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Oral History

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Read it. Write it. Listen to it. Summer has arrived and it’s time to try something new. For those of us who love a good narrative in any form, summer festivals and events are an excellent way to accomplish such a task. Today in the literary world, it is easy to indulge in Canadian literature without experiencing the oral narrative, which has been integral to Canadian heritage. Through stories, songs or folktales, the Canadian narrative has been passed down from one generation to another. The infamous novel, Green Grass Running Water by Thomas King, highlights issues dealing with oratory narratives. The novel is an excellent account of the increasing devaluation of oral literature and stresses the importance of equaling the status between the oral and written narrative. There is a unique fluidity in the oral narrative tradition as it continuously transforms with each individual speaker.

The Toronto Storytelling Festival, which occurred on April 1, 2012 at Toronto’s breezy waterfront, Harbourfront Centre is a one-day celebration of oral literature and all things Canadian. The festival uses oral literature as a means to address issues such as “Canadian Identity” and the unique way in which Canada has grown as a nation.

And it’s definitely not too late to get involved. Wychwood Barns hosts numerous storytelling events that celebrate the oral narrative tradition not only in Canada, but globally.

The Word This Summer

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Join The Movement: Teen Writer’s Group (Ages 13-19)

If you couldn’t attend before, the creative writing group held at North York Central Library is still running, and is still seeking to engage teens who want to share their writing. The group is made of fellow young authors and poets who are gladly accepting to see what other creativity is strolling through our Toronto streets.

No registration is required to join.

Upcoming Dates: Jun 7, 2012; from 4:30 pm-6:30 pm
Jun 21, 2012; from 4:30 pm-6:30 pm
Where: North York Central Library TPL branch: Room 2/3; 5120 Yonge Street

Raving Readers: Meet Kelley Armstrong & Help Launch WORD OUT

Celebrate reading, and join the launch of the WORD OUT summer reading program with celebrity author Kelley Armstrong, author of Thirteen, The Calling, and other urban fantasy novels. You can eat, play games, discuss your favourite books, and even win a Sony e-reader or signed copies of Kelley’s books.

When: June 27, 2012; from 3:00 pm-5:00 pm
Where: North York Central Library TPL branch: Concourse; 5120 Yonge Street

Contest Callout: Open Mic for Teens at Word On The Street

If you haven’t performed your work before, or had the chance to find an accepting venue, then this Open Mic opportunity, hosted by Word On The Street, is a great chance to begin. Last year 8 teen writers were featured at Queen’s Park, and this year you can be picked to read your work, and even talk with famed authors. You will have roughly five minutes to present your writing—whichever genre you choose—in front of a small crowd at Canada’s largest book festival. This contest is open to writers of age 13-19.

Deadline: June 29, 2012
For Submission Details: click here

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

Bound and Drowned

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Writer’s Aid: The Writer’s Corner

Here is but another writing workshop, but here’s the twist: there is no promise that you will be guaranteed a best-selling line. Instead, all writers are welcome to try and capture their muse if it decides to present itself at this opportunity. Catherine Rondina is an award-winning author, acclaimed for her book Don’t Touch that Toad and Other Strange Things Adults Tell You. Although you’re not supposed to touch the toad, Catherine will help you cuddle up to your own ideas to turn them into some motivated story lines.

When: May 5, 2012; from 2:30 pm-4:30 pm
Where: York Woods TPL branch; 1785 Finch Avenue West
Registration: In person or call 416-395-5980

Poetic Plumage: Phoenix Poetry Workshop

The budding poet is hard to come by, but is by far not an endangered species. If you need some help, or maybe a kick to open yourself up, you are cordially invited to attend this poetic gathering. Poets of all ages are encouraged to come, and do try to bring copies of your latest poem to pass around. Fertilize your piece with constructive comments and bask in the scent of your writing come alive.

When: May 5, 2012; from 2:30 pm-4:30 pm; and upcoming dates
Where: College/Shaw TPL Branch; 766 College Street
For more info: www.phoenixpoetryworkshop.ca

Author’s Spotlight: Riverdale Arts and Letters Club

Join Jonah Geller, Arthur Ellis Award winner, and be a part-time sleuth in his latest mystery set in Riverdale, Toronto. One thing that I love more than a good book is a good Canadian book. Geller will be discussing the story for all keen ears and eyes willing to give him a spotlight.

When: May 16, 2012; from 6:00 pm-8:30 pm
Where: Riverdale TPL branch, Adult Program Room; 270 Broadview Avenue

DD Mentorship Diary

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Earlier this week, I sat nervously in a Starbucks—the quintessential aspiring writer’s hangout—awaiting my first meeting with my mentor Lauren Kirshner. Thrilled though I am to have been accepted into the program, I was nervous about the seemingly insurmountable task of editing my writing. Editing is easily my least favourite part of the writing process; going over the words and phrases I slaved over always seems like a daunting and excruciating task. However, meeting my mentor put all those fears to rest.

Editing does not have to be a scary process she assured me. It’s not about tearing your work apart; it’s about making the strong parts of your work sparkle, and working on the parts that don’t to highlight your main point effectively. We discussed all aspects of my piece, with her giving me her comments and suggestions throughout. She asked me what my objective was in writing this piece—a surprisingly difficult question. My piece is about my struggle with identity, one that entails traditional family values versus modern Western ideals and the desire to forge your own path. Of course this could describe the upbringing of many first generation Canadians, but my mentor assured me that I have an interesting story to tell, and that I tell it with elegance and flare.

Her advice has been both constructive and encouraging, and it’s exciting to have her expertise dedicated to the improvement of my writing. Now, I must put her advice into action and tackle revising my work.

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