Giller Prize-winning author of Through Black Spruce Joseph Boyden.
Joseph Boyden is nothing if not in demand. Next week, the Giller Prize-winning author of Through Black Spruce headlines a pair of Toronto literary occasions that are both sold out. A waiting list is available for one event and a limited amount of rush seats are available for the second, or you could live vicariously through the acclaimed writer and follow his lead when it comes to what he's dialled into these days.
What he's reading: "I've been lucky enough to get an advance reader copy of the brilliant Donna Morrissey's newest novel coming out this autumn. It's called The Fortunate Brother, and it's amazing. A murder mystery, a gorgeous study of family and place, and all of it written like only Donna Morrissey can write."
What he's looking forward to: "The most bittersweet thing I've ever looked forward to is my dear friends in the Tragically Hip hitting the road this summer for a farewell tour. Gord Downie's a legend for a reason, and it's going to be a celebration of love and of living for today. This will become a sparkling part of Canadian lore. Take your time arriving, summer."
What he's tuned into: "I've become a little bit addicted to the podcast Radiolab. It's so good. The topics are incredibly wide-ranging and fascinating, from history to magic to science to entertainment to the afterlife. Incredibly well produced. Absolutely engaging."
An Island Evening with Joseph Boyden for Camp Onakawana, June 8, 7:30 p.m., $50 (sold out; waiting list at alisong@sympatico.ca), Ward's Island Clubhouse, Ward's Island, eventbrite.ca.
Celebrating Canada's Indigenous Writers, June 10, 7 p.m., free (sold out; limited number of rush seats available at 6 p.m.), Toronto Reference Library, 789 Yonge St., eventbrite.ca.
Brad Wheeler