel The Flamethrowers.
http://www.latimes.com/books/jacketcopy/la-et-jc-national-book-awards-2013-fiction-longlist-20130919,0,474196.story
NEWS & FEATURES
Columpa C. Bobb, the award-winning actress and playwright of North of 60 fame, has just been named the Vancouver Public Library's Aboriginal storyteller in residence. Created in 2008, the VPL's storyteller program is the first of its kind in British Columbia, dedicated to bringing communities together, profiling Aboriginal cultures, and promoting intercultural understanding.
https://www.vpl.ca/news/details/news_20a
We've read it again and again, and yet its power never wanes. As the leaves begin to turn, and autumn slowly takes hold, The Guardian has listed To Autumn, by John Keats, as its Poem of the Week. You can learn a little bit more about the poem, and what exactly an ode is, here:
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2013/sep/23/poem-week-to-autumn-john-keats
In North Carolina, a university professor has brought us one step closer to uncovering the identity of the author of The Bondwoman's Narrative. It was a bestseller when it was published in 2002, though it was probably actually written by a 19th century escaped female slave. It's an amazing story that will undoubtedly change the history of both African-American and Women's Literature.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/19/books/professor-says-he-has-solved-a-mystery-over-a-slaves-novel.html?hp&_r=1&
Meanwhile, in Italy, another academic has put forward a theory of his own in relation to authorship. Why was Dante Alighieri always writing about sleep in The Divine Comedy? According to Giuseppe Plazzi, it's because he was narcoleptic.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2013/sep/24/dante-possible-narcolepsy-academic-writes
Books are moving online, and so are book clubs. Is this the end of an era, or the beginning of something great?
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/22/fashion/online-book-clubs-talk-that-stays-on-the-page.html
Ghanaian poet Kofi Awoonor was one of the victims of the recent Nairobi terror attack. The African Poetry Book Fund will be publishing his last collection in 2014, titled Promises of Hope: New and Selected Poems. You can read one of the poems here:
http://blogs.wsj.com/speakeasy/2013/09/22/read-one-of-kofi-awoonors-final-poems/
Russian literature is frequently cited as being among the world's greatest. But some see its power differently. Recently, Russia's ombudsman declared that Russian literature would be a better alternative to school-sanctioned sex education.
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/sep/19/russian-literature-sex-education-schools-childrens-ombudsman
But perhaps spaying and neutering would solve Russia's problems instead? It seemed to have worked for this cat, who recently acquired the title of "assistant librarian" at a library in Novorossiysk, Russia. It's not a complete joke, however. Cats are notorious cockroach killers, and have also been used to protect the treasures of the Hermitage Museum from vermin.
http://en.rocketnews24.com/2013/09/18/kuzya-the-cat-assigned-to-assistant-librarian-position-in-novorossiysk-russia/
It's Banned Books Week! In celebration, here's a list of recently challenged titles (Writers Fest favourite Margaret Atwood made it on the list!).
http://bookriot.com/2013/09/23/on-the-banned-wagon-the-month-in-book-challenges/?doing_wp_cron=1379944980.2382240295410156250000
Crack open your mead bottles! This is an article for anyone who ever ignored Woody Allen's advice to not "take any course where you have to read Beowulf." Danish archaeologists have uncovered a sixth-century dining hall that they believe to be the setting for the famous work.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/archaeology/features/feasting-and-fighting-the-longlost-secrets-of-beowulf-8784510.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
Elizabeth Gilbert is a contentious figure in literary circles. "Despite having spent the first decade of her career writing three critically acclaimed books, critics cast her as a pampered solipsist peddling self-help" after the publication of Eat, Pray, Love. The tables may be turning, however, as her newest book, The Signature of All Things, comes out next month, a 19th century epic that the New York Times has described as a "rip-roaring tale".
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/22/magazine/eat-pray-love-get-rich-write-a-novel-no-one-expects.html
Reconciliation Week just ended in British Columbia. Residential schools robbed young First Nations children of their cultures and voices, but now one survivor is using her reclaimed voice in order to tell her story. Her memoir They Called Me Number One is now in its 20th week on the B.C. Bestsellers list. Read an interview with Bev Sellars here:
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/First+Nations+chief+turns+residential+school+past+into/8933985/story.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
SURVIVING PROGRESS
Award-winning author Ronald Wright will outline the "progress traps" that threaten our civilization and assess what has changed since his bestselling 2004 Massey Lecture A Short History Of Progress. Thursday, September 26 at 5:00PM, free. Cecil Green Park House, UBC. Part of the Utopia/Dystopia lecture series organized by UBC's Creative Writing Program. Information at www.greencollege.ubc.ca/index/spotlight490.php.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poets Celeste Snowber and Carl Leggo with open mic in collaboration with Word Vancouver. Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
INTO THE ABYSS
Carol Shaben discuses her book Into the Abyss, with special guest former pilot Erik Vogel. Thursday, September 26 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.
ELIZABETH WEIN
Author of Code Name Verity reads from her latest book Rose Under Fire. Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm. West Point Grey United Church Sanctuary, 4595 8th Ave. W. For tickets and information, visit kidsbooks.ca.
CULTURE DAYS AT BRITANNIA SHIPYARD
Gary Kent will be telling stories from the sea and talking about the craft of building wooden boats at a fun visual presentation about his books Fishing with Gubby and Gubby Builds a Boat (both co-authored and illustrated by Kim La Fave) at 11:15 am, and again at 12:30pm. Free. Saturday, September 28, Murakami Boatworks, Britannia Shipyard, 5180 Westwater Drive, Richmond. Kent will also sign copies of his books at Britannia's Gift Shop from 1:30-3:30pm. More information at 604-718-8050.
EMILY CON
Now in it's third year, a one day celebration of local comic culture, including live panel discussions, artist demos and a participatory comix jam. Artists, writers and comic book creators will showcase their comics, zines and artwork. Saturday, September 28, 11am to 5pm. South Building atrium, Emily Carr University, 1399 Johnston Street, Granville Island. More information at ecuad.ca.
MARIE-LOUISE GAY
Author reads from her new book, Read Me a Story, Stella. Monday, September 30 at 7:00pm at Kidsbooks Surrey (15033 32nd Ave., South Surrey). And Tuesday, October 1 at 7:00pm at Kidsbooks Vancouver (3083 West Broadway). Information and tickets available at kidsbooks.ca.
Upcoming
NICHOLAS SPARKS
The bestselling author of blockbuster books and films such as Safe Haven, The Lucky One and The Notebook signs his new novel, The Longest Ride. Wednesday, October 2 at 7:00pm. Chapters Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby. More information at 604-431-0463.
SIDNEY LITERARY FESTIVAL
Sidney will host 14 award-winning local authors whose genres cover mystery, war, children's literature, poetry, short story whimsy and local life. October 4-6, 2013. Sidney, BC. Complete information at www.sidneyliteraryfestival.com.
ANTHONY DALTON
Author reads from his first novel, Relentless Pursuit. Monday, October 7 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features Cathy Borrie & Heidi Greco with open mic. Wednesday, October 9 at 7:00pm. The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Suggested donation at the door: $5. All are welcome. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
PLANET EARTH READING SERIES
Poets Daniela Elza (milk tooth bane bone) and Emilia Neilsen (Surge Narrows) will feature at Planet Earth Reading Series. Friday, October 11 at 7:30pm. The Moka House, 103-1633 Hillside Avenue, Victoria. $3 at the door. http://planetearthpoetryvictoriabc.blogspot.ca.
THE 2013 VISIBLE VERSE FESTIVAL
The annual festival of videopoetry and film is on October 12th, 7pm, at Pacific Cinematheque, 1131 Howe Street,
Vancouver. Also hosting Colorado poet, filmmaker and founder of the Body Electric Poetry Film Festival, R.W. Perkins, who will facilitate Literary Movement, an artist's talk on videopoetry and filmmaking. This talk is at
4pm and free to the public. For the programme & ticket information go to: thecinematheque.ca/visible-verse-2013-festival.
EMERGE 2013 LAUNCH GALA EVENT
36 distinct voices experiment with the written word in emerge 2013, the Writer's Studio Anthology. Guest edited by JJ Lee, author of The Measure of a Man: The Story of a Father, a Son, and a Suit, the student produced anthology blurs the boundaries between genres as contributors push past limits with their writing process in the year-long program at SFU. Launching with a gala event on October 17th at Simon Fraser University's downtown campus at Harbour Centre, contributors will read from their work. 515 West Hastings. 6 to 9pm. More information at www.facebook.com/EmergeTWS2013 or contact lindsay.glauser@gmail.com.
PAMELA SACKETT
Author reads from her third book of rhythmic prose, Booing Death (with Shpilkes & Rhyme). Thursday, October 17 at 6:30pm, free. Banyen Books & Sound, 3608 4th Ave. W., Vancouver. More information at banyen.com/events/sackett.
INSPIRED BY PACIFIC LANDS
Hawaiian author Tom Peek (Daughters of Fire) will be joined by Trevor Carolan (Cascadia: The Life and Breath of the World) and Daniela Elza (milk tooth bane bone) in a multi-genre evening of Writings from Cascadia and Hawaii. October 20, 7pm, at People's Co-Op Books, 1391 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More nformation at www.peoplescoopbookstore.com.
DEAD NORTH
Launch of a Canadian-themed zombie anthology with authors Linda Demeulemeester and Rhea Rose. Thursday, October 24 at 7:00pm. Storm Crow Tavern, 1305 Commercial Drive, Vancouver.
CREATING PAULINE
City Opera Vancouver offers an informal presentation about the creation of the new opera Pauline (by Margaret Atwood and Tobin Stokes) to premiere in May 2014, and an introduction to the life of Canadian poet and performer Pauline Johnson (1861-1913). Guests include composer Tobin Stokes, director Norman Armour, singer Rose-Ellen Nichols, pianist David Boothroyd, and conductor and artistic director Charles Barber. Discussion welcome. Chinese Cultural Centre Museum, 555 Columbia. Tues Oct 29, 8pm. Free.
ICELAND WRITERS RETREAT
The Iceland Writers Retreat invites published and aspiring book writers (fiction and non-fiction) to participate in a series of workshops and panels led by a team of international writers from April 9-13, 2014. Between intimate workshops and lectures tour the spectacular Golden Circle, sit in the cozy cafés of Reykjavik, soak in hot geothermal pools, listen to new Icelandic music, and learn about the country's rich literary tradition. More information at www.IcelandWritersRetreat.com.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Book News Vol. 8 No. 32
BOOK NEWS
2013 Festival - October 22-27
VWF's Artistic Director Hal Wake has some suggestions for not-to-be missed events at this year's Festival. Check out Hal's YouTube video, the first in a new weekly series.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Al5mvGQjdo.
Tickets for the 2013 Vancouver Writers Fest are on sale now. The Festival includes non-fiction events at UBC's Frederic Wood Theatre, a finale event with comedian Colin Mochrie, and a French language event with Michel Tremblay at Radio-Canada's Studio One. Festival program guides are now available at bookstores, cafes and library branches around Vancouver. Complete Festival details including a downloadable PDF of the guide are available online.
VWF Writing Contests for Adults and Youth
Submit your finest prose and poetry to the 15th annual Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry & Short Story Contest, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest. The top entries in poetry and fiction will be published in subTerrain magazine and receive cash prizes. New this year is our writing contest for BC students in grades 8-12 which also awards cash prizes, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
SPECIAL EVENTS
The Literati Gala Cabaret
The VWF's fundraising gala on October 21 is hosted by CBC's Gloria Macarenko and features a Literary Cabaret performance with Sal Ferreras and Poetic License, celebrating the Lit Cab's 25th year. Tickets are $175; available at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/literatigala. Corporate tables are also available-call 604 681 6330 ext 104. Literati supports the VWF's Spreading the Word education program. Presenting sponsor: Scotia Private Client Group
Reception sponsor: Vancouver Film School.
Jung Chang
The best-selling author of the books Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China and Mao: The Unknown Story talks about her groundbreaking new biography, Empress Dowager Cixi. Sponsored by SFU Library Services. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jungchang
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, November 21 at 7:30pm
Waterfront Theatre
1412 Cartwright Street, Granville Island
J.B. MacKinnon
The independent journalist and award-winning author of The 100-Mile Diet talks about his new book, The Once and Future World, providing an eye-opening account of nature as it was, as it is and as it could be. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jbmackinnon.
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, October 3 at 7:30pm
Frederic Wood Theatre
6354 Crescent Road, UBC
FESTIVAL AUTHORS
In Fast Food Nation, Eric Schlosser attacked the American fast food complex. Now he has set his eyes on another iconic American industry: nuclear weapons. The New York Times has reviewed his new book, Command and Control.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/15/books/review/command-and-control-by-eric-schlosser.html
In an interview about his new novel, The Orenda, Joseph Boyden discusses world views, torture, Idle No More, moral responsibility and why he has called this book the one that he was always meant to write.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/joseph-boyden-tackles-native-torture-colonial-amnesia-and-ongoing-racism/article14308176/
J.B. MacKinnon's The Once and Future World has made it into this week's Hot Reads, according to the Daily Beast. "His goal here is to break down distinctions of nature as something apart from us, and his case is buttressed not only by a wealth of scientific investigation but also by some of the best writing about the outdoors that you'll find anywhere."
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/09/09/this-week-s-hot-reads-september-9-2013-on-the-trail-of-genghis-khan-the-once-and-future-world-stay-up-with-me-burial-rites-someone.html
"The desire of a man for his mother is an old and often tragic literary theme. Oedipus gouged out his eyes. Hamlet died in a sword fight. Percy Joyce, the very contemporary hero of Wayne Johnston's The Son of a Certain Woman, follows his bliss." St. John's takes on classical themes in Wayne Johnston's newest novel.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/wayne-johnstons-the-son-of-a-certain-woman-is-expertly-discomfiting/article14317062/
In 1977, a young Portuguese boy was killed in Toronto. Anthony De Sa was only 11 when it happened, though the incident stayed with him for years and years. "I was there, and who better to tell the story than someone who was there," he says. "For such a pivotal moment in this city's history, for it not to be told — it was just waiting for me." Kicking the Sky, which explores the impact that the murder had on the city, is set to be published this week.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2013/09/16/young-streets-anthony-de-sa-explores-childhood-in-kicking-the-sky/
"If a story is a house, an enclosed space where you want to stay a while and explore, to paraphrase Alice Munro, then Vancouver writer Shaena Lambert's second collection Oh, My Darling, has 10 such houses you'll want to spend some time in." Shaena Lambert's new collection is reviewed in the Globe and Mail.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/shaena-lamberts-life-in-miniature/article14317789/
AWARDS & LISTS
J.B. MacKinnon and Priscila Uppal are among the finalists for the Hilary Weston Writers' Trust Prize for Non-Fiction, the richest prize of its kind in Canada.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2013/09/18/graeme-smith-priscila-uppal-among-finalists-for-hilary-weston-writers-trust-prize-for-non-fiction/
The CBC has released its list of finalists for the CBC Poetry Prize/Prix du poésie Radio-Canada. You can read the shortlisted poems and vote for your favourite entry here:
http://www.cbc.ca/books/canadawrites/2013/09/cbc-poetry-prize-the-finalists-1.html
The National Book Foundation has teamed up with The Daily Beast to announce the 2013 National Book Awards Longlist for young people's literature.
http://www.thedailybeast.com/cheats/2013/09/16/the-national-book-awards-longlist-for-young-people-s-literature-announced.html
The same duo have also released the National Book Awards Longlist for Poetry. The finalists will be announced on October 16th, and the winners on November 20th.
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/09/17/exclusive-the-national-book-awards-longlist-for-poetry.html
Most exciting of all, the Giller Prize Longlist has been announced. Many Vancouver Writers Fest Authors have been honoured this year, including Joseph Boyden, Wayne Grady, Wayne Johnston, Lisa Moore and Michael Winter! It was a landmark event, as it was the first time that the announcement took place outside of Toronto. The event was staged in our own backyard, at UBC's Museum of Anthropology.
http://www.scotiabank.com/gillerprize/files/13/09/news_091013.html
YOUNG READERS
Ellen Hopkins is one of the American Library Association's most frequently banned authors. Her poetic young adult novels confront dark issues like teen prostitution, meth addiction and domestic abuse. She "keeps a file of about 1,000 fan letters from young readers who say her poetry changed their lives. It's not just to boost her ego. She sends copies of select letters to schools and libraries that removed her books after parents or teachers complained about their content."
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324094704579067531035576264.html
NEWS & FEATURES
If Holden Caulfield spoke Russian, what would he sound like? Some books are beyond borders, and yet, when it comes to translation, they can sound very, very different. As anticipation grows for the release of new Salinger works, The New Yorker reflects on Catcher in the Rye, and the perils (and fruits) of alternatives contexts.
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2013/09/translating-catcher-in-the-rye-if-holden-caulfield-spoke-russian.html
The rules are changing at the Booker Prize. As of next year, the door will be open to US authors. Unsurprisingly, many are crying foul.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2013/sep/16/man-booker-prize-us-authors-2014
Lit Crawls are becoming popular in cities across America. "Let the publishing industry fret about the future of print. In an ever more digitized age, literature as live event appears to be thriving."
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/13/books/a-heady-cocktail-of-books-and-booze.html
Watch out for librarians, they can be sticklers! A university professor in Belfast, Ireland, was recently fined £8,500 after discovering that he was in possession of a library book that was 47 years overdue. He was eventually spared the fine, but the story is interesting nonetheless, especially since the long-lost book was discovered at a locker at UBC!
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/this-britain/professor-spared-8557-fine-on-library-book-overdue-by-47-years-8817984.html
Are you thinking of pursuing a Masters degree in creative writing? Prajwal Parajuly graduated from Oxford with a two-book contract, but his story is a rare. He addresses the issue head-on here: http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2013/sep/17/will-creative-writing-masters-get-you-book-deal
The 3rd Annual Geist Erasure Poetry Contest has been extended to September 30! Information re: entries can be found here:
http://www.geist.com/contests/erasure/erasure/
BOOKS & WRITERS
It has been a busy year for Roddy Doyle. He has published a new novel called The Guts, and his first novel, The Commitments, is getting a musical treatment on the London stage. He recently appeared on Writers and Company, to discuss his life and work in an interview full of music, humour, insight and memory.
http://www.cbc.ca/writersandcompany/episode/2013/09/15/roddy-doyle-interview/
One of the 21st centuries favourite iconoclasts reflects on why he doesn't care for Pride and Prejudice. In an interview with the New York Times, Richard Dawkins discusses his favourite works of fiction, the place of science in literature, Tolstoy, philosophy, growing up in Kenya, and why he identified with Doctor Doolittle as a child.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/15/books/review/richard-dawkins-by-the-book.html
When Ernest Hemingway was 25 years old, Vanity Fair rejected a short story that he submitted called "My Life in the Bull Ring with Donald Ogden Stewart". Now, almost 90 years later, a request from Vanity Fair's editor-in-chief, Graydon Carter, to publish the story, has been rejected by the Hemingway Estate. Revenge from beyond the grave?
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/ernest-hemingways-last-word-from-beyond-the-grave-8669795.html
I don't think Hemingway would be bothered by this, however. A New York-based food writer delves into Hemingway's Cuban papers and finds beauty in the mundane–a hamburger recipe. Apparently Hemingway liked his burgers pan-fried, not grilled.
http://www.theparisreview.org/blog/2013/09/16/hemingways-hamburger/
The Globe and Mail has released a new version of a piece that Aislinn Hunter wrote about Raymond Carver's poem, Late Fragment. For anyone who attended the Tess Gallagher event last festival, this will be especially poignant to read.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/how-poems-work/article1029144
Aislinn Hunter's novel, Stay, was recently adapted into a film, which appeared as an Official Selection at the Toronto International Film Festival. In this Globe and Mail piece, she discusses what happened when she met her fictional creations in the flesh. Aislinn will host event #63, Corner Stories, at this year's Writers Fest.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/awards-and-festivals/tiff/what-happens-when-a-novelist-meets-her-fictional-creations-in-the-flesh/article14226567/?page=1
COMMUNITY EVENTS
BOOK LAUNCH
Poet Bonnie Nish will launch her collection Love and Bones. Friday, September 20 at 7:00pm. St. Mark's Church, 1805 Larch S. Vancouver. For more information, contact blnish_pandoras@yahoo.ca.
ALLY CARTER
Author celebrates the release of the final book in the Gallagher Girls' series, United We Spy. Saturday, September 21 at 2:00pm. Chapters Granville, 2505 Granville Street.
THE MAYAN MYSTERIES
Sharon MacGougan will talk about her novel, The Mayan Mysteries. The real-life ancient mystery of the disappearance of the Mayan people converges with the inner transformation of a fifteen-year-old girl in this adventure story. Wednesday, September 25 at 7:30pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
SURVIVING PROGRESS
Award-winning author Ronald Wright will outline the "progress traps" that threaten our civilization and assess what has changed since his bestselling 2004 Massey Lecture A Short History Of Progress. Thursday, September 26 at 5:00PM, free. Cecil Green Park House, UBC. Part of the Utopia/Dystopia lecture series organized by UBC's Creative Writing Program. Information at www.greencollege.ubc.ca/index/spotlight490.php.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poets Celeste Snowber and Carl Leggo with open mic in collaboration with Word Vancouver. Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
INTO THE ABYSS
Carol Shaben discuses her book Into the Abyss, with special guest former pilot Erik Vogel. Thursday, September 26 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.
ELIZABETH WEIN
Author of Code Name Verity reads from her latest book Rose Under Fire. Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm. West Point Grey United Church Sanctuary, 4595 8th Ave. W. For tickets and information, visit kidsbooks.ca.
MARIE-LOUISE GAY
Author reads from her new book, Read Me a Story, Stella. Monday, September 30 at 7:00pm at Kidsbooks Surrey (15033 32nd Ave., South Surrey). And Tuesday, October 1 at 7:00pm at Kidsbooks Vancouver (3083 West Broadway). Information and tickets available at kidsbooks.ca.
Upcoming
NICHOLAS SPARKS
The bestselling author of blockbuster books and films such as Safe Haven, The Lucky One and The Notebook signs his new novel, The Longest Ride. Wednesday, October 2 at 7:00pm. Chapters Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby. More information at 604-431-0463.
SIDNEY LITERARY FESTIVAL
Sidney will host 14 award-winning local authors whose genres cover mystery, war, children's literature, poetry, short story whimsy and local life. October 4-6, 2013. Sidney, BC. Complete information at www.sidneyliteraryfestival.com.
ANTHONY DALTON
Author reads from his first novel, Relentless Pursuit. Monday, October 7 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
EMERGE 2013 LAUNCH GALA EVENT
36 distinct voices experiment with the written word in emerge 2013, the Writer's Studio Anthology. Guest edited by JJ Lee, author of The Measure of a Man: The Story of a Father, a Son, and a Suit, the student produced anthology blurs the boundaries between genres as contributors push past limits with their writing process in the year-long program at SFU. Launching with a gala event on October 17th at Simon Fraser University's downtown campus at Harbour Centre, contributors will read from their work. 515 West Hastings. 6 to 9pm. More information at www.facebook.com/EmergeTWS2013 or contact lindsay.glauser@gmail.com.
ICELAND WRITERS RETREAT
The Iceland Writers Retreat invites published and aspiring book writers (fiction and non-fiction) to participate in a series of workshops and panels led by a team of international writers from April 9-13, 2014. Between intimate workshops and lectures tour the spectacular Golden Circle, sit in the cozy cafés of Reykjavik, soak in hot geothermal pools, listen to new Icelandic music, and learn about the country's rich literary tradition. More information at www.IcelandWritersRetreat.com.
2013 Festival - October 22-27
VWF's Artistic Director Hal Wake has some suggestions for not-to-be missed events at this year's Festival. Check out Hal's YouTube video, the first in a new weekly series.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Al5mvGQjdo.
Tickets for the 2013 Vancouver Writers Fest are on sale now. The Festival includes non-fiction events at UBC's Frederic Wood Theatre, a finale event with comedian Colin Mochrie, and a French language event with Michel Tremblay at Radio-Canada's Studio One. Festival program guides are now available at bookstores, cafes and library branches around Vancouver. Complete Festival details including a downloadable PDF of the guide are available online.
VWF Writing Contests for Adults and Youth
Submit your finest prose and poetry to the 15th annual Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry & Short Story Contest, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest. The top entries in poetry and fiction will be published in subTerrain magazine and receive cash prizes. New this year is our writing contest for BC students in grades 8-12 which also awards cash prizes, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
SPECIAL EVENTS
The Literati Gala Cabaret
The VWF's fundraising gala on October 21 is hosted by CBC's Gloria Macarenko and features a Literary Cabaret performance with Sal Ferreras and Poetic License, celebrating the Lit Cab's 25th year. Tickets are $175; available at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/literatigala. Corporate tables are also available-call 604 681 6330 ext 104. Literati supports the VWF's Spreading the Word education program. Presenting sponsor: Scotia Private Client Group
Reception sponsor: Vancouver Film School.
Jung Chang
The best-selling author of the books Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China and Mao: The Unknown Story talks about her groundbreaking new biography, Empress Dowager Cixi. Sponsored by SFU Library Services. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jungchang
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, November 21 at 7:30pm
Waterfront Theatre
1412 Cartwright Street, Granville Island
J.B. MacKinnon
The independent journalist and award-winning author of The 100-Mile Diet talks about his new book, The Once and Future World, providing an eye-opening account of nature as it was, as it is and as it could be. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jbmackinnon.
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, October 3 at 7:30pm
Frederic Wood Theatre
6354 Crescent Road, UBC
FESTIVAL AUTHORS
In Fast Food Nation, Eric Schlosser attacked the American fast food complex. Now he has set his eyes on another iconic American industry: nuclear weapons. The New York Times has reviewed his new book, Command and Control.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/15/books/review/command-and-control-by-eric-schlosser.html
In an interview about his new novel, The Orenda, Joseph Boyden discusses world views, torture, Idle No More, moral responsibility and why he has called this book the one that he was always meant to write.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/joseph-boyden-tackles-native-torture-colonial-amnesia-and-ongoing-racism/article14308176/
J.B. MacKinnon's The Once and Future World has made it into this week's Hot Reads, according to the Daily Beast. "His goal here is to break down distinctions of nature as something apart from us, and his case is buttressed not only by a wealth of scientific investigation but also by some of the best writing about the outdoors that you'll find anywhere."
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/09/09/this-week-s-hot-reads-september-9-2013-on-the-trail-of-genghis-khan-the-once-and-future-world-stay-up-with-me-burial-rites-someone.html
"The desire of a man for his mother is an old and often tragic literary theme. Oedipus gouged out his eyes. Hamlet died in a sword fight. Percy Joyce, the very contemporary hero of Wayne Johnston's The Son of a Certain Woman, follows his bliss." St. John's takes on classical themes in Wayne Johnston's newest novel.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/wayne-johnstons-the-son-of-a-certain-woman-is-expertly-discomfiting/article14317062/
In 1977, a young Portuguese boy was killed in Toronto. Anthony De Sa was only 11 when it happened, though the incident stayed with him for years and years. "I was there, and who better to tell the story than someone who was there," he says. "For such a pivotal moment in this city's history, for it not to be told — it was just waiting for me." Kicking the Sky, which explores the impact that the murder had on the city, is set to be published this week.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2013/09/16/young-streets-anthony-de-sa-explores-childhood-in-kicking-the-sky/
"If a story is a house, an enclosed space where you want to stay a while and explore, to paraphrase Alice Munro, then Vancouver writer Shaena Lambert's second collection Oh, My Darling, has 10 such houses you'll want to spend some time in." Shaena Lambert's new collection is reviewed in the Globe and Mail.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/shaena-lamberts-life-in-miniature/article14317789/
AWARDS & LISTS
J.B. MacKinnon and Priscila Uppal are among the finalists for the Hilary Weston Writers' Trust Prize for Non-Fiction, the richest prize of its kind in Canada.
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2013/09/18/graeme-smith-priscila-uppal-among-finalists-for-hilary-weston-writers-trust-prize-for-non-fiction/
The CBC has released its list of finalists for the CBC Poetry Prize/Prix du poésie Radio-Canada. You can read the shortlisted poems and vote for your favourite entry here:
http://www.cbc.ca/books/canadawrites/2013/09/cbc-poetry-prize-the-finalists-1.html
The National Book Foundation has teamed up with The Daily Beast to announce the 2013 National Book Awards Longlist for young people's literature.
http://www.thedailybeast.com/cheats/2013/09/16/the-national-book-awards-longlist-for-young-people-s-literature-announced.html
The same duo have also released the National Book Awards Longlist for Poetry. The finalists will be announced on October 16th, and the winners on November 20th.
http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/09/17/exclusive-the-national-book-awards-longlist-for-poetry.html
Most exciting of all, the Giller Prize Longlist has been announced. Many Vancouver Writers Fest Authors have been honoured this year, including Joseph Boyden, Wayne Grady, Wayne Johnston, Lisa Moore and Michael Winter! It was a landmark event, as it was the first time that the announcement took place outside of Toronto. The event was staged in our own backyard, at UBC's Museum of Anthropology.
http://www.scotiabank.com/gillerprize/files/13/09/news_091013.html
YOUNG READERS
Ellen Hopkins is one of the American Library Association's most frequently banned authors. Her poetic young adult novels confront dark issues like teen prostitution, meth addiction and domestic abuse. She "keeps a file of about 1,000 fan letters from young readers who say her poetry changed their lives. It's not just to boost her ego. She sends copies of select letters to schools and libraries that removed her books after parents or teachers complained about their content."
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324094704579067531035576264.html
NEWS & FEATURES
If Holden Caulfield spoke Russian, what would he sound like? Some books are beyond borders, and yet, when it comes to translation, they can sound very, very different. As anticipation grows for the release of new Salinger works, The New Yorker reflects on Catcher in the Rye, and the perils (and fruits) of alternatives contexts.
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2013/09/translating-catcher-in-the-rye-if-holden-caulfield-spoke-russian.html
The rules are changing at the Booker Prize. As of next year, the door will be open to US authors. Unsurprisingly, many are crying foul.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2013/sep/16/man-booker-prize-us-authors-2014
Lit Crawls are becoming popular in cities across America. "Let the publishing industry fret about the future of print. In an ever more digitized age, literature as live event appears to be thriving."
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/13/books/a-heady-cocktail-of-books-and-booze.html
Watch out for librarians, they can be sticklers! A university professor in Belfast, Ireland, was recently fined £8,500 after discovering that he was in possession of a library book that was 47 years overdue. He was eventually spared the fine, but the story is interesting nonetheless, especially since the long-lost book was discovered at a locker at UBC!
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/this-britain/professor-spared-8557-fine-on-library-book-overdue-by-47-years-8817984.html
Are you thinking of pursuing a Masters degree in creative writing? Prajwal Parajuly graduated from Oxford with a two-book contract, but his story is a rare. He addresses the issue head-on here: http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2013/sep/17/will-creative-writing-masters-get-you-book-deal
The 3rd Annual Geist Erasure Poetry Contest has been extended to September 30! Information re: entries can be found here:
http://www.geist.com/contests/erasure/erasure/
BOOKS & WRITERS
It has been a busy year for Roddy Doyle. He has published a new novel called The Guts, and his first novel, The Commitments, is getting a musical treatment on the London stage. He recently appeared on Writers and Company, to discuss his life and work in an interview full of music, humour, insight and memory.
http://www.cbc.ca/writersandcompany/episode/2013/09/15/roddy-doyle-interview/
One of the 21st centuries favourite iconoclasts reflects on why he doesn't care for Pride and Prejudice. In an interview with the New York Times, Richard Dawkins discusses his favourite works of fiction, the place of science in literature, Tolstoy, philosophy, growing up in Kenya, and why he identified with Doctor Doolittle as a child.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/15/books/review/richard-dawkins-by-the-book.html
When Ernest Hemingway was 25 years old, Vanity Fair rejected a short story that he submitted called "My Life in the Bull Ring with Donald Ogden Stewart". Now, almost 90 years later, a request from Vanity Fair's editor-in-chief, Graydon Carter, to publish the story, has been rejected by the Hemingway Estate. Revenge from beyond the grave?
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/books/news/ernest-hemingways-last-word-from-beyond-the-grave-8669795.html
I don't think Hemingway would be bothered by this, however. A New York-based food writer delves into Hemingway's Cuban papers and finds beauty in the mundane–a hamburger recipe. Apparently Hemingway liked his burgers pan-fried, not grilled.
http://www.theparisreview.org/blog/2013/09/16/hemingways-hamburger/
The Globe and Mail has released a new version of a piece that Aislinn Hunter wrote about Raymond Carver's poem, Late Fragment. For anyone who attended the Tess Gallagher event last festival, this will be especially poignant to read.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/how-poems-work/article1029144
Aislinn Hunter's novel, Stay, was recently adapted into a film, which appeared as an Official Selection at the Toronto International Film Festival. In this Globe and Mail piece, she discusses what happened when she met her fictional creations in the flesh. Aislinn will host event #63, Corner Stories, at this year's Writers Fest.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/awards-and-festivals/tiff/what-happens-when-a-novelist-meets-her-fictional-creations-in-the-flesh/article14226567/?page=1
COMMUNITY EVENTS
BOOK LAUNCH
Poet Bonnie Nish will launch her collection Love and Bones. Friday, September 20 at 7:00pm. St. Mark's Church, 1805 Larch S. Vancouver. For more information, contact blnish_pandoras@yahoo.ca.
ALLY CARTER
Author celebrates the release of the final book in the Gallagher Girls' series, United We Spy. Saturday, September 21 at 2:00pm. Chapters Granville, 2505 Granville Street.
THE MAYAN MYSTERIES
Sharon MacGougan will talk about her novel, The Mayan Mysteries. The real-life ancient mystery of the disappearance of the Mayan people converges with the inner transformation of a fifteen-year-old girl in this adventure story. Wednesday, September 25 at 7:30pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
SURVIVING PROGRESS
Award-winning author Ronald Wright will outline the "progress traps" that threaten our civilization and assess what has changed since his bestselling 2004 Massey Lecture A Short History Of Progress. Thursday, September 26 at 5:00PM, free. Cecil Green Park House, UBC. Part of the Utopia/Dystopia lecture series organized by UBC's Creative Writing Program. Information at www.greencollege.ubc.ca/index/spotlight490.php.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poets Celeste Snowber and Carl Leggo with open mic in collaboration with Word Vancouver. Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
INTO THE ABYSS
Carol Shaben discuses her book Into the Abyss, with special guest former pilot Erik Vogel. Thursday, September 26 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.
ELIZABETH WEIN
Author of Code Name Verity reads from her latest book Rose Under Fire. Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm. West Point Grey United Church Sanctuary, 4595 8th Ave. W. For tickets and information, visit kidsbooks.ca.
MARIE-LOUISE GAY
Author reads from her new book, Read Me a Story, Stella. Monday, September 30 at 7:00pm at Kidsbooks Surrey (15033 32nd Ave., South Surrey). And Tuesday, October 1 at 7:00pm at Kidsbooks Vancouver (3083 West Broadway). Information and tickets available at kidsbooks.ca.
Upcoming
NICHOLAS SPARKS
The bestselling author of blockbuster books and films such as Safe Haven, The Lucky One and The Notebook signs his new novel, The Longest Ride. Wednesday, October 2 at 7:00pm. Chapters Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby. More information at 604-431-0463.
SIDNEY LITERARY FESTIVAL
Sidney will host 14 award-winning local authors whose genres cover mystery, war, children's literature, poetry, short story whimsy and local life. October 4-6, 2013. Sidney, BC. Complete information at www.sidneyliteraryfestival.com.
ANTHONY DALTON
Author reads from his first novel, Relentless Pursuit. Monday, October 7 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
EMERGE 2013 LAUNCH GALA EVENT
36 distinct voices experiment with the written word in emerge 2013, the Writer's Studio Anthology. Guest edited by JJ Lee, author of The Measure of a Man: The Story of a Father, a Son, and a Suit, the student produced anthology blurs the boundaries between genres as contributors push past limits with their writing process in the year-long program at SFU. Launching with a gala event on October 17th at Simon Fraser University's downtown campus at Harbour Centre, contributors will read from their work. 515 West Hastings. 6 to 9pm. More information at www.facebook.com/EmergeTWS2013 or contact lindsay.glauser@gmail.com.
ICELAND WRITERS RETREAT
The Iceland Writers Retreat invites published and aspiring book writers (fiction and non-fiction) to participate in a series of workshops and panels led by a team of international writers from April 9-13, 2014. Between intimate workshops and lectures tour the spectacular Golden Circle, sit in the cozy cafés of Reykjavik, soak in hot geothermal pools, listen to new Icelandic music, and learn about the country's rich literary tradition. More information at www.IcelandWritersRetreat.com.
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Book News Vol. 8 No. 31
BOOK NEWS
2013 Festival - October 22-27
Tickets for the 2013 Vancouver Writers Fest are on sale now. This year's author lineup includes Margaret Atwood, Joseph Boyden, Tomson Highway, Wayne Johnston, Anne Michaels, Rachel Kushner, Lisa Moore, Paul Muldoon, George Packer, Marisha Pessl and Eric Schlosser. The Festival includes non-fiction events at UBC's Frederic Wood Theatre, a finale event with comedian Colin Mochrie, and a French language event with Michel Tremblay at Radio-Canada's Studio One. Festival program guides are now available at bookstores, cafes and library branches around Vancouver. Complete Festival details including a downloadable PDF of the guide are available online.
Just announced: Norwegian crime fiction star Jo Nesbø (The Snowman, The Leopard) has been added to event 27 (Up All Night).
VWF Writing Contests for Adults and Youth
Submit your finest prose and poetry to the 15th annual Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry & Short Story Contest, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest. The top entries in poetry and fiction will be published in subTerrain magazine and receive cash prizes. New this year is our writing contest for BC students in grades 8-12 which also awards cash prizes, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
SPECIAL EVENTS
The Literati Gala Cabaret
The VWF's fundraising gala on October 21 is hosted by CBC's Gloria Macarenko and features a Literary Cabaret performance with Sal Ferreras and Poetic License, celebrating the Lit Cab's 25th year. Tickets are $175; available at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/literatigala. Corporate tables are also available-call 604 681 6330 ext 104. Literati supports the VWF's Spreading the Word education program.
Jung Chang
The best-selling author of the books Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China and Mao: The Unknown Story talks about her groundbreaking new biography, Empress Dowager Cixi. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jungchang
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, November 21 at 7:30pm
Waterfront Theatre
1412 Cartwright Street, Granville Island
J.B. MacKinnon
The independent journalist and award-winning author of The 100-Mile Diet talks about his new book, The Once and Future World, providing an eye-opening account of nature as it was, as it is and as it could be. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jbmackinnon.
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, October 3 at 7:30pm
Frederic Wood Theatre
6354 Crescent Road, UBC
FESTIVAL AUTHORS
It's not often that authors write books for both children and adults. Cary Fagan is one of the few, and therefore it's perhaps no surprise that his newest novel A Bird's Eye, though intended for adults, is all about the power of magic, and the youthful proclivity to believe in it.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/cary-fagans-a-birds-eye-captures-the-magic-of-youth/article14175084/#dashboard/follows
The Canadian writer Charles Foran discusses Joseph Boyden's new book, The Orenda, within the context of their similar upbringings, growing up in the shadow of the Jesuit martyr, Jean de Brébeuf.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/joseph-boyden-mines-canadas-bloody-past-for-surprising-spirituality/article14169831/#dashboard/follows/
The Norwegian crime writer, Jo Nesbø, has written a new book for his Harry Hole series, in which "Harry finds himself contemplating infidelity, indulging in violent rape fantasies and questioning whether he can regard himself as morally superior to the serial killer he is hunting." A case of a detective gone wrong? You can read an interview with the author here:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/crime-writing-competition/10292186/Jo-Nesbo-Its-good-to-be-slightly-crazy.html
Margaret Atwood is all over the press these days with her new book, MaddAddam. She received high praise in the New York Times: "this finale to Atwood's ingenious trilogy lights a fire from the fears of our age, then douses it with hope for the planet's survival. But that survival may not include us."
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/08/books/review/maddaddam-by-margaret-atwood.html?pagewanted=2&nl=books&emc=edit_bk_20130906
Marisha Pessl's second Novel, Night Film, gets a five star review in The Telegraph. 600 pages long, and filled with typed police reports, newspaper pages, transcripts of phone calls and fanzine message boards, it's not just any old thriller.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/fictionreviews/10273474/Night-Film-by-Marisha-Pessl-review.html
As a part of their fall preview, the Globe and Mail is releasing excerpts of soon to be published books. Here's a sneak peak of Wayne Johnston's The Son of a Certain Woman, to be released on September 17th.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/excerpt-a-sneak-peek-at-wayne-johnstons-the-son-of-a-certain-woman/article13950312/?page=all#dashboard/follows/
Douglas Coupland has always been obsessed with the idiosyncrasies of modern life. He's currently writing regular observations for the Financial Times, and this week's segment focuses on a lexicon for 2013, the new words we need for the present-day.
http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/2/db60613a-15a6-11e3-950a-00144feabdc0.html#axzz2eWHHNVa6
Amanda Lindhout tells the story of her captivity in Somalia to the New York Times Magazine, in an adaptation from her book A House in the Sky.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/01/magazine/lindhout-kidnapping-somalia.html?pagewanted=all
Meanwhile, on the other side of the African Continent, Abdellah Taïa faced whole different challenges growing up as an openly gay man in Morocco. He just made his directorial debut at the Venice Film Festival, with the film Salvation Army. You can read an interview with the transgressive writer and filmmaker here:
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2013/09/theres-a-place-for-gays-in-islam/279400/
Like Abdellah Taïa, Rodney DeCroo is a man of many talents. His show, Alleghany, BC is playing right now at the Vancouver Fringe Festival, and in October, he'll be bringing his poetry and music to our festival as well. You can read an excellent interview and discussion of his work here, in the Georgia Straight:
http://www.straight.com/music/419846/rodney-decroos-making-sense-everything
AWARDS & LISTS
The shortlist for the Man Booker Prize has been announced, with one of the most diverse selections ever. Spanning five continents, the chosen books include Writers Fest author Eleanor Catton's The Luminaries, and British Columbian Ruth Ozeki's A Tale for the Time Being.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/booker-prize/10299355/Man-Booker-Prize-2013-most-diverse-shortlist-spans-five-continents.html
The longlist for the Samuel Johnson Prize, the UK's most prestigious non-fiction award, has been announced. With a heavy focus on biography and history, this year's list includes The War That Ended Peace, by Canadian author Margaret Macmillan.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2013/sep/06/samuel-johnson-prize-nonfiction-longlist-announced
Michel Noël, who has participated in past Festivals, is shortlisted for the Prix TD 2013 de litterature canadienne pour l'enfance et la jeunesse for À la recherche du bout du monde.
http://www.bookcentre.ca/news/finalists_ccbc_awards_2013
YOUNG READERS
It may seem like a cliché for celebrities to release books, but in the case of Jim Carrey, the beloved Canadian comedic icon, we might have to make an exception. He has just written his first book, which is not a celebrity tell-all, but rather, a children's story, dedicated to his grandson. How Roland Rolls, to be published on September 24th, is the story of a wave named Roland "who realizes that he is part of the ocean and not simply a wave that's separate from it".
http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-book-news/article/58987-jim-carrey-rolls-out-his-first-children-s-book.html
NEWS & FEATURES
How important is clothing in literature? This question was piqued by a conversation with Margaret Atwood at the Guardian Book Club two weeks ago. Now, they want to examine the question within a broader context. Would Jane Austen's Mrs. Bennet, for example "be quite as prone to the vapours were it not for the effect of make-do-and-mend Regency corsetry on her increasingly matronly physique?"
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2013/sep/09/clothing-in-literature-margaret-atwood
And in case you missed that Margaret Atwood discussion, you can listen to it in Podcast form here:
http://www.theguardian.com/books/audio/2013/aug/30/margaret-atwood-blind-assassin-podcast
It may seem like blasphemy to some, but a revolutionary all-digital library is opening this week in San Antonio, Texas. Called the BiblioTech library, it will have six hundred e-readers available on loan, along with over ten thousand eBooks. It's an especially edgy conceit, considering the demographics of the area: predominantly Hispanic, low-income, where 75% of the population lacks Internet access.
http://goodereader.com/blog/digital-library-news/bibliotech-all-digital-library-opens-this-week
Have you ever read a book and preferred its villain to its protagonist? At the Huffington Post, they're addressing the issue head-on, with a list of the nine most sympathetic villains in literature.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/09/sympathetic-villains-books-_n_3881471.html?utm_hp_ref=books
The 3rd Annual Geist Erasure Poetry Contest has been extended to September 30! Information re: entries can be found here:
http://www.geist.com/contests/erasure/erasure/
BOOKS & WRITERS
It's a topic that has always been relevant in Canadian life, and Canadian fiction in particular: the immigrant perspective. Here, in an interview with the New York Times, Jhumpa Lahiri discusses immigrant fiction (albeit within the American context), and why she believes the genre doesn't really exist at all.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/08/books/review/jhumpa-lahiri-by-the-book.html?nl=books&emc=edit_bk_20130906
J.D. Salinger may have stopped publishing ages ago, but his life and writing have always been big news, even after his death. Shane Salerno has spent the last 10 researching the author's life for his upcoming documentary and accompanying book, both called Salinger. You can watch him in discussion with Charlie Rose here, as he talks about the impact J.D. Salinger has had on his life, and so many other lives around the world. It's a long, but highly worthwhile discussion.
http://charlierose.com/watch/60262278
American revolutionaries take on new meaning in Jonathan Lethem's just published Dissident Gardens. The novel takes place in Queens, New York, and spans three generations of a family of political idealists. Communism, hippie utopias and the Occupy Movement all come to the fore, as the book asks: "Is there ever an unselfish revolutionary?"
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/08/books/review/jonathan-lethems-dissident-gardens.html?pagewanted=1&nl=books&emc=edit_bk_20130906
After a 39-year retirement, Hercule Poirot is making a comeback. With the permission of Agatha Christie's family, the bestselling crime novelist Sophie Hannah is writing a new Poirot novel, with the hopes of bringing his exploits to a new generation of readers.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/booknews/10283628/New-Poirot-book-to-be-published-with-permission-of-Agatha-Christies-family.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
THE WOMEN OF OPENING DOORS IN VANCOUVER
Poet Daphne Marlatt and artist Carole Itter recall experiences and memories of the diverse women interviewed in the 1970s for their book. They will be joined by historian James Johnstone. Thursday, September 12 at 7:00pm, free. City of Vancouver Archives, 1150 Chestnut.
EMERGE 2013 FUNDRAISER
A night of incredible talent all in support of this year's emerge anthology that features work by all 36 writers of the Writer's Studio at SFU. Readings by Betsy Warland, Wayde Compton, Jen Currin and a special reading by the emerge publisher, Andrew Chesham, with musical guests Leanne Dunic and Ryan Ogg of Luck Commander. Thursday, September 12. Entrance by donation (suggested $15) so arrive early to ensure entry. Max 75 people. Calabash Bistro, 428 Carrall Street.
TO TIMBUKTU FOR A HAIRCUT
President and CEO of Tourism Vancouver Rick Antonson will regale you with tales of his epic journey by train, boat, four-wheel drive, camel and on foot. Monday, September 16 at 7:00pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
WOULD SOMEONE PLEASE ANSWER THE PARROT
Join Beryl Young to celebrate the launch of her new picture book, a whimsical tale for children aged four to eight is about an outrageous talking parrot and a pair of red-haired twins who cause all kinds of trouble as the parrot wins a permanent place in their home and their hearts. Tuesday, September 17 at 7:00pm. Kidsbooks, 3083 Broadway Avenue. More information at 604-738-5335.
RAWI HAGE
Inaugural reading by VPLs 2013 Writer in Residence, award-winning Canadian author. Tuesday, September 17 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
SPOKEN INK READING SERIES
Features guest reader Daniela Elza with open mic. Tuesday, September 17 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings Street (at Boundary Rd). More information at burnabywritersnews.blogspot.ca.
LUNCH POEMS
Canada's Poet Laureate Fred Wah and Christine Leclerc featured at Sept 18 'Lunch Poems at 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 hosts well-known and up-and-coming poets on the third Wednesday of every month except July and August. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
MIXED VOICES RAISED
In a reading and panel discussion on hybridity, identity and creativity, Canadian poet laureate Fred Wah, author Yasuko Thanh, author David Chariandy and UBC English professor Glenn Deer explore mixed cultural upbringing and its influence on creative work. Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay Room (Vancouver Public Library, 350 W. Georgia). Information at www.hapapalooza.ca.
SMALLPOX AND THE TSILHQOT'IN WAR
Author Tom Swanky shows who, where, when, why and how smallpox featured in the Tsilhqot'in War, a pivotal event in B.C.'s history. Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
CYNTHIA FLOOD
Vancouver-based prize-winning author of three acclaimed short fiction collections and a novel, will be launching her fourth book of stories, Red Girl, Rat Boy. Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00pm, free. Van Dusen/McKay room of the main branch of the Vancouver Public Library.
HAPA-PALOOZA
In a talk on hybridity, identity, and creativity, Canadian poet laureate Fred Wah, author Yasuko Thanh, author David Chariandy, and UBC English prof Glenn Deer explore mixed cultural upbringing and its influence on creative work. Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at 604-331-3603.
BOOK LAUNCH
Poet Bonnie Nish will launch her collection Love and Bones. Friday, September 20 at 7:00pm. St. Mark's Church, 1805 Larch S. Vancouver. For more information, contact blnish_pandoras@yahoo.ca.
ALLY CARTER
Author celebrates the release of the final book in the Gallagher Girls' series, United We Spy. Saturday, September 21 at 2:00pm. Chapters Granville, 2505 Granville Street.
THE MAYAN MYSTERIES
Sharon MacGougan will talk about her novel, The Mayan Mysteries. The real-life ancient mystery of the disappearance of the Mayan people converges with the inner transformation of a fifteen-year-old girl in this adventure story. Wednesday, September 25 at 7:30pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
Upcoming
SURVIVING PROGRESS
Award-winning author Ronald Wright will outline the "progress traps" that threaten our civilization and assess what has changed since his bestselling 2004 Massey Lecture A Short History Of Progress. Thursday, September 26 at 5:00PM, free. Cecil Green Park House, UBC. Part of the Utopia/Dystopia lecture series organized by UBC's Creative Writing Program. Information at www.greencollege.ubc.ca/index/spotlight490.php.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poets Celeste Snowber and Carl Leggo with open mic in collaboration with Word Vancouver. Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
INTO THE ABYSS
Carol Shaben discuses her book Into the Abyss, with special guest former pilot Erik Vogel. Thursday, September 26 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.
ELIZABETH WEIN
Author of Code Name Verity reads from her latest book Rose Under Fire. Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm. West Point Grey United Church Sanctuary, 4595 8th Ave. W. For tickets and information, visit kidsbooks.ca.
MARIE-LOUISE GAY
Author reads from her new book, Read Me a Story, Stella. Monday, September 30 at 7:00pm at Kidsbooks Surrey (15033 32nd Ave., South Surrey). And Tuesday, October 1 at 7:00pm at Kidsbooks Vancouver (3083 West Broadway). Information and tickets available at kidsbooks.ca.
NICHOLAS SPARKS
The bestselling author of blockbuster books and films such as Safe Haven, The Lucky One and The Notebook signs his new novel, The Longest Ride. Wednesday, October 2 at 7:00pm. Chapters Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby. More information at 604-431-0463.
2013 Festival - October 22-27
Tickets for the 2013 Vancouver Writers Fest are on sale now. This year's author lineup includes Margaret Atwood, Joseph Boyden, Tomson Highway, Wayne Johnston, Anne Michaels, Rachel Kushner, Lisa Moore, Paul Muldoon, George Packer, Marisha Pessl and Eric Schlosser. The Festival includes non-fiction events at UBC's Frederic Wood Theatre, a finale event with comedian Colin Mochrie, and a French language event with Michel Tremblay at Radio-Canada's Studio One. Festival program guides are now available at bookstores, cafes and library branches around Vancouver. Complete Festival details including a downloadable PDF of the guide are available online.
Just announced: Norwegian crime fiction star Jo Nesbø (The Snowman, The Leopard) has been added to event 27 (Up All Night).
VWF Writing Contests for Adults and Youth
Submit your finest prose and poetry to the 15th annual Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry & Short Story Contest, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest. The top entries in poetry and fiction will be published in subTerrain magazine and receive cash prizes. New this year is our writing contest for BC students in grades 8-12 which also awards cash prizes, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
SPECIAL EVENTS
The Literati Gala Cabaret
The VWF's fundraising gala on October 21 is hosted by CBC's Gloria Macarenko and features a Literary Cabaret performance with Sal Ferreras and Poetic License, celebrating the Lit Cab's 25th year. Tickets are $175; available at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/literatigala. Corporate tables are also available-call 604 681 6330 ext 104. Literati supports the VWF's Spreading the Word education program.
Jung Chang
The best-selling author of the books Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China and Mao: The Unknown Story talks about her groundbreaking new biography, Empress Dowager Cixi. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jungchang
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, November 21 at 7:30pm
Waterfront Theatre
1412 Cartwright Street, Granville Island
J.B. MacKinnon
The independent journalist and award-winning author of The 100-Mile Diet talks about his new book, The Once and Future World, providing an eye-opening account of nature as it was, as it is and as it could be. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jbmackinnon.
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, October 3 at 7:30pm
Frederic Wood Theatre
6354 Crescent Road, UBC
FESTIVAL AUTHORS
It's not often that authors write books for both children and adults. Cary Fagan is one of the few, and therefore it's perhaps no surprise that his newest novel A Bird's Eye, though intended for adults, is all about the power of magic, and the youthful proclivity to believe in it.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/cary-fagans-a-birds-eye-captures-the-magic-of-youth/article14175084/#dashboard/follows
The Canadian writer Charles Foran discusses Joseph Boyden's new book, The Orenda, within the context of their similar upbringings, growing up in the shadow of the Jesuit martyr, Jean de Brébeuf.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/joseph-boyden-mines-canadas-bloody-past-for-surprising-spirituality/article14169831/#dashboard/follows/
The Norwegian crime writer, Jo Nesbø, has written a new book for his Harry Hole series, in which "Harry finds himself contemplating infidelity, indulging in violent rape fantasies and questioning whether he can regard himself as morally superior to the serial killer he is hunting." A case of a detective gone wrong? You can read an interview with the author here:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/crime-writing-competition/10292186/Jo-Nesbo-Its-good-to-be-slightly-crazy.html
Margaret Atwood is all over the press these days with her new book, MaddAddam. She received high praise in the New York Times: "this finale to Atwood's ingenious trilogy lights a fire from the fears of our age, then douses it with hope for the planet's survival. But that survival may not include us."
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/08/books/review/maddaddam-by-margaret-atwood.html?pagewanted=2&nl=books&emc=edit_bk_20130906
Marisha Pessl's second Novel, Night Film, gets a five star review in The Telegraph. 600 pages long, and filled with typed police reports, newspaper pages, transcripts of phone calls and fanzine message boards, it's not just any old thriller.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/fictionreviews/10273474/Night-Film-by-Marisha-Pessl-review.html
As a part of their fall preview, the Globe and Mail is releasing excerpts of soon to be published books. Here's a sneak peak of Wayne Johnston's The Son of a Certain Woman, to be released on September 17th.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/excerpt-a-sneak-peek-at-wayne-johnstons-the-son-of-a-certain-woman/article13950312/?page=all#dashboard/follows/
Douglas Coupland has always been obsessed with the idiosyncrasies of modern life. He's currently writing regular observations for the Financial Times, and this week's segment focuses on a lexicon for 2013, the new words we need for the present-day.
http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/2/db60613a-15a6-11e3-950a-00144feabdc0.html#axzz2eWHHNVa6
Amanda Lindhout tells the story of her captivity in Somalia to the New York Times Magazine, in an adaptation from her book A House in the Sky.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/01/magazine/lindhout-kidnapping-somalia.html?pagewanted=all
Meanwhile, on the other side of the African Continent, Abdellah Taïa faced whole different challenges growing up as an openly gay man in Morocco. He just made his directorial debut at the Venice Film Festival, with the film Salvation Army. You can read an interview with the transgressive writer and filmmaker here:
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2013/09/theres-a-place-for-gays-in-islam/279400/
Like Abdellah Taïa, Rodney DeCroo is a man of many talents. His show, Alleghany, BC is playing right now at the Vancouver Fringe Festival, and in October, he'll be bringing his poetry and music to our festival as well. You can read an excellent interview and discussion of his work here, in the Georgia Straight:
http://www.straight.com/music/419846/rodney-decroos-making-sense-everything
AWARDS & LISTS
The shortlist for the Man Booker Prize has been announced, with one of the most diverse selections ever. Spanning five continents, the chosen books include Writers Fest author Eleanor Catton's The Luminaries, and British Columbian Ruth Ozeki's A Tale for the Time Being.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/booker-prize/10299355/Man-Booker-Prize-2013-most-diverse-shortlist-spans-five-continents.html
The longlist for the Samuel Johnson Prize, the UK's most prestigious non-fiction award, has been announced. With a heavy focus on biography and history, this year's list includes The War That Ended Peace, by Canadian author Margaret Macmillan.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2013/sep/06/samuel-johnson-prize-nonfiction-longlist-announced
Michel Noël, who has participated in past Festivals, is shortlisted for the Prix TD 2013 de litterature canadienne pour l'enfance et la jeunesse for À la recherche du bout du monde.
http://www.bookcentre.ca/news/finalists_ccbc_awards_2013
YOUNG READERS
It may seem like a cliché for celebrities to release books, but in the case of Jim Carrey, the beloved Canadian comedic icon, we might have to make an exception. He has just written his first book, which is not a celebrity tell-all, but rather, a children's story, dedicated to his grandson. How Roland Rolls, to be published on September 24th, is the story of a wave named Roland "who realizes that he is part of the ocean and not simply a wave that's separate from it".
http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-book-news/article/58987-jim-carrey-rolls-out-his-first-children-s-book.html
NEWS & FEATURES
How important is clothing in literature? This question was piqued by a conversation with Margaret Atwood at the Guardian Book Club two weeks ago. Now, they want to examine the question within a broader context. Would Jane Austen's Mrs. Bennet, for example "be quite as prone to the vapours were it not for the effect of make-do-and-mend Regency corsetry on her increasingly matronly physique?"
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2013/sep/09/clothing-in-literature-margaret-atwood
And in case you missed that Margaret Atwood discussion, you can listen to it in Podcast form here:
http://www.theguardian.com/books/audio/2013/aug/30/margaret-atwood-blind-assassin-podcast
It may seem like blasphemy to some, but a revolutionary all-digital library is opening this week in San Antonio, Texas. Called the BiblioTech library, it will have six hundred e-readers available on loan, along with over ten thousand eBooks. It's an especially edgy conceit, considering the demographics of the area: predominantly Hispanic, low-income, where 75% of the population lacks Internet access.
http://goodereader.com/blog/digital-library-news/bibliotech-all-digital-library-opens-this-week
Have you ever read a book and preferred its villain to its protagonist? At the Huffington Post, they're addressing the issue head-on, with a list of the nine most sympathetic villains in literature.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/09/09/sympathetic-villains-books-_n_3881471.html?utm_hp_ref=books
The 3rd Annual Geist Erasure Poetry Contest has been extended to September 30! Information re: entries can be found here:
http://www.geist.com/contests/erasure/erasure/
BOOKS & WRITERS
It's a topic that has always been relevant in Canadian life, and Canadian fiction in particular: the immigrant perspective. Here, in an interview with the New York Times, Jhumpa Lahiri discusses immigrant fiction (albeit within the American context), and why she believes the genre doesn't really exist at all.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/08/books/review/jhumpa-lahiri-by-the-book.html?nl=books&emc=edit_bk_20130906
J.D. Salinger may have stopped publishing ages ago, but his life and writing have always been big news, even after his death. Shane Salerno has spent the last 10 researching the author's life for his upcoming documentary and accompanying book, both called Salinger. You can watch him in discussion with Charlie Rose here, as he talks about the impact J.D. Salinger has had on his life, and so many other lives around the world. It's a long, but highly worthwhile discussion.
http://charlierose.com/watch/60262278
American revolutionaries take on new meaning in Jonathan Lethem's just published Dissident Gardens. The novel takes place in Queens, New York, and spans three generations of a family of political idealists. Communism, hippie utopias and the Occupy Movement all come to the fore, as the book asks: "Is there ever an unselfish revolutionary?"
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/08/books/review/jonathan-lethems-dissident-gardens.html?pagewanted=1&nl=books&emc=edit_bk_20130906
After a 39-year retirement, Hercule Poirot is making a comeback. With the permission of Agatha Christie's family, the bestselling crime novelist Sophie Hannah is writing a new Poirot novel, with the hopes of bringing his exploits to a new generation of readers.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/booknews/10283628/New-Poirot-book-to-be-published-with-permission-of-Agatha-Christies-family.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
THE WOMEN OF OPENING DOORS IN VANCOUVER
Poet Daphne Marlatt and artist Carole Itter recall experiences and memories of the diverse women interviewed in the 1970s for their book. They will be joined by historian James Johnstone. Thursday, September 12 at 7:00pm, free. City of Vancouver Archives, 1150 Chestnut.
EMERGE 2013 FUNDRAISER
A night of incredible talent all in support of this year's emerge anthology that features work by all 36 writers of the Writer's Studio at SFU. Readings by Betsy Warland, Wayde Compton, Jen Currin and a special reading by the emerge publisher, Andrew Chesham, with musical guests Leanne Dunic and Ryan Ogg of Luck Commander. Thursday, September 12. Entrance by donation (suggested $15) so arrive early to ensure entry. Max 75 people. Calabash Bistro, 428 Carrall Street.
TO TIMBUKTU FOR A HAIRCUT
President and CEO of Tourism Vancouver Rick Antonson will regale you with tales of his epic journey by train, boat, four-wheel drive, camel and on foot. Monday, September 16 at 7:00pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
WOULD SOMEONE PLEASE ANSWER THE PARROT
Join Beryl Young to celebrate the launch of her new picture book, a whimsical tale for children aged four to eight is about an outrageous talking parrot and a pair of red-haired twins who cause all kinds of trouble as the parrot wins a permanent place in their home and their hearts. Tuesday, September 17 at 7:00pm. Kidsbooks, 3083 Broadway Avenue. More information at 604-738-5335.
RAWI HAGE
Inaugural reading by VPLs 2013 Writer in Residence, award-winning Canadian author. Tuesday, September 17 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
SPOKEN INK READING SERIES
Features guest reader Daniela Elza with open mic. Tuesday, September 17 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings Street (at Boundary Rd). More information at burnabywritersnews.blogspot.ca.
LUNCH POEMS
Canada's Poet Laureate Fred Wah and Christine Leclerc featured at Sept 18 'Lunch Poems at 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 hosts well-known and up-and-coming poets on the third Wednesday of every month except July and August. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
MIXED VOICES RAISED
In a reading and panel discussion on hybridity, identity and creativity, Canadian poet laureate Fred Wah, author Yasuko Thanh, author David Chariandy and UBC English professor Glenn Deer explore mixed cultural upbringing and its influence on creative work. Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay Room (Vancouver Public Library, 350 W. Georgia). Information at www.hapapalooza.ca.
SMALLPOX AND THE TSILHQOT'IN WAR
Author Tom Swanky shows who, where, when, why and how smallpox featured in the Tsilhqot'in War, a pivotal event in B.C.'s history. Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
CYNTHIA FLOOD
Vancouver-based prize-winning author of three acclaimed short fiction collections and a novel, will be launching her fourth book of stories, Red Girl, Rat Boy. Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00pm, free. Van Dusen/McKay room of the main branch of the Vancouver Public Library.
HAPA-PALOOZA
In a talk on hybridity, identity, and creativity, Canadian poet laureate Fred Wah, author Yasuko Thanh, author David Chariandy, and UBC English prof Glenn Deer explore mixed cultural upbringing and its influence on creative work. Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at 604-331-3603.
BOOK LAUNCH
Poet Bonnie Nish will launch her collection Love and Bones. Friday, September 20 at 7:00pm. St. Mark's Church, 1805 Larch S. Vancouver. For more information, contact blnish_pandoras@yahoo.ca.
ALLY CARTER
Author celebrates the release of the final book in the Gallagher Girls' series, United We Spy. Saturday, September 21 at 2:00pm. Chapters Granville, 2505 Granville Street.
THE MAYAN MYSTERIES
Sharon MacGougan will talk about her novel, The Mayan Mysteries. The real-life ancient mystery of the disappearance of the Mayan people converges with the inner transformation of a fifteen-year-old girl in this adventure story. Wednesday, September 25 at 7:30pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
Upcoming
SURVIVING PROGRESS
Award-winning author Ronald Wright will outline the "progress traps" that threaten our civilization and assess what has changed since his bestselling 2004 Massey Lecture A Short History Of Progress. Thursday, September 26 at 5:00PM, free. Cecil Green Park House, UBC. Part of the Utopia/Dystopia lecture series organized by UBC's Creative Writing Program. Information at www.greencollege.ubc.ca/index/spotlight490.php.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poets Celeste Snowber and Carl Leggo with open mic in collaboration with Word Vancouver. Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
INTO THE ABYSS
Carol Shaben discuses her book Into the Abyss, with special guest former pilot Erik Vogel. Thursday, September 26 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.
ELIZABETH WEIN
Author of Code Name Verity reads from her latest book Rose Under Fire. Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm. West Point Grey United Church Sanctuary, 4595 8th Ave. W. For tickets and information, visit kidsbooks.ca.
MARIE-LOUISE GAY
Author reads from her new book, Read Me a Story, Stella. Monday, September 30 at 7:00pm at Kidsbooks Surrey (15033 32nd Ave., South Surrey). And Tuesday, October 1 at 7:00pm at Kidsbooks Vancouver (3083 West Broadway). Information and tickets available at kidsbooks.ca.
NICHOLAS SPARKS
The bestselling author of blockbuster books and films such as Safe Haven, The Lucky One and The Notebook signs his new novel, The Longest Ride. Wednesday, October 2 at 7:00pm. Chapters Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby. More information at 604-431-0463.
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Book News Vol. 8 No. 30
BOOK NEWS
2013 Festival - October 22-27
The 2013 Vancouver Writers Fest events go on sale Sept 9. This year's author lineup includes Margaret Atwood, Joseph Boyden, Tomson Highway, Wayne Johnston, Anne Michaels, Rachel Kushner, Lisa Moore, Paul Muldoon, George
Packer, Marisha Pessl and Eric Schlosser. Festival program guides are now available at bookstores, cafes and library branches around Vancouver. Complete Festival details including a downloadable PDF of the guide are
available online.
VWF Writing Contests for Adults and Youth
Submit your finest prose and poetry to the 15th annual Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry & Short Story Contest, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest. The top entries in poetry and fiction will be published in subTerrain magazine and receive cash prizes. New this year is our writing contest for BC students in grades 8-12 which also awards cash prizes, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Just Announced! - Jung Chang
The best-selling author of the books Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China and Mao: The Unknown Story talks about her groundbreaking new biography, Empress Dowager Cixi. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jungchang
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, November 21 at 7:30pm
Waterfront Theatre
1412 Cartwright Street, Granville Island
J.B. MacKinnon
The independent journalist and award-winning author of The 100-Mile Diet talks about his new book, The Once and Future World, providing an eye-opening account of nature as it was, as it is and as it could be. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jbmackinnon.
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, October 3 at 7:30pm
Frederic Wood Theatre
6354 Crescent Road, UBC
David Sedaris
The renowned NPR humorist comes to Vancouver's Chan Centre for an evening of cutting wit, social satire, riveting conversation and post-event book signing with his recent New York Times' bestseller release Let's Explore Diabetes with Owls. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/davidsedaris.
SPECIAL WRITERS FEST OFFER! Use the code "VWF" to get $5 off your ticket.
Tuesday, November 12 at 7:30pm
Chan Centre for the Performing Arts
6265 Crescent Road, UBC
FESTIVAL AUTHORS
Eleanor Catton is only 28 years old, and she's just published her second novel, The Luminaries. A favourite for the Booker Prize, it mines the world of Victorian New Zealand, run amok with prospectors, opium traffickers, and immigrants from the north trying make sense of the southern sky, and a world turned on its head.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/bookreviews/10260118/The-Luminaries-by-Eleanor-Catton-review.html
There are only seven days to go before the release of Joseph Boyden's highly anticipated new book, The Orenda. The Globe and Mail has published a sneak preview excerpt here:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/excerpt-a-sneak-preview-of-joseph-boydens-the-orenda/article14041768/?page=all#dashboard/follows/
Douglas Glover is interviewed about his forthcoming collection of stories, Savage Love. "It's a gorgeously vivid, inventive, and occasionally brutal collection, steeped in blood, familial affection, and North American history. If you're a fan of short fiction, it's not one to ignore."
http://www.wholebeastrag.org/douglas-glover/
Margaret Atwood's MaddAddam, the thrilling conclusion to her speculative fiction trilogy, has finally been released. Set in the future, it tells the story of a genetically engineered plague that wipes out most of humanity, a fact which, according to Jeet Heer of the National Post, doesn't prevent it from being "unexpectedly and frequently an exhilarating and hilarious novel."
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2013/08/30/book-review-maddaddam-by-margaret-atwood/
You can also read what Margaret Atwood has to say for herself in New York Magazine, especially when it comes to the word "sci-fi".
http://nymag.com/guides/fallpreview/2013/margaret-atwood-maddaddam-2013-9/
One of this year's festival's most harrowing tales is not fiction at all. It's the true-life story of Amanda Lindhout and her fifteen months of captivity in war-torn Somalia, as told in her memoir, A House in the Sky.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/after-15-months-captivity-in-somalia-a-story-of-resilience/article14042160
Robert J. Wiersema calls Michael Winter's new novel Minister Without Portfolio a "masterful examination of the very marrow of life."
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2013/08/30/book-review-minister-without-portfolio-by-michael-winter/
AWARDS & LISTS
Canadian-born British writer and psychologist Cordelia Fine has been shortlisted for the Warwick Prize. Her competition includes Robert Macfarlane, current chair of judges for this year's Man Booker Prize. Fine's book, Delusions of Gender, was written with the purpose to debunk myths of male and female hardwiring.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/2013/08/30/torontoborn_psychologist_cordelia_fine_shortlisted_for_lucrative_warwick_prize_for_delusions_of_gender.html
Saskatchewan author Guy Vanderhaeghe will be presented with the 2013 Lieutenant Governor's Arts Award for Lifetime Achievement.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatchewan/story/2013/09/04/sk-artist-award.html
YOUNG READERS
The Owl and The Pussycat is a children's poetry classic. Now, 142 years after its publication, the British author Julia Donaldson has written a sequel, called The Further Adventures of the Owl and the Pussy-cat. In this piece, she describes how Edward Lear's poems influenced her childhood, and why she decided to pay homage.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/booknews/10257895/Julia-Donaldson-on-how-Edward-Lears-poems-influenced-her.html
NEWS & FEATURES
Seamus Heaney, the great Irish poet, died on August 30th. The tributes have been pouring in, including this one, by the Scottish writer Andrew O'Hagan. He details the travels that he and Heaney took together, traipsing all over Britain and Ireland, making small pilgrimages to the graves and landscapes of the poets who came before.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2013/sep/02/seamus-heaney-my-travels-with-poet
And for those who missed CBC radio's rebroadcast of Eleanor Wachtel's Writers and Company interview with Seamus Heaney in 2010, there's still a chance to listen to it online.
http://www.cbc.ca/writersandcompany/2013/09/01/seamus-heaney/index.html
It's rare that libraries are associated with the word "Bling", but when it comes to Birmingham's new Central Library, it's unavoidable. In keeping with trends in the city, the architects set out to design a building that reflected Birmingham's industrial past as a centre of jewelry-making.
http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/video/2013/aug/29/new-birmingham-library-centenary-square-video-tour
When J.K. Rowling was unmasked this summer as the author of The Cuckoo's Calling, many questions arose about the psychology of book reviews and sales. The New York Times takes up that issue in this piece, discussing why the odds are so long for newly published authors.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/31/business/cuckoos-calling-reveals-long-odds-for-new-authors.html?ref=books
There have been many casualties during the latest violence in Egypt. Who knew a bookstore was one of them?
http://www.dw.de/the-dangerous-job-of-selling-books-in-cairo/a-17053566
And what about Canadian bookstores? In his final column about rediscovering Canadian literature in Paris, Craig Taylor asks "Why is it easier to run a Canadian bookstore in Paris than in Canada?"
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/why-is-it-easier-to-run-a-canadian-bookstore-in-paris-than-in-canada/article14042318/
Meanwhile, at the Paris Review, a writer reflects on the importance of keeping a notebook in the digital age.
Part 1: http://www.theparisreview.org/blog/2013/08/28/on-keeping-a-notebook-part-one/
Part 2: http://www.theparisreview.org/blog/page/3/
It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife...or perhaps a deck of Jane Austen tarot cards?
http://flavorwire.com/412008/jane-austen-tarot-cards-for-a-woman-in-want-of-a-card-deck
The 3rd Annual Geist Erasure Poetry Contest has been extended to September 30! Information re: entries can be found here:
http://www.geist.com/contests/erasure/erasure/
BOOKS & WRITERS
In 1972, Daniel Woodrell (who just published his second book, The Maid's Version,) traded two tacos in Tijuana for an Ernest Hemingway novel. After reading it, he was determined to be a writer. Here's the story of the moment that changed his life.
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2013/09/two-tacos-for-i-a-moveable-feast-i-a-writers-life-changing-barter-in-tijuana/279273/
Thomas Pynchon's new novel, Bleeding Edge, comes out in two weeks. Penguin has called it ""a historical romance of New York in the early days of the internet". You can check out the first page here:
http://www.slate.com/blogs/browbeat/2013/04/22/thomas_pynchon_bleeding_edge_first_page_novel_about_new_york_in_2001_is.html
Andrea Barrett has released a new short story collection, Archangel. "Her stories work as both fiction and as philosophy of science. And she need do no grandstanding to advance her belief in unstoppable progress. But this book does offer a powerfully human sense of the struggle it takes for new ideas to dislodge old ones."
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/03/books/archangel-by-andrea-barrett.html?ref=books
It may be ensconced in ice for much of the year, but Copenhagen is very hot these days. Danish crime shows are taking over television sets...but what about fiction? This week's New Yorker features a story by Dorthe Nors, set in the Frederiksberg Gardens, in the Danish capital. The author discusses why here:
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2013/09/this-week-in-fiction-dorthe-nors.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
The Dead Poets Reading Series will continue on Sunday 8th September from 3 to 5 pm. at Project Space, 222 East Georgia (in Chinatown, between Main and Gore) It will feature poetry by John Berryman, read by Kevin Spenst, Anne Hebert, (Thuong Vuong-Riddick) Malcolom Lowry (Steven Brown), William Matthews (Rhea Tregebov) and Thomas Merton (Sheila Rosen). Admission is by donation. For more information please visit www.deadpoetslive.com.
CARMEN RODRIGUEZ AND CARMEN AGUIRRE
In commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the military coup in Chile, the mother and daughter read from their books and discuss past and current events in Chile. Wednesday, September 11 at 6:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features Stephen Collis and David King with open mic. Wednesday, September 11 at 7:00pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
THE WOMEN OF OPENING DOORS IN VANCOUVER
Poet Daphne Marlatt and artist Carole Itter recall experiences and memories of the diverse women interviewed in the 1970s for their book. They will be joined by historian James Johnstone. Thursday, September 12 at 7:00pm, free. City of Vancouver Archives, 1150 Chestnut.
EMERGE 2013 FUNDRAISER
A night of incredible talent all in support of this year's emerge anthology that features work by all 36 writers of the Writer's Studio at SFU. Readings by Betsy Warland, Wayde Compton, Jen Currin and a special reading by the emerge publisher, Andrew Chesham, with musical guests Leanne Dunic and Ryan Ogg of Luck Commander. Thursday, September 12. Entrance by donation (suggested $15) so arrive early to ensure entry. Max 75 people. Calabash Bistro, 428 Carrall Street.
TO TIMBUKTU FOR A HAIRCUT
President and CEO of Tourism Vancouver Rick Antonson will regale you with tales of his epic journey by train, boat, four-wheel drive, camel and on foot. Monday, September 16 at 7:00pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
RAWI HAGE
Inaugural reading by VPLs 2013 Writer in Residence, award-winning Canadian author. Tuesday, September 17 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
SPOKEN INK READING SERIES
Features guest reader Daniela Elza with open mic. Tuesday, September 17 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings Street (at Boundary Rd). More information at burnabywritersnews.blogspot.ca.
Upcoming
LUNCH POEMS
Canada’s Poet Laureate Fred Wah and Christine Leclerc featured at Sept 18 'Lunch Poems at 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 hosts well-known and up-and-coming poets on the third Wednesday of every month except July and August. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
SMALLPOX AND THE TSILHQOT'IN WAR
Author Tom Swanky shows who, where, when, why and how smallpox featured in the Tsilhqot'in War, a pivotal event in B.C.'s history. Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
HAPA-PALOOZA
In a talk on hybridity, identity, and creativity, Canadian poet laureate Fred Wah, author Yasuko Thanh, author David Chariandy, and UBC English prof Glenn Deer explore mixed cultural upbringing and its influence on creative work. Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at 604-331-3603.
BOOK LAUNCH
Poet Bonnie Nish will launch her collection Love and Bones. Friday, September 20 at 7:00pm. St. Mark's Church, 1805 Larch S. Vancouver. For more information, contact blnish_pandoras@yahoo.ca.
ALLY CARTER
Author celebrates the release of the final book in the Gallagher Girls' series, United We Spy. Saturday, September 21 at 2:00pm. Chapters Granville, 2505 Granville Street.
THE MAYAN MYSTERIES
Sharon MacGougan will talk about her novel, The Mayan Mysteries. The real-life ancient mystery of the disappearance of the Mayan people converges with the inner transformation of a fifteen-year-old girl in this adventure story. Wednesday, September 25 at 7:30pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poets Celeste Snowber and Carl Leggo with open mic in collaboration with Word Vancouver. Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
INTO THE ABYSS
Carol Shaben discuses her book Into the Abyss, with special guest former pilot Erik Vogel. Thursday, September 26 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.
2013 Festival - October 22-27
The 2013 Vancouver Writers Fest events go on sale Sept 9. This year's author lineup includes Margaret Atwood, Joseph Boyden, Tomson Highway, Wayne Johnston, Anne Michaels, Rachel Kushner, Lisa Moore, Paul Muldoon, George
Packer, Marisha Pessl and Eric Schlosser. Festival program guides are now available at bookstores, cafes and library branches around Vancouver. Complete Festival details including a downloadable PDF of the guide are
available online.
VWF Writing Contests for Adults and Youth
Submit your finest prose and poetry to the 15th annual Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry & Short Story Contest, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest. The top entries in poetry and fiction will be published in subTerrain magazine and receive cash prizes. New this year is our writing contest for BC students in grades 8-12 which also awards cash prizes, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Just Announced! - Jung Chang
The best-selling author of the books Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China and Mao: The Unknown Story talks about her groundbreaking new biography, Empress Dowager Cixi. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jungchang
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, November 21 at 7:30pm
Waterfront Theatre
1412 Cartwright Street, Granville Island
J.B. MacKinnon
The independent journalist and award-winning author of The 100-Mile Diet talks about his new book, The Once and Future World, providing an eye-opening account of nature as it was, as it is and as it could be. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/jbmackinnon.
SPECIAL FOR BOOK CLUBS! $16 per person, minimum of 5 people, book by phone only at 604-629-8849.
Thursday, October 3 at 7:30pm
Frederic Wood Theatre
6354 Crescent Road, UBC
David Sedaris
The renowned NPR humorist comes to Vancouver's Chan Centre for an evening of cutting wit, social satire, riveting conversation and post-event book signing with his recent New York Times' bestseller release Let's Explore Diabetes with Owls. Event details: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/davidsedaris.
SPECIAL WRITERS FEST OFFER! Use the code "VWF" to get $5 off your ticket.
Tuesday, November 12 at 7:30pm
Chan Centre for the Performing Arts
6265 Crescent Road, UBC
FESTIVAL AUTHORS
Eleanor Catton is only 28 years old, and she's just published her second novel, The Luminaries. A favourite for the Booker Prize, it mines the world of Victorian New Zealand, run amok with prospectors, opium traffickers, and immigrants from the north trying make sense of the southern sky, and a world turned on its head.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/bookreviews/10260118/The-Luminaries-by-Eleanor-Catton-review.html
There are only seven days to go before the release of Joseph Boyden's highly anticipated new book, The Orenda. The Globe and Mail has published a sneak preview excerpt here:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/excerpt-a-sneak-preview-of-joseph-boydens-the-orenda/article14041768/?page=all#dashboard/follows/
Douglas Glover is interviewed about his forthcoming collection of stories, Savage Love. "It's a gorgeously vivid, inventive, and occasionally brutal collection, steeped in blood, familial affection, and North American history. If you're a fan of short fiction, it's not one to ignore."
http://www.wholebeastrag.org/douglas-glover/
Margaret Atwood's MaddAddam, the thrilling conclusion to her speculative fiction trilogy, has finally been released. Set in the future, it tells the story of a genetically engineered plague that wipes out most of humanity, a fact which, according to Jeet Heer of the National Post, doesn't prevent it from being "unexpectedly and frequently an exhilarating and hilarious novel."
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2013/08/30/book-review-maddaddam-by-margaret-atwood/
You can also read what Margaret Atwood has to say for herself in New York Magazine, especially when it comes to the word "sci-fi".
http://nymag.com/guides/fallpreview/2013/margaret-atwood-maddaddam-2013-9/
One of this year's festival's most harrowing tales is not fiction at all. It's the true-life story of Amanda Lindhout and her fifteen months of captivity in war-torn Somalia, as told in her memoir, A House in the Sky.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/after-15-months-captivity-in-somalia-a-story-of-resilience/article14042160
Robert J. Wiersema calls Michael Winter's new novel Minister Without Portfolio a "masterful examination of the very marrow of life."
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2013/08/30/book-review-minister-without-portfolio-by-michael-winter/
AWARDS & LISTS
Canadian-born British writer and psychologist Cordelia Fine has been shortlisted for the Warwick Prize. Her competition includes Robert Macfarlane, current chair of judges for this year's Man Booker Prize. Fine's book, Delusions of Gender, was written with the purpose to debunk myths of male and female hardwiring.
http://www.thestar.com/entertainment/books/2013/08/30/torontoborn_psychologist_cordelia_fine_shortlisted_for_lucrative_warwick_prize_for_delusions_of_gender.html
Saskatchewan author Guy Vanderhaeghe will be presented with the 2013 Lieutenant Governor's Arts Award for Lifetime Achievement.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatchewan/story/2013/09/04/sk-artist-award.html
YOUNG READERS
The Owl and The Pussycat is a children's poetry classic. Now, 142 years after its publication, the British author Julia Donaldson has written a sequel, called The Further Adventures of the Owl and the Pussy-cat. In this piece, she describes how Edward Lear's poems influenced her childhood, and why she decided to pay homage.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/booknews/10257895/Julia-Donaldson-on-how-Edward-Lears-poems-influenced-her.html
NEWS & FEATURES
Seamus Heaney, the great Irish poet, died on August 30th. The tributes have been pouring in, including this one, by the Scottish writer Andrew O'Hagan. He details the travels that he and Heaney took together, traipsing all over Britain and Ireland, making small pilgrimages to the graves and landscapes of the poets who came before.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2013/sep/02/seamus-heaney-my-travels-with-poet
And for those who missed CBC radio's rebroadcast of Eleanor Wachtel's Writers and Company interview with Seamus Heaney in 2010, there's still a chance to listen to it online.
http://www.cbc.ca/writersandcompany/2013/09/01/seamus-heaney/index.html
It's rare that libraries are associated with the word "Bling", but when it comes to Birmingham's new Central Library, it's unavoidable. In keeping with trends in the city, the architects set out to design a building that reflected Birmingham's industrial past as a centre of jewelry-making.
http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/video/2013/aug/29/new-birmingham-library-centenary-square-video-tour
When J.K. Rowling was unmasked this summer as the author of The Cuckoo's Calling, many questions arose about the psychology of book reviews and sales. The New York Times takes up that issue in this piece, discussing why the odds are so long for newly published authors.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/31/business/cuckoos-calling-reveals-long-odds-for-new-authors.html?ref=books
There have been many casualties during the latest violence in Egypt. Who knew a bookstore was one of them?
http://www.dw.de/the-dangerous-job-of-selling-books-in-cairo/a-17053566
And what about Canadian bookstores? In his final column about rediscovering Canadian literature in Paris, Craig Taylor asks "Why is it easier to run a Canadian bookstore in Paris than in Canada?"
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/why-is-it-easier-to-run-a-canadian-bookstore-in-paris-than-in-canada/article14042318/
Meanwhile, at the Paris Review, a writer reflects on the importance of keeping a notebook in the digital age.
Part 1: http://www.theparisreview.org/blog/2013/08/28/on-keeping-a-notebook-part-one/
Part 2: http://www.theparisreview.org/blog/page/3/
It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife...or perhaps a deck of Jane Austen tarot cards?
http://flavorwire.com/412008/jane-austen-tarot-cards-for-a-woman-in-want-of-a-card-deck
The 3rd Annual Geist Erasure Poetry Contest has been extended to September 30! Information re: entries can be found here:
http://www.geist.com/contests/erasure/erasure/
BOOKS & WRITERS
In 1972, Daniel Woodrell (who just published his second book, The Maid's Version,) traded two tacos in Tijuana for an Ernest Hemingway novel. After reading it, he was determined to be a writer. Here's the story of the moment that changed his life.
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2013/09/two-tacos-for-i-a-moveable-feast-i-a-writers-life-changing-barter-in-tijuana/279273/
Thomas Pynchon's new novel, Bleeding Edge, comes out in two weeks. Penguin has called it ""a historical romance of New York in the early days of the internet". You can check out the first page here:
http://www.slate.com/blogs/browbeat/2013/04/22/thomas_pynchon_bleeding_edge_first_page_novel_about_new_york_in_2001_is.html
Andrea Barrett has released a new short story collection, Archangel. "Her stories work as both fiction and as philosophy of science. And she need do no grandstanding to advance her belief in unstoppable progress. But this book does offer a powerfully human sense of the struggle it takes for new ideas to dislodge old ones."
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/03/books/archangel-by-andrea-barrett.html?ref=books
It may be ensconced in ice for much of the year, but Copenhagen is very hot these days. Danish crime shows are taking over television sets...but what about fiction? This week's New Yorker features a story by Dorthe Nors, set in the Frederiksberg Gardens, in the Danish capital. The author discusses why here:
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2013/09/this-week-in-fiction-dorthe-nors.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
The Dead Poets Reading Series will continue on Sunday 8th September from 3 to 5 pm. at Project Space, 222 East Georgia (in Chinatown, between Main and Gore) It will feature poetry by John Berryman, read by Kevin Spenst, Anne Hebert, (Thuong Vuong-Riddick) Malcolom Lowry (Steven Brown), William Matthews (Rhea Tregebov) and Thomas Merton (Sheila Rosen). Admission is by donation. For more information please visit www.deadpoetslive.com.
CARMEN RODRIGUEZ AND CARMEN AGUIRRE
In commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the military coup in Chile, the mother and daughter read from their books and discuss past and current events in Chile. Wednesday, September 11 at 6:30pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features Stephen Collis and David King with open mic. Wednesday, September 11 at 7:00pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
THE WOMEN OF OPENING DOORS IN VANCOUVER
Poet Daphne Marlatt and artist Carole Itter recall experiences and memories of the diverse women interviewed in the 1970s for their book. They will be joined by historian James Johnstone. Thursday, September 12 at 7:00pm, free. City of Vancouver Archives, 1150 Chestnut.
EMERGE 2013 FUNDRAISER
A night of incredible talent all in support of this year's emerge anthology that features work by all 36 writers of the Writer's Studio at SFU. Readings by Betsy Warland, Wayde Compton, Jen Currin and a special reading by the emerge publisher, Andrew Chesham, with musical guests Leanne Dunic and Ryan Ogg of Luck Commander. Thursday, September 12. Entrance by donation (suggested $15) so arrive early to ensure entry. Max 75 people. Calabash Bistro, 428 Carrall Street.
TO TIMBUKTU FOR A HAIRCUT
President and CEO of Tourism Vancouver Rick Antonson will regale you with tales of his epic journey by train, boat, four-wheel drive, camel and on foot. Monday, September 16 at 7:00pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
RAWI HAGE
Inaugural reading by VPLs 2013 Writer in Residence, award-winning Canadian author. Tuesday, September 17 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
SPOKEN INK READING SERIES
Features guest reader Daniela Elza with open mic. Tuesday, September 17 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings Street (at Boundary Rd). More information at burnabywritersnews.blogspot.ca.
Upcoming
LUNCH POEMS
Canada’s Poet Laureate Fred Wah and Christine Leclerc featured at Sept 18 'Lunch Poems at 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 hosts well-known and up-and-coming poets on the third Wednesday of every month except July and August. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
SMALLPOX AND THE TSILHQOT'IN WAR
Author Tom Swanky shows who, where, when, why and how smallpox featured in the Tsilhqot'in War, a pivotal event in B.C.'s history. Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
HAPA-PALOOZA
In a talk on hybridity, identity, and creativity, Canadian poet laureate Fred Wah, author Yasuko Thanh, author David Chariandy, and UBC English prof Glenn Deer explore mixed cultural upbringing and its influence on creative work. Wednesday, September 18 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at 604-331-3603.
BOOK LAUNCH
Poet Bonnie Nish will launch her collection Love and Bones. Friday, September 20 at 7:00pm. St. Mark's Church, 1805 Larch S. Vancouver. For more information, contact blnish_pandoras@yahoo.ca.
ALLY CARTER
Author celebrates the release of the final book in the Gallagher Girls' series, United We Spy. Saturday, September 21 at 2:00pm. Chapters Granville, 2505 Granville Street.
THE MAYAN MYSTERIES
Sharon MacGougan will talk about her novel, The Mayan Mysteries. The real-life ancient mystery of the disappearance of the Mayan people converges with the inner transformation of a fifteen-year-old girl in this adventure story. Wednesday, September 25 at 7:30pm. West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. More information at 604-925-7403.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poets Celeste Snowber and Carl Leggo with open mic in collaboration with Word Vancouver. Thursday, September 26 at 7:00pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
INTO THE ABYSS
Carol Shaben discuses her book Into the Abyss, with special guest former pilot Erik Vogel. Thursday, September 26 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.
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