Fall brings lineup of authors visiting the library

There is something special about hearing an author speak about their work. From insights on their writing practice, to the cadence and tone of voice they use for their characters when reading aloud, listeners always leave with a fuller understanding of the books.

This fall, you’ll have several opportunities to hear from fascinating Canadian authors visiting the library.

First on the schedule is Paul Vermeersch. He’ll discuss his new book, NMLCT, with Andrew Faulkner. In this poetry collection, fables and fairy tales collide with virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and monstrous myths in a world where no one knows what to believe. All are welcome on Saturday, Sept. 20 at 2 p.m. at the Picton Branch Library.

Acclaimed author Shani Mootoo will join in conversation with Carlyn Moulton on Wednesday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. at the Picton Branch, for the County launch of her latest book, Starry Starry Night. It’s an innovative and revelatory work of autofiction which was included in CBC Books’ list of “Canadian fiction books we’re excited about this fall.”

Did you know that Ernest Hemingway was once sent to cover a prison break at Kingston Penitentiary? Author Marianne K. Miller has written an engaging novel, “We Were the Bullfighters” based on this real-life historical event. In 1923, Ernest Hemingway, struggling with the responsibilities of marriage and unexpected fatherhood, has just made a big mistake. He decided that for the baby’s first year he would interrupt his fledgling writing career in Paris and move his family to North America. No longer a freelancer, he now has a gruelling job with a difficult boss, as a staff reporter for the Toronto Daily Star. On his first day he’s sent to cover a prison break. The escaped convicts, led by notorious bank robber Norman “Red” Ryan, are on the run, making their way from the bush north of Kingston, to the streets of Toronto, and then through towns and cities across the United States. Hemingway ponders duty, freedom, and what stops a man from pursuing his dreams. Marianne K. Miller will visit on Thursday, Oct. 2 at 2 p.m. at the Picton Branch Library.

Phil Norton, a well-known and respected photographer living in Prince Edward County, will visit on Thursday, Oct. 9 at 2 p.m. at the Picton Branch Library. Tickets are $15 and available at peclibrary.org or at any branch of the library. The camera has been a lifelong guiding force for Norton to experience the world, both near and far, and gain a broad understanding about how things work in nature and society. His slide presentation will touch on several documentary themes that have preoccupied him over the decades, both personally and professionally, as well as the evolution of photography.

These are just a few of the talks and presentations coming up this fall at the library. Drop into any branch of the library to pick up your copy of the fall newsletter to be sure you don’t miss a talk.