The 30th annual International Festival of Authors kicks off on Wednesday, with high-profile authors like John Irving, Mark Kingwell and Talking Head David Byrne swinging through town. But Toronto’s literary community doesn’t only come to life for 10 days every year; the city is home to a number of thriving regular literary events, so you can get your book on all year round. Here, three of the finest.
This Is Not a Reading Series
This Is Not a Reading Series (TINARS) distinguishes itself from other literary events by eschewing author readings, instead taking an unconventional – and always engaging – approach. Past events have included a boxing match between novelist Craig Davidson and poet Michael Knox, and a concert by rock ’n’ roll writer Paul Quarrington. Gladstone Hotel, 1214 Queen St. W.
Art Bar
Canada’s oldest poetry-only reading series, the Art Bar features over a hundred poets each year. With a tendency to showcase rising talents, the Art Bar is the perfect place to scout the next generation of sonnet-slingers and spoken word stylists. After the formal readings, amateur wordsmiths can take the stage for an hour of open mic. Tuesdays, Clinton’s, 639 Bloor St. W.
The Pivot Reading Series
Hosted in the cozy, speakeasy-esque confines of the Press Club, the Pivot Reading Series usually fills up early. The city’s top literary talent flock here: Past events have featured Andrew Pyper, who read from his crime novel The Killing Circle, and Pasha Malla, author of The Withdrawal Method. Every other Wednesday, The Press Club, 850 Dundas St. W.
Image courtesy of Chronon6.97 on Flickr.
