BOOK NEWS
Miriam Toews Podcast
Miriam Toews's appearance at the 2014 Festival was a highlight and received rave reviews. Listen to a recording of her sold out solo event here, https://www.writersfest.bc.ca/audio-archives/intimate-evening-miriam-toews.
Holiday Giving
Looking for a special gift for the book-lovers on your list? Look no further! The VWF has gift ideas to bring joy to readers of all persuasions, from gift certificates to memberships.
http://writersfest.bc.ca/get-involved/perfect-gifts-book-lovers
Festivals Around Town
PuSh Festival January 20-February 8
PuSh presents groundbreaking work in the live performing arts, featuring artists from around the world. Local theatre innovators Alex Lazaridis Ferguson and Steven Hill have formed a new company, Fight with a Stick, which makes its debut at PuSh with Steppenwolf. Inspired by Herman Hesse's 1927 novel of self-reflection and transformation, Steppenwolf has been specially staged for the Russian Hall. The audience is seated before a bank of mirrors: somewhere within the reflection, a story begins.
Steppenwolf
February 4–8
Russian Hall
Tickets/info: http://pushfestival.ca/shows/steppenwolf/
AWARDS & LISTS
The nominations for this year's Folio Prize are in. The prize is given to an English-language book of fiction published in the UK, though the authors can be from any country. Among the 80 chosen are David Mitchell's The Bone Clocks and The Zone of Interest by Martin Amis.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/15/folio-prize-2015-80-titles
YOUNG READERS
Are your teenagers looking for something to read in the New Year? Here are the 13 most anticipated YA novels of 2015.
http://www.bustle.com/articles/52695-13-of-the-most-anticipated-ya-novels-of-2015-aka-what-you-need-to-be-reading
NEWS & FEATURES
Should writers respond to their critics? According to James Parker, "No, no, a thousand times no."
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/12/21/books/review/should-writers-respond-to-their-critics.html?_r=0
The book business has a "diversity problem." How do we address this? Here are six ways to improve diversity in book publishing.
http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/industry-news/awards-and-prizes/article/65043-got-diversity-six-hacks-that-address-book-industry-diversity-21st-century-style.html
"Culture" is Mirriam-Webster's word of the year. "Merriam-Webster based its pick and nine runners-up on significant increases in lookups this year over last on Merriam-Webster.com, along with notable, often culture-driven—if you will—spikes of concentrated interest."
http://news.yahoo.com/merriam-webster-names-culture-word-082532788.html
"One cannot have too large a party." That's just one of many quotes "to live life by" assembled by The Guardian for Jane Austen Day.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2014/dec/16/jane-austen-in-quotes-30-tips-for-a-successful-life
"You'd think teenagers would shun traditional print books for e-readers. But the latest survey says that's not true." As it turns out, teens prefer the printed page to ebooks.
http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/2014/dec/16/teens-ebooks-ereaders-survey
CBC is set to adapt Ian Hamilton's Ava Lee series. Hamilton, who appeared at this year's Writers Fest, based the series on his experience as a businessman in Asia.
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2014/12/cbc-to-adapt-ian-hamiltons-ava-lee-mystery-series.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
Are you looking for last minute gift ideas? Here's the CBC's roundup of "our favourite Canadian books of the year."
http://www.cbc.ca/books/bestbooks2014/index.html
There are also many great books this year that haven't been as publicized in the press. Here are "27 great books you never heard about—but should've."
http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/books/2014/12/underrated_books_overlooked_fiction_nonfiction_and_comics_of_2014.html
Over a long career, Albanian novelist Ismail Kadare has "canvassed the historical and linguistic territory" of his language through essays, poetry and more than forty novels. His 1978 novel, Twilight of the Eastern Gods, has finally been translated into English, an autobiographical bildungroman set in "the procrustean warp of a Soviet communism that is international, polyglot, industrialized, but artistically inert."
http://lareviewofbooks.org/review/albania-prophet-surveillance-state
"I think most metaphors divert you from what it is you ought to be looking at," states Richard Ford in this interview with the LA Review of Books. He discusses his newest book, Let Me Be Frank With You, along with his own life, hurricanes, the old South and more, here:
http://lareviewofbooks.org/interview/decommissioned-words-interview-richard-ford
Is "confessional" writing self-indulgent? Afaa Michael Weaver doesn't think so. "He has been exploring the intersection of the personal and the public for 30 years in poetry, and in his most recent work, shows the possibilities for spiritual growth and healing in the very subjects that are often considered 'shameful.'" His newest book is called City of Eternal Spring.
http://lareviewofbooks.org/essay/convergence-personal-political-spiritual-poetry-afaa-michael-weavers-plum-flower-trilogy
Fifty writers, artists and thinkers have come together to create a new anthology in support of First Nations women. Called Kwe: Standing With Our Sisters, it is edited by Joseph Boyden.
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2014/12/joseph-boyden-edits-new-anthology-highlighting-plight-of-first-nations-women.html
"Are you there, readers?" Judy Blume has written a new book for grown-ups. Called In the Unlikely Event, it's her first book for adults in 15 years.
http://www.latimes.com/books/jacketcopy/la-et-jc-new-judy-blume-novel-for-adults-coming-in-june-20141215-story.html
Ashley Little's new book, Anatomy of a Girl Gang, was inspired by discoveries she made about "the fascinating world of all-girl gangs—the rarest alliance in all of gang culture." Set in Vancouver, it's a multiple-perspective story of five teenage girls "who seek solace in each other while terrorizing the city." Little is interviewed, here:
http://www.cbc.ca/books/canadawrites/2014/12/ashley-little-how-i-wrote-anatomy-of-a-girl-gang.html
Andrew Steeves, the editor and print master at Nova Scotia's Gaspereau Press has written a book. Smoke Proofs: Essays on Liteary Publishing, Printing and Typography "offers an introductory lesson on the history of print publishing that doubles as a CanLit call to arms, urging both publishers and readers to expect the best from each other."
http://www.quillandquire.com/digital-publishing-and-technology/2014/12/16/gaspereau-presss-andrew-steeves-on-publishing-and-typography/
In her new book, How Not to Write, Lisa Carver gives writers an important piece of advice: get rejected! Check out an excerpt, here:
http://therumpus.net/2014/12/the-sunday-rumpus-essay-get-rejected/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
DYLAN THOMAS: RETURN JOURNEY
starring Bob Kingdom and directed by Anthony Hopkins. The Cultch presents the farewell tour of this legendary hit production, specially conceived as one of the flagship performances for the centenary celebrations of Dylan Thomas. Playing now until December 21. Information at http://thecultch.com/events/dylan-thomas-return-journey/. Tickets from $19.
POETIC JUSTICE
Poetic Justice special holiday event-all open mic with host, Candice James, Poet Laureate of New Westminster. Sunday, December 21 at 3:00pm. Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster.
YOUTH POETRY SLAM
Another qualifying slam to make the youth slam playoffs in March or 2015. Monday, December 22 at 8:00pm. Cost: $4/$6-$10. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial.
POETIC JUSTICE
Poetic Justice special holiday all open mic session with host, Sho Wiley. Sunday, December 28 at 3:00pm. Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster.
Upcoming
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features Phinder Dulai and Nilofar Shidmehr with open mic. Wednesday, January 14 at 7:00pm at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Suggested donation at the door: $5. Sign up for open mic at 7 pm. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
KRISTI CHARISH
local debut author Kristi Charish launches her new book Owl and the Japanese Circus. Monday, January 19 at 7:00pm. Central branch, 350 W. Georgia Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-331-3603.
A CELEBRATION OF CHILDREN'S LITERATURE
Featuring award winning B.C. authors and illustrators with guest speaker Kit Pearson winner of the 2014 Lieutenant Governor's Award for Literary Excellence. A wine and cheese event on January 21 from 7-9pm at Creekside Community Centre. Free to Vancouver Children's Literature Roundtable members and students. More information at www.vclr.ca.
SOME SORT OF LIFE
Naomi Waken, Nanaimo's first Poet Laureate, shares her latest novel, Some Sort of Life. Wednesday, January 28 at 7:00pm. Welsh Hall, West Vancouver Memorial Library.
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Book News Vol. 9 No. 40
BOOK NEWS
Thomas King Podcast
Thomas King's appearance at the 2014 Festival was a highlight and received rave reviews. Listen to a recording of his sold out solo event here, http://writersfest.bc.ca/audio-archives/thomas-king.
Holiday Giving
Looking for a special gift for the book-lovers on your list? Look no further! The VWF has gift ideas to bring joy to readers of all persuasions, from gift certificates to memberships.
http://writersfest.bc.ca/get-involved/perfect-gifts-book-lovers
Festivals Around Town
PuSh Festival January 20-February 8
PuSh presents groundbreaking work in the live performing arts, featuring artists from around the world. Local theatre innovators Alex Lazaridis Ferguson and Steven Hill have formed a new company, Fight with a Stick, which makes its debut at PuSh with Steppenwolf. Inspired by Herman Hesse's 1927 novel of self-reflection and transformation, Steppenwolf has been specially staged for the Russian Hall. The audience is seated before a bank of mirrors: somewhere within the reflection, a story begins.
Steppenwolf
February 4–8
Russian Hall
Tickets/info: http://pushfestival.ca/shows/steppenwolf/
AWARDS & LISTS
Richard Flanagan, winner of this year's Booker Prize, has also been awarded Australia's Prime Minister's Literary Award for The Narrow Road to the Deep North. What's even more interesting, however, is what he's doing with his $40,000 prize money: donating it to an Indigenous literacy charity.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/09/richard-flanagan-donating-40000-prize-indigenous-literacy
The longlist for the $25,000 RBC Taylor Prize, recognizing excellence in Canadian literary non-fiction, has been announced.
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2014/12/10/2015-rbc-taylor-prize-longlist-revealed/
YOUNG READERS
What were the best books of 2014 for children? Jillian and Mariko Tamaki's This One Summer makes the top of Quill and Quire's list. Mariko appeared at this year's Vancouver Writers Fest.
http://www.quillandquire.com/books-year/2014/12/02/kidlit-books-of-the-year-2014/
NEWS & FEATURES
This week, Patrick Modiano accepted the Nobel Prize in literature. You can read a summary of his speech, and click on a link to the full text, here:
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/09/patrick-modiano-nobel-prize-literature-future-acceptance-speech
A long-lost Dylan Thomas notebook is heading home to Wales. Swansea University bought the book, containing "drafts of some of Thomas's most challenging poems," in a recent auction.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/09/dylan-thomas-notebook-auction-swansea-university-wales
Many of this year's most exciting novels have been "distinctly un-novelistic, featuring protagonists who share many biographical details (and sometime names) with the authors, and substituting the messiness of experience for conventional plots. Such ‘novels from life'…reflect the authors' exasperation with fictional artifice." What does this mean for the future of fiction?
http://www.newyorker.com/culture/cultural-comment/novels-detractors
The New York Times Book Review's 100 Notable Books list is an end-of-year favourite for readers and book professionals alike. Laura Miller recently went through two decades' worth of the list and discovered "how the most anxiety-inducing of year-end books lists has reflected the changing publishing landscape."
http://www.salon.com/2014/12/05/from_hefty_histories_to_chick_lit_what_i_learned_from_reading_two_decades_worth_of_nyt_notable_books_lists/
George Orwell may have died 65 years ago, but interest in the man "is accelerating and expanding practically daily". "His phrases are on our lips, his ideas are in our heads, his warnings have come true. How did this happen?"
http://moreintelligentlife.com/content/features/robert-butler/orwells-world?page=full
Writers in the UK are rejoicing! A high court judge has ruled against the embargo that prevents books from being sent to prisoners. The ruling as been hailed as "the halting of an iniquitous and draconian ban" and a "rare victory for common sense."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/05/writers-ruling-prison-books-ban-jk-rowling-ian-mcewan-philip-pullman
An unpublished work by Raymond Chandler has been discovered in the Library of Congress. The Princess and the Pedlar, a comic opera, was found almost 100 years after it was initially registered!
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/02/raymond-chandler-libretto-library-congress
What does it mean to "find your voice" as a writer? Sometimes being original isn't as great as it sounds. "For most folks, if you're going to be successful, it's best to find that your own voice is similar to the voice of someone on the prescribed list of folks who found a good voice before you."
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/11/finding-your-voice-as-a-writer-overrated/382946/
Should bookstore and libraries be integrated? "Integrating bookstores into libraries would help both survive, particularly in underserved communities."
http://publishingperspectives.com/2014/12/deborah-emin-integrating-libraries-bookstores-theory/
#Readwomen2014 was the year's most talked-about literary hashtag, introducing many readers to great writing by women. But where do we go from here?
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2014/dec/08/readwomen2014-year-discoveries-writing-campaign
BOOKS & WRITERS
The Holiday Season is upon us, and so, best-of-2014 book lists proliferate! In this one, five designers pick their favourite covers of the year.
http://www.quillandquire.com/books-year/2014/12/04/five-designers-pick-their-favourite-covers-of-the-year/
If you're asking Saint Nick for books this year, look no further than this list for great ideas! Here they are, the best stocking-filler books of 2014!
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/04/best-stocking-filler-books-2014
And one more: The Globe and Mail's "75 book ideas for Christmas, for everyone on your list (and we mean everyone)." That includes explorers, aspiring chefs, kids, shutterbugs, art lovers, design junkies, green thumbs, fashionistas and more!
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/holiday-guide/gift-guides-shopping/75-book-ideas-for-christmas-for-everyone-on-your-list-and-we-mean-everyone/article21973347/
John Ralston Saul's latest book, The Comeback, is "a must-read for all Canadians." It is an examination of Canada's relationship with its aboriginal peoples, and the justice that must be restored to them.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/the-comeback-despite-shortcomings-john-ralston-sauls-latest-is-a-must-read-for-all-canadians/article21971090/
Marcello Di Cintio's Song of the Caged Bird: Words as Resistance in Palestine is a book that examines the role of literature in Palestinian society. It chronicles a month in which the author served as a creative non-fiction instructor in a Palestinian village near Ramallah.
http://www.quillandquire.com/authors/marcello-di-cintios-new-journey/
Emily St. John Mandel wrote her fourth novel, Station Eleven, as "a love letter in the form of a requiem." She's interviewed here.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/why-emily-st-john-mandels-wrote-her-new-book-i-think-of-it-as-a-love-letter-in-the-form-of-a-requiem/article21971241/
If you didn't get a chance to check out Bruce Cockburn at his special event for this year's Writers Fest, here's the Globe and Mail's review. "This is not your standard rock and roll memoir," Cockburn writes in the opening. His words are "the accumulations of an intricate and self-aware man."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/rumours-of-glory-bruce-cockburns-memoir-proves-hes-as-fierce-in-print-as-on-stage/article21971629/
Sarah Waters also attended this year's Writers Fest. Her novel, The Paying Guests, is "an exploration of illicit love, marriage and class in post-First World War London." In this interview, she takes us on a tour of the London Library in St. James Square (and her own life!)
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/reinventing-well-worn-periods-of-history-with-paying-guests/article21971566/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
DYLAN THOMAS: RETURN JOURNEY
starring Bob Kingdom and directed by Anthony Hopkins. The Cultch presents the farewell tour of this legendary hit production, specially conceived as one of the flagship performances for the centenary celebrations of Dylan Thomas. Playing now until December 21. Information at http://thecultch.com/events/dylan-thomas-return-journey/. Tickets from $19.
A ROCK FELL ON THE MOON
Join author and environmental commentator Ben Parfitt as he celebrates his wife and fellow author Alicia Priest's first book. Thursday, December 11 at 7:00pm, free. Central branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia Street.
THE CORPSE WITH THE PLATINUM HAIR
Author Cathy Ace signs her latest mystery novel. Saturday, December 13 at 1:00pm. Black Bond Books, Haney Place Mall, Maple Ridge. More information at 604-463-8624.
WORLD POETRY INTERCULTURAL HOLIDAY FESTIVAL
Hosts Ariadne Sawyer MA and Russell Dior Benederio. Features Rosario Arias, Jaz Gill, Marzeah Wahidi, Anita Aguirre Nieveras, Una Bruhns. Saturday, December 13 at 1:00pm. Britannia branch, VPL, 1661 Napier.
JILL BARBER
Join singer-songwriter as she reads from her newest children's book, Music is for Everyone! Sunday, December 14 at 2:00pm. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More informatin at emackinnon@nimbus.ca.
POETIC JUSTICE
Featuring Sonja Grgar and Franci Louann. Host: Renee Saklikar. Sunday, December 14 at 3:00pm. Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster.
SAY WHA?! NO LIMITS EDITION
A literary/comedy show where funny people read from the worst books they can find. Hosted by Sara Bynoe, featuring: Travis Dudfield, Jeff Gladstone, David C. Jones, and Tara Travis. Sunday, December 14 at 7:30pm. Cottage Bistro, 4470 Main Street, Vancouver.
WINNING THE WAR
Author Mark Zuehlke offers an insightful, informative journey back to February and March 1945 when our nation's soldiers launched one of the Second World War's most important offensives in his new book Forgotten Victory: First
Canadian Army and the Cruel Winter of 1944-45. Tuesday, December 16 at 7:00pm. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
SPOKEN INK
Author Melia McClure reads from her novel The Delphi Room. Tuesday, December 16 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings, Burnaby.
LUNCH POEMS AT SFU
Jacqueline Turner and Changming Yuan are the featured poets. Wednesday, December 17 at 12:00 noon, free. SFU Harbour Centre's Teck Gallery, 515 W Hastings St. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
POETIC JUSTICE
Poetic Justice special holiday event-all open mic with host, Candice James, Poet Laureate of New Westminster. Sunday, December 21 at 3:00pm. Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster.
YOUTH POETRY SLAM
Another qualifying slam to make the youth slam playoffs in March or 2015. Monday, December 22 at 8:00pm. Cost: $4/$6-$10. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial.
POETIC JUSTICE
Poetic Justice special holiday all open mic session with host, Sho Wiley. Sunday, December 28 at 3:00pm. Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster.
Upcoming
KRISTI CHARISH
local debut author Kristi Charish launches her new book Owl and the Japanese Circus. Monday, January 19 at 7:00pm. Central branch, 350 W. Georgia Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-331-3603.
A CELEBRATION OF CHILDREN'S LITERATURE
Featuring award winning B.C. authors and illustrators with guest speaker Kit Pearson winner of the 2014 Lieutenant Governor's Award for Literary Excellence. A wine and cheese event on January 21 from 7-9pm at Creekside Community Centre. Free to Vancouver Children’s Literature Roundtable members and students. More information at www.vclr.ca.
SOME SORT OF LIFE
Naomi Waken, Nanaimo's first Poet Laureate, shares her latest novel, Some Sort of Life. Wednesday, January 28 at 7:00pm. Welsh Hall, West Vancouver Memorial Library.
Thomas King Podcast
Thomas King's appearance at the 2014 Festival was a highlight and received rave reviews. Listen to a recording of his sold out solo event here, http://writersfest.bc.ca/audio-archives/thomas-king.
Holiday Giving
Looking for a special gift for the book-lovers on your list? Look no further! The VWF has gift ideas to bring joy to readers of all persuasions, from gift certificates to memberships.
http://writersfest.bc.ca/get-involved/perfect-gifts-book-lovers
Festivals Around Town
PuSh Festival January 20-February 8
PuSh presents groundbreaking work in the live performing arts, featuring artists from around the world. Local theatre innovators Alex Lazaridis Ferguson and Steven Hill have formed a new company, Fight with a Stick, which makes its debut at PuSh with Steppenwolf. Inspired by Herman Hesse's 1927 novel of self-reflection and transformation, Steppenwolf has been specially staged for the Russian Hall. The audience is seated before a bank of mirrors: somewhere within the reflection, a story begins.
Steppenwolf
February 4–8
Russian Hall
Tickets/info: http://pushfestival.ca/shows/steppenwolf/
AWARDS & LISTS
Richard Flanagan, winner of this year's Booker Prize, has also been awarded Australia's Prime Minister's Literary Award for The Narrow Road to the Deep North. What's even more interesting, however, is what he's doing with his $40,000 prize money: donating it to an Indigenous literacy charity.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/09/richard-flanagan-donating-40000-prize-indigenous-literacy
The longlist for the $25,000 RBC Taylor Prize, recognizing excellence in Canadian literary non-fiction, has been announced.
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2014/12/10/2015-rbc-taylor-prize-longlist-revealed/
YOUNG READERS
What were the best books of 2014 for children? Jillian and Mariko Tamaki's This One Summer makes the top of Quill and Quire's list. Mariko appeared at this year's Vancouver Writers Fest.
http://www.quillandquire.com/books-year/2014/12/02/kidlit-books-of-the-year-2014/
NEWS & FEATURES
This week, Patrick Modiano accepted the Nobel Prize in literature. You can read a summary of his speech, and click on a link to the full text, here:
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/09/patrick-modiano-nobel-prize-literature-future-acceptance-speech
A long-lost Dylan Thomas notebook is heading home to Wales. Swansea University bought the book, containing "drafts of some of Thomas's most challenging poems," in a recent auction.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/09/dylan-thomas-notebook-auction-swansea-university-wales
Many of this year's most exciting novels have been "distinctly un-novelistic, featuring protagonists who share many biographical details (and sometime names) with the authors, and substituting the messiness of experience for conventional plots. Such ‘novels from life'…reflect the authors' exasperation with fictional artifice." What does this mean for the future of fiction?
http://www.newyorker.com/culture/cultural-comment/novels-detractors
The New York Times Book Review's 100 Notable Books list is an end-of-year favourite for readers and book professionals alike. Laura Miller recently went through two decades' worth of the list and discovered "how the most anxiety-inducing of year-end books lists has reflected the changing publishing landscape."
http://www.salon.com/2014/12/05/from_hefty_histories_to_chick_lit_what_i_learned_from_reading_two_decades_worth_of_nyt_notable_books_lists/
George Orwell may have died 65 years ago, but interest in the man "is accelerating and expanding practically daily". "His phrases are on our lips, his ideas are in our heads, his warnings have come true. How did this happen?"
http://moreintelligentlife.com/content/features/robert-butler/orwells-world?page=full
Writers in the UK are rejoicing! A high court judge has ruled against the embargo that prevents books from being sent to prisoners. The ruling as been hailed as "the halting of an iniquitous and draconian ban" and a "rare victory for common sense."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/05/writers-ruling-prison-books-ban-jk-rowling-ian-mcewan-philip-pullman
An unpublished work by Raymond Chandler has been discovered in the Library of Congress. The Princess and the Pedlar, a comic opera, was found almost 100 years after it was initially registered!
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/02/raymond-chandler-libretto-library-congress
What does it mean to "find your voice" as a writer? Sometimes being original isn't as great as it sounds. "For most folks, if you're going to be successful, it's best to find that your own voice is similar to the voice of someone on the prescribed list of folks who found a good voice before you."
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/11/finding-your-voice-as-a-writer-overrated/382946/
Should bookstore and libraries be integrated? "Integrating bookstores into libraries would help both survive, particularly in underserved communities."
http://publishingperspectives.com/2014/12/deborah-emin-integrating-libraries-bookstores-theory/
#Readwomen2014 was the year's most talked-about literary hashtag, introducing many readers to great writing by women. But where do we go from here?
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2014/dec/08/readwomen2014-year-discoveries-writing-campaign
BOOKS & WRITERS
The Holiday Season is upon us, and so, best-of-2014 book lists proliferate! In this one, five designers pick their favourite covers of the year.
http://www.quillandquire.com/books-year/2014/12/04/five-designers-pick-their-favourite-covers-of-the-year/
If you're asking Saint Nick for books this year, look no further than this list for great ideas! Here they are, the best stocking-filler books of 2014!
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/04/best-stocking-filler-books-2014
And one more: The Globe and Mail's "75 book ideas for Christmas, for everyone on your list (and we mean everyone)." That includes explorers, aspiring chefs, kids, shutterbugs, art lovers, design junkies, green thumbs, fashionistas and more!
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/holiday-guide/gift-guides-shopping/75-book-ideas-for-christmas-for-everyone-on-your-list-and-we-mean-everyone/article21973347/
John Ralston Saul's latest book, The Comeback, is "a must-read for all Canadians." It is an examination of Canada's relationship with its aboriginal peoples, and the justice that must be restored to them.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/the-comeback-despite-shortcomings-john-ralston-sauls-latest-is-a-must-read-for-all-canadians/article21971090/
Marcello Di Cintio's Song of the Caged Bird: Words as Resistance in Palestine is a book that examines the role of literature in Palestinian society. It chronicles a month in which the author served as a creative non-fiction instructor in a Palestinian village near Ramallah.
http://www.quillandquire.com/authors/marcello-di-cintios-new-journey/
Emily St. John Mandel wrote her fourth novel, Station Eleven, as "a love letter in the form of a requiem." She's interviewed here.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/why-emily-st-john-mandels-wrote-her-new-book-i-think-of-it-as-a-love-letter-in-the-form-of-a-requiem/article21971241/
If you didn't get a chance to check out Bruce Cockburn at his special event for this year's Writers Fest, here's the Globe and Mail's review. "This is not your standard rock and roll memoir," Cockburn writes in the opening. His words are "the accumulations of an intricate and self-aware man."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/rumours-of-glory-bruce-cockburns-memoir-proves-hes-as-fierce-in-print-as-on-stage/article21971629/
Sarah Waters also attended this year's Writers Fest. Her novel, The Paying Guests, is "an exploration of illicit love, marriage and class in post-First World War London." In this interview, she takes us on a tour of the London Library in St. James Square (and her own life!)
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/reinventing-well-worn-periods-of-history-with-paying-guests/article21971566/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
DYLAN THOMAS: RETURN JOURNEY
starring Bob Kingdom and directed by Anthony Hopkins. The Cultch presents the farewell tour of this legendary hit production, specially conceived as one of the flagship performances for the centenary celebrations of Dylan Thomas. Playing now until December 21. Information at http://thecultch.com/events/dylan-thomas-return-journey/. Tickets from $19.
A ROCK FELL ON THE MOON
Join author and environmental commentator Ben Parfitt as he celebrates his wife and fellow author Alicia Priest's first book. Thursday, December 11 at 7:00pm, free. Central branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia Street.
THE CORPSE WITH THE PLATINUM HAIR
Author Cathy Ace signs her latest mystery novel. Saturday, December 13 at 1:00pm. Black Bond Books, Haney Place Mall, Maple Ridge. More information at 604-463-8624.
WORLD POETRY INTERCULTURAL HOLIDAY FESTIVAL
Hosts Ariadne Sawyer MA and Russell Dior Benederio. Features Rosario Arias, Jaz Gill, Marzeah Wahidi, Anita Aguirre Nieveras, Una Bruhns. Saturday, December 13 at 1:00pm. Britannia branch, VPL, 1661 Napier.
JILL BARBER
Join singer-songwriter as she reads from her newest children's book, Music is for Everyone! Sunday, December 14 at 2:00pm. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More informatin at emackinnon@nimbus.ca.
POETIC JUSTICE
Featuring Sonja Grgar and Franci Louann. Host: Renee Saklikar. Sunday, December 14 at 3:00pm. Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster.
SAY WHA?! NO LIMITS EDITION
A literary/comedy show where funny people read from the worst books they can find. Hosted by Sara Bynoe, featuring: Travis Dudfield, Jeff Gladstone, David C. Jones, and Tara Travis. Sunday, December 14 at 7:30pm. Cottage Bistro, 4470 Main Street, Vancouver.
WINNING THE WAR
Author Mark Zuehlke offers an insightful, informative journey back to February and March 1945 when our nation's soldiers launched one of the Second World War's most important offensives in his new book Forgotten Victory: First
Canadian Army and the Cruel Winter of 1944-45. Tuesday, December 16 at 7:00pm. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
SPOKEN INK
Author Melia McClure reads from her novel The Delphi Room. Tuesday, December 16 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings, Burnaby.
LUNCH POEMS AT SFU
Jacqueline Turner and Changming Yuan are the featured poets. Wednesday, December 17 at 12:00 noon, free. SFU Harbour Centre's Teck Gallery, 515 W Hastings St. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
POETIC JUSTICE
Poetic Justice special holiday event-all open mic with host, Candice James, Poet Laureate of New Westminster. Sunday, December 21 at 3:00pm. Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster.
YOUTH POETRY SLAM
Another qualifying slam to make the youth slam playoffs in March or 2015. Monday, December 22 at 8:00pm. Cost: $4/$6-$10. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial.
POETIC JUSTICE
Poetic Justice special holiday all open mic session with host, Sho Wiley. Sunday, December 28 at 3:00pm. Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster.
Upcoming
KRISTI CHARISH
local debut author Kristi Charish launches her new book Owl and the Japanese Circus. Monday, January 19 at 7:00pm. Central branch, 350 W. Georgia Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-331-3603.
A CELEBRATION OF CHILDREN'S LITERATURE
Featuring award winning B.C. authors and illustrators with guest speaker Kit Pearson winner of the 2014 Lieutenant Governor's Award for Literary Excellence. A wine and cheese event on January 21 from 7-9pm at Creekside Community Centre. Free to Vancouver Children’s Literature Roundtable members and students. More information at www.vclr.ca.
SOME SORT OF LIFE
Naomi Waken, Nanaimo's first Poet Laureate, shares her latest novel, Some Sort of Life. Wednesday, January 28 at 7:00pm. Welsh Hall, West Vancouver Memorial Library.
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Book News Vol. 9 No. 39
BOOK NEWS
Holiday Giving
Looking for a special gift for the book-lovers on your list? Look no further! The VWF has gift ideas to bring joy to readers of all persuasions, from gift certificates to memberships.
http://writersfest.bc.ca/get-involved/perfect-gifts-book-lovers
AWARDS & LISTS
The 2015 International Impac Dublin literary award's 142-book longlist has been announced. JK Rowling's alter ego made the cut, as did 49 novels in translation, nominated by libraries in 114 cities and 39 countries. But some think the prize is still not as international as it should be.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2014/nov/27/impac-prize-global-literature-parochial-africa-south-america
YOUNG READERS
Which famous literary character "stands up for things" and is "not afraid of going to the top and giving them a hard stare?" You'll never guess who it is...Paddington Bear! Michael Bond, author of the Paddington stories is interviewed, here,
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/nov/28/michael-bond-author-paddington-bear-interview-books-television-film
Sarah Ellis' Outside In is "a wonderful, unique story about love and beauty." She recently appeared at the Writers Fest to discuss her new book, but if you didn't get the chance to see her, here's The Globe and Mail's review.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/three-young-adult-fiction-reads-worth-checking-out/article21704035/
NEWS & FEATURES
Mark Strand, former US Poet Laureate, died this week. "Death was arguably Strand's great theme—few poets have written more acutely or more movingly about the chasm at the end of life."
http://www.theparisreview.org/blog/2014/11/29/mark-strand-1934-2014/
While he may have been known for works that plumbed the depths of America, Mark Strand's background was actually very international. In fact, he was born in Canada.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/30/nyregion/mark-strand-80-dies-pulitzer-winning-poet-laureate.html
Speaking of all things international, China has banned wordplay in an "attempt at pun control." Chinese officials claim that "casual alteration of idioms risks nothing less than ‘cultural and linguistic chaos', despite their common usage."
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/nov/28/china-media-watchdog-bans-wordplay-puns
A Christmas campaign to boycott Amazon is underway. A group called Amazon Anonymous is claiming that Amazon doesn't pay their workers a living wage, takes money from local businesses, and avoids taxes. They have worked with Ethical Consumer magazine to provide a guide to alternative retailers for those pledging to boycott Amazon.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/01/amazon-christmas-boycott-campaign-amazon-anonymous
Are book publishers blockbustering themselves into oblivion? "Several recent acquisitions by big American publishing houses, mostly for debut novels, [have] involved payouts of more than $1-million. That's right–debut novels."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/are-book-publishers-blockbustering-themselves-into-oblivion/article21834263/
Here's a new way to look at the Russian literary canon: through an infographic of misery! As Tolstoy wrote, "every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way."
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2014/11/25/books/review/30infographic.html
A new survey claims that readers prefer authors of their own sex. Despite 2014 being dubbed as "the year of reading women," male authors still accounted for 90% of men's 50 most-read titles this year.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/nov/25/readers-prefer-authors-own-sex-goodreads-survey
And on that note, can you actually distinguish between prose written by a man or woman? Here's a quiz to find out.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/womens-life/11255397/Quiz-Did-a-man-or-a-woman-write-this-book.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
What were the best books of 2014? Here are recommendations from many different writers, including Margaret Atwood, Naomi Klein and the Writers Fest's own Eimear McBride.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/nov/29/-sp-writers-pick-best-books-2014
Another group of writers set out to answer that question too! This particular batch includes suggestions by Writers Fest author Colm Tóibín and Chimimanda Ngozi Adichie.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/01/-sp-writers-pick-best-books-2014-part-2
Slate has also released its best-of list. Columnists, editors and bloggers pick their favourite books of 2014.
http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/books/2014/11/best_books_2014_slate_staff_recommendations.html
Last but not least, here's President Obama's indie bookstore haul! "To celebrate Small Business Saturday, President Obama and his daughters went to Politics & Prose and bought 17 books."
http://electricliterature.com/president-obamas-bookstore-haul/
What's the greatest advice author Sarah Waters ever received? "It's the re-writing that counts."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/the-best-advice-author-sarah-waters-ever-got-its-the-re-writing-that-counts/article21833871/
Jessie Burton, author of The Miniaturist, has been lauded for writing a book that contains "strong women." "I was not conscious of having a strong female lead, it just came naturally," she says. "Very few male novelists get asked: 'You've put some really strong males in your book, why is that?' Or: 'You've got a lot of men in your book'."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/01/jessie-burton-frustrated-strong-women-still-considered-novelty-fiction
Fairy tales might be "tales as old as time," but they have a history too! Maria Warner's Once Upon a Time explains just that.
http://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/once-upon-a-time-a-short-history-of-fairy-tale-by-marina-warner-1.2010599
Claudia Rankin's new book of poetry, Citizen: An American Lyric, "has achieved something that eludes much modern poetry: urgency," featuring references to Trayvon Martin and stop-and-frisk policies, among other things. It was also a finalist for this year's National Book Award in poetry.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/29/books/claudia-rankine-on-citizen-and-racial-politics.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
THE ACTIVE FICTION PROJECT
A real life "choose your own adventure" walking tour, where public space meets literary fiction with (very) short stories that are 'hidden' in public spaces for readers to discover as they walk through the neighborhood. Starting point: Go to Main & 28th and look around the planters outside the art shop. On now through December 7. More information at the following: web: activefictionproject.com; twitter: @activefic; facebook: facebook.com/activefictionproject.
POETRY O'CLOCK
Readings featuring Helen Guri, visiting from Toronto, and great local poets Gillian Jerome, Alex Leslie and Cecily Nicholson. Thursday, December 4 at 7:00pm. People's Co-Op Bookstore, 1391 Commercial Drive, Vancouver.
WRITER'S STUDIO READING SERIES
Readings by Margreet Dietz, Nilofar Shidmehr, Laura Cuthbert, Bruce Rice, Nikki Hillman, Karen J Lee, Patrik Sampler, and George K. Ilsley. Thursday, December 4 a 8:00pm. Cottage Bistro, 4470 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at learn@sfu.ca.
USED BOOK CHRISTMAS SALE
Looking for a special gift for someone on your holiday shopping list? Browse a great selection of gently used children's and adult books, CDs and DVDs. December 4-6, 2014 from 10am to 5pm. Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
ALCUIN SOCIETY
An exhibition showcasing some of the finest book designs in Canada in appreciation of beautifully produced books. December 5 to January 21. Irving K. Barber Learning Centre, 1961 East Mall, UBC.
SHEILA NICKOLS
Author signs her new book Looking Back at Maple Ridge. Friday, December 5 at 1:00pm. Black Bond Books, Haney Place Mall, Maple Ridge. More information at 604-463-8624.
SUSAN MCCASLIN
Author will be reading from The Disarmed Heart at the Planet Earth Poetry Series with Dvora Levin, Hillside Coffee and Tea, 1633 Hillside, Victoria, B.C., Friday Dec. 5, 2014, 7:30-9 pm.
MIKE MCCARDELL
Author will sign copies of his newest book Cardboard Ocean. Saturday, December 6 at 11:00am. Coles Bookstore, Seven Oaks Mall, Abbotsford.
CRIME WRITERS PANEL
Three local authors explain what goes into writing believable murder mysteries and thrillers, and answer all the questions that you're just dying to ask. Saturday, December 6 at 2:00pm, registration appreciated. Terry Fox Library.
POETIC JUSTICE READING SERIES
Debut poets Elaine Woo and Kayla Czaga present their new books. Sunday, December 7 at 3:00pm. The Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia St., New Westminster. More information at poeticjustice.ca.
EVE LAZARUS
Author of Sensational Vancouver will be in store promoting this gorgeous local history book. Monday, December 8 at 7:00pm. People's Co-op Bookstore, 1391 Commercial Drive, Vancouver.
ROSEMARY GEORGESON
Coast Salish and Dene storyteller Rosemary Georgeson explores cross-cultural connections between First Nation and non-First Nation cultures. Tuesday, December 9 at 7:00pm. West Point Grey branch, 4480 10th Ave. W. More information at 604-665-3982.
A WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION WITH POETRY AND MUSIC
Celebrate the solstice with local poets and musicians at a fundraiser for kids in need. Features Evelyn Lau, Christopher Levenson, Bonnie Nish, Rob Taylor, Diane Tucker, Fiona Tinwei Lam, and musical performers Fraser Union, Christina Kent, Samuel Louis, and Bob Walker. Wednesday, December 10, 7-9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver.
THE CORPSE WITH THE PLATINUM HAIR
Author Cathy Ace signs her latest mystery novel. Saturday, December 13 at 1:00pm. Black Bond Books, Haney Place Mall, Maple Ridge. More information at 604-463-8624.
JILL BARBER
Join singer-songwriter as she reads from her newest children's book, Music is for Everyone! Sunday, December 14 at 2:00pm. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More informatin at emackinnon@nimbus.ca.
WINNING THE WAR
Author Mark Zuehlke offers an insightful, informative journey back to February and March 1945 when our nation's soldiers launched one of the Second World War's most important offensives in his new book Forgotten Victory: First
Canadian Army and the Cruel Winter of 1944-45. Tuesday, December 16 at 7:00pm. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
Upcoming
LUNCH POEMS AT SFU
Jacqueline Turner and Changming Yuan are the featured poets. Wednesday, December 17 at 12:00 noon, free. SFU Harbour Centre's Teck Gallery, 515 W Hastings St. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
KRISTI CHARISH
local debut author Kristi Charish launches her new book Owl and the Japanese Circus. Monday, January 19 at 7:00pm. Central branch, 350 W. Georgia Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-331-3603.
SOME SORT OF LIFE
Naomi Waken, Nanaimo's first Poet Laureate, shares her latest novel, Some Sort of Life. Wednesday, January 28 at 7:00pm. Welsh Hall, West Vancouver Memorial Library.
Holiday Giving
Looking for a special gift for the book-lovers on your list? Look no further! The VWF has gift ideas to bring joy to readers of all persuasions, from gift certificates to memberships.
http://writersfest.bc.ca/get-involved/perfect-gifts-book-lovers
AWARDS & LISTS
The 2015 International Impac Dublin literary award's 142-book longlist has been announced. JK Rowling's alter ego made the cut, as did 49 novels in translation, nominated by libraries in 114 cities and 39 countries. But some think the prize is still not as international as it should be.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2014/nov/27/impac-prize-global-literature-parochial-africa-south-america
YOUNG READERS
Which famous literary character "stands up for things" and is "not afraid of going to the top and giving them a hard stare?" You'll never guess who it is...Paddington Bear! Michael Bond, author of the Paddington stories is interviewed, here,
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/nov/28/michael-bond-author-paddington-bear-interview-books-television-film
Sarah Ellis' Outside In is "a wonderful, unique story about love and beauty." She recently appeared at the Writers Fest to discuss her new book, but if you didn't get the chance to see her, here's The Globe and Mail's review.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/three-young-adult-fiction-reads-worth-checking-out/article21704035/
NEWS & FEATURES
Mark Strand, former US Poet Laureate, died this week. "Death was arguably Strand's great theme—few poets have written more acutely or more movingly about the chasm at the end of life."
http://www.theparisreview.org/blog/2014/11/29/mark-strand-1934-2014/
While he may have been known for works that plumbed the depths of America, Mark Strand's background was actually very international. In fact, he was born in Canada.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/30/nyregion/mark-strand-80-dies-pulitzer-winning-poet-laureate.html
Speaking of all things international, China has banned wordplay in an "attempt at pun control." Chinese officials claim that "casual alteration of idioms risks nothing less than ‘cultural and linguistic chaos', despite their common usage."
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/nov/28/china-media-watchdog-bans-wordplay-puns
A Christmas campaign to boycott Amazon is underway. A group called Amazon Anonymous is claiming that Amazon doesn't pay their workers a living wage, takes money from local businesses, and avoids taxes. They have worked with Ethical Consumer magazine to provide a guide to alternative retailers for those pledging to boycott Amazon.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/01/amazon-christmas-boycott-campaign-amazon-anonymous
Are book publishers blockbustering themselves into oblivion? "Several recent acquisitions by big American publishing houses, mostly for debut novels, [have] involved payouts of more than $1-million. That's right–debut novels."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/are-book-publishers-blockbustering-themselves-into-oblivion/article21834263/
Here's a new way to look at the Russian literary canon: through an infographic of misery! As Tolstoy wrote, "every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way."
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2014/11/25/books/review/30infographic.html
A new survey claims that readers prefer authors of their own sex. Despite 2014 being dubbed as "the year of reading women," male authors still accounted for 90% of men's 50 most-read titles this year.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/nov/25/readers-prefer-authors-own-sex-goodreads-survey
And on that note, can you actually distinguish between prose written by a man or woman? Here's a quiz to find out.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/women/womens-life/11255397/Quiz-Did-a-man-or-a-woman-write-this-book.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
What were the best books of 2014? Here are recommendations from many different writers, including Margaret Atwood, Naomi Klein and the Writers Fest's own Eimear McBride.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/nov/29/-sp-writers-pick-best-books-2014
Another group of writers set out to answer that question too! This particular batch includes suggestions by Writers Fest author Colm Tóibín and Chimimanda Ngozi Adichie.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/01/-sp-writers-pick-best-books-2014-part-2
Slate has also released its best-of list. Columnists, editors and bloggers pick their favourite books of 2014.
http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/books/2014/11/best_books_2014_slate_staff_recommendations.html
Last but not least, here's President Obama's indie bookstore haul! "To celebrate Small Business Saturday, President Obama and his daughters went to Politics & Prose and bought 17 books."
http://electricliterature.com/president-obamas-bookstore-haul/
What's the greatest advice author Sarah Waters ever received? "It's the re-writing that counts."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/the-best-advice-author-sarah-waters-ever-got-its-the-re-writing-that-counts/article21833871/
Jessie Burton, author of The Miniaturist, has been lauded for writing a book that contains "strong women." "I was not conscious of having a strong female lead, it just came naturally," she says. "Very few male novelists get asked: 'You've put some really strong males in your book, why is that?' Or: 'You've got a lot of men in your book'."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/dec/01/jessie-burton-frustrated-strong-women-still-considered-novelty-fiction
Fairy tales might be "tales as old as time," but they have a history too! Maria Warner's Once Upon a Time explains just that.
http://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/once-upon-a-time-a-short-history-of-fairy-tale-by-marina-warner-1.2010599
Claudia Rankin's new book of poetry, Citizen: An American Lyric, "has achieved something that eludes much modern poetry: urgency," featuring references to Trayvon Martin and stop-and-frisk policies, among other things. It was also a finalist for this year's National Book Award in poetry.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/29/books/claudia-rankine-on-citizen-and-racial-politics.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
THE ACTIVE FICTION PROJECT
A real life "choose your own adventure" walking tour, where public space meets literary fiction with (very) short stories that are 'hidden' in public spaces for readers to discover as they walk through the neighborhood. Starting point: Go to Main & 28th and look around the planters outside the art shop. On now through December 7. More information at the following: web: activefictionproject.com; twitter: @activefic; facebook: facebook.com/activefictionproject.
POETRY O'CLOCK
Readings featuring Helen Guri, visiting from Toronto, and great local poets Gillian Jerome, Alex Leslie and Cecily Nicholson. Thursday, December 4 at 7:00pm. People's Co-Op Bookstore, 1391 Commercial Drive, Vancouver.
WRITER'S STUDIO READING SERIES
Readings by Margreet Dietz, Nilofar Shidmehr, Laura Cuthbert, Bruce Rice, Nikki Hillman, Karen J Lee, Patrik Sampler, and George K. Ilsley. Thursday, December 4 a 8:00pm. Cottage Bistro, 4470 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at learn@sfu.ca.
USED BOOK CHRISTMAS SALE
Looking for a special gift for someone on your holiday shopping list? Browse a great selection of gently used children's and adult books, CDs and DVDs. December 4-6, 2014 from 10am to 5pm. Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
ALCUIN SOCIETY
An exhibition showcasing some of the finest book designs in Canada in appreciation of beautifully produced books. December 5 to January 21. Irving K. Barber Learning Centre, 1961 East Mall, UBC.
SHEILA NICKOLS
Author signs her new book Looking Back at Maple Ridge. Friday, December 5 at 1:00pm. Black Bond Books, Haney Place Mall, Maple Ridge. More information at 604-463-8624.
SUSAN MCCASLIN
Author will be reading from The Disarmed Heart at the Planet Earth Poetry Series with Dvora Levin, Hillside Coffee and Tea, 1633 Hillside, Victoria, B.C., Friday Dec. 5, 2014, 7:30-9 pm.
MIKE MCCARDELL
Author will sign copies of his newest book Cardboard Ocean. Saturday, December 6 at 11:00am. Coles Bookstore, Seven Oaks Mall, Abbotsford.
CRIME WRITERS PANEL
Three local authors explain what goes into writing believable murder mysteries and thrillers, and answer all the questions that you're just dying to ask. Saturday, December 6 at 2:00pm, registration appreciated. Terry Fox Library.
POETIC JUSTICE READING SERIES
Debut poets Elaine Woo and Kayla Czaga present their new books. Sunday, December 7 at 3:00pm. The Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia St., New Westminster. More information at poeticjustice.ca.
EVE LAZARUS
Author of Sensational Vancouver will be in store promoting this gorgeous local history book. Monday, December 8 at 7:00pm. People's Co-op Bookstore, 1391 Commercial Drive, Vancouver.
ROSEMARY GEORGESON
Coast Salish and Dene storyteller Rosemary Georgeson explores cross-cultural connections between First Nation and non-First Nation cultures. Tuesday, December 9 at 7:00pm. West Point Grey branch, 4480 10th Ave. W. More information at 604-665-3982.
A WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION WITH POETRY AND MUSIC
Celebrate the solstice with local poets and musicians at a fundraiser for kids in need. Features Evelyn Lau, Christopher Levenson, Bonnie Nish, Rob Taylor, Diane Tucker, Fiona Tinwei Lam, and musical performers Fraser Union, Christina Kent, Samuel Louis, and Bob Walker. Wednesday, December 10, 7-9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver.
THE CORPSE WITH THE PLATINUM HAIR
Author Cathy Ace signs her latest mystery novel. Saturday, December 13 at 1:00pm. Black Bond Books, Haney Place Mall, Maple Ridge. More information at 604-463-8624.
JILL BARBER
Join singer-songwriter as she reads from her newest children's book, Music is for Everyone! Sunday, December 14 at 2:00pm. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More informatin at emackinnon@nimbus.ca.
WINNING THE WAR
Author Mark Zuehlke offers an insightful, informative journey back to February and March 1945 when our nation's soldiers launched one of the Second World War's most important offensives in his new book Forgotten Victory: First
Canadian Army and the Cruel Winter of 1944-45. Tuesday, December 16 at 7:00pm. Alice MacKay room, lower level, Central Branch, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
Upcoming
LUNCH POEMS AT SFU
Jacqueline Turner and Changming Yuan are the featured poets. Wednesday, December 17 at 12:00 noon, free. SFU Harbour Centre's Teck Gallery, 515 W Hastings St. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
KRISTI CHARISH
local debut author Kristi Charish launches her new book Owl and the Japanese Circus. Monday, January 19 at 7:00pm. Central branch, 350 W. Georgia Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-331-3603.
SOME SORT OF LIFE
Naomi Waken, Nanaimo's first Poet Laureate, shares her latest novel, Some Sort of Life. Wednesday, January 28 at 7:00pm. Welsh Hall, West Vancouver Memorial Library.
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