BOOK NEWS
After a whirlwind week here at the office, the Festival website is now live! Visit our website, writersfest.bc.ca for details of this year's Festival, including the full schedule and ticketing information. We've got a lot of great events
this year and we are so excited to share them with you!
Help jailed Saudi blogger Raif Badawi be heard.
Raif Badawi was sentenced to a 10 year jail sentence and 1,000 lashes just for writing blogs that promoted religious tolerance. Meanwhile, his wife, Ensaf Haidar, is fighting for his freedom. Help us bring Ensaf to our Festival this fall where she will read from Raif's blogs (published in Canada by Greystone Books) and raise awareness of the injustices he's facing. So far our campaign has raised nearly $5,000, but we need your help to reach our goal by September 15th. Donate today, https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/811vgd/ab/e54kg4.
Volunteer registration is now open!
Prospective volunteers should check out the volunteer pages, https://www.writersfest.bc.ca/get-involved/volunteers, of our Festival website and register through My Volunteer Page here,
https://app.volunteer2.com/Public/SignUp?organizationGUID=5c4eca8b-95ae-4e41-99a5-6a0e5843faa8&signupFormId=1.
Poetry and Short Story Contest
The 17th Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry and Short Story Contest is now open! Entries will be accepted until October 25th, so get writing or start polishing up your best work. The contest is open to all writers, so this could be the perfect opportunity for you to get published for the first time, kick start your writing career or add to your already impressive resume. First place winners will receive $500 and be published in subTERRAIN Magazine. Details and to enter: http://writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest
Know a young writer? Tell them about our writing contest for BC grades 8-12 students, http://writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
Featured Event
Vancouver launch of Across Canada by Story: A Coast to Coast Literary Adventure by Douglas Gibson
When Doug Gibson ran McClelland & Stewart, he took the company's titles "The Canadian Publishers" very seriously. So he travelled widely, in order to get to know the country's authors, at home. He even got involved in setting up
programmes like the Master's in Publishing at SFU. And he really got to know Vancouver and its fascinating book world, populated by people like Alma Lee, Alan Twigg, and Hal Wake. August 31 at 7:00 pm, Book Warehouse, 4118 Main Street. More information at 604-879-7737.
AWARDS & LISTS
Andre Alexis and Margaret Atwood are among the finalists nominated for this year's Toronto Book Award. The award honours "books evocative of the city."
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2015/08/24/andre-alexis-margaret-atwood-among-2015-toronto-book-award-finalists/
The 2015 CBC Creative Nonfiction Prize has named its jury: Kamal Al-Solaylee, Merrily Weisbord and Michael Harris. The winner will be announced on September 21st.
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2015/08/michael-harris-merrily-weisbord-and-kamal-al-solaylee-named-2015-cbc-creative-nonfiction-prize-jury.html
YOUNG READERS
Why are there no taboos in Scandinavian children's books? In this piece, Norwegian writer Ingelin Røssland examines the Scandinavian children's and teen lit scene, "where explorations of sexuality and explicit swearing escape censorship–and explains why so many Scandinavian adult authors such as Jo Nesbo feel liberated to write honest, brave and dark children's books."
http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/2015/aug/25/scandinavian-childrens-books-norway-ingelin-rossland-sex-swearing
Anne Fine is one of "the most celebrated children's authors of our time." As a child, she didn't think about writing. "I didn't ever want to become a writer—just to be left alone to read!"
http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/2015/aug/24/anne-fine-i-didnt-ever-want-to-become-a-writer-interview
NEWS & FEATURES
Was Margaret Atwood censored by the National Post? A jokey piece she wrote about Conservative attack ads was removed for "fact checking," then republished with several key details missing. The irony is palpable, since Atwood is something of an expert on "vivid dystopian futures."
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/aug/23/margaret-atwood-stephen-harper-hair-canada
The Vancouver Public Library has appointed playwright and actor Sharon Shorty as its 2015 Aboriginal Storyteller in Residence. "Shorty uses traditional storytelling traditions of the southern Yukon and contemporary techniques in her performances and has been recognized with the Aurora Award for storytelling."
http://www.vancouversun.com/Aboriginal+storyteller+keeps+tradition+alive/11297119/story.html#ixzz3jqcPizC6
A British teacher has set up a makeshift library at a growing refugee camp in Calais, France (and she's asking for donations). "I wanted to start something that offered real, practical help. Many people here are well-educated—they want to get on and they want books that will help them read and write English, apply for jobs, fill-in forms."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/24/calais-migrant-camp-gets-makeshift-library-and-it-needs-more-books
What does translation mean to you? For Kim Echlin, it's "an act of shared humanity." "In Ojibway, for example, the word for squirrel is ajiidamoo, which means 'upside-down climber.' After I learned that word, I never again looked in the same way at squirrels scrambling around the trees."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/translation-is-an-act-of-shared-humanity/article25927955/
A few months ago, we highlighted an article about a book that can be planted and turned into a tree. This week, there's more environment-related literary excitement: a book that filters water!
https://litreactor.com/news/drinkable-book-filters-water
This summer, a city in Romania encouraged reading through an effective and inventive new way: by offering free bus rides. "I believe that it's better to promote reading by rewarding those who read, instead of criticising the ones who don't," said Victor Miron, the man behind the plan.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/romanian-city-offers-free-rides-to-people-reading-on-the-bus-10463497.html
Speaking of which, McDonald's franchises in Australia are now offering books as a part of their Happy Meals. A public outcry has arisen. "Far from applauding the use of tempting fast food to promote childhood literacy, parents are decrying the use of childhood literacy to promote tempting fast food."
http://teleread.com/ebooks/australian-happy-meal-book-giveaway-sparks-parental-protests/
And it's not just McDonald's. Simon & Schuster is now giving away e-books to travelers who book through Hotels.com. "The partnership is part of an emerging trend in which publishers are looking for new ways to get their e-books into the hands of travelers."
http://www.adweek.com/galleycat/simon-schuster-is-giving-away-e-books-via-hotels-com/108712
But forget about giving away books...why not just let them run your store? A new listing on AirBnb is inviting travelers "to live in—and run—the Open Book store in Wigtown, Scotland!"
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/21/tourists-offered-chance-to-run-a-bookshop-on-holiday-wigtown
What helps Haruki Murakami get down to work? "A workspace filled with memorabilia and lined with about 10,000 vinyl records!" Take a look, here:
http://lifehacker.com/the-music-and-souvenir-filled-workspace-of-author-haru-1724850226
In other Murakami news, a Japanese bookstore chain has bought up 90% of the author's new print run. Why? In order to limit web sales!
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/25/bookshop-buys-up-90-of-new-haruki-murakami-print-run-to-limit-web-sales
Indigo has announced that they will open a new smaller Chapters location to replace their Robson Street store.
https://www.biv.com/article/2015/8/indigo-open-smaller-downtown-vancouver-store-repla/
BOOKS & WRITERS
What are the 20 books that you'll be "reading—and talking about—for the rest of the year?" Here's the Globe and Mail's list.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/the-20-books-youll-be-reading-and-talking-about-for-the-rest-of-the-year/article25248161/
Speaking of the Globe, they're now doing weekly previews of the fall's most anticipated books. This week's is from Louise Penny's new novel, The Nature of the Beast. Check it out here:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/the-nature-of-the-beast-read-an-exclusive-excerpt-from-louise-pennys-new-mystery/article26049127/
One book that has also been highly anticipated is Jonathan Franzen's In Purity. Featuring "a young California woman named Pip who is looking for her father, and a Julian Assange-like figure who is eager to get Pip to work for him in South America," it's his most "fleet-footed, least self-conscious and most intimate novel yet."
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/25/books/review-in-purity-jonathan-franzen-hits-a-new-octave.html
Nalo Hopkinson, whose books combine themes from Caribbean folklore with science-fiction, feminism and fantasy, has been described by Junot Diaz as "one of our most important writers." Her new genre-bending book is called Falling in Love with Hominids, and she's interviewed here:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/nalo-hopkinson-ill-take-my-chances-with-the-21st-century/article26048188/
His Whole Life, by Elizabeth Hay, is "a moving reflection on an unbreakable mother-son bond." Set during the second Quebec referendum, it blends "a lakeside setting, a touch of CanLit self-referencing and discriminating doses of Shakespeare and Greek tragedy to create a family saga."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/review-his-whole-life-is-a-moving-reflection-on-an-unbreakable-mother-son-bond/article26048675/
Charlotte Silver's Bennington Girls Are Easy is a "delicious first novel about growing up and not leaving New York." There are plenty of reasons to hate the novel's protagonists—they are "catty and selfish and lazy and their priorities are all wrong—but they're also indomitable and savvy and full of moxie that's hard not to enjoy."
http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/books/2015/08/charlotte_silver_s_first_novel_bennington_girls_are_easy_reviewed.html
Chinkstar, by Jon Chan Simpson, is "a fresh and totally badass exploration of history, language and cultural truthiness–straight outta Red Deer." Exploring modern Canadian immigrant culture, it combines the traditions of oral storytelling with classic whodunit style.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/review-jon-chan-simpsons-novel-chinkstar-is-a-genre-bending-exploration-of-history-language-and-culture/article26049470/
In Camilla Gibb's This is Happy, the author "zooms in and out of her formative years as she tries to figure out what family means for her, and how to build one that lasts." Written as a memoir, the story is framed within the context of her own pregnancy, which she went through alone after her wife left her.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/review-camilla-gibb-chronicles-her-search-for-connection-in-this-is-happy/article26048420/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
PLAY ON WORDS
The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) Central Branch is hosting the 2nd annual two day celebration of literary arts in all its diverse forms. August 28 at 12:00pm. Central Courtyard, Greater Victoria Public Library. More information at gvpl.ca.
WORLD POETRY VANCOUVER
Presents Embracing Interconnectivity: Nature & the World. Hosts Wanda Kehewin and Elaine Woo. Features local writers Anita Aguirre-Nieveras, Christine Leclerc, Grace Woo, Isaac Yuen, Jonina Kirton, Joanne Arnott, Nasreen Pejvak, Synne Kune Loh and Rita Wong. September 5, 2015, 1-3 pm. Britannia Branch, VPL, 1661 Napier St., Vancouver, V5L 4X4.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features Russell Thornton & Elena Johnson + Open Mic. Thursday, September 10th, 7–9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Sign up for open mic at 7 pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. Twisted Poets runs the 2nd Wednesday and the 4th Thursday of the month. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
W. JAMES DICKINSON
Local author will read from his book Raptor Night. Friday, September 11 at 4:00pm, free. Salt Spring Island Public Library, Salt Spring Island. More information at saltspring.bc.libraries.coop.
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Five poets/poetry-lovers/readers/writers bring to life the works of their favourite deceased poets. Each reader will give a brief presentation on the life and work of their chosen poet, followed by a poetry reading. Sunday, September 13 at 3:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at deadpoetslive.com.
THE HISTORY OF WOMEN IN THE RCMP
Historian and former RCMP officer, Bonnie Reilly Schmidt, launches her new book, Silenced: The Untold Story of the Fight for Equality in the RCMP. Tuesday, September 15 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse on Main Street, 4118 Main ST. More information andrea@caitlin-press.com.
SPOKEN INK READING SERIES
Features poets Bren Simmers and Raoul Fernandes. Tuesday, September 15 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings Street, Burnaby. More information at harbourpublishing.com.
NOVEL NIGHTS
Raziel Reid discusses his novel When Everything Feels Like The Movies. Wednesday, September 16 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse, 4118 Main Street. More information at 604-879-7737.
Upcoming
THE BOOK OF NEGROES: FROM PAGE TO SCREEN WITH LAWRENCE HILL
Join acclaimed author Lawrence Hill in an evening of conversation with CBC's Margaret Gallagher on the highs and lows of transforming his best-selling novel into a major television series, and other rich revelations. Thursday September 17 at 7:00 pm. Goldcorps Centre for the Arts, 149 W. Hastings St. More information at hapapalooza.com.
KOOTENAY BOOKWEEKEND
The Kootenay Bookweekend will be hosting passionate page-tuners reading and discussing The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King, Daughters of the Witching Hill by Mary Sharratt, Local Customs by Audrey Thomas and our guest author, Arno Kopecky's book The Oil Man and the Sea. September 18-20, 2015 in Nelson, BC. Registration forms and information at kootenaybookweekend.ca.
EUROPEAN BOOK CLUB
Presents My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante. Moderated by Dr. Elisa Segnini. Saturday, September 19 at 3:00pm, free but register at eubookclub.vancouver@gmail.com. Kitsilano Branch, VPL. More information at alliancefrancaise.ca.
THE BEST LAID PLANS: A MUSICAL
The world premiere of a musical based Terry Fallis' award-winning first novel. Presented by Touchstone Theatre and Patrick Street Productions. September 19-October 3, 2015. The York Theatre, 639 Commercial Drive. For tickets, visit tickets.thecultch.com.
COMPLETELY MIXED UP
A display of creativity exploring what it means to be of mixed Asian-North American Heritage. Monday, September 21 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
WORD VANCOUVER
Featuring books and authors with free exhibits, performances, and hands-on activities for a wide range of ages and interests. September 23-27, 2015. Various locations. For complete details, visit wordvancouver.ca.
AUTHORS UNBOUND UNINTERRUPTED
An evening of entertainment and inspiration provided by six local People of the Page: Mauro Azzano, Margo Bates, Kempton Dexter, Pattry Emry, Ron Kearse and Lillja Valis. Monday, September 28 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
Thursday, August 27, 2015
Thursday, August 20, 2015
Book News Vol. 10 No. 22
BOOK NEWS
We're still in the dog days of summer, but did you realize that the Vancouver Writers Fest is only 2 months away? Before you know it, leaves will start to fall, the rain will return (hurray!) and writers from around the world will converge on Granville Island for a week of stimulating discussions, laughter and unforgettable moments.
Curious who will be appearing at the Festival this fall? Each week, we are posting three profiles of Festival authors on our blog, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/prefaces. Learn some fun facts about these exciting authors, buy their book and then come see them at the Festival!
Help jailed Saudi blogger Raif Badawi be heard.
In 2013, Raif Badawi received an unjust and life-threatening sentence for setting up a website for peaceful discussion about religion and religious figures. He remains in a Saudi Arabian prison, but thanks to publishers like Vancouver's Greystone Books, which has published a book of his blogs, Badawi's voice is being heard around the world.
Until September 15th, the VWF is raising money to bring Raif's wife Ensaf Haidar to the Festival to read from 1000 Lashes and raise awareness of Raif's plight. You can help bring Ensaf Haidar to the VWF by donating today. Click here, https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/811vgd/ab/e54kg4.
Special Event
Louise Penny in Conversation with Hal Wake
Louise Penny is coming to Vancouver and everyone is talking about it!
Last week, Louise Penny was interviewed by The Vancouver Sun about her upcoming book tour, her thoughts on the future, and why she's happy to stay in the fictional world of Three Pines a little longer. Read it here, http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/books/Mystery+writer+Louise+Penny+mapping+future/11290840/story.html. Also, tune in to hear Penny on CBC's On the Coast this Monday as you eagerly await for 7:30pm and the start of our event with Penny at the Playhouse!
Monday, August 24 at 7:30pm
Vancouver Playhouse
600 Hamilton Street
Tickets still available! Purchase tickets online, http://vancouvertix.artsclub.com/tickets/reserve.aspx?performanceNumber=13941&type=rentals.
More details here, https://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/louise-penny
Poetry and Short Story Contest
The 17th Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry and Short Story Contest is now open! Entries will be accepted until October 25th, so get writing or start polishing up your best work. The contest is open to all writers, so this could be the perfect opportunity for you to get published for the first time, kick start your writing career or add to your already impressive resume. First place winners will receive $500 and be published in subTERRAIN Magazine. Details and to enter: http://writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest
Know a young writer? Tell them about our writing contest for BC grades 8-12 students, http://writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
FESTIVAL
Vancouver Queer Film Festival
The 27th Annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival runs Aug 13-23. For details on the full line-up and tickets, click here, http://queerfilmfestival.ca/tickets/.
AWARDS & LISTS
Zia Haider Rahman has won the James Tait Black award, Britain's oldest literary prize. His first novel, In the Light of What We Know, encompasses issues from "war in Afghanistan to the banking crisis."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/17/james-tait-black-prize-goes-to-zia-haider-rahman-debut-novel
Eight Saskatchewan writers have been shortlisted for the High Plains Book Awards. The awards recognize "titles published the year prior and written by authors from and/or that reflect life on the High Plains," which include the north-central U.S. states as well as the Canadian prairie provinces.
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2015/08/18/eight-saskatchewan-writers-shortlisted-for-high-plains-book-awards/
Canadian philosopher and writer Charles Taylor has been awarded the $1.5-million John W. Kluge Prize for Achievement in the Study of Humanity. He shares the prize with Germany's Jürgen Habermas.
http://www.shelf-awareness.com/issue.html?issue=2569#m29437
YOUNG READERS
Carl-Johan Forssen Ehrlin, a Swedish behavioral psychologist and linguist, has written a book that "promises to get any child to fall asleep within minutes of reading the story." The book uses psychological techniques to encourage children to sleep.
http://www.adweek.com/galleycat/is-this-the-best-book-ever-for-parents/108530
NEWS & FEATURES
Here's a "purr-fect" literary news story: a coast-to-coast profile of Canadian bookstore cats...just in case you needed another reason to visit your local bookstore!
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2015/08/12-purrfect-canadian-bookstore-cats.html
A best-selling, highly accessible modern re-write of Spain's "most revered novel", Don Quixote, has been branded "a crime against literature". The author feels quite differently, however. "What a paradox," he says. "A French, German or English-speaking reader can read it without any problems in translation but Spanish-speaking readers can't understand half of it unless they read it with notes."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/books/authors/don-quixote-adaptation-sparks-book-row/
Speaking of literary classics, a scholar at the University of Houston is claiming that the nonsense language in Gulliver's Travels is actually based on Hebrew! As it turns out, Jonathan Swift even studied Hebrew at Trinity College Dublin.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/17/gullivers-travels-nonsense-language-is-based-on-hebrew-claims-scholar
Elton John has called Venice's mayor "boorishly bigoted" after instilling an LGBT picture-book ban. Luigi Brugnaro's actions have had picture books about same-sex families removed from schools.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/18/elton-john-protests-venice-ban-on-gay-childrens-books
The Vancouver Public Library is moving into the future! It has implemented six "Inspiration Labs" which are "basically professionally setup studios that can be used to record videos, or allow indie authors to narrate their own audiobooks."
http://goodereader.com/blog/digital-library-news/vancouver-public-library-unveils-new-recording-studios
The situation in Birmingham, England, however, is a bit dire. The city council has apparently "paused" the purchase of new books by the library.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/18/librarians-call-on-birmingham-to-maintain-library-services
BOOKS & WRITERS
An "overdue collection of stories" by Lucia Berlin has been published. Called A Manual for Cleaning Women, it's a "soul-baring" set of stories that delves deep into Raymond Carver territory.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/19/books/review-a-manual-for-cleaning-women-lucia-berlins-soul-baring-stories.html
David Mitchell "believes he has created his own version of Middle Earth for all his future books." He discusses this new world, writing in the female voice, genre-jumping and more in this interview with The Guardian.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/17/david-mitchell-i-have-created-my-own-middle-earth
The book trailer for Patrick deWitt's Undermajordomo Minor has been released. Check it out here:
http://www.quillandquire.com/book-news/2015/08/18/book-trailer-for-patrick-dewitts-undermajordomo-minor-released/
Camilla Gibb's new memoir, This is Happy, "brims with raw emotion." The Globe and Mail has called it "one of the most exquisite, agonizing and, above all, uplifting books of the year."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/camilla-gibbs-raw-memoir-is-agonizing-and-uplifting/article25968856/
Colm Toibin recently called Clarice Lispector "one of the hidden geniuses of the 20th century." Long dead, she's only now being discovered by the English-speaking world. The Complete Stories meticulously tracks Lispector's career "from start to finish, in all its multiple, disquieting manifestations."
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/12/books/review-clarice-lispectors-the-complete-stories-sees-life-with-existential-dread.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ROBERT WIERSEMA
The author of Black Feathers will read from his book, answer questions and sign. Saturday, August 22 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse Main Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-879-7737.
PLAY ON WORDS
The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) Central Branch is hosting the 2nd annual two day celebration of literary arts in all its diverse forms. August 28 at 12:00pm. Central Courtyard, Greater Victoria Public Library. More information at gvpl.ca.
WORLD POETRY VANCOUVER
Presents Embracing Interconnectivity: Nature & the World. Hosts Wanda Kehewin and Elaine Woo. Features local writers Anita Aguirre-Nieveras, Christine Leclerc, Grace Woo, Isaac Yuen, Jonina Kirton, Joanne Arnott, Nasreen Pejvak, Synne Kune Loh and Rita Wong. September 5, 2015, 1-3 pm. Britannia Branch, VPL, 1661 Napier St., Vancouver, V5L 4X4.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features Russell Thornton & Elena Johnson + Open Mic. Thursday, September 10th, 7–9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Sign up for open mic at 7 pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. Twisted Poets runs the 2nd Wednesday and the 4th Thursday of the month. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
W. JAMES DICKINSON
Local author will read from his book Raptor Night. Friday, September 11 at 4:00pm, free. Salt Spring Island Public Library, Salt Spring Island. More information at saltspring.bc.libraries.coop.
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Five poets/poetry-lovers/readers/writers bring to life the works of their favourite deceased poets. Each reader will give a brief presentation on the life and work of their chosen poet, followed by a poetry reading. Sunday, September 13 at 3:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at deadpoetslive.com.
Upcoming
THE HISTORY OF WOMEN IN THE RCMP
Historian and former RCMP officer, Bonnie Reilly Schmidt, launches her new book, Silenced: The Untold Story of the Fight for Equality in the RCMP. Tuesday, September 15 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse on Main Street, 4118 Main ST. More information andrea@caitlin-press.com.
SPOKEN INK READING SERIES
Features poets Bren Simmers and Raoul Fernandes. Tuesday, September 15 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings Street, Burnaby. More information at harbourpublishing.com.
NOVEL NIGHTS
Raziel Reid discusses his novel When Everything Feels Like The Movies. Wednesday, September 16 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse, 4118 Main Street. More information at 604-879-7737.
KOOTENAY BOOKWEEKEND
The Kootenay Bookweekend will be hosting passionate page-tuners reading and discussing The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King, Daughters of the Witching Hill by Mary Sharratt, Local Customs by Audrey Thomas and our guest author, Arno Kopecky's book The Oil Man and the Sea. September 18-20, 2015 in Nelson, BC. Registration forms and information at kootenaybookweekend.ca.
EUROPEAN BOOK CLUB
Presents My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante. Moderated by Dr. Elisa Segnini. Saturday, September 19 at 3:00pm, free but register at eubookclub.vancouver@gmail.com. Kitsilano Branch, VPL. More information at alliancefrancaise.ca.
COMPLETELY MIXED UP
A display of creativity exploring what it means to be of mixed Asian-North American Heritage. Monday, September 21 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
WORD VANCOUVER
Featuring books and authors with free exhibits, performances, and hands-on activities for a wide range of ages and interests. September 23-27, 2015. Various locations. For complete details, visit wordvancouver.ca.
AUTHORS UNBOUND UNINTERRUPTED
An evening of entertainment and inspiration provided by six local People of the Page: Mauro Azzano, Margo Bates, Kempton Dexter, Pattry Emry, Ron Kearse and Lillja Valis. Monday, September 28 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
We're still in the dog days of summer, but did you realize that the Vancouver Writers Fest is only 2 months away? Before you know it, leaves will start to fall, the rain will return (hurray!) and writers from around the world will converge on Granville Island for a week of stimulating discussions, laughter and unforgettable moments.
Curious who will be appearing at the Festival this fall? Each week, we are posting three profiles of Festival authors on our blog, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/prefaces. Learn some fun facts about these exciting authors, buy their book and then come see them at the Festival!
Help jailed Saudi blogger Raif Badawi be heard.
In 2013, Raif Badawi received an unjust and life-threatening sentence for setting up a website for peaceful discussion about religion and religious figures. He remains in a Saudi Arabian prison, but thanks to publishers like Vancouver's Greystone Books, which has published a book of his blogs, Badawi's voice is being heard around the world.
Until September 15th, the VWF is raising money to bring Raif's wife Ensaf Haidar to the Festival to read from 1000 Lashes and raise awareness of Raif's plight. You can help bring Ensaf Haidar to the VWF by donating today. Click here, https://fundrazr.com/campaigns/811vgd/ab/e54kg4.
Special Event
Louise Penny in Conversation with Hal Wake
Louise Penny is coming to Vancouver and everyone is talking about it!
Last week, Louise Penny was interviewed by The Vancouver Sun about her upcoming book tour, her thoughts on the future, and why she's happy to stay in the fictional world of Three Pines a little longer. Read it here, http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/books/Mystery+writer+Louise+Penny+mapping+future/11290840/story.html. Also, tune in to hear Penny on CBC's On the Coast this Monday as you eagerly await for 7:30pm and the start of our event with Penny at the Playhouse!
Monday, August 24 at 7:30pm
Vancouver Playhouse
600 Hamilton Street
Tickets still available! Purchase tickets online, http://vancouvertix.artsclub.com/tickets/reserve.aspx?performanceNumber=13941&type=rentals.
More details here, https://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/louise-penny
Poetry and Short Story Contest
The 17th Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry and Short Story Contest is now open! Entries will be accepted until October 25th, so get writing or start polishing up your best work. The contest is open to all writers, so this could be the perfect opportunity for you to get published for the first time, kick start your writing career or add to your already impressive resume. First place winners will receive $500 and be published in subTERRAIN Magazine. Details and to enter: http://writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest
Know a young writer? Tell them about our writing contest for BC grades 8-12 students, http://writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
FESTIVAL
Vancouver Queer Film Festival
The 27th Annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival runs Aug 13-23. For details on the full line-up and tickets, click here, http://queerfilmfestival.ca/tickets/.
AWARDS & LISTS
Zia Haider Rahman has won the James Tait Black award, Britain's oldest literary prize. His first novel, In the Light of What We Know, encompasses issues from "war in Afghanistan to the banking crisis."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/17/james-tait-black-prize-goes-to-zia-haider-rahman-debut-novel
Eight Saskatchewan writers have been shortlisted for the High Plains Book Awards. The awards recognize "titles published the year prior and written by authors from and/or that reflect life on the High Plains," which include the north-central U.S. states as well as the Canadian prairie provinces.
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2015/08/18/eight-saskatchewan-writers-shortlisted-for-high-plains-book-awards/
Canadian philosopher and writer Charles Taylor has been awarded the $1.5-million John W. Kluge Prize for Achievement in the Study of Humanity. He shares the prize with Germany's Jürgen Habermas.
http://www.shelf-awareness.com/issue.html?issue=2569#m29437
YOUNG READERS
Carl-Johan Forssen Ehrlin, a Swedish behavioral psychologist and linguist, has written a book that "promises to get any child to fall asleep within minutes of reading the story." The book uses psychological techniques to encourage children to sleep.
http://www.adweek.com/galleycat/is-this-the-best-book-ever-for-parents/108530
NEWS & FEATURES
Here's a "purr-fect" literary news story: a coast-to-coast profile of Canadian bookstore cats...just in case you needed another reason to visit your local bookstore!
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2015/08/12-purrfect-canadian-bookstore-cats.html
A best-selling, highly accessible modern re-write of Spain's "most revered novel", Don Quixote, has been branded "a crime against literature". The author feels quite differently, however. "What a paradox," he says. "A French, German or English-speaking reader can read it without any problems in translation but Spanish-speaking readers can't understand half of it unless they read it with notes."
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/books/authors/don-quixote-adaptation-sparks-book-row/
Speaking of literary classics, a scholar at the University of Houston is claiming that the nonsense language in Gulliver's Travels is actually based on Hebrew! As it turns out, Jonathan Swift even studied Hebrew at Trinity College Dublin.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/17/gullivers-travels-nonsense-language-is-based-on-hebrew-claims-scholar
Elton John has called Venice's mayor "boorishly bigoted" after instilling an LGBT picture-book ban. Luigi Brugnaro's actions have had picture books about same-sex families removed from schools.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/18/elton-john-protests-venice-ban-on-gay-childrens-books
The Vancouver Public Library is moving into the future! It has implemented six "Inspiration Labs" which are "basically professionally setup studios that can be used to record videos, or allow indie authors to narrate their own audiobooks."
http://goodereader.com/blog/digital-library-news/vancouver-public-library-unveils-new-recording-studios
The situation in Birmingham, England, however, is a bit dire. The city council has apparently "paused" the purchase of new books by the library.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/18/librarians-call-on-birmingham-to-maintain-library-services
BOOKS & WRITERS
An "overdue collection of stories" by Lucia Berlin has been published. Called A Manual for Cleaning Women, it's a "soul-baring" set of stories that delves deep into Raymond Carver territory.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/19/books/review-a-manual-for-cleaning-women-lucia-berlins-soul-baring-stories.html
David Mitchell "believes he has created his own version of Middle Earth for all his future books." He discusses this new world, writing in the female voice, genre-jumping and more in this interview with The Guardian.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/17/david-mitchell-i-have-created-my-own-middle-earth
The book trailer for Patrick deWitt's Undermajordomo Minor has been released. Check it out here:
http://www.quillandquire.com/book-news/2015/08/18/book-trailer-for-patrick-dewitts-undermajordomo-minor-released/
Camilla Gibb's new memoir, This is Happy, "brims with raw emotion." The Globe and Mail has called it "one of the most exquisite, agonizing and, above all, uplifting books of the year."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/camilla-gibbs-raw-memoir-is-agonizing-and-uplifting/article25968856/
Colm Toibin recently called Clarice Lispector "one of the hidden geniuses of the 20th century." Long dead, she's only now being discovered by the English-speaking world. The Complete Stories meticulously tracks Lispector's career "from start to finish, in all its multiple, disquieting manifestations."
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/12/books/review-clarice-lispectors-the-complete-stories-sees-life-with-existential-dread.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
ROBERT WIERSEMA
The author of Black Feathers will read from his book, answer questions and sign. Saturday, August 22 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse Main Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-879-7737.
PLAY ON WORDS
The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) Central Branch is hosting the 2nd annual two day celebration of literary arts in all its diverse forms. August 28 at 12:00pm. Central Courtyard, Greater Victoria Public Library. More information at gvpl.ca.
WORLD POETRY VANCOUVER
Presents Embracing Interconnectivity: Nature & the World. Hosts Wanda Kehewin and Elaine Woo. Features local writers Anita Aguirre-Nieveras, Christine Leclerc, Grace Woo, Isaac Yuen, Jonina Kirton, Joanne Arnott, Nasreen Pejvak, Synne Kune Loh and Rita Wong. September 5, 2015, 1-3 pm. Britannia Branch, VPL, 1661 Napier St., Vancouver, V5L 4X4.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features Russell Thornton & Elena Johnson + Open Mic. Thursday, September 10th, 7–9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Sign up for open mic at 7 pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. Twisted Poets runs the 2nd Wednesday and the 4th Thursday of the month. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
W. JAMES DICKINSON
Local author will read from his book Raptor Night. Friday, September 11 at 4:00pm, free. Salt Spring Island Public Library, Salt Spring Island. More information at saltspring.bc.libraries.coop.
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Five poets/poetry-lovers/readers/writers bring to life the works of their favourite deceased poets. Each reader will give a brief presentation on the life and work of their chosen poet, followed by a poetry reading. Sunday, September 13 at 3:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at deadpoetslive.com.
Upcoming
THE HISTORY OF WOMEN IN THE RCMP
Historian and former RCMP officer, Bonnie Reilly Schmidt, launches her new book, Silenced: The Untold Story of the Fight for Equality in the RCMP. Tuesday, September 15 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse on Main Street, 4118 Main ST. More information andrea@caitlin-press.com.
SPOKEN INK READING SERIES
Features poets Bren Simmers and Raoul Fernandes. Tuesday, September 15 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings Street, Burnaby. More information at harbourpublishing.com.
NOVEL NIGHTS
Raziel Reid discusses his novel When Everything Feels Like The Movies. Wednesday, September 16 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse, 4118 Main Street. More information at 604-879-7737.
KOOTENAY BOOKWEEKEND
The Kootenay Bookweekend will be hosting passionate page-tuners reading and discussing The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King, Daughters of the Witching Hill by Mary Sharratt, Local Customs by Audrey Thomas and our guest author, Arno Kopecky's book The Oil Man and the Sea. September 18-20, 2015 in Nelson, BC. Registration forms and information at kootenaybookweekend.ca.
EUROPEAN BOOK CLUB
Presents My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante. Moderated by Dr. Elisa Segnini. Saturday, September 19 at 3:00pm, free but register at eubookclub.vancouver@gmail.com. Kitsilano Branch, VPL. More information at alliancefrancaise.ca.
COMPLETELY MIXED UP
A display of creativity exploring what it means to be of mixed Asian-North American Heritage. Monday, September 21 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
WORD VANCOUVER
Featuring books and authors with free exhibits, performances, and hands-on activities for a wide range of ages and interests. September 23-27, 2015. Various locations. For complete details, visit wordvancouver.ca.
AUTHORS UNBOUND UNINTERRUPTED
An evening of entertainment and inspiration provided by six local People of the Page: Mauro Azzano, Margo Bates, Kempton Dexter, Pattry Emry, Ron Kearse and Lillja Valis. Monday, September 28 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
Thursday, August 13, 2015
Book News Vol. 10 No. 21
BOOK NEWS
Special Event
Louise Penny in Conversation with Hal Wake
Have you purchased your ticket for our special event with Louise Penny yet? Tickets are still available, but with less than two weeks left until the event, they won't be for long.
After you've bought your ticket—or, if you need a little more convincing first—enjoy this thrilling excerpt of the audiobook of The Nature of the Beast, read by actor Robert Bathurst here, https://soundcloud.com/macaudio-2/the-nature-of-the-beast-by-louise-penny-audiobook-excerpt. The Nature of the Beast will be for sale at the event and Penny will be available to sign your copy.
Monday, August 24 at 7:30pm
Vancouver Playhouse
600 Hamilton Street
Details and to purchase tickets, https://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/louise-penny.
Poetry and Short Story Contest
The 17th Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry and Short Story Contest is now open! Entries will be accepted until October 25th, so get writing or start polishing up your best work. The contest is open to all writers, so this could be the perfect opportunity for you to get published for the first time, kick start your writing career or add to your already impressive resume. First place winners will receive $500 and be published in subTERRAIN Magazine. Details and to enter: http://writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest
Know a young writer? Tell them about our writing contest for BC grades 8-12 students, http://writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
FESTIVALS
Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts
Join Canada's longest running summer gathering of Canadian writers and readers, featuring Camilla Gibb, Alison Pick, Ian Weir, Michael Winter and others. August 13-16, 2015. Sechelt, BC. Information at writersfestival.ca.
Vancouver Queer Film Festival
The 27th Annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival runs Aug 13-23. For details on the full line-up and tickets, click here, http://queerfilmfestival.ca/tickets/.
AWARDS & LISTS
The Writers' Trust has announced the jury for its 2015 Hilary Weston Prize for Non-fiction. The prize's shortlist will be announced on September 16th.
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2015/08/10/writers-trust-announces-2015-hilary-weston-prize-for-non-fiction-jury/
Edmonton writer and artist Laurie MacFayden has won her second Goldie Award for her book of poetry, kissing keeps us afloat. The award is given by the Golden Crown Literary Society, which aims to "promote and honour lesbian literature."
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2015/08/07/laurie-macfayden-wins-second-goldie-award/
The finalists for the annual $10,000 Edna Staebler Award for Creative Non-fiction have been announced. Administered by Wilfred Laurier University, the award honours "fantastic works of the genre that include a particularly Canadian significance or setting and were published the year prior."
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2015/07/30/2015-edna-staebler-award-for-creative-non-fiction-shortlist-announced/
YOUNG READERS
Greg Neri has written a novel for middle-grade readers about the friendship between Harper Lee and Truman Capote. Called Tru & Nelle, it was inspired by a question the author asked himself: why has no one had written a book about their childhoods?
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/10/books/harper-lee-and-truman-capote-a-collaboration-in-mischief.html
NEWS & FEATURES
Every month, Quill & Quire visits "dingy watering holes, upscale cafés, and other haunts in search of the country's most beloved book-launch venues." This month, they've profiled Café Deux Soleils in Vancouver.
http://www.quillandquire.com/book-culture/2015/08/06/book-launch-venue-hop-cafe-deux-soleils-vancouver/
What Pet Should I Get, by Dr. Seuss, has become the "fastest-selling picture book in Random House Children's Book history." It sold 200,000 copies in its first week!
http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-book-news/article/67720-what-pet-should-i-get-sells-200k-in-first-week.html
The Toronto Public Library is placing a book vending machine at the Union Station. "The exact logistics have not been worked out yet, but there will be a number of perennial bestsellers available, in addition to DVD's. The library also has not ruled out the ability to borrow e-books directly from the machine."
http://goodereader.com/blog/digital-library-news/toronto-library-developing-book-vending-machine
Speaking of libraries, many college libraries are now going bookless. "The book-less library is simply the latest stage in a trend that has been building for over ten years now. As information becomes easier to access online, many categories of books have become redundant."
http://the-digital-reader.com/2015/08/05/why-college-libraries-are-going-bookless/
"Writing used to be a solitary profession. How did it become so interminably social?" Here's one writer's lament for the loss of an introverted life.
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2015/08/an-introvert-writers-lament/400238/
Literary hoaxes have been around for a very long time. From Jonathan Swift's fake astrological forecasting to a licentious pamphlet about Ronald Reagan, here are the 10 best (according to The Guardian).
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/05/top-10-literary-hoaxes-mark-blacklock
Could Pride and Prejudice's Mr. Darcy afford a stately home today? The "modern-day fortunes of Jane Austen's fictional heroes" have been calculated and the results are very revealing. Check them out here:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/11063670/Could-Mr-Darcy-afford-a-stately-home-today.html
DH Lawrence fans are up in arms! "After weathering the storm over Lady Chatterley's Lover and the ensuing obscenity trial, you might have thought that the spirit of DH Lawrence might have been little troubled by a children's petting zoo. But you would be wrong."
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/petting-zoo-at-the-dh-lawrence-centre-angers-authors-admirers-10431867.html
Speaking of dead authors, new revelations about William Shakespeare have shed a whole new "light" on his work. 400 year-old pipes with cannabis residue were found in the Bard's garden!
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/theatre-dance/features/william-shakespeare-high-cannabis-marijuana-stoned-plays-hamlet-macbeth-romeo-juliet-stratford-10446510.html
Summer's almost over, but it's not too late to take a literary road trip. The CBC has compiled a list of the best Canadian bookstores, from east to west. Check them out, here:
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2015/08/16-must-see-canadian-bookstores.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
Are you looking for some books to "move you, amuse you, bend your brain, and leave you craving more?" If so, you might enjoy this feature in Scout Magazine: four book recommendations and mini reviews (by the Writers Fest's own Clea Young, Arielle Spence and Cristina Melo!)
http://scoutmagazine.ca/2015/08/03/read-this-books-to-move-you-amuse-you-bend-your-brain-and-leave-you-craving-more/
Portland-based writer Patrick deWitt's new novel, Undermajordomo Minor is "a love story, an adventure story, a fable without a moral, and an ink-black comedy of manners" about a young man named Lucy. Here's an excerpt.
http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/books/Book+excerpt+Vancouver+author+Patrick+deWitt+tells/11279431/story.html
Ta-Nehisi Coates' book, Between the World and Me, has made him one of the most talked-about authors in recent weeks. In this interview with The New York Times, he discusses his favorite novelist, his reading habits, his fictional heroes and what's to come with his own writing.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/16/books/review/ta-nehisi-coates-by-the-book.html
Fishbowl, by Bradley Somer, is a book that "tackles loneliness, love and death with wit and sensitivity." It's also part of two great traditions: stories about humans narrated by animals, and narratives "based around unexpected convergences of separate, proximate lives."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/review-bradley-somers-fishbowl-tackles-loneliness-love-and-death-with-wit-and-sensitivity/article25877607/
In his second novel, Armada, Ernest Cline takes his "love of ‘80s nostalgia to new heights." In this interview, Cline talks about "the lure of nostalgia" and the forthcoming Steven Spielberg adaptation of his debut novel.
http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/books/Author+Revenge+nerd/11274091/story.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
SANDY SHREVE
Author reads from her 5th poetry collection, Waiting for the Albatross-found poems from a deck hand’s diary, 1936. Friday, August 14 at 7:30pm. Hillside Coffee and Tea, 1633 Hillside Ave ., Victoria. More information at planetearthpoetry.com.
RICHARD GOODFELLOW
Vancouver author signs his debut thriller novel, Collector of Secrets. Saturday, August 15 at 2:00pm. Chapters Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby.
ROBERT WIERSEMA
The author of Black Features will read from his book, answer questions and sign. Saturday, August 22 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse Main Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-879-7737.
PLAY ON WORDS
The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) Central Branch is hosting the 2nd annual two day celebration of literary arts in all its diverse forms. August 28 at 12:00pm. Central Courtyard, Greater Victoria Public Library. More information at gvpl.ca.
WORLD POETRY VANCOUVER
Presents Embracing Interconnectivity: Nature & the World. Hosts Wanda Kehewin and Elaine Woo. Features local writers Anita Aguirre-Nieveras, Christine Leclerc, Grace Woo, Isaac Yuen, Jonina Kirton, Joanne Arnott, Nasreen Pejvak, Synne Kune Loh and Rita Wong. September 5, 2015, 1-3 pm. Britannia Branch, VPL, 1661 Napier St., Vancouver, V5L 4X4.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features Russell Thornton & Elena Johnson + Open Mic. Thursday, September 10th, 7–9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Sign up for open mic at 7 pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. Twisted Poets runs the 2nd Wednesday and the 4th Thursday of the month. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
W. JAMES DICKINSON
Local author will read from his book Raptor Night. Friday, September 11 at 4:00pm, free. Salt Spring Island Public Library, Salt Spring Island. More information at saltspring.bc.libraries.coop.
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Five poets/poetry-lovers/readers/writers bring to life the works of their favourite deceased poets. Each reader will give a brief presentation on the life and work of their chosen poet, followed by a poetry reading. Sunday, September 13 at 3:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at deadpoetslive.com.
Upcoming
THE HISTORY OF WOMEN IN THE RCMP
Historian and former RCMP officer, Bonnie Reilly Schmidt, launches her new book, Silenced: The Untold Story of the Fight for Equality in the RCMP. Tuesday, September 15 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse on Main Street, 4118 Main ST. More information andrea@caitlin-press.com.
SPOKEN INK READING SERIES
Features poets Bren Simmers and Raoul Fernandes. Tuesday, September 15 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings Street, Burnaby. More information at harbourpublishing.com.
KOOTENAY BOOKWEEKEND
The Kootenay Bookweekend will be hosting passionate page-tuners reading and discussing The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King, Daughters of the Witching Hill by Mary Sharratt, Local Customs by Audrey Thomas and our guest author, Arno Kopecky's book The Oil Man and the Sea. September 18-20, 2015 in Nelson, BC. Registration forms and information at kootenaybookweekend.ca.
EUROPEAN BOOK CLUB
Presents My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante. Moderated by Dr. Elisa Segnini. Saturday, September 19 at 3:00pm, free but register at eubookclub.vancouver@gmail.com. Kitsilano Branch, VPL. More information at alliancefrancaise.ca.
COMPLETELY MIXED UP
A display of creativity exploring what it means to be of mixed Asian-North American Heritage. Monday, September 21 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
WORD VANCOUVER
Featuring books and authors with free exhibits, performances, and hands-on activities for a wide range of ages and interests. September 23-27, 2015. Various locations. For complete details, visit wordvancouver.ca.
AUTHORS UNBOUND UNINTERRUPTED
An evening of entertainment and inspiration provided by six local People of the Page: Mauro Azzano, Margo Bates, Kempton Dexter, Pattry Emry, Ron Kearse and Lillja Valis. Monday, September 28 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
Special Event
Louise Penny in Conversation with Hal Wake
Have you purchased your ticket for our special event with Louise Penny yet? Tickets are still available, but with less than two weeks left until the event, they won't be for long.
After you've bought your ticket—or, if you need a little more convincing first—enjoy this thrilling excerpt of the audiobook of The Nature of the Beast, read by actor Robert Bathurst here, https://soundcloud.com/macaudio-2/the-nature-of-the-beast-by-louise-penny-audiobook-excerpt. The Nature of the Beast will be for sale at the event and Penny will be available to sign your copy.
Monday, August 24 at 7:30pm
Vancouver Playhouse
600 Hamilton Street
Details and to purchase tickets, https://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/louise-penny.
Poetry and Short Story Contest
The 17th Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry and Short Story Contest is now open! Entries will be accepted until October 25th, so get writing or start polishing up your best work. The contest is open to all writers, so this could be the perfect opportunity for you to get published for the first time, kick start your writing career or add to your already impressive resume. First place winners will receive $500 and be published in subTERRAIN Magazine. Details and to enter: http://writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest
Know a young writer? Tell them about our writing contest for BC grades 8-12 students, http://writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
FESTIVALS
Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts
Join Canada's longest running summer gathering of Canadian writers and readers, featuring Camilla Gibb, Alison Pick, Ian Weir, Michael Winter and others. August 13-16, 2015. Sechelt, BC. Information at writersfestival.ca.
Vancouver Queer Film Festival
The 27th Annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival runs Aug 13-23. For details on the full line-up and tickets, click here, http://queerfilmfestival.ca/tickets/.
AWARDS & LISTS
The Writers' Trust has announced the jury for its 2015 Hilary Weston Prize for Non-fiction. The prize's shortlist will be announced on September 16th.
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2015/08/10/writers-trust-announces-2015-hilary-weston-prize-for-non-fiction-jury/
Edmonton writer and artist Laurie MacFayden has won her second Goldie Award for her book of poetry, kissing keeps us afloat. The award is given by the Golden Crown Literary Society, which aims to "promote and honour lesbian literature."
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2015/08/07/laurie-macfayden-wins-second-goldie-award/
The finalists for the annual $10,000 Edna Staebler Award for Creative Non-fiction have been announced. Administered by Wilfred Laurier University, the award honours "fantastic works of the genre that include a particularly Canadian significance or setting and were published the year prior."
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2015/07/30/2015-edna-staebler-award-for-creative-non-fiction-shortlist-announced/
YOUNG READERS
Greg Neri has written a novel for middle-grade readers about the friendship between Harper Lee and Truman Capote. Called Tru & Nelle, it was inspired by a question the author asked himself: why has no one had written a book about their childhoods?
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/10/books/harper-lee-and-truman-capote-a-collaboration-in-mischief.html
NEWS & FEATURES
Every month, Quill & Quire visits "dingy watering holes, upscale cafés, and other haunts in search of the country's most beloved book-launch venues." This month, they've profiled Café Deux Soleils in Vancouver.
http://www.quillandquire.com/book-culture/2015/08/06/book-launch-venue-hop-cafe-deux-soleils-vancouver/
What Pet Should I Get, by Dr. Seuss, has become the "fastest-selling picture book in Random House Children's Book history." It sold 200,000 copies in its first week!
http://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-book-news/article/67720-what-pet-should-i-get-sells-200k-in-first-week.html
The Toronto Public Library is placing a book vending machine at the Union Station. "The exact logistics have not been worked out yet, but there will be a number of perennial bestsellers available, in addition to DVD's. The library also has not ruled out the ability to borrow e-books directly from the machine."
http://goodereader.com/blog/digital-library-news/toronto-library-developing-book-vending-machine
Speaking of libraries, many college libraries are now going bookless. "The book-less library is simply the latest stage in a trend that has been building for over ten years now. As information becomes easier to access online, many categories of books have become redundant."
http://the-digital-reader.com/2015/08/05/why-college-libraries-are-going-bookless/
"Writing used to be a solitary profession. How did it become so interminably social?" Here's one writer's lament for the loss of an introverted life.
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2015/08/an-introvert-writers-lament/400238/
Literary hoaxes have been around for a very long time. From Jonathan Swift's fake astrological forecasting to a licentious pamphlet about Ronald Reagan, here are the 10 best (according to The Guardian).
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/aug/05/top-10-literary-hoaxes-mark-blacklock
Could Pride and Prejudice's Mr. Darcy afford a stately home today? The "modern-day fortunes of Jane Austen's fictional heroes" have been calculated and the results are very revealing. Check them out here:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/11063670/Could-Mr-Darcy-afford-a-stately-home-today.html
DH Lawrence fans are up in arms! "After weathering the storm over Lady Chatterley's Lover and the ensuing obscenity trial, you might have thought that the spirit of DH Lawrence might have been little troubled by a children's petting zoo. But you would be wrong."
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/petting-zoo-at-the-dh-lawrence-centre-angers-authors-admirers-10431867.html
Speaking of dead authors, new revelations about William Shakespeare have shed a whole new "light" on his work. 400 year-old pipes with cannabis residue were found in the Bard's garden!
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/theatre-dance/features/william-shakespeare-high-cannabis-marijuana-stoned-plays-hamlet-macbeth-romeo-juliet-stratford-10446510.html
Summer's almost over, but it's not too late to take a literary road trip. The CBC has compiled a list of the best Canadian bookstores, from east to west. Check them out, here:
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2015/08/16-must-see-canadian-bookstores.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
Are you looking for some books to "move you, amuse you, bend your brain, and leave you craving more?" If so, you might enjoy this feature in Scout Magazine: four book recommendations and mini reviews (by the Writers Fest's own Clea Young, Arielle Spence and Cristina Melo!)
http://scoutmagazine.ca/2015/08/03/read-this-books-to-move-you-amuse-you-bend-your-brain-and-leave-you-craving-more/
Portland-based writer Patrick deWitt's new novel, Undermajordomo Minor is "a love story, an adventure story, a fable without a moral, and an ink-black comedy of manners" about a young man named Lucy. Here's an excerpt.
http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/books/Book+excerpt+Vancouver+author+Patrick+deWitt+tells/11279431/story.html
Ta-Nehisi Coates' book, Between the World and Me, has made him one of the most talked-about authors in recent weeks. In this interview with The New York Times, he discusses his favorite novelist, his reading habits, his fictional heroes and what's to come with his own writing.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/16/books/review/ta-nehisi-coates-by-the-book.html
Fishbowl, by Bradley Somer, is a book that "tackles loneliness, love and death with wit and sensitivity." It's also part of two great traditions: stories about humans narrated by animals, and narratives "based around unexpected convergences of separate, proximate lives."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/review-bradley-somers-fishbowl-tackles-loneliness-love-and-death-with-wit-and-sensitivity/article25877607/
In his second novel, Armada, Ernest Cline takes his "love of ‘80s nostalgia to new heights." In this interview, Cline talks about "the lure of nostalgia" and the forthcoming Steven Spielberg adaptation of his debut novel.
http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/books/Author+Revenge+nerd/11274091/story.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
SANDY SHREVE
Author reads from her 5th poetry collection, Waiting for the Albatross-found poems from a deck hand’s diary, 1936. Friday, August 14 at 7:30pm. Hillside Coffee and Tea, 1633 Hillside Ave ., Victoria. More information at planetearthpoetry.com.
RICHARD GOODFELLOW
Vancouver author signs his debut thriller novel, Collector of Secrets. Saturday, August 15 at 2:00pm. Chapters Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby.
ROBERT WIERSEMA
The author of Black Features will read from his book, answer questions and sign. Saturday, August 22 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse Main Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-879-7737.
PLAY ON WORDS
The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) Central Branch is hosting the 2nd annual two day celebration of literary arts in all its diverse forms. August 28 at 12:00pm. Central Courtyard, Greater Victoria Public Library. More information at gvpl.ca.
WORLD POETRY VANCOUVER
Presents Embracing Interconnectivity: Nature & the World. Hosts Wanda Kehewin and Elaine Woo. Features local writers Anita Aguirre-Nieveras, Christine Leclerc, Grace Woo, Isaac Yuen, Jonina Kirton, Joanne Arnott, Nasreen Pejvak, Synne Kune Loh and Rita Wong. September 5, 2015, 1-3 pm. Britannia Branch, VPL, 1661 Napier St., Vancouver, V5L 4X4.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features Russell Thornton & Elena Johnson + Open Mic. Thursday, September 10th, 7–9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Sign up for open mic at 7 pm. Suggested donation at the door: $5. Twisted Poets runs the 2nd Wednesday and the 4th Thursday of the month. More information at www.pandorascollective.com.
W. JAMES DICKINSON
Local author will read from his book Raptor Night. Friday, September 11 at 4:00pm, free. Salt Spring Island Public Library, Salt Spring Island. More information at saltspring.bc.libraries.coop.
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Five poets/poetry-lovers/readers/writers bring to life the works of their favourite deceased poets. Each reader will give a brief presentation on the life and work of their chosen poet, followed by a poetry reading. Sunday, September 13 at 3:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at deadpoetslive.com.
Upcoming
THE HISTORY OF WOMEN IN THE RCMP
Historian and former RCMP officer, Bonnie Reilly Schmidt, launches her new book, Silenced: The Untold Story of the Fight for Equality in the RCMP. Tuesday, September 15 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse on Main Street, 4118 Main ST. More information andrea@caitlin-press.com.
SPOKEN INK READING SERIES
Features poets Bren Simmers and Raoul Fernandes. Tuesday, September 15 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings Street, Burnaby. More information at harbourpublishing.com.
KOOTENAY BOOKWEEKEND
The Kootenay Bookweekend will be hosting passionate page-tuners reading and discussing The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King, Daughters of the Witching Hill by Mary Sharratt, Local Customs by Audrey Thomas and our guest author, Arno Kopecky's book The Oil Man and the Sea. September 18-20, 2015 in Nelson, BC. Registration forms and information at kootenaybookweekend.ca.
EUROPEAN BOOK CLUB
Presents My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante. Moderated by Dr. Elisa Segnini. Saturday, September 19 at 3:00pm, free but register at eubookclub.vancouver@gmail.com. Kitsilano Branch, VPL. More information at alliancefrancaise.ca.
COMPLETELY MIXED UP
A display of creativity exploring what it means to be of mixed Asian-North American Heritage. Monday, September 21 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
WORD VANCOUVER
Featuring books and authors with free exhibits, performances, and hands-on activities for a wide range of ages and interests. September 23-27, 2015. Various locations. For complete details, visit wordvancouver.ca.
AUTHORS UNBOUND UNINTERRUPTED
An evening of entertainment and inspiration provided by six local People of the Page: Mauro Azzano, Margo Bates, Kempton Dexter, Pattry Emry, Ron Kearse and Lillja Valis. Monday, September 28 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
Thursday, August 6, 2015
Book News Vol. 10 No. 20
BOOK NEWS
Special Event
Louise Penny in Conversation with Hal Wake
"A monster once visited Three Pines. And put down deep roots. And now, it is back."
Return to Three Pines, Quebec with the 11th book the Louise Penny's Inspector Gamache series, The Nature of the Beast. In a little over two weeks, Penny will be talking to Hal Wake about the series and reading from her new book. It promises to be a thrilling, memorable night and we'd love to see you there!
Monday, August 24 at 7:30pm
Vancouver Playhouse
600 Hamilton Street
Details and to purchase tickets, https://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/louise-penny.
Poetry and Short Story Contest
The 17th Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry and Short Story Contest is now open! Entries will be accepted until October 25th, so get writing or start polishing up your best work. The contest is open to all writers, so this could be the perfect opportunity for you to get published for the first time, kick start your writing career or add to your already impressive resume. First place winners will receive $500 and be published in subTERRAIN Magazine. Details and to enter: http://writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest
Know a young writer? Tell them about our writing contest for BC grades 8-12 students, http://writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
FESTIVALS
Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts
Join Canada's longest running summer gathering of Canadian writers and readers, featuring Camilla Gibb, Alison Pick, Ian Weir, Michael Winter and others. August 13-16, 2015. Sechelt, BC. Information at writersfestival.ca.
Vancouver Queer Film Festival
The 27th Annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival runs Aug 13-23. For details on the full line-up and tickets, click here, http://queerfilmfestival.ca/tickets/.
YOUNG READERS
Bear With Me is the story of "a very special red bear." It began as a sketchbook, travelling over 1000 miles, passing from illustrator to illustrator (including very famous ones like Quentin Blake!) in order to create very unique book about a "beguiling bear named Lawrence."
http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/gallery/2015/jul/28/bear-with-me-illustration-project-chris-riddell-quentin-blake
Recently we mentioned the fact that Dr. Seuss' What Pet Should I Get had finally been released. Now The Globe and Mail is calling it "the most important work of cultural criticism this year!"
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/why-dr-seusss-what-pet-should-i-get-is-the-most-important-work-of-cultural-criticism-this-year/article25737153/
NEWS & FEATURES
Who should be removed from the literary canon? Who should take their place? That's the question being asked in this week's New York Times Bookends. James Parker and Francine Prose discuss.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/02/books/review/who-should-be-kicked-out-of-the-canon.html
Hey there, book lovers! This new Japanese hotel might be the place for you. Hint: it's the "bookstore of your dreams!"
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2015/07/new-japanese-hotel-is-the-bookstore-of-your-dreams.html
"Canadians have a global reputation for being polite and even deferential. But when it comes to our literature, our writers don't shy away from challenging the status quo, exploring taboos, and offering bold perspectives." Here are 10 controversial Canadian books "you need to read," according to the CBC.
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2015/07/10-controversial-canlit-classics-you-need-to-read.html
The US Postal Service has put Flannery O'Connor on a postage stamp. "But it's kind of an ugly one (Peacock feathers have never more resembled dune grasses.)" The Paris Review's art editor, Charlotte Strick, take a stab at a redesign here:
http://www.fsgworkinprogress.com/2015/07/a-stamp-of-good-fortune/
Speaking of redesign, here are some new illustrations of a very old manuscript: Johannes Kepler's Somnium. Believe it or not, Kepler was more than just a world-changing scientist...he also was a science-fiction author.
http://harpers.org/blog/2015/07/moon-dream/
The US Authors Guild is calling for shorter literary contracts. According to them, "diamonds are forever, but publishing contracts should not be!"
http://the-digital-reader.com/2015/07/28/the-authors-guild-diamonds-are-forever-but-publishing-contracts-should-not-be/
BOOKS & WRITERS
Julia Pierpont's first novel, Among the Ten Thousand Things, breathes new life into a very old story: a marriage that's falling apart. "It shows a remarkably mature understanding of the delicate emotional balances in families—how feelings can flow back and forth like electricity in some kind of zero-sum game—and the subtle, irrational vicissitudes of people's psyches."
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/23/books/review-in-among-the-ten-thousand-things-julia-pierponts-first-novel-a-family-struggles.html
The Mark and the Void, by Paul Murray is "messy, profound and hilarious." Written as a follow-up to the highly acclaimed Skippy Dies, it's a "tricksy post-crash comedy set among bankers and chancers in a Dublin on the verge of collapse."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/jul/22/the-mark-and-the-void-by-paul-murray-review
Claudia Rankine's poetry collection, Citizen: An American Lyric, has been adapted for the stage. In this interview, Stephen Sachs, co-artistic director and playwright, discusses the play's basic purpose. "I hope the play makes our highly educated, professional, and privileged patrons uncomfortable in the best possible way."
https://www.graywolfpress.org/blogs/citizen-adapted-stage
What's it like being a celebrity memoir ghostwriter? Hilary Liftin has built her career doing just that, and now has written her first novel, Movie Star. She discusses both here:
http://www.cbc.ca/radio/q/schedule-for-tuesday-july-28-1.3170526/hilary-liftin-s-movie-star-is-decidedly-human-1.3170539
Max Beerbohm, whose writing had a "high masquerading style," is the subject of a new anthology called The Prince of Minor Writers. Beerbohm was an essayist and caricaturist, "one of the great figures of the late Victorian and Edwardian era in London."
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2015/08/03/the-comparable-max
My Sunshine Away, by MO Walsh is "an intense and unsettling debut." Set in small-town Louisiana, it tells the story of a rape that tears a community apart, a dark tale of "teenage obsession, guilt and lost innocence."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/jul/23/my-sunshine-away-mo-walsh-review
COMMUNITY EVENTS
CHINESE CANADIAN AUTHORS' BOOK LAUNCH (in Mandarin)
The Chinese Canadian Writers' Association (CCWA) will have a book launch featuring three books: A History of Global Modern Chinese Literature (3 volumes) by Dr. Sen Ma; Letters Across the Straits by Ya Xian and Yang Jiasheng; and Essays on Chinese Literature by Mr. Jingsheng Ren. Saturday, August 8 at 2:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
DEANNA YOUNG
Author launches her latest book of poetry, House Dreams. Saturday, August 8 at 7:00pm, free. Salt Spring Public Library, Salt Spring Island. More information at saltspring.bc.libraries.coop.
MAGPIE ULYSSES
The Vancouver Poetry House presents Magpie Ulysses at Van Slam. Monday, August 10 at 7:00pm. Cost: $6-$10 sliding scale. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More information at vancouverpoetryslam.com.
POETRY IN THE PARK
Featuring Bonnie Nish, Elaine Woo and Deanna Young. Hosted by Lilija Valis. Wednesday, August 12 at 6pm, free. Queen's Park Bandshell, New Westminster. Details at rclas.com.
KILLER CANADIANS
Featuring Barbara Fradkin, E.R. Brown and Sam Wiebe. Wednesday, August 12 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse Main Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-879-7737.
CAITLIN ROTHER
Author discusses her most recent books including the mystery novel Naked Addiction and true crime books I'll Take Care of You and the upcoming Then No One Can Have Her. Thursday, August 13 at 4:00pm, free. Library Program room, Salt Spring Island Public Library, Salt Spring Island. More information at 250-537-4666.
RICHARD GOODFELLOW
Vancouver author signs his debut thriller novel, Collector of Secrets. Saturday, August 15 at 2:00pm. Chapters Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby.
ROBERT WIERSEMA
The author of Black Features will read from his book, answer questions and sign. Saturday, August 22 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse Main Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-879-7737.
PLAY ON WORDS
The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) Central Branch is hosting the 2nd annual two day celebration of literary arts in all its diverse forms. August 28 at 12:00pm. Central Courtyard, Greater Victoria Public Library. More information at gvpl.ca.
Upcoming
W. JAMES DICKINSON
Local author will read from his book Raptor Night. Friday, September 11 at 4:00pm, free. Salt Spring Island Public Library, Salt Spring Island. More information at saltspring.bc.libraries.coop.
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Five poets/poetry-lovers/readers/writers bring to life the works of their favourite deceased poets. Each reader will give a brief presentation on the life and work of their chosen poet, followed by a poetry reading. Sunday, September 13 at 3:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at deadpoetslive.com.
SPOKEN INK READING SERIES
Features poets Bren Simmers and Raoul Fernandes. Tuesday, September 15 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings Street, Burnaby. More information at harbourpublishing.com.
KOOTENAY BOOKWEEKEND
The Kootenay Bookweekend will be hosting passionate page-tuners reading and discussing The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King, Daughters of the Witching Hill by Mary Sharratt, Local Customs by Audrey Thomas and our guest author, Arno Kopecky's book The Oil Man and the Sea. September 18-20, 2015 in Nelson, BC. Registration forms and information at kootenaybookweekend.ca.
EUROPEAN BOOK CLUB
Presents My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante. Moderated by Dr. Elisa Segnini. Saturday, September 19 at 3:00pm, free but register at eubookclub.vancouver@gmail.com. Kitsilano Branch, VPL. More information at alliancefrancaise.ca.
COMPLETELY MIXED UP
A display of creativity exploring what it means to be of mixed Asian North American Heritage. Monday, September 21 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
WORD VANCOUVER
Featuring books and authors with free exhibits, performances, and hands-on activities for a wide range of ages and interests. September 23-27, 2015. Various locations. For complete details, visit wordvancouver.ca.
AUTHORS UNBOUND UNINTERRUPTED
An evening of entertainment and inspiration provided by six local People of the Page: Mauro Azzano, Margo Bates, Kempton Dexter, Pattry Emry, Ron Kearse and Lillja Valis. Monday, September 28 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
Special Event
Louise Penny in Conversation with Hal Wake
"A monster once visited Three Pines. And put down deep roots. And now, it is back."
Return to Three Pines, Quebec with the 11th book the Louise Penny's Inspector Gamache series, The Nature of the Beast. In a little over two weeks, Penny will be talking to Hal Wake about the series and reading from her new book. It promises to be a thrilling, memorable night and we'd love to see you there!
Monday, August 24 at 7:30pm
Vancouver Playhouse
600 Hamilton Street
Details and to purchase tickets, https://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/louise-penny.
Poetry and Short Story Contest
The 17th Vancouver Writers Fest Poetry and Short Story Contest is now open! Entries will be accepted until October 25th, so get writing or start polishing up your best work. The contest is open to all writers, so this could be the perfect opportunity for you to get published for the first time, kick start your writing career or add to your already impressive resume. First place winners will receive $500 and be published in subTERRAIN Magazine. Details and to enter: http://writersfest.bc.ca/writingcontest
Know a young writer? Tell them about our writing contest for BC grades 8-12 students, http://writersfest.bc.ca/youthwritingcontest.
FESTIVALS
Sunshine Coast Festival of the Written Arts
Join Canada's longest running summer gathering of Canadian writers and readers, featuring Camilla Gibb, Alison Pick, Ian Weir, Michael Winter and others. August 13-16, 2015. Sechelt, BC. Information at writersfestival.ca.
Vancouver Queer Film Festival
The 27th Annual Vancouver Queer Film Festival runs Aug 13-23. For details on the full line-up and tickets, click here, http://queerfilmfestival.ca/tickets/.
YOUNG READERS
Bear With Me is the story of "a very special red bear." It began as a sketchbook, travelling over 1000 miles, passing from illustrator to illustrator (including very famous ones like Quentin Blake!) in order to create very unique book about a "beguiling bear named Lawrence."
http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/gallery/2015/jul/28/bear-with-me-illustration-project-chris-riddell-quentin-blake
Recently we mentioned the fact that Dr. Seuss' What Pet Should I Get had finally been released. Now The Globe and Mail is calling it "the most important work of cultural criticism this year!"
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/why-dr-seusss-what-pet-should-i-get-is-the-most-important-work-of-cultural-criticism-this-year/article25737153/
NEWS & FEATURES
Who should be removed from the literary canon? Who should take their place? That's the question being asked in this week's New York Times Bookends. James Parker and Francine Prose discuss.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/08/02/books/review/who-should-be-kicked-out-of-the-canon.html
Hey there, book lovers! This new Japanese hotel might be the place for you. Hint: it's the "bookstore of your dreams!"
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2015/07/new-japanese-hotel-is-the-bookstore-of-your-dreams.html
"Canadians have a global reputation for being polite and even deferential. But when it comes to our literature, our writers don't shy away from challenging the status quo, exploring taboos, and offering bold perspectives." Here are 10 controversial Canadian books "you need to read," according to the CBC.
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2015/07/10-controversial-canlit-classics-you-need-to-read.html
The US Postal Service has put Flannery O'Connor on a postage stamp. "But it's kind of an ugly one (Peacock feathers have never more resembled dune grasses.)" The Paris Review's art editor, Charlotte Strick, take a stab at a redesign here:
http://www.fsgworkinprogress.com/2015/07/a-stamp-of-good-fortune/
Speaking of redesign, here are some new illustrations of a very old manuscript: Johannes Kepler's Somnium. Believe it or not, Kepler was more than just a world-changing scientist...he also was a science-fiction author.
http://harpers.org/blog/2015/07/moon-dream/
The US Authors Guild is calling for shorter literary contracts. According to them, "diamonds are forever, but publishing contracts should not be!"
http://the-digital-reader.com/2015/07/28/the-authors-guild-diamonds-are-forever-but-publishing-contracts-should-not-be/
BOOKS & WRITERS
Julia Pierpont's first novel, Among the Ten Thousand Things, breathes new life into a very old story: a marriage that's falling apart. "It shows a remarkably mature understanding of the delicate emotional balances in families—how feelings can flow back and forth like electricity in some kind of zero-sum game—and the subtle, irrational vicissitudes of people's psyches."
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/23/books/review-in-among-the-ten-thousand-things-julia-pierponts-first-novel-a-family-struggles.html
The Mark and the Void, by Paul Murray is "messy, profound and hilarious." Written as a follow-up to the highly acclaimed Skippy Dies, it's a "tricksy post-crash comedy set among bankers and chancers in a Dublin on the verge of collapse."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/jul/22/the-mark-and-the-void-by-paul-murray-review
Claudia Rankine's poetry collection, Citizen: An American Lyric, has been adapted for the stage. In this interview, Stephen Sachs, co-artistic director and playwright, discusses the play's basic purpose. "I hope the play makes our highly educated, professional, and privileged patrons uncomfortable in the best possible way."
https://www.graywolfpress.org/blogs/citizen-adapted-stage
What's it like being a celebrity memoir ghostwriter? Hilary Liftin has built her career doing just that, and now has written her first novel, Movie Star. She discusses both here:
http://www.cbc.ca/radio/q/schedule-for-tuesday-july-28-1.3170526/hilary-liftin-s-movie-star-is-decidedly-human-1.3170539
Max Beerbohm, whose writing had a "high masquerading style," is the subject of a new anthology called The Prince of Minor Writers. Beerbohm was an essayist and caricaturist, "one of the great figures of the late Victorian and Edwardian era in London."
http://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2015/08/03/the-comparable-max
My Sunshine Away, by MO Walsh is "an intense and unsettling debut." Set in small-town Louisiana, it tells the story of a rape that tears a community apart, a dark tale of "teenage obsession, guilt and lost innocence."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/jul/23/my-sunshine-away-mo-walsh-review
COMMUNITY EVENTS
CHINESE CANADIAN AUTHORS' BOOK LAUNCH (in Mandarin)
The Chinese Canadian Writers' Association (CCWA) will have a book launch featuring three books: A History of Global Modern Chinese Literature (3 volumes) by Dr. Sen Ma; Letters Across the Straits by Ya Xian and Yang Jiasheng; and Essays on Chinese Literature by Mr. Jingsheng Ren. Saturday, August 8 at 2:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
DEANNA YOUNG
Author launches her latest book of poetry, House Dreams. Saturday, August 8 at 7:00pm, free. Salt Spring Public Library, Salt Spring Island. More information at saltspring.bc.libraries.coop.
MAGPIE ULYSSES
The Vancouver Poetry House presents Magpie Ulysses at Van Slam. Monday, August 10 at 7:00pm. Cost: $6-$10 sliding scale. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More information at vancouverpoetryslam.com.
POETRY IN THE PARK
Featuring Bonnie Nish, Elaine Woo and Deanna Young. Hosted by Lilija Valis. Wednesday, August 12 at 6pm, free. Queen's Park Bandshell, New Westminster. Details at rclas.com.
KILLER CANADIANS
Featuring Barbara Fradkin, E.R. Brown and Sam Wiebe. Wednesday, August 12 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse Main Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-879-7737.
CAITLIN ROTHER
Author discusses her most recent books including the mystery novel Naked Addiction and true crime books I'll Take Care of You and the upcoming Then No One Can Have Her. Thursday, August 13 at 4:00pm, free. Library Program room, Salt Spring Island Public Library, Salt Spring Island. More information at 250-537-4666.
RICHARD GOODFELLOW
Vancouver author signs his debut thriller novel, Collector of Secrets. Saturday, August 15 at 2:00pm. Chapters Metrotown, 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby.
ROBERT WIERSEMA
The author of Black Features will read from his book, answer questions and sign. Saturday, August 22 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse Main Street, Vancouver. More information at 604-879-7737.
PLAY ON WORDS
The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) Central Branch is hosting the 2nd annual two day celebration of literary arts in all its diverse forms. August 28 at 12:00pm. Central Courtyard, Greater Victoria Public Library. More information at gvpl.ca.
Upcoming
W. JAMES DICKINSON
Local author will read from his book Raptor Night. Friday, September 11 at 4:00pm, free. Salt Spring Island Public Library, Salt Spring Island. More information at saltspring.bc.libraries.coop.
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Five poets/poetry-lovers/readers/writers bring to life the works of their favourite deceased poets. Each reader will give a brief presentation on the life and work of their chosen poet, followed by a poetry reading. Sunday, September 13 at 3:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at deadpoetslive.com.
SPOKEN INK READING SERIES
Features poets Bren Simmers and Raoul Fernandes. Tuesday, September 15 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings Street, Burnaby. More information at harbourpublishing.com.
KOOTENAY BOOKWEEKEND
The Kootenay Bookweekend will be hosting passionate page-tuners reading and discussing The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King, Daughters of the Witching Hill by Mary Sharratt, Local Customs by Audrey Thomas and our guest author, Arno Kopecky's book The Oil Man and the Sea. September 18-20, 2015 in Nelson, BC. Registration forms and information at kootenaybookweekend.ca.
EUROPEAN BOOK CLUB
Presents My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante. Moderated by Dr. Elisa Segnini. Saturday, September 19 at 3:00pm, free but register at eubookclub.vancouver@gmail.com. Kitsilano Branch, VPL. More information at alliancefrancaise.ca.
COMPLETELY MIXED UP
A display of creativity exploring what it means to be of mixed Asian North American Heritage. Monday, September 21 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
WORD VANCOUVER
Featuring books and authors with free exhibits, performances, and hands-on activities for a wide range of ages and interests. September 23-27, 2015. Various locations. For complete details, visit wordvancouver.ca.
AUTHORS UNBOUND UNINTERRUPTED
An evening of entertainment and inspiration provided by six local People of the Page: Mauro Azzano, Margo Bates, Kempton Dexter, Pattry Emry, Ron Kearse and Lillja Valis. Monday, September 28 at 7:00pm. Central Branch, VPL, 350 W. Georgia St., Vancouver. More information at vpl.ca.
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