carrotsticks--Cary Fagan's recent news and events

Want to write a picture book? Join us!

2012-01-17T09:42:00.000-08:00

Once again I'm teaching my course on writing picture books for the University of Toronto's Continuing Studies department. It's on Monday nights 6:30 to 9, for eight weeks, starting next week. Everyone will, I hope, have a couple of manuscripts written by the end. And everyone will have had a good time.

More info at:
http://learn.utoronto.ca/courses/writing-for-children-picture-books

A new story

2011-12-08T07:45:00.000-08:00

A new issue of the literary magazine Taddle Creek has just come out and its theme is music. There's a story of mine included, "Dreyfus in Wichita." Like many of my stories, it has taken me a long time to finish--perhaps ten years--so I'm rather glad it's done. The title refers to a full-scale musical that is written by the protagonist, a grade-school music teacher.

Taddle Creek is a terrific mag, far more inventive and lively than most literary journals. You can find it on the magazine stand of better bookstores. They've also got a website, of course: www.taddlecreekmag.com.

By the way, several years after I first drafted the story I discovered that Sholem Aleichem wrote a story called "Dreyfus in Kasrilevke." I took this as a good sign.

An earful of Kaspar Snit--an audiobook, that is

2011-11-30T11:26:00.000-08:00

I have very fond memories of listening to audiobooks in the car with the kids. "The School Story," and "Longer Letter Later" were two that we heard over and over, until we could recite many of the lines ourselves.

These days, audiobooks are much more accessible; they're a simple download. And one of the first from RMW Kids is my own "Ten Lessons for Kaspar Snit." The reader is Chrisine Ghawi and from the bit I've heard, she's very good.

You can have a listen at:

http://www.rmwkids.com/more_info.php?id=Ten%20Lessons%20For%20Kasper%20Snitt.xml

Can you make a banjo out of a silver birch?

2011-10-17T07:38:00.000-07:00

I was happy and proud to hear that Banjo of Destinyis a nominee for the Silver Birch Express Award. That means kids all over Ontario will read it, along with other nominees, to vote on their favourite book. In May the winners are announced at a big hooh-hah of an event down at Toronto's Harbourfront.

I look forward to meeting the other nominees but I'm particularly tickled to know that my buddy Monica Kulling will be up there too for her book All Aboard!

Just one thing, Monica. What's with the exclamation mark at the end of your title? You think it's going to help you to win? I mean I could have called mine Banjo of Destiny!

Maybe I should have.

What I Learned in Florida

2011-10-15T12:04:00.001-07:00

Today I was taking a look at the website of paperplates, the handsome and highly readable online journal edited by Bernard Kelly. (Bernard and I co-edit paperplates books but my relation to the journal is only as a reader.) I noticed the online chapbooks that Bernard has published and remembered that he electronically published a little memoir/essay of mine called "What I Learned in Florida." Sure enough, it's still up there, and although the subject is grim the design is rather pretty.

It can be found (in pdf) at:
http://www.paperplates.org/Florida.pdf

My very own book review blog

2011-10-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

After mulling the idea over for some time I suddenly and without warning found myself signing up for a new blog. On it I plan to review books that interest me for one reason another--adult, kids, fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. They might be spanking new, they might be from last year or ten years ago. I might want to give a conventional sort of review, or talk about a single scene, or do something I can't yet imagine.

I suppose the idea came from finding reviews of my own books on other book review blogs. (Yes, I confess to finding them by googling myself.) While review space in newspapers has sadly shrunk, this new online conversation about books seems to be thriving. So why not be a part of it?

There's a first review up and I'll soon do another. So take a look once in a while and maybe even become a "follower". (What a term--does that mean I'm the leader?)

Authors or publishers who would like me to consider a book for review should email me at info@caryfagan.com.

You can find the blog at:
http://bonefolderbooks.blogspot.com

Thanks, Kathryn Cole

2011-09-25T16:53:00.000-07:00

This week I was shocked and dismayed to find out that Kathryn Cole, editor at Tundra Books, was no longer with the house. I enjoyed working with Kathryn these last few years; she's the editor of a picture book of mine, 'Mr. Zinger's Hat,' which is due out fall 2012.

So I want to thank you, Kathryn,for all your efforts and wish you the very best. It was an honour making books with you. And I look forward to hearing what's next!

Wild Word on the Street

2011-09-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

The Word on the Street festival is upon us this Sunday. It's a wild time, with rogue authors dashing here and there and mad readers snatching up books. Or visa versa.

I'll be reading twice on Sunday. At 12:10 p.m. I'm going to read my new picture book 'Ella May and the Wishing Stone'.

At 1:40 p.m. I'll be reading from my latest kids' novel, 'Banjo of Destiny.'

Both are at the Children's Reading Tent.

In between I'll be downing a double espresso.

Come by and have a listen or just say hi. After all, if an author reads and nobody is there to hear, has a tree really fallen in the forest?

Or something like that.

The photo, by the way, has absolutely nothing to do with Word on the Street. It's an old photograph my brother Lawrence found of a puppet show that my cousin Ellen and I put on when we were kids. I don't know where he digs this stuff up.

Want to write picture books? Come and study...with me

2011-08-22T06:21:00.000-07:00

At the end of August my thoughts turn to...continuing education. That's right folks, the excitement of fall classes is upon us.

I'm teaching two courses at University of Toronto continuing studies this fall. "Writing For Children: Picture Books" begins on Wed. October 5 (12:30 p.m. to 3). In eight sessions we will work through a number of creative and inspiring exercises with the goal of producing two manuscripts. There will be little 'lectures' by me and lots of show and tell, as well as information on the mysteries of getting published. These classes are usually small and attended by a really interesting mix of people. I always enjoy them.

The other course follows the first. "Writing For Children: Picture Books II" is intended for people who have already taken the first course and others who have taken other writing courses and want a straight workshop experience. In this course there are no formal talks or exercises. Instead, each week participants read their manuscripts aloud for discussion and helpful criticism. I also offer more written responses. And as well, there will be two guests. One will be by a children's book editor who will talk about how manuscripts get chosen and the best way to reach publishers. The other will be an experienced illustrator who will talk about what manuscripts are appealing to artists, etc. This class begins on Monday October 3 (6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.)

Both classes are held somewhere on the U of T downtown campus, around Bloor or College and St. George.

The Continuinng Studies website is at: http://learn.utoronto.ca/Page4.aspx.
The phone number is 416 978-2400.

If you have questions, feel free to email me at cfagan@interlog.com

Be careful what you wish for

2011-07-14T09:57:00.000-07:00

This summer when you're on holiday you might keep your eye out for a stone with a line going all-all-all the way around it. That's a wishing stone. But wishes don't always work out they way you expect, as Ella May finds out in my new picture book, "Ella May and the Wishing Stone," which should be in the stores any time now. The wonderfully talented Genevieve Cote is the illustrator. (Sorry for missing the accents, Genevieve. I don't know how to get them on this keyboard.)

I had heard about wishing stones many, many years ago, after my daughters came home from visiting relatives in Cape Breton with their mom, Joanne Schwartz (now a fine picture book writer herself). But my first attempts fell flat. I had to let some fifteen years pass before trying again.

Here are some quotes from the early reviews:

"Cary Fagan is no newcomer to kids' books, and he does a great job here with both the fun, engaging story, and the fine tricks of repetition and structure that make 'Ella May and the Wishing Stone' ideal for the early reader. ...an original and imaginative treatment of one of the hardest lessons of early childhood--sharing."
--Quill & Quire

"Fagan believably captures the delicate balance of friendship in the very young and lets the story pay out with welcome complexity. Thoughtful and touching."
--Kirkus Reviews

The Banjo Newsletter

2011-07-04T07:10:00.000-07:00

Ok, the title of this post is a bit of an insider joke--as it's the name of an actual magazine. But here are some odds-and-ends about my latest kids' novel, 'Banjo of Destiny.'

The novel is going to be published in Turkish by Hayykitap, which I understand is an excellent publisher. So look for it at your favourite bookshop in Istanbul. (I want a book launch!)

The CBC Children's Book Panel has put it on their recommended summer reading list. Many thanks.

Finally, this from a new review from Norm Ravvin in the "Canadian Jewish News":
"Fagan makes subtle use of his story's fable-like message, and there is no cloying lesson to be had in the final pages. One can feel, instead, the joy some people gain from making a thing, from making music, and from sharing these things with others. There is much that parents and their kids can share in the novel."

Sure, Norm is an old friend of mine. But the man has integrity; he would not accept the bribe I offered. (Why he didn't want to hear me play banjo for a whole evening I can't stay.) Instead, I simply bought his own new novel, "The Joyful Child," published by Gasperau Press. It's a beautiful looking book and next on my reading list.

Norm, by the way, is not the first reviewer to comment favourably on the ending. To be honest, the original manuscript did have one of those triumphant endings that we see all too often in books and that can be hard to avoid when trying to end a story. But it bugged me so much that I finally had the inspiration of how to change it in the last draft before publication. It became quieter but, I think, more honest, and I'm very glad that people have liked it.

About the accompanying photo: a jam session in Mars Hill, North Carolina where I recently went for Blue Ridge Old Time Music Week. It was heaven.

Jacob Two-Two has been Hackmatacked!

2011-04-02T07:20:00.000-07:00

The Hackmatack Children's Choice Book Award is an Atlantic Canadian book award voted on by kids. And "Jacob Two-Two on the High Seas" has used every piratey trick to fight its way onto the short list. Which means that kids in the Atlantic provinces will soon be reading the book to discover how Jacob Two-Two came to Canada, what parrots should never say, and that not everyone's treasure is the same.

And if anyone can tell this ignorant Ontarian where the name of the awards comes from, I'd be much obliged.

A chat with 'Kirkus Reviews'

2011-03-22T06:46:00.001-07:00

Here's an interview just published by the American magazine 'Kirkus Reviews' about 'Banjo of Destiny.' Yes, now you can finally learn such fascinating tidbits as how I failed as a child to learn to play the ukulele.

http://www.kirkusreviews.com/blog/childrens/banjos-and-bluegrass-banjo-destiny-cary-fagan/

Toronto Star is banjo friendly

2011-03-13T15:50:00.000-07:00

I was pleased to get a call this morning from my mother-in-law Helene about Deirdre Baker's nice review of "Banjo of Destiny." Here's some of what she had to say:

"There's a real light-hearted sparkle to Torontonian Cary Fagan's "Banjo of Destiny"...This has the spirit and cheer of comic melodrama, its fun coming as much from Fagan's breezy asides as from the plot. Who could resist Luella, who toboggans down the school hill singing the school anthem in Pig Latin? ... These kinds of details, as well as Fagan's evocative descriptions of banjo music ("weirdly old and jumpily alive") give this story its loft."

That plucky banjo--in person

2011-03-06T14:18:00.000-08:00

"Banjo of Destiny" is just out and the first reviews are definitely making me want to take out the ol' five string and play a reel or two.

"CM magazine"
4 stars (out of 4). "'Banjo of Destiny' will inspire any budding musician, and its story of a boy coming to terms with his inner dork will appeal to all...This sweet, quirky little book hits all the right notes. Highly recommended."

"Kirkus Reviews"
"A low-key charmer."

"Rutgers University Project on Economics and Children"
"This bittersweet novel has just the right touch of wit and creativity to watch and keep the attention of young discerning readers. ...will encourage readers to think about what brings true happiness."

The reviews make me hope that kids might really be inspired to discover the pleasure of working hard at something they really want to be good at. There's a lesson I'm still learning.

It seems a good time to offer a photograph of the real banjo that Jeremiah built-- with the author's help, of course. Yes, it really plays. Total cost of materials: about $11.

But enough about me (and Jeremiah). Congratulations to Luc Melanson, whose illustrations for "Big Book of Brothers" have just been nominated for the Amelia Frances Howard Gibbon Award.

And now I'm going to go and play.

Two Photographs

2011-01-22T07:37:00.001-08:00

I was sorting through some work photos and came upon these two. The first photo is from an author visit in Montreal. No, I'm not yodelling. I'm teaching the kids a pirate song from the book "Jacob Two-Two on the High Seas." The first verse goes like this:
"We don't like washing behind our ears, or doing our multiplication.
When our noses drip we wipe on our sleeves, and we spit for relaxation."
Pretty catchy, no? (By the way, that instrument I'm playing is a 1937 Martin mandolin.)

The second photo is from the launch of "Valentine's Fall" at the Gladstone Hotel. That's my buddy Gary Clement trying to make me look as if I know what I'm talking about. Gary was the artist on our picture book "Ten Old Men and a Mouse" and we're going to be doing another one together.

Teaching time

2011-01-10T06:44:00.000-08:00

Well, it's teaching time again. On Monday, January 24 my evening class in writing picture books begins at the University of Toronto. I always get a great group of enthusiastic people who love picture books and want to find their own stories. If you're interested, you can see the course here:

http://2learn.utoronto.ca/uoft/search/publicCourseSearchDetails.do?method=load&courseId=1150416

Or call 416 978-2400.

Hope to see you in class!

A boy and his banjo

2011-01-05T14:43:00.000-08:00

Here is a look at the cover of my next book for kids, a novel called "Banjo of Destiny."

Jeremiah falls in love with the sound of old-time banjo music and wants to learn to play. But when his wealthy (or, as Jeremiah's best friend Luella says, "stinking rich") parents won't let him buy one, he decides to build a banjo himself. Or (to quote Luella again), to listen to his "inner nerd."

It's funny, it's dramatic, it's touching, it's romantic. Okay, maybe not romantic.

Closer to publication date I'll try and get around to publishing a picture of the banjo that Jeremiah (with some help from the author) builds.

The book will be published in March but is already up on Amazon and the other online book sites.

Happy New Year, everybody.

My brothers, mes freres

2010-11-02T07:15:00.000-07:00

Looking for something in French to read to that bright toddler of yours? Have I got a book for you. A French-language edition of "Book of Big Brothers" will be published this fall by Scholastic. It's available for pre-order on Amazon and other sites.

Does this mean I have to give my brothers free copies again?

Recent reviews

2010-10-12T07:47:00.000-07:00

One of the results of an award nomination is that it shakes loose some reviews.

NOW, the Toronto weekly, reviewed "Valentine's Fall" a week or so ago. Here's Susan G. Cole:
"Though the themes are serious, Fagan displays a deft comic touch as Huddie tries to figure himself out. And the characters are classic. ...Props to Fagan for not writing an easy, tidy ending."

And the new picture book, "Book of Big Brothers," is getting some reviews too.

School Library Journal:
"Will make readers giggle with delight. [A]fresh approach to fraternal relationships."

CM Magazine:
"Told with warmth and wit, this is a terrific story about the ups and downs of sibling relationships. Highly recommended."

Picture Book Classes Start Soon

2010-09-21T07:36:00.000-07:00

This semester I'm teaching two classes in the University of Toronto's Continuing Studies department.

"Writing for Children: Picture Books" begins on Wed. Oct. 6 12:30-2:00 p.m. In the course I talk about the fundamental structure of picture books and other essential elements. Each week there is an assignment, all of which go towards producing drafts of two manuscripts. There's always a lot of good energy and enthusiasm in the class and we all enjoy it.

"Writing for Children: Picture Books II" begins on Monday Oct. 4 6:30-9:00 p.m. While it has no prerequisite, the course is intended for people who have taken previous writing courses. (If you really want to take it anyway, you can email me.) There are no set talks or assignments. Instead, the class is devoted to detailed workshopping of manuscripts brought in by participants. As well, we are having two guests. One is a picture-book illustrator who will talk about what makes a good manuscript from the illustrator's point of view. The other is an editor at a major children's publishing house who will give us the inside scoop on how manuscripts are accepted and what editors look for.

Here is the website for the school:
http://learn.utoronto.ca/site3.aspx

Or phone 416 978-2400.

'Valentine's Fall' a Toronto Book Award Finalist

2010-09-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

The award nominations for the Toronto Book Award were held at the Toronto Reference Library, with Mayor David Miller making the announcements. (I've met David Miller twice--once when he was trying to get elected and now, on his way out.)

Naturally, I am delighted. Being a born Torontonian, this award nomination means a lot to me. I'm just now starting to read the other nominated books. That's what awards really do--help readers to discover good books.

All of the nominees are reading at this year's Word on the Street in Toronto next weekend, and also at the Yorkville Library on October 5. The winner is announced at a ceremony on Oct. 14 (6 p.m.) at the Toronto Reference Library. Everyone is invited, so come on down and see what a bunch of nervous authors looks like.

Mr. Karp Goes to Hong Kong

2010-08-09T10:02:00.000-07:00

So the other day I opened a package left at my door to find six copies of 'Mr. Karp's Last Glass.' In Chinese. For a moment I thought I was dreaming.

In fact, the good people at Groundwood had simply forgotten to tell me that the book was being published in Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau by Pan Asia Cultural. Well, it was a nice surprise.

Brotherly love...most of the time

2010-08-05T08:43:00.000-07:00

My new picture book is out and it's called "Book of Big Brothers." The funny, slightly crazed pictures are by the award-winning artist Luc Melanson who lives in Laval, Quebec.

Here is how I wrote this book:
One day I was sitting with a pad and pen, playing around with ideas for a new picture book. I found myself writing down a true incident that happened with my brothers (the day we lit a tree on fire). Then I wrote another and another. They were all pretty good--which one, I asked myself, would make the best book? I couldn't make up my mind and so I decided to stick all of them into a single book. Instead of being about one particular event, the book really became the story of our brotherly friendship.

CBC Childrens' Book Panel

2010-08-05T08:33:00.000-07:00

I always look forward to CBC Radio's childrens' book panel--that is, when I manage to catch it. Well, I missed the one in June where Michelle Landsberg and Ken Setterington chose their favourite books for this summer's reading. Ken put no less than two of my books on his list of five: 'The Big Swim' and the forthcoming picture book, 'Book of Big Brothers.' I suppose it isn't my place to say that Ken has impeccable taste.

You can see all the picks at:http://www.cbc.ca/thenextchapter/2010/06/.

While we're at it, I owe Michelle Landsberg thanks for introducing me to the late Grace Paley at Harbourfront several years ago. Afterwards, I ran into Grace a few times and became rather chummy with her, as she no doubt was with just about everyone. Kind of felt like talking to my bubby--that is, my grandmother. I've been re-reading her great short stories lately and I'm glad to have a chance to mention them.

Going ape for the story form

2010-05-24T08:19:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid we had a subscription to 'National Geographic.' My favorite articles were about Jane Goodall's experiences among the chimpanzees in the Gombe Stream Game Reserve by the shore of Lake Tanganyika. I loved the photos of her reaching out to some enormous male chimp or making friends with a new infant. And I think, well, that I was a little in love with Ms. Goodall.

That's the source for the short story "My Life Among the Apes" which was published recently in the excellent journal 'Taddle Creek.' (I suggest you all subscribe!) A link to the story can be found here:

http://www.taddlecreekmag.com/my-life-among-the-apes

The magazine also posted "Valentine's Fall" on its recommended reading list. "A damn good book" was the verdict. No wonder I like the magazine.

'Ten Lessons' A Silver Birch Express Honor Book

2010-05-13T13:01:00.001-07:00

Today at the Silver Birch Awards 'Ten Lessons for Kaspar Snit' was named a Silver Birch Express Honor Book! (Yes, that deserves an exclamation mark.)

And did I like being cheered by hundreds of kids? Yes, I did.

Thanks so much to everyone who organizes these great awards, to the teachers and librarians who run the program in their schools, and most of all to all the kids who read the books. Cheers to you!

I've been visiting a lot of schools in southern Ontario and will be going to a few more before the school year is out. What a treat to be able to meet so many kids in person and talk about books. Yup, being an author feels pretty good today.

Frye Festival

2010-04-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

On Monday I head off to the Frye Festival, a literary festival in Moncton. This will be my first time at the festival, and in New Brunswick (the last maritime province I've yet to visit). I feel pretty lucky as a children's author because I get to read not only at the festival, but in schools too. Meeting lots of teachers, kids, and the volunteers who drive authors around (always the nicest people, and deeply informed about where they live), I get a much better sense of the place. Should be fun!

They're saying nice things about "The Big Swim"

2010-03-18T06:42:00.000-07:00

The first reviews of "The Big Swim" are coming out and they're rather nice. Publishers Weekly writes, "Fagan perfectly captures the summer camp experience" and calls the book "satisfying and charming." CM Magagine calls it "a thoughtful exploration of how children judge each other and the bonds of friendships." The review in Quill & Quire is also very good but I read it standing in a bookstore, too cheap to pay for it, so I don't have a copy to quote from.

The image, by the way, doesn't come from the book. It's from the cottage we borrowed last summer.

In the middle of winter, a taste of summer (camp)

2010-02-08T19:18:00.000-08:00

April fool's day is the official publication date of 'The Big Swim,' a short kids' novel about a boy nicknamed "Pinky", his first camp experience, the arrival of a 'bad' kid, a girl named Amber Levine, and the infamous Big Swim. Since it is now listed on amazon.com and indigo.com I figure I can get away with this rather early notice. Mostly it's an excuse to post the great cover, designed by Michael Solomon of Groundwood Books. I think the cover perfectly captures the book's spirit of humour, adventure, but also its darker side.

I wrote the first draft immediately after the first draft of "The Fortress of Kasper Snit" quite a few years ago. Three Snit books and several others have made it to publication first. Some stories just want to take their time.

More 'Jacob'

2010-01-21T16:35:00.000-08:00

Life has been busy and I haven't had a chance to post much lately. But I'm pleased to be able to mention that 'Jacob Two-Two on the High Seas' was named a 'Book of the Year' by 'Quill & Quire' magazine and a best book of 2009 by the magazine 'Resource Links.' Sweet.

Writing Courses

2010-01-11T07:30:00.000-08:00

In the last week of January I'll be starting two new introductory courses in writing picture books. I believe that one is full but there may be spots for the other (Thursday afternoons) for anyone interested. Contact the School of Continuing Studies at the University of Toronto. The website is learn.utoronto.ca.

Kasper goes to the Silver Birch Awards

2009-11-26T17:15:00.000-08:00

I'm very excited by the news that the third volume in the Kasper Snit trilogy, 'Ten Lessons for Kasper Snit,' is a nominee for the Silver Birch Express Award. That means thousands of kids in Ontario schools will get a chance to read it and vote for it--or some other favourite.

The first two Kaspar Snit books were also nominees. Third time lucky? Well, I won't hold my breath--especially since the ceremony isn't until May. But I'm going to have fun along the way.

Andrea Martin...and me?

2009-11-15T09:53:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I had the pleasure of hearing Andrea Martin read an hour-long version of 'Jacob Two-Two Meets the Hooded Fang' before an audience of enthralled kids and adults at the Young Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto. Of course I watched Andrea on the great sketch-comedy TV show SCTV years ago (my friends and I were ardent early fans), but she has gone on to become a Broadway actor, winning a Tony and many other awards. Her voices were hysterically funny, especially for the Hood Fang himself (across between Yoda and Nathan Detroit, I'd say). The organizers were kind enough to invite me and afterwards we had fun signing books together. Of course I was under no illusion as to who the real draw was!

Toronto Jewish Book Fair

2009-10-26T09:36:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, Nov. 1, I'll be reading from 'Valentine's Fall' at the Toronto Jewish Book Fair along with Lauren Kirshner, Sidura Ludwig, and Adam Sol. 4 p.m. at the Lipa Green Centre, 4600 Bathurst Street.

International Festival of Authors is here

2009-10-21T06:43:00.000-07:00

Today is the official opening of the International Festival of Authors in Toronto. I'll be doing two readings for the TD Canadian Children's Literature Awards (Thing-Thing is a finalist). Both are on Saturday, Oct. 24. For the first I'm reading with fellow nominee Nicola Campbell at 11.am in the Studio Theatre. The second is a panel discussion with all the nominees, moderated by Ken Setterington. That one's at 4p.m., also in the Studio Theatre.

I'm looking forward to hearing some authors myself.

Shufflin' off to Calgary

2009-10-09T14:18:00.000-07:00

Next Tuesday I'll be heading to Calgary for the Wordfest, the city's annual literary hootenany. I'll be doing no less than five readings, one at the festival itself an the others at local schools. It's a very well-run and friendly fest so my expectations for a fine time are high. There's also a fundraising dinner where we authors get to pretend we're celebrities. I'm going to bring my best pair of jeans.

A picture-book writing course...with Cary

2009-09-22T06:51:00.000-07:00

A quick note to mention that a course I'm teaching at the University of Toronto Continuing Studies, "Writing for Children: Picture Books II," will be starting on Monday Oct. 5. I'm very excited by the two guests who will be coming. The first is Ruth Ohi, illustrator of over 40 books and author of several as well. The second is Tara Walker, picture-book editor at Kids Can Press.

So if you're interested call the Continuing Studies department at 416 978-5653 or go to learn.utoronto.ca.

Fagan and the Foggies for One Night Only

2009-09-21T08:16:00.000-07:00

While I was working on 'Valentine's Fall' I sometimes imagined a book launch where my favourite bluegrass band, The Foggy Hogtown Boys, would perform. And it is actually happening.

On Tuesday, Sept. 29, This is Not a Reading Series hosts the launch of my new novel at the Gladstone Hotel. There will be an interview on stage with my old buddy Gary Clement, editorial cartoonist for the 'National Post,' illustrator of picture books, artist and amateur vaudevillian. Then the Foggies will cut loose.

So come on out, folks. It's going to be one good time.

Word on the Street Year 20

2009-09-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, Sept. 27, is the 20th annual Word on the Street book festival. It's being held at Queen's Park (the Toronto version) and I'm going to be making two appearances for 'Jacob Two-Two on the High Seas.' The first is at 12 noon at the Children's Reading Tent and the second is an interview on the CBC stage at 2:30.

No doubt I'll also be skulking around the Cormorant Books booth where I assume copies of the new novel, 'Valentine's Fall,' will be on sale.

Enjoy the fair.

Eden Mills and Telling Tales Festivals this weekend

2009-09-14T08:14:00.000-07:00

If you see a frantic author zipping by you on the highway it will be me, moving between two southern Ontario festivals this Sunday. One is the new Telling Tales Festival, devoted to children's books, the other is the much-praised Eden Mills Festival. I'm looking forward to them both and if you're in the neighbourhood, come by.

Read the book, watch the video

2009-09-13T07:35:00.000-07:00

Cormorant Books has produced a smart little video to promote my new novel, 'Valentine's Fall.' It was created by Bryan Ibeas. The soundtrack is by the Foggy Hogtown Boys. And that mandolin player? That happens to be me, with my 12-year-old daughter Sophie as videographer. Break out the popcorn and enjoy.

Montreal Gazette talks to Cary about Jacob Two-Two

2009-09-13T07:33:00.000-07:00

Here's a link to an article in the 'Montreal Gazette' about 'Jacob Two-Two on the High Seas.'

http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/Jacob+returns/1986224/story.html

Two award nominations for 'Thing-Thing'

2009-08-26T14:59:00.000-07:00

'Thing-Thing' has just been nominated for two national awards, both administered by the Canadian Children's Book Centre. One is the Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award ($20,000) and the other is the big one, the TD Canadian Children's Literature Award ($25,000). It's an understatement to say that I'm thrilled by the nominations--for me and for Nicholas Debon, the illustrator. A lot of people work very hard over the year to make these awards happen and I'm grateful to them. The winners are announced at a fancy-shmancy evening in November so I better dust off my good clothes.

the new look of "Valentine's Fall"

2009-08-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

Here is the new cover design for "Valentine's Fall." The illustrations are by Nick Crane. It sure is different from the first design, and from any other cover I've had. But I think it captures some of the spirit of the book. And it's refreshing to try something different.

A new cover for "Valentine's Fall"

2009-07-16T10:47:00.001-07:00

A while ago I posted the cover of my upcoming novel, "Valentine's Fall." A short time ago the publishers discovered that another book with an uncannily similar cover had recently been published--a non-fiction book about a tragic event. A quick decision was made to come up with a new cover.

And so the new one is currently being designed. Marc at Cormorant Books has been kind enough to bring me into the process and it's something of a four-way discussion between us, the designer, and the illustrator brought on board. (But Marc has to act as go-between, mediator, and the-buck-stops-here ultimate decision maker.) It's an exciting and slightly scary process, and the new cover will look radically different. But I like the idea of taking a risk and coming up with something fresh and appealing.

But then you'll have to be the judge.

Stay tuned.

A second review of "Jacob Two-Two" and some postings

2009-06-29T09:12:00.000-07:00

CM Magazine, a resource for librarians, has just published its advance review of "Jacob Two-Two on the High Seas." The reviewer, Andrea Galbraith, writes: "Much of the originality of the story comes from the theme of treasure being in the eye of the beholder....a highly readable book...it would work well as a read aloud or for solo reading. Highly recommended."

There have also been a few postings on the Globe & Mail and the Quill & Quire websites questioning the decision of adding to the series in the first place. The general opinion of these posters is that Richler's name is being exploited and his work being taken advantage of or tampered with. Other responses disagree.
I'm not at all surprised that some people don't like the idea. When first approached, I had some of these same thoughts. I asked myself: would I want someone to write another "Kaspar Snit" book? I didn't come up with any easy answers but I did decide that it ought to be the Richler family's decision. They, after all, are the ones who knew Mordecai best. And Mordecai passed the rights on to them. (Perhaps it should be remembered that Mordecai himself was happy to "exploit" his own books, allowing them to be adapted for film, television, and theatre. Some of these adaptations are very good but others are quite poor. And who remembers the musical based on "Duddy Kravitz" that closed before reaching broadway?) For me, the question was whether I felt I could do justice to the characters and series. And whether I wanted to do it. I answered "Yes" to both.
Of course people have every right to disagree. I'm happy to read their opinions, especially when they are well expressed. The question might be an interesting one for students to think about along with the notion of how authors "own" their characters and creations. I would like to say, however, that those who write that Richler's own work has been "tampered" with are simply wrong. No one has altered a single word he wrote or changed any of his books. My own book is clearly marked: it is a new work, written by me.
And if you read it, I hope you enjoy it.

First Review of "Jacob Two-Two on the High Seas"

2009-06-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

Quill & Quire, the Canadian book-trade magazine, has just published an advance feature review of my upcoming children's novel, "Jacob Two-Two on the High Seas." Here is a sample:

"Fagan is a pro at writing entertaining and intelligent fiction aimed at the younger set. His Kaspar Snit series is infinitely inventive fun, displaying an affinity for offbeat scenarios and a ready wit that goes well with Jacob's universe. ...children and adults should find much to enjoy in Jacob's newest. Fagan has taken on responsibility for the series admirably, and the possibility of more Jacob adventures should make every young reader very happy."

Naturally, I'm very pleased by the review. (Actually, the primary emotion I feel on reading a positive review is relief.) But what I found most interesting in Corey Redekop's thoughtful consideration were his comments about the "darker shadings" and more frightening "Dickinsian" qualities of the first book that Richler wrote, Jacob Two-Two Meets the Hooded Fang.

While I'm at it, I'd like to send best wishes to the new editor of the magazine, Stuart Woods. It's a hard job to take on, after the death of Derek Weiler, who was so admired by people in the book trade. But Quill & Quire has become an indispensible journal and I'm sure Stuart will continue to build on its strengths.

A first look at the new novel

2009-06-08T13:57:00.000-07:00

"Well, it's been a long wait--for me anyway. My new novel will be published early in the fall by Cormorant Books. I'll just say here that it's about high school, middle age, Toronto, the suburbs, love, family, loss, and bluegrass music. Here is a look at the cover, designed by Angel Guerra. It seems only fitting that Angel did this one, since he also designed the cover of my novel "Felix Roth" and Felix, a couple of decades older, makes an appearance in the new one."

Back from Newfoundland

2009-05-18T08:41:00.000-07:00

"I've just returned from a wonderful week in Newfoundland, sponsored by the Newfoundland and Labrador Public Libraries and the Canada Council. The kids were great. I particularly liked the response of one boy to the moment in "Thing-Thing" where the rather spoiled boy, Archibald Crimp, throws the stuffed creature out a window. 'He's a saucy one,' said the boy. Indeed.
"Did I mention that I saw 26 moose in one day?
"Attached are a few photos, including one of me reading before a packed house at the opening of the Trails, Tales, and Tunes Festival in Norris Point. (Packed for the festival, not just for me!) My thanks to all the people who helped along the way, but most especially to the indefatigable Sandy Chilcote from the library, my companion and guide throughout the week. A more knowledgable, caring, and kind person I couldn't imagine."

An article about Cary's visit was published in Corner Brook's newspaper, the 'Western Star.' You can read it here:
http://www.thewesternstar.com/index.cfm?sid=249980&sc=29

Sailing for Newfoundland

2009-04-28T06:46:00.000-07:00

Cary is excited to be visiting Newfoundland for the first time, thanks to the Newfoundland Public Library. From May 10 to 16 he'll be stationed in Corner Brook and visiting the communities of Burgeo, Ramea, Stephenville Crossing, Port au Port E., Cape St. George, Woody Point, Sop's Arm, Cormack, and Norris Point. In Norris Point he'll be participating in their spring festival. (The photo is taken from the festival's web site.)

Cary has long wanted to visit Newfoundland and he's looking forward to meeting people, taking in the landscape, sharing his stories, and getting a taste of life on the island. He hopes that he'll get a chance to hear some storytellers, writers, and poets and hear some music as well. In preparation, Cary is--naturally--reading fiction by Newfoundland writers. He was already a fan of Michael Winter and Wayne Johnston, and he is now immersed in Michael Crummey's fine novel "The Wreckage.'

Hello to Hamilton

2009-04-20T16:27:00.000-07:00

Cary will be in Hamilton on Thursday, April 23, for a Forest of Reading Celebration sponsored by the Hamilton Public Library. This is Cary's second visit to Hamilton recently; the first was for the Gritlit festival. But this will be the first time (for him, at least) that he'll read from a book ('My New Shirt') while the pictures are projected on a screen. Here's hoping the technology works...

A sneak preview of "Jacob Two-Two on the High Seas"

2009-01-22T11:45:00.001-08:00

Some Some readers may have seen the feature article in The Globe & Mail this summer about Cary writing a new book in Mordecai Richler's much loved Jacob Two-Two series. Mordecai Richler, who died in 2001, had planned to write a fourth book. The Richler family wanted the series continued and so Cary was approached. He happily accepted. The new book is actually set between the first two in the series, as Jacob and his family move from England to Canada.

The book won't be out until September, but eager readers can advance-order it from indigo.ca and amazon.ca. Here's a look at the cover.

'Thing-Thing' a Quill & Quire Book of the Year

2008-12-26T11:15:00.000-08:00

More end of the year accolades for Cary's picture book, Thing-Thing. It has been chosen as one of the 'Books of the Year' by the editors of Quill & Quire magazine. To see the entry please go to:

http://www.quillandquire.com/books-of-the-year-2008/article.cfm?article_id=10386

'Thing-Thing' on Globe and Mail's ten best list

2008-12-08T06:57:00.001-08:00

This past Saturday Sussan Perrin, the Globe and Mail's children's books reviewer, offered her list of the ten best children's books of the year. On the list is Cary's picture book, Thing-Thing.

To see the whole list, visit:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20081206.BKKIDD06/TPStory/Entertainment/Books

Do you speak Dutch?

2008-11-26T06:52:00.000-08:00

We thought you might want to see the Dutch cover of Cary's book, Ten Old Men and a Mouse, illustrated by Gary Clement. It was recently published in Holland.

Manitoba photos

2008-11-23T09:36:00.000-08:00

Here are just a few photos of the displays that the kids made in their schools for Cary's visits during Children's Book Week. Thanks to all the teachers, librarians, organizers, and especially the kids for making Cary feel so welcome. It was a great time!

The Horn Book Newsletter

2008-11-13T08:13:00.000-08:00

Horn Book, the highly respected American journal devoted to children's books, has an online newsletter that can be subscribed to for free. The latest issue (November 2009) highlights Cary's latest picture book, Thing-Thing, illustrated by Nicolas Debon. (The book was already reviewed in the journal.)

To see the November issue, and to sign up for a subscription, go to:

http://www.hbook.com/newsletter/index.html

Manitoba bound

2008-11-12T11:56:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, November 16, Cary will be off to Manitoba for Children's Book Week, sponsored by the Canadian Children's Book Centre, TD, the Canada Council, the Ontario Arts Council, and others. He'll be doing no less than sixteen talks and readings, at schools and libraries in Winnipeg and also Morden, Winkler, Altona, Morris, and Gross Isle. This is a great opportunity to see another piece of the country and meet lots of kids, not to mention the many librarians, teachers, coordinators, and volunteers who make the week possible.

The poster for the week (as shown in the picture) is by Barbara Reid.

Quill & Quire profiles Cary

2008-11-06T05:49:00.000-08:00

In the better late than never department, here is a link to a profile of Cary published in the January 2008 issue of Quill & Quire, the Canadian book trade journal. The title of the piece, "The Juggler," seems quite appropriate.

http://www.quillandquire.com/authors/profile.cfm?article_id=9752

'Thing-Thing' on TPL's First and Best List

2008-11-06T05:36:00.000-08:00

Cary's latest picture book, Thing-Thing, has just been named to the Toronto Public Library's 2008 First and Best List. This is an annual list of ten titles that have been judged the best for introducing young kids to books.

And in case you didn't know, the Toronto Public Library system is the second busiest in the world, after Hong Kong.

See the whole list at:
http://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/new_arc_08nov06_first_best.jsp

The Writer Speaks

2008-11-03T15:07:00.000-08:00

The web site teachingbooks.net asks authors to talk about the origin of their names. Cary was asked to contribute and the mp3 is now available to hear at:

http://www.teachingbooks.net/pronounce.cgi?aid=1684

If it sounds as if he is speaking a bit slowly, that's because he was worried about the quality of the telephone line.

My New Shirt nominated for the Blue Spruce Award

2008-10-30T11:56:00.001-07:00

Cary's picture book, My New Shirt, illustrated by Dusan Petricic, has been nominated for this year's Blue Spruce Award. The award is voted on by kids in Ontario schools and the winner is announced in the spring. A lot of kids will get a chance to read or hear the book in their classrooms, which makes this award special for all the nominees.

Cary is reading at the International Festival of Authors in Toronto

2008-10-24T10:19:00.000-07:00

The International Festival of Authors is now on in Toronto and the line-up is an exciting one. You can see the schedule and book tickets online at:
http://www.readings.org/?q=ifoa

Cary will be talking to kids and adults both about where stories come from and will be reading his latest picture book, Thing-Thing. His reading is on Thursday, October 30 at 12:30 p.m. in the Brigantine Room, 235 Queens Quay West. For ticket information you can also call 416 973-4091.

My New Shirt a Marilyn Baillie finalist

2008-10-12T18:50:00.000-07:00

"My New Shirt", with illustrations by Dusan Petricic, has been named a finalist for this year's Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award. The great thing about this award is that it is presented to both the author and the illustrator. For a list of all the finalists see the Canadian Children's Book Centre website.

Vancouver International Writers Festival

2008-10-12T18:44:00.000-07:00

Cary will be attending the Vancouver International Writers Festival in the third week of October.

He'll be doing two readings/talks, one to older kids (who will hear a selection from Ten Lessons For Kaspar Snit) and one to younger (who will hear the latest picture book, Thing-Thing).

Cary is thrilled to have been invited. This is definitely one of the good parts of the job.

Recent short story publications

2008-10-12T18:24:00.001-07:00

For those who like their fiction short, Cary has published a number of stories in journals recently. He is working towards his third story collection but his first in fifteen years (not counting a reprint).

"The Floating Wife" was published in The Antigonish Review, issue #147. It is a story that draws on his long-time interest in conjuring (that is, magicians). It is available online at:
http://antigonishreview.com/bi-147/147-fiction-cary-fagan.html

"Berlin" was published in Grain, Vol. 35, Number 4 (spring 2008). It was inspired by a visit to that city that Cary made to visit his partner, Rebecca, who was living there for several months.

"I'm Not Italian" was published in The Dalhousie Review, 88.1 (Spring 2008). It was written in one sitting in a cafe in Spoleto several years ago. On that same trip, Cary visited the fountains of Rome that would appear in his kids' novel, The Fortress of Kaspar Snit.

"Shit Box" was published in Taddle Creek, Vol.X No.2 (Summer 2007). It reflects Cary's interest in music these last years; instruments seem to pop up in a lot of his fiction these days. It was a finalist in the National Magazine Awards. The story can be found online at: http://www.taddlecreekmag.com/shit-box

A brief introduction

2008-10-10T12:04:00.000-07:00

This is not intended to be a "blog" in the usual sense of an online journal. Instead, it will be a place to list recent publications, upcoming readings, and other news about Cary Fagan's work, both for adults and children. The name comes from Cary's cousin, Ellen, who used to call him "Carrots" when they were kids. Why she called him that he never did know.

Welcome

2008-10-08T16:57:00.001-07:00

Welcome to this space. Here, you'll find news about readings, publications and prizes.