The Festival of Literary Diversity // April 28 - May 5, 2024

About the FOLD

In May 2016, the Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD) became the first festival devoted to celebrating underrepresented authors and storytellers in Canada. Nine years later, the festival --presented in Brampton, Ontario – continues to provide an important space for writers from marginalized and underrepresented communities to develop their craft and to discuss the challenges involved in creating stories that ask difficult questions, expose hard truths, and push literary boundaries.

FOLD 2024 Schedule

Agenda

time iconApril 28, 2024 09:00 am

Sunrise Writing Sprint With Island Scribe

speaker headshot

Simone Dalton

Simone Dalton, founder and host of Island Scribe Writing Retreats, leads writers in a writing sprint to prompt reflection and creativity. Come to the virtual roundtable ready to join for an hour and a half writing experience. Space is limited and spots will be available on a first come, first serve basis.

time iconApril 28, 2024 11:00 am

FOLD Kick-Off Event

speaker headshot

Jael Richardson

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Ardo Omer

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Samantha Clarke

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Jonisha Lewinson

Celebrate the launch of a brand new season with our annual opening event. Meet the new FOLD team and participate in our opening trivia event for the chance to win book prizes. This session takes place in meeting mode, providing guests with the option to see one another by turning their videos on.

time iconApril 28, 2024 12:00 pm

FREADOM: Authors on Activism

speaker headshot

Farzana Doctor

speaker headshot

Marjorie Beaucage

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Jessica Kirk (Moderator)

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Rodney Diverlus

What is the role of writers in a turbulent world? In this conversation with Wildseed Executive Director Jessica Kirk (Moderator) , authors Farzana Doctor, Marjorie Beaucage, and Rodney Diverlus discuss the role of authors in times of crisis, including how to balance the work of writing with the demands of political engagement and activism.

time iconApril 28, 2024 01:30 pm

The Sh*t No One Tells You About Writing

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Bianca Marais (Moderator)

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Carly Watters

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CeCe Lyra

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Tasneem Motala

Bianca Marais (Moderator) , CeCe Lyra and Carly Watters, co-hosts of the popular podcast The Sh*t No One Tells You About Writing, conduct their popular "Books With Hooks" segment live with guest host Tasneem Motala. Find out what it takes to capture the attention of literary agents in this behind-the-scenes review of query letters and opening pages from the slush pile.

This event is sponsored by Dundurn Press.

time iconApril 28, 2024 03:00 pm

The Writer’s Hub: Roundtables

Meet publishers, agents and editors at our unique virtual roundtables. Drop-in to a variety of virtual conversations and discover how to navigate the industry from a wide range of publishing professionals including Penguin Random House, Dundurn Press, Stelliform Press, the Literary Press Group, Westwood Creative Agency, and more.

time iconApril 28, 2024 07:00 pm

Trivia Time: Canada Reads Edition

speaker headshot

Jael Richardson

Test your Canada Reads knowledge and compete for book prizes in our annual Canada Reads trivia event.

time iconApril 28, 2024 07:30 pm

Canada Reads 2024 Reunion

speaker headshot

Christina Wong

speaker headshot

Catherine Leroux

speaker headshot

Téa Mutonji

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Jael Richardson (Moderator)

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Jessica Johns

In this virtual conversation with Executive Director (and Canada Reads superfan) Jael Richardson (moderator) , four of the 2024 finalists discuss what it was like to have their books selected for the show, and the highs and lows of watching the live debates. This event will be followed by a virtual meet-and-greet where fans can join a roundtable to meet the authors!

time iconApril 28, 2024 08:30 pm

Canada Reads After-Party

speaker headshot

Christina Wong

speaker headshot

Catherine Leroux

speaker headshot

Téa Mutonji

speaker headshot

Jessica Johns

Meet the authors from the Canada Reads reunion panel at our virtual after-party roundtable.

time iconApril 29, 2024 09:45 am

Back to School with the Indigenous Writers' Circle

speaker headshot

Calypso Haine

speaker headshot

Lareina Abbott

speaker headshot

Castor Angus

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Warren Cariou (Moderator)

Writing involves constantly re-working and revising words. In this panel of writers from Audible's Indigenous Writers' Circle, emerging writers discuss how writing groups and various writing habits help them hone their craft and learn new skills.

This event is sponsored by Audible.

time iconApril 29, 2024 12:00 pm

Lunch n' Learn: Writing Horror

speaker headshot

Matteo L. Cerilli

In this Lunch n' Learn workshop, author Matteo L. Cerilli explores the ways politics and activism can be explored in horror writing, revealing strategies and techniques for how writers can navigate themes of fear and hope while challenging tired tropes in the horror genre.

time iconApril 29, 2024 02:00 pm

The Business of Bookselling

speaker headshot

Jason Purcell (Moderator)

speaker headshot

Samita Manhas

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Laura Ash

speaker headshot

Hilary Atleo

In this Business of Publishing panel, three bookstore owners explore the challenges and triumphs of running an independent bookstore in Canada. Whether you're a reader, a writer, or a book publishing professional, you don't want to miss this critical conversation on the role of booksellers in Canada's literary ecology.

time iconApril 29, 2024 04:00 pm

The Business of Book Influencers

speaker headshot

Tasnim Geedi

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Monica Tang (Moderator)

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Tina May

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David Yoon

In this Business of Publishing panel, book influencers from TikTok, YouTube and Instagram discuss their role in Canada's publishing industry. They'll also offer helpful tips and tricks for readers looking to review books and create engaging digital content.

time iconApril 29, 2024 07:00 pm

Trivia Time: Fiction

speaker headshot

Jael Richardson

Test your knowledge of popular Canadian fiction for the chance to win book prizes at our fiction trivia event.

This event is sponsored and co-hosted by Literary Press Group.

time iconApril 29, 2024 07:30 pm

Fun with Fiction

speaker headshot

Natalie Sue

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Craig Shreve

speaker headshot

Mai Nguyen

speaker headshot

Tina May (Moderator)

Covering an array of genres and styles, authors Natalie Sue, Craig Shreve and Mai Nguyen discuss their most recent novels and the process of crafting an imagined story with incredible plot and characters.

This event is sponsored by Literary Press Group.

time iconApril 29, 2024 08:30 pm

Fun With Fiction After-Party

speaker headshot

Natalie Sue

speaker headshot

Craig Shreve

speaker headshot

Mai Nguyen

Join the authors from the Fun with Fiction panel at our virtual after-party roundtable.

time iconApril 30, 2024 09:45 am

School Groups: Navigating Realist Fiction for Teens

speaker headshot

Emily Pohl-Weary

speaker headshot

Sarah Mughal Rana

speaker headshot

Maya Ameyaw

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Alyssa Gray-Tyghter (Moderator)

In this panel conversation for high school students, three young adult authors--Maya Ameyaw, Sarah Mughal Rana and Emily Pohl-Weary--discuss how they navigate realistic subjects with care and sensitivity and how they create in-depth characters which allow teens to see themselves and their peers on the page.

time iconApril 30, 2024 12:00 pm

Lunch N’ Learn: Managing Writer’s Block

speaker headshot

Farzana Doctor

Farzana Doctor brings a unique perspective to the page as both an author and psychotherapist. Join her for this practical workshop on how to incorporate emotion-based strategies to improve your writing and deal with writer’s block.

time iconApril 30, 2024 01:15 pm

School Groups: The Writer’s Life with Brian G. Buckmire

speaker headshot

Matthew R. Morris (Moderator)

speaker headshot

Brian G. Buckmire

In this edition of The Writer's Life series, young adult author and lawyer Brian G. Buckmire discusses how his life as a criminal defense attorney influenced the creation of his debut novel, Come Home Safe, in conversation with fellow author and educator, Matthew R. Morris. Learn about Buckmire's experience as a public defender, his writing routine and more.

time iconApril 30, 2024 04:00 pm

Navigating New Narratives: Insights from Muslim Debut Authors

speaker headshot

Salma Hussain

speaker headshot

Narjis Sheikh (Moderator)

speaker headshot

Alina Khawaja

Two Muslim writers share their journey as debut authors with the Executive Director of Toronto’s new Muslim Literary Festival, Narjis Sheikh. Exploring their path from the beginning stages to publication, Salma Hussain and Alina Khawaja discuss their participation in mentorship programs and provide valuable insights into the publishing industry, fostering a dialogue on diverse voices in literature.

time iconApril 30, 2024 07:00 pm

Trivia Time: Memoirs and Nonfiction

speaker headshot

Jael Richardson

Test your knowledge of popular memoirs and Canadian non-fiction for the chance to win book prizes at our memoirs and non-fiction trivia event.

time iconApril 30, 2024 07:30 pm

Navigating Ghosts: Memoirs and Memories

speaker headshot

Tara Sidhoo Fraser

speaker headshot

Tania De Rozario

speaker headshot

Tessa Hulls

speaker headshot

Amanda Leduc (Moderator)

In this panel of memoir writers, authors Tara Sidhoo Fraser, Tania De Rozario and Tessa Hulls discuss the stories behind personal accounts that tackle themes of mental health, grief, disability, and loss. Discover the ideas that influenced three impressive works of creative non-fiction -- each with their own unique format.

This event is sponsored by Penguin Random House Canada.

time iconApril 30, 2024 08:30 pm

Navigating Ghosts After-Party

speaker headshot

Tara Sidhoo Fraser

speaker headshot

Tania De Rozario

speaker headshot

Tessa Hulls

Meet the memoirists from the Navigating Ghosts panel in a virtual after-party roundtable.

time iconMay 1, 2024 09:45 am

School Groups Workshop: Crafting Characters

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Emily Pohl-Weary

To write believably, writers need to know their characters as well as they know their real-life BFFs -- from the way they speak, move, dress, and argue, to the way they fall in love and decorate their bedrooms, details are critically important. In this workshop for teens, author Emily Pohl-Weary explores how to develop great characters by determining their big secrets and everyday habits.

time iconMay 1, 2024 12:00 pm

Lunch N’ Learn: On Dialogue – Writing Distinct Voices

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Taj McCoy

Whether you're writing an epic fantasy, an emotional love story, a suspenseful thriller, a dramatic family saga, or a charming romance, it's important to build characters who are complex and distinct -- characters with unique backstories and personality that provide dimension. In this workshop, writers of all levels explore different ways to enhance character voice through dialogue with author and literary agent Taj McCoy.

time iconMay 1, 2024 01:15 pm

School Groups: Making Monsters

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Clara Kumagai

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Nafiza Azad

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Matteo L. Cerilli

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Ardo Omer (Moderator)

What goes into making monsters? For readers of the fantastical or the horrific, monsters can be easy to spot but how does someone write an iconic creature? Three young adult authors of speculative and horror novels--Matteo L. Cerilli, Clara Kumagai and Teen Writer-in-Residence Nafiza Azad--breakdown the monsters in their most recent work and discuss how teens can create (and defeat) their own.

The Teen Writer-in-Residence is made possible by Simon and Schuster Canada.

time iconMay 1, 2024 07:00 pm

Trivia Time: Closing Trivia Event

speaker headshot

Jael Richardson

Join us for our final trivia, including big bonus puzzles and double-point trivia questions in this final virtual trivia event for the 2024 festival.

This event is sponsored by ECW.

time iconMay 1, 2024 07:30 pm

Re-Imagining Horror

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RJ McDaniel

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Tiffany Morris

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Adam Pottle

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Alexis Kienlen (Moderator)

RJ McDaniel, Tiffany Morris and Adam Pottle discuss the inspiration for their latest novels, exploring the structure of genre work and the role of horror in navigating important subject matter like race, gender expression, disability, culture and more.

This event is sponsored by ECW.

time iconMay 1, 2024 08:30 pm

Re-Imagining Horror After-Party

speaker headshot

RJ McDaniel

speaker headshot

Tiffany Morris

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Adam Pottle

Meet the authors from the Re-Imagining Horror panel in a virtual after-party roundtable.

time iconMay 2, 2024 10:00 am

Students at the Rose: One-On-One with Waubgeshig Rice

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Jael Richardson

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Waubgeshig Rice

Building on the success of his novel, Moon of the Crusted Snow, Anishinaabe author Waubgeshig Rice returns to the FOLD with his sequel, Moon of the Turning Leaves. In this in-person event geared towards high school students, fellow dystopian author Jael Richardson, interviews Rice on exploring the process of writing a sequel and creating an apocalypse story with an Indigenous lens.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton. $5/person. Educators can book by phone (905 874 2844 Ext. 62803 or 62804) or they can email boxoffice@brampton.ca.

time iconMay 2, 2024 12:30 pm

Students at the Rose: The Spoken Word

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David Delisca

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Afrakaren

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The Wild Woman (Host)

In our annual teen spoken word showcase, three poets will take the mic and present incredible poetry. This event is geared towards high school students and will feature a Q&A with the poets!

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton. $5/person. Educators can book by phone (905 874 2844 Ext. 62803 or 62804) or they can email boxoffice@brampton.ca.

time iconMay 2, 2024 07:30 pm

Paint Night at PAMA with Roshan James

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Roshan James

Enjoy a memorable night of painting at Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives as the PAMA team lead guests in the creation of canvas art inspired by the poetry collection Pink Moon by Indo-Tibetan artist Roshan James. No experience necessary. 14+. $25/person.

This event will take place at Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives at 9 Wellington Street West in Brampton. Street parking and public parking lots are available within 50 - 200 metres of the entrance. Tickets available until April 28.

time iconMay 3, 2024 07:30 pm

The Great Readception: A Literary Cabaret

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Kazim Ali

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Christine Estima

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Leanne Toshiko Simpson

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Matthew R. Morris

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Waubgeshig Rice

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Jael Richardson (Host)

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Jessica Johns

In this popular annual event, six authors appearing at the festival read a sample of their work accompanied by a live jazz band. Whether you're a regular FOLD attendee, a casual or compulsive reader or simply a lover of live entertainment, witness the power of storytelling and the magic of a live musical performance at this collaborative event composed by Brampton's own Carmen Spada. $20/person or included as part of the Rose Weekend Pass.

This event takes place at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton. It’ll include light hors d'oeuvres prior to the event and a short intermission.

This event is sponsored by TD.

time iconMay 4, 2024 09:30 am

Studio Writing Sprint

speaker headshot

A.C. Yeboah

Start the day off in the Rose Studio with some quiet writing time. With a guided prompt and an opportunity for reflection, this writing space is open to all virtual + in-person passholders.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton.

time iconMay 4, 2024 11:00 am

Frightful Indigenous Fiction

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Waubgeshig Rice

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Alicia Elliott

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Amanda Leduc (Moderator)

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Jessica Johns

Alicia Elliott, Jessica Johns, and Waubgeshig Rice discuss their new novels, which mix Indigenous storytelling with themes of science fiction and horror. In this much-anticipated panel of best-selling authors, discover the stories and inspiration behind their latest novels that are perfect for your next book club.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton and is sponsored by Penguin Random House Canada.

time iconMay 4, 2024 12:30 pm

Microworkshop: Fiction vs Nonfiction with Alicia Elliott

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Alicia Elliott

In this Ask Me Anything microworkshop, Alicia Elliott answers questions about the process and lessons learned in writing and releasing her best-selling collection of essays and her debut novel.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton and is only available to festival passholders.

time iconMay 4, 2024 02:00 pm

Read the World

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Kazim Ali

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Taj McCoy

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Christine Estima

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David Yoon (Moderator)

Three incredible authors bring places from around the world to life in fiction that pushes boundaries and conveys important truths. Meet Kazim Ali, Balsam Karam and Christine Estima in a fascinating conversation moderated by BookTuber David Yoon (aka ThePoptimist).

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton.

time iconMay 4, 2024 03:30 pm

Microworkshop: Agenting and the US Market

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Taj McCoy

In this Ask Me Anything microworkshop, US literary agent and author Taj McCoy fields questions about the publishing industry south of the border.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton and is only available to festival passholders.

time iconMay 4, 2024 05:30 pm

Brampton Books in Bloom: Celebrating 50 Years in Flower City

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Jael Richardson

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Léonicka Valcius (Moderator)

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Alina Khawaja

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Louisa Onomé

Celebrating the city's 50th birthday, three Brampton authors sit down with Brampton-raised literary agent Léonicka Valcius for an in-depth conversation on what it means to write place and home in young adult fiction, romance and speculative fiction. This event is free with a Brampton Library card.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton and is sponsored by HarperCollins Canada.

time iconMay 4, 2024 07:30 pm

The Spoken Word Showcase

speaker headshot

Amoya Ree

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Caterina Sauro

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David Delisca

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Afrakaren

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The Wild Woman (Host)

Spoken word host The Wild Woman returns to the Rose Studio to host an incredibly curated event of spoken word performance inspired by music entitled "Poets in Refrain. $10/person or included as part of the Rose Weekend Pass or the Saturday In-Person Pass.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton.

time iconMay 5, 2024 11:00 am

A Literary High Tea at Alderlea: Romance Writers Edition

speaker headshot

Taj McCoy

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Alina Khawaja

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Opal Wei

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Lavanya Narasimhan (Moderator)

The annual Sunday brunch is back! Don your Sunday best, assemble your fascinator, grab your friends, and join us for a delightful high tea with three incredible romance writers. This special-tea event includes fun trivia with incredible prizes.

This event is held at the historic Alderlea Manor at 40 Elizabeth St South in downtown Brampton. City of Brampton parking garages are available within 300 metres from the venue at 41 George Street South. Parking at Alderlea is reserved for service vehicles and guests with mobility needs. Please email info@thefoldcanada.org if you require a space at Alderlea Manor.

$45/person. Tickets available until April 28. This event is sponsored by Harlequin.

time iconMay 5, 2024 02:00 pm

The Making of Ru: Film Screening and Talk-Back

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Kim Thúy

Join us for a screening of RU, the film adaptation of the award-winning novel by Kim Thúy, which explores the journey of a wealthy family fleeing Vietnam and landing in Quebec. The film is presented in French with English subtitles and includes a talk back with the author. A film networking event will follow the film presented in partnership with Brampton Arts Organization (BAO). $10/person or included as part of the Rose Weekend Pass.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton.

time iconApril 28, 2024 09:00 am

Sunrise Writing Sprint With Island Scribe

speaker headshot

Simone Dalton

Simone Dalton, founder and host of Island Scribe Writing Retreats, leads writers in a writing sprint to prompt reflection and creativity. Come to the virtual roundtable ready to join for an hour and a half writing experience. Space is limited and spots will be available on a first come, first serve basis.

time iconApril 28, 2024 11:00 am

FOLD Kick-Off Event

speaker headshot

Jael Richardson

speaker headshot

Ardo Omer

speaker headshot

Samantha Clarke

speaker headshot

Jonisha Lewinson

Celebrate the launch of a brand new season with our annual opening event. Meet the new FOLD team and participate in our opening trivia event for the chance to win book prizes. This session takes place in meeting mode, providing guests with the option to see one another by turning their videos on.

time iconApril 28, 2024 12:00 pm

FREADOM: Authors on Activism

speaker headshot

Farzana Doctor

speaker headshot

Marjorie Beaucage

speaker headshot

Jessica Kirk (Moderator)

speaker headshot

Rodney Diverlus

What is the role of writers in a turbulent world? In this conversation with Wildseed Executive Director Jessica Kirk (Moderator) , authors Farzana Doctor, Marjorie Beaucage, and Rodney Diverlus discuss the role of authors in times of crisis, including how to balance the work of writing with the demands of political engagement and activism.

time iconApril 28, 2024 01:30 pm

The Sh*t No One Tells You About Writing

speaker headshot

Bianca Marais (Moderator)

speaker headshot

Carly Watters

speaker headshot

CeCe Lyra

speaker headshot

Tasneem Motala

Bianca Marais (Moderator) , CeCe Lyra and Carly Watters, co-hosts of the popular podcast The Sh*t No One Tells You About Writing, conduct their popular "Books With Hooks" segment live with guest host Tasneem Motala. Find out what it takes to capture the attention of literary agents in this behind-the-scenes review of query letters and opening pages from the slush pile.

This event is sponsored by Dundurn Press.

time iconApril 28, 2024 03:00 pm

The Writer’s Hub: Roundtables

Meet publishers, agents and editors at our unique virtual roundtables. Drop-in to a variety of virtual conversations and discover how to navigate the industry from a wide range of publishing professionals including Penguin Random House, Dundurn Press, Stelliform Press, the Literary Press Group, Westwood Creative Agency, and more.

time iconApril 28, 2024 07:00 pm

Trivia Time: Canada Reads Edition

speaker headshot

Jael Richardson

Test your Canada Reads knowledge and compete for book prizes in our annual Canada Reads trivia event.

time iconApril 28, 2024 07:30 pm

Canada Reads 2024 Reunion

speaker headshot

Christina Wong

speaker headshot

Catherine Leroux

speaker headshot

Téa Mutonji

speaker headshot

Jael Richardson (Moderator)

speaker headshot

Jessica Johns

In this virtual conversation with Executive Director (and Canada Reads superfan) Jael Richardson (moderator) , four of the 2024 finalists discuss what it was like to have their books selected for the show, and the highs and lows of watching the live debates. This event will be followed by a virtual meet-and-greet where fans can join a roundtable to meet the authors!

time iconApril 28, 2024 08:30 pm

Canada Reads After-Party

speaker headshot

Christina Wong

speaker headshot

Catherine Leroux

speaker headshot

Téa Mutonji

speaker headshot

Jessica Johns

Meet the authors from the Canada Reads reunion panel at our virtual after-party roundtable.

time iconApril 29, 2024 09:45 am

Back to School with the Indigenous Writers' Circle

speaker headshot

Calypso Haine

speaker headshot

Lareina Abbott

speaker headshot

Castor Angus

speaker headshot

Warren Cariou (Moderator)

Writing involves constantly re-working and revising words. In this panel of writers from Audible's Indigenous Writers' Circle, emerging writers discuss how writing groups and various writing habits help them hone their craft and learn new skills.

This event is sponsored by Audible.

time iconApril 29, 2024 12:00 pm

Lunch n' Learn: Writing Horror

speaker headshot

Matteo L. Cerilli

In this Lunch n' Learn workshop, author Matteo L. Cerilli explores the ways politics and activism can be explored in horror writing, revealing strategies and techniques for how writers can navigate themes of fear and hope while challenging tired tropes in the horror genre.

time iconApril 29, 2024 02:00 pm

The Business of Bookselling

speaker headshot

Jason Purcell (Moderator)

speaker headshot

Samita Manhas

speaker headshot

Laura Ash

speaker headshot

Hilary Atleo

In this Business of Publishing panel, three bookstore owners explore the challenges and triumphs of running an independent bookstore in Canada. Whether you're a reader, a writer, or a book publishing professional, you don't want to miss this critical conversation on the role of booksellers in Canada's literary ecology.

time iconApril 29, 2024 04:00 pm

The Business of Book Influencers

speaker headshot

Tasnim Geedi

speaker headshot

Monica Tang (Moderator)

speaker headshot

Tina May

speaker headshot

David Yoon

In this Business of Publishing panel, book influencers from TikTok, YouTube and Instagram discuss their role in Canada's publishing industry. They'll also offer helpful tips and tricks for readers looking to review books and create engaging digital content.

time iconApril 29, 2024 07:00 pm

Trivia Time: Fiction

speaker headshot

Jael Richardson

Test your knowledge of popular Canadian fiction for the chance to win book prizes at our fiction trivia event.

This event is sponsored and co-hosted by Literary Press Group.

time iconApril 29, 2024 07:30 pm

Fun with Fiction

speaker headshot

Natalie Sue

speaker headshot

Craig Shreve

speaker headshot

Mai Nguyen

speaker headshot

Tina May (Moderator)

Covering an array of genres and styles, authors Natalie Sue, Craig Shreve and Mai Nguyen discuss their most recent novels and the process of crafting an imagined story with incredible plot and characters.

This event is sponsored by Literary Press Group.

time iconApril 29, 2024 08:30 pm

Fun With Fiction After-Party

speaker headshot

Natalie Sue

speaker headshot

Craig Shreve

speaker headshot

Mai Nguyen

Join the authors from the Fun with Fiction panel at our virtual after-party roundtable.

time iconApril 30, 2024 09:45 am

School Groups: Navigating Realist Fiction for Teens

speaker headshot

Emily Pohl-Weary

speaker headshot

Sarah Mughal Rana

speaker headshot

Maya Ameyaw

speaker headshot

Alyssa Gray-Tyghter (Moderator)

In this panel conversation for high school students, three young adult authors--Maya Ameyaw, Sarah Mughal Rana and Emily Pohl-Weary--discuss how they navigate realistic subjects with care and sensitivity and how they create in-depth characters which allow teens to see themselves and their peers on the page.

time iconApril 30, 2024 12:00 pm

Lunch N’ Learn: Managing Writer’s Block

speaker headshot

Farzana Doctor

Farzana Doctor brings a unique perspective to the page as both an author and psychotherapist. Join her for this practical workshop on how to incorporate emotion-based strategies to improve your writing and deal with writer’s block.

time iconApril 30, 2024 01:15 pm

School Groups: The Writer’s Life with Brian G. Buckmire

speaker headshot

Matthew R. Morris (Moderator)

speaker headshot

Brian G. Buckmire

In this edition of The Writer's Life series, young adult author and lawyer Brian G. Buckmire discusses how his life as a criminal defense attorney influenced the creation of his debut novel, Come Home Safe, in conversation with fellow author and educator, Matthew R. Morris. Learn about Buckmire's experience as a public defender, his writing routine and more.

time iconApril 30, 2024 04:00 pm

Navigating New Narratives: Insights from Muslim Debut Authors

speaker headshot

Salma Hussain

speaker headshot

Narjis Sheikh (Moderator)

speaker headshot

Alina Khawaja

Two Muslim writers share their journey as debut authors with the Executive Director of Toronto’s new Muslim Literary Festival, Narjis Sheikh. Exploring their path from the beginning stages to publication, Salma Hussain and Alina Khawaja discuss their participation in mentorship programs and provide valuable insights into the publishing industry, fostering a dialogue on diverse voices in literature.

time iconApril 30, 2024 07:00 pm

Trivia Time: Memoirs and Nonfiction

speaker headshot

Jael Richardson

Test your knowledge of popular memoirs and Canadian non-fiction for the chance to win book prizes at our memoirs and non-fiction trivia event.

time iconApril 30, 2024 07:30 pm

Navigating Ghosts: Memoirs and Memories

speaker headshot

Tara Sidhoo Fraser

speaker headshot

Tania De Rozario

speaker headshot

Tessa Hulls

speaker headshot

Amanda Leduc (Moderator)

In this panel of memoir writers, authors Tara Sidhoo Fraser, Tania De Rozario and Tessa Hulls discuss the stories behind personal accounts that tackle themes of mental health, grief, disability, and loss. Discover the ideas that influenced three impressive works of creative non-fiction -- each with their own unique format.

This event is sponsored by Penguin Random House Canada.

time iconApril 30, 2024 08:30 pm

Navigating Ghosts After-Party

speaker headshot

Tara Sidhoo Fraser

speaker headshot

Tania De Rozario

speaker headshot

Tessa Hulls

Meet the memoirists from the Navigating Ghosts panel in a virtual after-party roundtable.

time iconMay 1, 2024 09:45 am

School Groups Workshop: Crafting Characters

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Emily Pohl-Weary

To write believably, writers need to know their characters as well as they know their real-life BFFs -- from the way they speak, move, dress, and argue, to the way they fall in love and decorate their bedrooms, details are critically important. In this workshop for teens, author Emily Pohl-Weary explores how to develop great characters by determining their big secrets and everyday habits.

time iconMay 1, 2024 12:00 pm

Lunch N’ Learn: On Dialogue – Writing Distinct Voices

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Taj McCoy

Whether you're writing an epic fantasy, an emotional love story, a suspenseful thriller, a dramatic family saga, or a charming romance, it's important to build characters who are complex and distinct -- characters with unique backstories and personality that provide dimension. In this workshop, writers of all levels explore different ways to enhance character voice through dialogue with author and literary agent Taj McCoy.

time iconMay 1, 2024 01:15 pm

School Groups: Making Monsters

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Clara Kumagai

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Nafiza Azad

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Matteo L. Cerilli

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Ardo Omer (Moderator)

What goes into making monsters? For readers of the fantastical or the horrific, monsters can be easy to spot but how does someone write an iconic creature? Three young adult authors of speculative and horror novels--Matteo L. Cerilli, Clara Kumagai and Teen Writer-in-Residence Nafiza Azad--breakdown the monsters in their most recent work and discuss how teens can create (and defeat) their own.

The Teen Writer-in-Residence is made possible by Simon and Schuster Canada.

time iconMay 1, 2024 07:00 pm

Trivia Time: Closing Trivia Event

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Jael Richardson

Join us for our final trivia, including big bonus puzzles and double-point trivia questions in this final virtual trivia event for the 2024 festival.

This event is sponsored by ECW.

time iconMay 1, 2024 07:30 pm

Re-Imagining Horror

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RJ McDaniel

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Tiffany Morris

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Adam Pottle

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Alexis Kienlen (Moderator)

RJ McDaniel, Tiffany Morris and Adam Pottle discuss the inspiration for their latest novels, exploring the structure of genre work and the role of horror in navigating important subject matter like race, gender expression, disability, culture and more.

This event is sponsored by ECW.

time iconMay 1, 2024 08:30 pm

Re-Imagining Horror After-Party

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RJ McDaniel

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Tiffany Morris

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Adam Pottle

Meet the authors from the Re-Imagining Horror panel in a virtual after-party roundtable.

time iconMay 2, 2024 10:00 am

Students at the Rose: One-On-One with Waubgeshig Rice

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Jael Richardson

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Waubgeshig Rice

Building on the success of his novel, Moon of the Crusted Snow, Anishinaabe author Waubgeshig Rice returns to the FOLD with his sequel, Moon of the Turning Leaves. In this in-person event geared towards high school students, fellow dystopian author Jael Richardson, interviews Rice on exploring the process of writing a sequel and creating an apocalypse story with an Indigenous lens.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton. $5/person. Educators can book by phone (905 874 2844 Ext. 62803 or 62804) or they can email boxoffice@brampton.ca.

time iconMay 2, 2024 10:00 am

Students at the Rose: One-On-One with Waubgeshig Rice

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Jael Richardson

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Waubgeshig Rice

Building on the success of his novel, Moon of the Crusted Snow, Anishinaabe author Waubgeshig Rice returns to the FOLD with his sequel, Moon of the Turning Leaves. In this in-person event geared towards high school students, fellow dystopian author Jael Richardson, interviews Rice on exploring the process of writing a sequel and creating an apocalypse story with an Indigenous lens.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton. $5/person. Educators can book by phone (905 874 2844 Ext. 62803 or 62804) or they can email boxoffice@brampton.ca.

time iconMay 2, 2024 12:30 pm

Students at the Rose: The Spoken Word

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David Delisca

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Afrakaren

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The Wild Woman (Host)

In our annual teen spoken word showcase, three poets will take the mic and present incredible poetry. This event is geared towards high school students and will feature a Q&A with the poets!

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton. $5/person. Educators can book by phone (905 874 2844 Ext. 62803 or 62804) or they can email boxoffice@brampton.ca.

time iconMay 2, 2024 07:30 pm

Paint Night at PAMA with Roshan James

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Roshan James

Enjoy a memorable night of painting at Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives as the PAMA team lead guests in the creation of canvas art inspired by the poetry collection Pink Moon by Indo-Tibetan artist Roshan James. No experience necessary. 14+. $25/person.

This event will take place at Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives at 9 Wellington Street West in Brampton. Street parking and public parking lots are available within 50 - 200 metres of the entrance. Tickets available until April 28.

time iconMay 3, 2024 07:30 pm

The Great Readception: A Literary Cabaret

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Kazim Ali

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Christine Estima

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Leanne Toshiko Simpson

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Matthew R. Morris

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Waubgeshig Rice

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Jael Richardson (Host)

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Jessica Johns

In this popular annual event, six authors appearing at the festival read a sample of their work accompanied by a live jazz band. Whether you're a regular FOLD attendee, a casual or compulsive reader or simply a lover of live entertainment, witness the power of storytelling and the magic of a live musical performance at this collaborative event composed by Brampton's own Carmen Spada. $20/person or included as part of the Rose Weekend Pass.

This event takes place at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton. It’ll include light hors d'oeuvres prior to the event and a short intermission.

This event is sponsored by TD.

time iconMay 4, 2024 09:30 am

Studio Writing Sprint

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A.C. Yeboah

Start the day off in the Rose Studio with some quiet writing time. With a guided prompt and an opportunity for reflection, this writing space is open to all virtual + in-person passholders.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton.

time iconMay 4, 2024 11:00 am

Frightful Indigenous Fiction

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Waubgeshig Rice

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Alicia Elliott

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Amanda Leduc (Moderator)

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Jessica Johns

Alicia Elliott, Jessica Johns, and Waubgeshig Rice discuss their new novels, which mix Indigenous storytelling with themes of science fiction and horror. In this much-anticipated panel of best-selling authors, discover the stories and inspiration behind their latest novels that are perfect for your next book club.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton and is sponsored by Penguin Random House Canada.

time iconMay 4, 2024 12:30 pm

Microworkshop: Fiction vs Nonfiction with Alicia Elliott

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Alicia Elliott

In this Ask Me Anything microworkshop, Alicia Elliott answers questions about the process and lessons learned in writing and releasing her best-selling collection of essays and her debut novel.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton and is only available to festival passholders.

time iconMay 4, 2024 02:00 pm

Read the World

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Kazim Ali

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Taj McCoy

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Christine Estima

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David Yoon (Moderator)

Three incredible authors bring places from around the world to life in fiction that pushes boundaries and conveys important truths. Meet Kazim Ali, Balsam Karam and Christine Estima in a fascinating conversation moderated by BookTuber David Yoon (aka ThePoptimist).

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton.

time iconMay 4, 2024 03:30 pm

Microworkshop: Agenting and the US Market

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Taj McCoy

In this Ask Me Anything microworkshop, US literary agent and author Taj McCoy fields questions about the publishing industry south of the border.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton and is only available to festival passholders.

time iconMay 4, 2024 05:30 pm

Brampton Books in Bloom: Celebrating 50 Years in Flower City

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Jael Richardson

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Léonicka Valcius (Moderator)

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Alina Khawaja

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Louisa Onomé

Celebrating the city's 50th birthday, three Brampton authors sit down with Brampton-raised literary agent Léonicka Valcius for an in-depth conversation on what it means to write place and home in young adult fiction, romance and speculative fiction. This event is free with a Brampton Library card.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton and is sponsored by HarperCollins Canada.

time iconMay 4, 2024 07:30 pm

The Spoken Word Showcase

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Amoya Ree

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Caterina Sauro

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David Delisca

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Afrakaren

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The Wild Woman (Host)

Spoken word host The Wild Woman returns to the Rose Studio to host an incredibly curated event of spoken word performance inspired by music entitled "Poets in Refrain. $10/person or included as part of the Rose Weekend Pass or the Saturday In-Person Pass.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton.

time iconMay 5, 2024 11:00 am

A Literary High Tea at Alderlea: Romance Writers Edition

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Taj McCoy

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Alina Khawaja

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Opal Wei

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Lavanya Narasimhan (Moderator)

The annual Sunday brunch is back! Don your Sunday best, assemble your fascinator, grab your friends, and join us for a delightful high tea with three incredible romance writers. This special-tea event includes fun trivia with incredible prizes.

This event is held at the historic Alderlea Manor at 40 Elizabeth St South in downtown Brampton. City of Brampton parking garages are available within 300 metres from the venue at 41 George Street South. Parking at Alderlea is reserved for service vehicles and guests with mobility needs. Please email info@thefoldcanada.org if you require a space at Alderlea Manor.

$45/person. Tickets available until April 28. This event is sponsored by Harlequin.

time iconMay 5, 2024 02:00 pm

The Making of Ru: Film Screening and Talk-Back

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Kim Thúy

Join us for a screening of RU, the film adaptation of the award-winning novel by Kim Thúy, which explores the journey of a wealthy family fleeing Vietnam and landing in Quebec. The film is presented in French with English subtitles and includes a talk back with the author. A film networking event will follow the film presented in partnership with Brampton Arts Organization (BAO). $10/person or included as part of the Rose Weekend Pass.

This event is held at the Rose Theatre at 1 Theatre Ln in downtown Brampton.

Featured Speakers

Britta Badour

Born and raised in Kingston, Ontario, Britta Badour, better known as Britta B., is an award-winning artist, voice talent, educator, and poet living in Toronto. Her work has featured in notable spheres such as The Walrus Talks, Art Gallery of Ontario, Canadian Women’s Foundation, as well as literature festivals like the FOLD, Toronto International Festival of Authors, and LitFest Bergen. Britta holds an MFA in creative writing from the University of Guelph and teaches spoken word performance at Seneca College. Wires that Sputter (McClelland & Stewart, 2023), is her debut collection of poetry.

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Cody Caetano

Cody Caetano is the author of Half-Bads in White Regalia (Hamish Hamilton). He works as a literary agent with CookeMcDermid.

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Jesmeen Kaur Deo

Jesmeen Kaur Deo grew up in northern British Columbia, where she spent most of her childhood daydreaming. She loves books that can make her laugh and tug at her heartstrings in the same paragraph. When not wrapped up in stories, she can be found biking, playing the harmonium, or struggling to open jars. TJ Powar Has Something to Prove is her debut novel.

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Jen Ferguson

Jen Ferguson (she/her) is Métis and white, an activist, a feminist, an auntie, and an accomplice armed with a PhD. She believes writing, teaching and beading are political acts. Her debut YA novel, The Summer of Bitter and Sweet, is out now from Heartdrum / HarperCollins.

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R. Barri Flowers

R. Barri Flowers is an award-winning criminologist and bestselling author of more than one hundred books. These include gripping crime, thriller, and romance fiction, entertaining young adult mysteries and children's books, riveting true crime books, and outstanding criminology titles. As a graduate of Michigan State University, Flowers is the recipient of the prestigious Wall of Fame Award from its renowned School of Criminal Justice. As an expert on violent criminality and serial killers, the author has appeared on popular television crime investigative documentary series, such as the Biography Channel’s Crime Stories, Investigation Discovery’s Wicked Attraction, and Oxygen’s Snapped: Killer Couples.

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Ali Hassan

Ali Hassan is a Stand-up Comic, Actor and CBC Personality. Ali is the host of the CBC Radio stand-up comedy show Laugh Out Loud, and the host of Canada Reads - the annual battle of the books celebrating the best of Canadian literature. Ali appears can be seen as a recurring guest star in Sort Of on CBC GEM and HBO Max, and the sitcom Run The Burbs on CBC Television, and just began touring his latest solo show ‘Does This Taste Funny?’ across Canada. His comedic memoir ‘Is There Bacon in Heaven?’ is out NOW with Simon & Schuster.

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Catherine Hernandez

Catherine Hernandez (she/her) is an award-winning author and screenwriter. She is a proud queer woman who is of Filipino, Spanish, Chinese and Indian descent and married into the Navajo Nation. Her novel, Scarborough, was a finalist for several awards including Canada Reads 2022. She wrote the screenplay for the film adaptation of Scarborough, which won 8 Canadian Screen Awards including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay. Her second novel, Crosshairs, was shortlisted for the Toronto Book Award. Her novel, The Story of Us, was published this year. She is currently working on a few television projects and her fourth novel.

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Shahaddah Jack

Shahaddah Jack is an 18 year old bilingual spoken word poet, author, performer, emcee, human rights activist, arts facilitator, and student of life. She uses the realities of her identity to create stories of art that connect with others and are used to teach one of her greatest beliefs in life, that your pain is your power and our beauty is our story. Not only does she do this with her poetry, but conjointly with her activism and arts facilitation as well. For her efforts, Shahaddah has recently been announced as BGC Canada’s 2022 National Youth of The Year.

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El Jones

El Jones is a writer, professor, and activist who works with people facing deportation and incarceration. She is the author of Abolitionist Intimacies and Life from the Afrikan Resistance.

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Kevin heronJones

Kevin heronJones is a youth basketball coach, author, poet, journalist, editor, actor and lecturer. This electrifying artist is best known for his profound and powerful delivery. His poetry is edu-tainment. It is poignant and inspiring. Words that equally speak to the street, the church, the night club and institutions of higher learning. He attempts to analyze life beyond the physical and spiritual norms to find the scientific parallels between our art forms, belief systems and history. His prose challenges young people to look inward to find solutions and encourages young athletes to become more involved with literature.

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Zoulfa Katouh

Zoulfa Katouh is a Canadian with Syrian roots based in Switzerland. She is currently pursuing her master's in Drug Sciences and finds Studio Ghibli inspiration in the mountains, lakes, and stars surrounding her. When she's not talking to herself in the woodland forest, she's drinking iced coffee, baking aesthetic cookies and cakes, and telling everyone who would listen about how BTS paved the way. One of her many dreams is to get Kim Nam-joon to read one of her books.

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Jen Sookfong Lee

Jen Sookfong Lee was born and raised in Vancouver’s East Side, and she now lives with her family in North Burnaby. Her books include The Conjoined, nominated for International Dublin Literary Award and a finalist for the Ethel Wilson Fiction Prize, The Better Mother, a finalist for the City of Vancouver Book Award, The End of East, The Shadow List, and Superfan. Jen acquires and edits for ECW Press and co-hosts the literary podcast Can’t Lit.

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Meegan Lim

Meegan Lim is an illustrator and arts facilitator based in Brampton, Ontario that strives to nurture community growth and healing through visual arts. She is known for her detailed illustrations focusing on food and cultural identity, and the vast stories within those intersections. She holds a Bachelor of Design in Illustration, specializing in Entrepreneurship & Social Innovation, from OCAD University.

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Suzette Mayr

Suzette Mayr is the author of six novels including her most recent, The Sleeping Car Porter, winner of the 2022 Scotiabank Giller Award. Her other novels have won the ReLit Award and City of Calgary W.O. Mitchell Book Prize, and been nominated for the Scotiabank Giller Prize, the Commonwealth Prize for Best Book in the Canada-Caribbean Region, the Writers' Guild of Alberta's Best First Book and Best Novel Awards, and the Ferro-Grumley Award for LGBT Fiction. Mayr teaches Creative Writing at the University of Calgary.

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Susan Mockler

Susan Mockler is a disabled writer living in Kingston, Ontario. Her recent memoir, Fractured, details her experiences with acquired disability following a car accident that left her with an incomplete spinal cord injury. Her book provides insights into the physical and psychological challenges she faced in rehabilitation and beyond, as well as the discrimination and marginalization she encountered when she was no longer able-bodied. Susan’s fiction and nonfiction have been published in a variety of Canadian and US publications.

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Sheila Murray

Sheila Murray’s 2022 debut novel, Finding Edward, was a finalist for the Governor General’s Literary Award and was a longlist nominee for Canada Reads 2023. It was listed in the Globe and Mail’s 100 best books, CBC’s best fiction, 49th Shelf’s best books and the Toronto Star’s books gift guide. Her short fiction has appeared in many Canadian literary journals. Sheila has worked as a documentary filmmaker and television sound editor. She moved to the non-profit sector in 2009, and leads a grassroots, volunteer-driven initiative that engages urban residents in adapting to local climate change impacts.

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Dimitri Nasrallah

Dimitri Nasrallah is the author of four novels. His most recent, 2022’s Hotline, is a national bestseller that has been nominated for the Scotiabank Giller Prize and shortlisted for CBC’s Canada Reads. He was born in Lebanon in 1977, and moved to Canada in 1988. His previous books include The Bleeds, Niko, and Blackbodying. He lives in Montreal, where he serves as fiction editor for Véhicule Press’s Esplanade Fiction imprint and teaches creative writing at Concordia University.

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Casey Plett

Casey Plett is the author of A Dream of a Woman, which was longlisted for the Scotiabank Giller Prize; Little Fish, winner of a Lambda Literary Award, the Firecracker Award for Fiction, and the Amazon First Novel Award in Canada; and A Safe Girl to Love, also a winner of a Lambda Literary Award. She was the co-editor of Meanwhile, Elsewhere: Science Fiction and Fantasy From Transgender Writers alongside Cat Fitzpatrick. Plett has written for The New York Times, The Guardian, The Globe and Mail, McSweeney’s Internet Tendency, the Winnipeg Free Press, and other publications, and she is also the publisher at LittlePuss Press.

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Liselle Sambury

Liselle Sambury is the Trinidadian-Canadian author of the Governor General’s Literary Awards Finalist, Blood Like Magic. Her work spans multiple genres, from fantasy to sci-fi, horror, and more. In her free time, she shares helpful tips for upcoming writers and details of her publishing journey through a YouTube channel dedicated to demystifying the sometimes complicated business of being an author.

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Sandra SG Wong

Sandra SG Wong (she/her) writes fiction across genres, including the cross-genre Lola Starke novels, Crescent City short stories, and the bestselling standalone thriller, IN THE DARK WE FORGET. A Crime Writers of Canada Awards of Excellence finalist & Whistler Independent Book Awards nominee, as well as a speaker, mentor, and hybrid author, Sandra currently chairs the DEIJB Advisory Committee for Sisters in Crime, and is an active member of Crime Writers of Color. You can join her Reader Group via sgwong.com.

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Daniel Aleman

Daniel Aleman is the award-winning author of Indivisible. He was born and raised in Mexico City. A graduate of McGill University, he is passionate about books, coffee, and dogs. After spending time in Montreal and the New York City area, he now lives in Toronto, where he is on a never-ending search for the best tacos in the city. His second novel, Brighter Than the Sun, was published this past March.

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Markus Harwood-Jones

Markus Harwood-Jones (he/they) is a proudly queer and trans space-case who has been writing since he can remember. Markus specializes in writing young-adult fiction and has a soft-spot for sappy love stories. He lives in downtown Toronto with his husband, their platonic co-parent, and their extra-cute kiddo. Markus is an aspiring TikTokker and can be found on social media under the handle @MarkusBones.

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Janika Oza

Janika Oza is the author of the novel, A HISTORY OF BURNING, forthcoming from McClelland & Stewart in May 2023. She is the winner of the 2022 O. Henry Prize for Short Fiction, and the 2020 Kenyon Review Short Fiction Award, and her stories and essays have appeared in publications such as The Best Small Fictions 2019 Anthology, Catapult, The Adroit Journal, and Prairie Schooner, among others. She lives in Toronto.

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Danny Ramadan

Danny Ramadan is an Award-winning Syrian-Canadian author and advocate for LGBTQ-identifying refugees. His work includes The Clothesline Swing, The Foghorn Echoes and the children’s series Adventures of Salma! His upcoming memoir Crooked Teeth is released in 2024. He had raised over $300k for Rainbow Refugee society since his arrival to Canada as a refugee in 2014.

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Nisi Shawl

Nisi Shawl (they/them) is the multiple award-winning author, co-author, and editor of over a dozen books of speculative fiction and related nonfiction, including the standard text on diverse representation in literature, Writing the Other; the African Congo alternate history novel Everfair; and the first two volumes of the New Suns anthology series. They’ve guest lectured at Duke University, Spelman College, Stanford University, Sarah Lawrence College, and many other institutions. Recent titles include the horror-friendly story collection Our Fruiting Bodies and the Middle Grade historical fantasy novel Speculation. Shawl teaches online writing courses via Hugo House and the Writing the Other | Online Writing Classes and Workshops website.

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Leanne Betasamosake Simpson

Leanne Betasamosake Simpson is a Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg scholar, writer, and musician. She is the author of seven books, including the recent non-fiction A Short History of the Blockade, and the acclaimed novel Noopiming: The Cure for White Ladies.

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