Georgian Bay Reads: Five libraries compete in literary debate

Representatives of five area libraries are set to see who has the strongest spine as they defend their literary picks at Georgian Bay Reads next month.

For more than a decade, library representatives have accepted the challenge of choosing a Canadian book in an elimination round competition modelled after CBC’s Canada Reads. The event promises an evening of laughs and literary entertainment as each one argues why their book deserves to be the champion.

This year’s books are: World of Wonders by Robertson Davies, selected by Michele McKenzie of Clearview Public Library; Good Morning Monster by Catherine Gildiner, selected by Gia Lynde of Collingwood Public Library; We Have Always Been Here by Samra Habib, selected by Elgin Pecjak of Meaford Public Library; Hotline by Dimitri Nasrallah selected by Carrie Adams of Springwater Township Public Library; and Snow Road Station by Elizabeth Hay; selected by Patricia Copeland of Wasaga Beach Public Library. The discussion will be moderated by Connie Cook, of Wasaga Beach Public Library who successfully championed Daughters of the Deer by Danielle Daniel in 2022.

“I am looking forward to participating in this event this year,” said McKenzie, Deputy CEO of Clearview Public Library. “Every year the books are interesting choices and it will be a fun and surprising evening.”

Her pick, World of Wonders, is a story about “extraordinary people who survive under the most terrible circumstances and they become more extraordinary because of it,” as quoted directly from Robertson Davies.

During four timed rounds participants will make their case why their book is a must-read, create alliances, and persuade the others not to illuminate their books.

“It’s a fast-paced evening with plenty of amusing repartee,” said organizers. “The audience also has a chance to show their favourites during intermission when they vote for the People’s Choice Award.” Admission is free but tickets are required. They are available at www.georgianbayreads.ca or at participating libraries. Refreshments served.