Hello, my friends,
I’ve had the incredible priviledge to be surrounded by a lot of writers lately. In my MFA program, at literary festivals, at book launches and events, even just out for lunch or coffee — it’s been wonderful and creatively generative.
It’s also got me thinking: how can I bring this community and creativity into a wider space? How can I connect with more writers on a wider platform? And also, selfishly, how can I have conversations with these amazing authors and ask all my own burning questions?
(My brain is always running a million miles a minute, I know.)
My Instagram Live series has been phenomenal for that. I’ve had some fabulous conversations with incredible authors who were so generous with their time.
But bigger? Yep, I was thinking the same thing.
Welcome to The Book Hook Podcast!
Coming this September, I’m so excited to dive into all the coolest writerly and industry stuff. I’ll be interviewing authors and industry professionals, deep-diving into hot topics, and giving book reviews.
Make sure you follow The Book Hook Podcast on Instagram, TikTok, Spotify, and YouTube.
Literary festivals: GritLIT and the Festival of Literary Diversity
Heading to Hamilton, Ontario, for GritLIT was a perfect start to the festival season. And what a show! The volunteers and event coordinators were fabulous. The panels were thought-provoking and inspiring, and the workshops we’re tops.
Right after that, I was diving into the FOLD, on a mental health panel with David A. Robertson, Samantha Jones, and moderated by Kate Gies.
Wait… is that my book listed as a finalist for the Rakuten Kobo Emerging Writers Prize?
Yeah, that question was totally rhetorical because YES! *Insert screaming crying throwing up here*
Winners will be announced June 17th. Check out all the finalists here!
Share the love. Support authors.
If you enjoyed this newsletter or know someone who would, please share! Better yet, become a subscriber! The more the merrier.
Also, check out my debut book, The Monster and the Mirror: Mental Illness, Magic, and the Stories We Tell. It’s out now!
Until next time, be well.
KJ
Yay for podcast creation!!
Hype!