Diaspora Dialogues

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Dante Mottillo

The Re-Return

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Thought Exchange: William Shakespeare-Hamlet

It is a general rule of thumb that to be a good writer, you must be a good reader as well. Although the language of great writers like William Shakespeare is not being used as frequently as it once was, his style and creativity is forever relevant to the development of modern literature. Professor Alan Ackerman, of the Drama and English departments of the University of Toronto, will engage in the discussion of one of Shakespeare’s prolific plays, Hamlet. The complexities of the play and some of its inspirations will be discussed. And even if you don’t walk away forming prose like the Bard of Avon, you will better understand how to morph your own life experiences in writing.

When: June 6, 2012; from 6:30 pm-8:00 pm
Where: Beaches TPL Branch, Program Room; 2161 Queen Street East

Righteous Research: Why the War of 1812 Still Matters

Historical non-fiction is reaching a rise in modern literature, and you can be a part of it. Discover, or maybe re-discover, why such a structured piece of Canadian history is so important. Chief curator for the City of Toronto Museum Services, Wayne Reeves, will provide insight as to what the War of 1812 was exactly, and what its major implications were for Canada. By glimpsing the past, hopefully you will be able to gleam into a bright new piece of writing that reflects on these inquisitions.

When: June 12, 2012; from 1:00 pm-3:00 pm
Where: Toronto Reference Library, Elizabeth Beeton Auditorium; 789 Yonge Street

Rejoicing with New Reads

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This month I thought it would be best to look at new books, which look beyond what’s considered “Hot.” Meet new authors, new books, and learn about some valuable pieces of history that you may decide to include in an upcoming piece of writing.

Author’s Spotlight: Meet author Valerie Sherrard

Valerie Sherrard, an author born and raised by the Leaf, will be discussing her own books, and the reality of being a writer. Some her awarded novels include The Glory Wind, Kate and Speechless. Bring a bucketful of questions that you may have regarding the profession or Sherrard’s novels. Otherwise, stop by and revel in the talent that crosses our country.

When: May 10, 2012; from 2:00 pm-3:00 pm
Where: Bendale TPL branch;1515 Danforth Road

New Reads: Twilight, Hunger Games, WHAT NOW?!?!

Although there has been a trifecta of series to sweep the teenage reading scene—Harry Potter, Twilight, and The Hunger Games—many often step back wondering, “What now? ” If you aren’t prepared to unthread jacket covers and book reviews, then join many others in the quest of The Next Big Read. Discussions will be long and advantageous to any book enthusiast, and if you really can’t get enough of the current “hots,” be prepared for the chance to win a copy of The Hunger Games,the first instalment in the series, or any other book that will be discussed.

When: May 15, 2012; from 5:00 pm-6:00 pm
Where: Queen/Saulter TPL Branch; 765 Queen Street East

Righteous Research: Historical Talks

History repeats itself. If you don’t believe so, then make it. This is perfect if you want to place your next story in a time you may wish to inquire about. Attend this session and discuss various historical topics with many professed speakers, including some published authors. Whether or not you are a history buff, any information learned can bring forth a great setting, plot, and even a deeper piece of characterization.

When: May 29, 2012; from 7:00 pm-8:30 pm
Where: S. Walter Stewart TPL branch;170 Memorial Park Avenue

Withdrawn from Word

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Showcase: Jamaica 50 Literature Series

Thomas MacDermot, Claude McKay, Una Marson. All of these individuals have been esteemed Jamaican writers to have put pen to paper, and we can now celebrate all the literature that has come from their culture. 2012 will be the declaration of the 50th year of Jamaican independence, and what better way to celebrate their contribution to the world stage of literature than to perform actual works? Jamaica 20’s Art and Literature Committee will be showcasing Jamaican writers Mary Lou Soutar-Hynes, Jennifer Walcott and Quentin “Vercetty” Lindsay to commemorate the words that have been spoken and sung for the past 50 years.

When: April16, 2012; from 7:00 pm-8:00 pm
Where: Malvern TPL branch; 30 Sewells Road

Turn Your Ear: Keep Toronto Reading: Erin Bow

Probably my favourite series offered by the library, the Keep Toronto Reading series offers yet another great and modest author opening to discuss personal writing. Erin Bow is a full-time poet and young-adult fiction writer, and recipient of the TD Book award. One of her latest pieces of writing, Plain Kate, is a Fantasy novel that draws from old Russian folktales. Attend this discussion to hear about Ms. Bow’s first-hand experiences in the craft that we credit with such fervour.

When: April 17, 2012; from 1:30 pm-2:30 pm
Where: Albert Campbell TPL Branch; 496 Birchmount Road

Words On The Move: Keep Toronto Reading: Saturday Junction Walk

Taking your words to the streets may not be something that many young writers are ready for. However, West Toronto Junction Historical Society president Neil Ross will be doing just this as he will be guiding a walking tour of the area and its own authors. The Junction is a neighbourhood in Toronto located near the junction of four railway lines, also known as the West Toronto Diamond. Neil Ross will also be reading some pieces by some of the great Junction voices, proving that the written word is not always stationary.

When: April 21, 2012; from 3:00 pm-4:30 pm
Where: Annette Street TPL branch; 145 Annette Street

The Tailored Torontonian

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Workshop: Writing Toronto: Creating a Powerful, Believable Sense of Place in Your Stories

Location, location, location. No matter how well a writer creates a character, an ill-fitted setting will ruin the story. Author Elizabeth Ruth will help you capture your own perception of Toronto in writing. She will give her own exercises and hints about how to create realistic scenery, a feat that many young writers should work to accomplish.

When: April 12, 2012; from 7:00 pm-8:30 pm
Where: North York Central Library TPL branch; 5120Yonge Street
Registration: FREE! Call 416-395-5639

Read it Write: Keep Toronto Reading: Allan Rose

Poet Allen Rose reads from his latest and upcoming book Songs of My City, a collection of poems all about Toronto. Another workshop in the Keep Toronto Reading series, this is a great opportunity to just hear other interpretations of your favourite city and twist your pen towards the city’s bustling streets.

When: April 17, 2012; from 2:00 pm-3:00 pm
Where: Jane/Sheppard TPL Branch; 1906 Sheppard Avenue West
Registration: FREE! Call 416-395-5966

Calling All Writers: Teen Poetry Writing Workshop

A poet’s muse is both inspiring and lively. So bring it with you to another great poetry workshop, this time hosted by Kirk Davis. A poetry instructor with the Toronto Public Library, Kirk is a member of the Authors of Soul Writer’s Group, and will inspire you into some original poetry writing. You are guaranteed to a fun and interactive session, for ages 12-17.

When: April 18, 2012; from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm
Where: Eglinton South TPL branch, Meeting Room; 1 Eglinton Square
Registration: Required, but FREE! Call 416-396-8920

*All library programming is pending the resolution of the current labour disruption

Stand and Celebrate Canadian Writing

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Workshop: Public Speaking Workshop

Heart racing. A bead of sweat rolling down your brow. Clenching your page and wrinkling its rigid edge as you stand up to the microphone. Becoming a good writer takes time, and for some, just as much time as becoming a good speaker. Award-winning poet Andrea Thompson will be facilitating this workshop which will aid you in many aspects of your future life. From speaking in an interview, in front of a class, to shaking loose of performance jitters, this is perfect for all to join. Best of all, many of the participants will be from our very own Young Writers from the Edge Program.

When: March 24, 2012; from 2 pm—4 pm
Where: 170 Bloor Street West, Suite 804
Register: Email Natalie at natalie@diapsoradialogues.com

Book Talk: Keep Toronto Reading: Read it Here: In the Skin of a Lion

Project Bookmark Canada is a wonderful organization that allows readers to walk by the various settings within Toronto that they have read about. Founder Miranda Hill will be examining Michael Ondaatje’s In the Skin of a Lion, which was bookmarked at the Bloor Street Viaduct in 2009. Read the book and join the discussion to find out about what and where you are reading.

When: April 4, 2012; from 7:00 pm—8:30 pm
Where: Riverdale TPL branch, Adult Program Room; 370 Broadview Ave.

Calling All Writers: National Poetry Month Celebration!

Literature is always finding new ways to be celebrated, and now you can join in the festivities. Members from The League of Canadian Poets will be revelling in the glory of their poetry and of their fellow writers. The organization began in 1999 in order to gather a variety of writers that embraced their Canadian culture. Now they are taking the time to celebrate how far they have come in representing themselves in the Canadian eye. Poets, writers, songwriters and singers will be attending the party, and so will you!

When: April 5, 2012; from 1:00 pm—2:15 pm
Where: Downsview TPL branch; 2793 Keele Street
Registration: FREE! Call 416-395-5720, or e-mail doprograms@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Workshop Bonanza

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Workshop: Wordplay Writing

Join fiction author Karen Krossing to practise playing with words. Learn how to create great scenes in fiction and just let your writing flow. With this fun hands-on workshop, you will have two hours to start and develop a character and scene for your latest fiction frenzy.

Who: Ages 12-19
When: March 15, 2012; from 3:00 pm-5:00 pm
Where: Cedarbrae TPL branch; 545 Markham Road
Registration: FREE! Call 416-397-5970 or email ksparling@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Workshop: Playwriting 101

Ever imagine words forming into a 3D reality? With award-winning playwright, Marjorie Chan, all participants will take part in improvisation-based warm-ups and learn how to write outside of print. Be prepared with loose and comfy clothing as this workshop is not restricted to stiff chairs. Bring a notebook (no laptop), a pen, and plenty of energy. Lunch is provided!

Who: Grades 7-9
When: May 5, 2012; from 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Where: 215 Spadina Ave, Suite 210
Registration: FREE! www.playwrightsguild.ca

Workshop: The World of Kluscap According to M’Shoum

Writing and reading is extremely fun, but what about the origins of some of your favourite childhood fairy-tales? In collaboration with the Toronto Storytelling Festival, Robert Seven Crows will be exploring the joys of folklore with a guitar and tawegan (drum). He will be telling stories of the Kluscap, a celebrated hero in native stories. Although no writing is involved, you will better grasp how some of the earliest narratives sounded, and they may even shape the way that you form your own modern writing style.

When: March 29, 2012; from 2:00 pm-3:15 pm
Where: Spadina Road TPL branch; 10 Spadina Road

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