Book News Vol. 10 No. 26

BOOK NEWS

The 2015 Vancouver Writers Fest presents events with international bestselling authors Paula Hawkins (The Girl on a Train) and Sarah Dunant (The Birth of Venus), Man Booker Prize nominee Marlon James, and non-fiction writer Simon Winchester, plus Scotiabank Giller Prize shortlisted Canadians Samuel Archibald, Patrick deWitt, Marina Endicott, Anakana Schofield and many more. Visit the website, writersfest.bc.ca.

Tickets for John Irving (December 1 at the Vancouver Playhouse) are on sale.
You can find more details here, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/john-irving.

Participate in our first ever Twitter Chat!
If you have a Twitter account, log on from 5-6pm PST September 23rd for our first ever 'Twitter Chat'. A twitter chat is a live, online discussion about a particular topic. Join fellow Festival goers and 2015 Festival authors for a lively discussion about all things Writers Fest. All tweets will be tagged #VWFchat so you'll be able to follow along and drop in whenever you like. It's open to everyone, so we hope you'll join us.

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.

2015 FESTIVAL AUTHORS

In her "brilliant second novel," Martin John, Anakana Schofield "probes the mind of a disturbed man." Her protagonist is a "sort of trauma broker, picking up fear at work and at home and then inflicting it upon women in the streets and on trains."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/review-anakana-schofield-probes-the-mind-of-a-disturbed-man-in-her-brilliant-second-novel-martin-john/article26333164/

"The only thing I ever wanted in life was not to be bored," says Patrick DeWitt, whose new novel is called Undermajordomo Minor. "So to find myself at the age of 40 doing the only thing that I ever did want to do, and to still feel engaged, and to still feel an affinity for words in the same way–I wouldn't change a thing."http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/patrick-dewitts-follow-up-to-the-sisters-brothers-is-an-affair-of-the-heart/article26334950/

AWARDS & LISTS

The 2015 Man Booker Prize shortlist includes 2015 Writers Fest participant Marlon James, the first Jamaican to be nominated. "Though judges didn't 'go looking for diversity', they found it in six challenging tales from writers of four different nationalities."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2015/sep/15/man-booker-prize-2015-shortlist-writers-analysis

The Giller Prize longlist has also been revealed-2015 Writers Fest authors Samuel Archibald, Patrick deWitt, Marina Endicott and Anakana Schofield are included in the list of 12 (which does not include many of the usual CanLit stars).
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2015/09/09/scotiabank-giller-prize-jury-delivers-surprising-longlist/

2015 Festival author Lauren Groff is on the just announced National Book Awards longlist.
http://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2015/09/17/440913479/lauren-groff-ta-nehisi-coates-lead-longlists-for-national-book-awards

Heritage Toronto has announced the nominees for its 2015 book awards. The awards recognize "individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions to preserving the city's identity and heritage."
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2015/09/10/heritage-toronto-announces-2015-book-award-nominees/

The Canadian Children's Book Centre has revealed the finalists for its literary awards. 2015 Festival authors Kenneth Oppel and Cybèle Young are on the list, as well as many past Writers Fest participants. Check it out here:
http://www.quillandquire.com/awards/2015/09/10/marianne-dubuc-eric-walters-cybele-young-among-2015-canadian-childrens-book-centre-awards-finalists/

YOUNG READERS

Why write dark books for teenagers? "Children's literature is already a shadowy place...It's no coincidence that the books we read as children and young people are often the most frightening. They are our practice runs, the things that teach us about loss and fear and sadness, which expose us to a world that is full of its own darkness.
http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/2015/sep/14/emerald-fennell-writing-dark-books-for-teenagers

NEWS & FEATURES

Basil H. Johnston, a renowned Anishnaabe cultural leader, author and historian has passed away. He became well known in the 1980s for his work on the Anishnaabe language, followed by short-story collections, personal memoirs and a picture book.
http://www.quillandquire.com/authors/2015/09/11/anishnaabe-author-basil-h-johnston-dies-at-86/

A judge in Iran has found a new way to impose justice: buying and reading books in lieu of prison terms. "Judge Qasem Naqizadeh, who presides over a court in the north-eastern city of Gonbad-e Kavus, is using the alternative sentences to avoid what he calls the 'irreversible physical and psychological impact on convicts and their families; that a prison term might bring."
http://www.bbc.com/news/blogs-news-from-elsewhere-34200912

Do you use an e-reader before bed? If you're looking for deeper sleep, it might be time to consider a different option.
http://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2014/12/23/372663892/book-news-for-a-deeper-sleep-forgo-the-e-reader-before-bed

The relationship between art and substance abuse has been explored in many works of literature. But how many books were actually written under the influence? Here are a few, from obvious choices like On the Road to surprise selections like Little Women.
http://flavorwire.com/536202/10-novels-written-under-the-influence/

Here's an unusual premise for a bookshop: a store that only sells signed books! Strangely enough, all the books sell for their exact cover price. "We're not averse to getting more money," states the store's owner. "We'd love to... But at what point does the additional dollar or two or five or ten deter you from buying your first book?"
http://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/this-adorable-alabama-bookstore-only-sells-signed-copies

Can a name sell a poem? Michael Derrick Hudson made headlines this week when it was revealed that he was the true author of a poem featured in this year's Best American Poetry, submitted under the name Yi-Fen Chou.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/09/10/books/michael-derrick-hudson-posed-as-a-yi-fen-chou-did-the-name-sell-his-poem.html

The Asian American Writers' Workshop is, unsurprisingly, not too happy about the matter. "Readers are being urged to seek out the work of 'actual Asian poets.'"
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/sep/14/real-actual-asian-poets-best-american-poetry-michael-derrick-hudson

BOOKS & WRITERS

A new documentary, Al Purdy Was Here, is being shown at sold-out houses at the Toronto International Film Festival. In this interview, filmmaker Brian D. Johnson discusses the poetry and persona of the great Canadian poet.
http://www.quillandquire.com/book-culture/2015/09/14/qa-filmmaker-brian-d-johnson-on-al-purdy-poetry-and-persona/

Speaking of the Toronto Film Festival, how do literary agents deal with its mayhem? "You'd imagine all that talent in one place could provide a valuable chance for literary agents to seek out lucrative opportunities for their clients."
http://www.quillandquire.com/book-culture/2015/09/11/how-do-literary-agents-deal-with-tiff-mayhem/

A new Seamus Heaney translation is set to be published next year. The "Nobel laureate began work on a version of the Aeneid's Book VI, which describes the hero's journey to the underworld, after the death of his own father in 1986."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2015/sep/10/new-seamus-heaney-translation-to-be-published-next-year

Richard B. Wright wrote his latest book, a memoir called A Life With Words, in order to understand himself better. "What did I do all those years ago that I might have done better? What did I accomplish and what did I fail to do after all those years of writing books?"
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/richard-b-wright-what-did-i-do-all-those-years-ago-that-i-might-have-done-better/article26332486/

Adult colouring books are taking on a decidedly Canadian spin. At the end of October, Dundurn Press will release All the Libraries Toronto, which "explores the city's architecture and neighbourhoods through colourable images of its libraries."
http://www.quillandquire.com/libraries/2015/09/10/dundurn-press-to-publish-adult-colouring-book-featuring-toronto-libraries/

In Don Gillmor's Long Change, a "Texan-turned-Canadian-turned-international oilman" discovers the "uncommon tragedies" and successes that make up life. It's an "ambitious book, covering nearly 70 years of its protagonist's life, which includes murder, terrorist bombings, an audience with an African warlord, up-close turmoil at the fall of the Soviet Union and every kind of oil-related catastrophe you could possibly imagine."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/review-don-gillmor-tells-an-oilmans-life-story-in-long-change-his-relentless-and-ambitious-new-novel/article26332790/

COMMUNITY EVENTS

THE BOOK OF NEGROES: FROM PAGE TO SCREEN WITH LAWRENCE HILL
Book of Negros author Lawrence Hill talks to CBC's Margaret Gallagher about transforming his best-selling novel into a major television series. Thursday September 17 at 7:00 pm. Goldcorps Centre for the Arts, 149 W. Hastings St. hapapalooza.com.

KOOTENAY BOOKWEEKEND
The Kootenay Bookweekend features discussions on 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. Added: An intimate pre-show chat with Terry Fallis on September 20 at 1pm. The York Theatre, 639 Commercial Drive. For tickets, visit tickets.thecultch.com.

PHILIP RESNICK
Author reads from his new collection of poetry, Footsteps of the Past. Monday, September 21 at 5:00pm. Green College, UBC, 6201 Cecil Green Park Rd., Vancouver. More information at 604-738-4688.

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.

POETRY LAUNCH
Elizabeth Ross launches her book of poetry Kingdom on September 21 at Pulp Fiction Books, Main St. location, at 7 p.m. Guest readers include Kevin Spenst and Elena Johnson. Hosted by Dina Del Bucchia.

LAUGHTER ALERT
Readings by the Salish Sea welcomes acclaimed humourist, Terry Fallis. Monday, September 21 at 7:30pm Turnbull Gallery in the South Surrey Recreation & Arts Centre, 14601 - 20th Ave, Surrey. Tickets $10 at 604-536-8333 or info@semiahmooarts.com. More information at semiahmooarts.com.

THE WALRUS TALKS WATER
The impact, use, and health of water in Canadian and global society. Featuring Oliver Brandes, Stephen Leahy, Danika Littlechild, Andre Martel, Alanna Mitchell, Judith Sayers, David Schindler and Rob Williams. Monday, September 21 at 7:00pm. The Belfry Theatre, 1291 Gladstone Ave., Victoria. More information at thewalrus.ca.

POETRY READING
Readings by Rita Wong and Christine LeClerc. Tuesday, September 22 at 12:30pm. Special Collections, Room 7100, W.A.C Bennett Library, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby. More information at power@sfu.ca.

POETRY READING
Kate Braid and Liz Ross welcome the arrival of fall with poems that celebrate transitions, the beauty of small moments and craft. Tuesday, September 22 at 6:30pm. Firehall branch, 1455 10th Ave. W. More information at 604-665-3970.

DORIS GREGORY
Author reads from her memoir How I Won the War for the Allies. Tuesday, September 22 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse Main, Vancouver. More information at 604-879-7737.

TRIPLE READING
Poets Kate Braid, Liz Ross, and Bren Simmers read from their latest books at the Carnegie VPL. September 23, 6 p.m.

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.

TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON & WORD, VANCOUVER
Features Elizabeth Bachinsky & Kate Braid + Open Mic. Thursday, September 24th, 7–9:30pm, 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.

DOUBLE READING
Elizabeth Ross and Kyla Czaga read at People's Co-Op Bookstore on September 26. Doors at 7 p.m., reading starts at 7:30.

HEATHER HALEY
Author reads from her debut novel, The Town Slut's Daughter. Sunday, September 27 at 1:30pm. VPL, 350 W. Georgia Street.

BEN HATKE
Kidsbooks presents the creator of the popular Zita the Spacegirl graphic novels presents his new book Little Robot. Monday, September 28. For times and locations and to purchase tickets, visit kidsbooks.ca.

CAROLINE WOODWARD
Author reads from her memoir Light Years: Memoir of a Modern Lighthouse Keeper. Monday, September 28 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse Main, Vancouver. More information at 604-879-7737.

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.

PLUM JOHNSON
Author reads from her memoir They Left Us Everything. Tuesday, September 29 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse Main St., Vancouver. More information at 604-879-7737.

THREE'S A THRILL
Panel featuring Mauro Azzano, author of the Ian McBriar Murder Mystery Series, Robin Spano, author of the Clare Vengel Undercover Series and Sam Weibe, author of The Last of the Independants. Wednesday, September 30 at 7:00p. Welsh Hall, West Vancouver Memorial Library. More information at 604-925-7403.

KEN MURRAY
Author reads from his novel Eulogy: A Novel. Wednesday, September 30 at 7:00pm. Book Warehouse Main St., Vancouver. More information at 604-879-7737.

Upcoming

SHUSWAP BOOKFEST
Featuring Eleanor Wachtel and Elizabeth Hay. October 1-2, 2015. Tickets: $20. Complete details at okanagan.bc.ca.

AUTHOR FEST
Meet Fraser Valley writers and learn first-hand about their work, the experience of writing, publishing, and marketing. Saturday, October 3 at 1:00pm. Clearbrook Library.

CAITLIN PRESS POETRY LAUNCH
Join Sarah de Leeuw, Arleen Paré, Kate Braid and Beth Kope as they read from their newest work. Thursday, October 22 at 7:30pm. Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main St. More information andrea@caitlin-press.com.