picks

Contest: Book Week

Writing is an artist’s chance to manipulate and craft words into flowing streams, but prizes are always fun, aren’t they? Well, if you have any poems or short stories in need of edits, or choose to create something new, Book Week is allowing students across Canada to submit works for winnings. Eligibility is for students in Canada from grades 4-12, in which one student from every grade has a chance to win a $250 gift certificate to his/her favourite bookstore, and even better, the chance to be named a winner of a countrywide contest!

Deadline: February 1, 2012

For more information and entry forms click here

Workshop: Looney Poems Poetry

Cartoons are the muse of nearly everyone, no matter the age. The Looney Tunes have especially been iconic in many childhood memories, so why not use them to inspire your poetry? Matthew Tierney is a Canadian poet, who will be hosting a workshop dedicated to lightening the hearts of your writing. If you feel that your works have been a little dry of humour, or you just really like Bugs Bunny, attend this hands-on workshop. For ages 12-19.

When: February 15, 2012; from 4:30 pm—6:30 pm
Where: Runnymede TPL branch, 2178 Bloor Street West

Registration: FREE! Call 416-397-5970 or email ksparling@torontopubliclibrary.ca

Workshop: Young Voices Magazine

Young Voices Magazine is one of my favourite magazines in the city, and it is composed entirely of youth talent. The Young Voices Magazine is run by the Toronto Public Library, and as a former writer in the magazine, I can personally say how much of a joy it is. Open to both visual and literary artists, teens aging from 12-19 are eligible to submit (not to worry, there are three different age categories). From poems to sketches, rants to photographs, this contest is a great way to get your work into the eyes of your peers throughout Toronto.

Deadline: March 31, 2012

For more information and specifications for submissions click here

Every Monday Dante Mottillo will post his upcoming event picks of what’s happening in and around the city.

Workshop: Teen Writers’ Group

This is a great opportunity to get feedback on your own writing, especially a piece that you may be stuck on. You can share your work with other teens, and even bring copies of your work if you must. If you’re a bit timid the first time around, attend a meeting to get a feel of others’ work and style. The group reconvenes in the New Year, so get your pencils scribing. For ages 13-19.

When: Thursdays, starting January 5, 2012; from 4:30 pm—6:30 pm
Where: North York Central Library: Room 2/3, 5120 Yonge Street

No registration required. Just drop in.

Workshop: Teen Book Club

Avid reader? Then bring your favourite recommendations and discuss them with other teens. For ages 12+, you’ll never run out of new and intriguing novels.

When: Tuesdays, starting January 24, 2012; from 4:00pm—5:00pm
Where: Downsview TPL Branch, 2793 Keele Street

Registration is required: Call (416)-395-5720

Workshop: Colonel Mustard in the Library

If you’ve ever wanted to create and solve your own mystery, but don’t quite know how to begin your investigation, then this is a great time to learn. Detective Constable Wade Knapp from the Toronto Police will discuss real methods used to solve modern day crimes.

When: January 31, 2012; from 7:00 pm—8:00 pm
Where: Mount Pleasant TPL branch, 599 Mt. Pleasant Road

Discretion is advised, as there is some graphic content. Suitable for ages 15+

Workshop: Build Your Own World

Gather round as author Sarah Ellis leads a workshop for younger writers. Specifically geared for ages 9-13, this workshop will allow novice authors to key-in on how to begin their own writing. Sarah Ellis has written fiction, seasonal anthologies, and even books on how to write. It may be months away, but register to assure your spot.

When: February 18, 2012; from 2:00 pm—4:00 pm
Where: Lillian H. Smith TPL branch, 239 College Street.

Registration required: Call (416)-393-7753.

Every Monday Dante Mottillo will post his upcoming event picks of what’s happening in and around the city.