Leah Curley 

After two challenging years, the 12th annual Knowlton Literary Festival returns to a fully in-person program, featuring an extensive slate of literary talents. There’s something for most every literary taste at this year’s festival. 

“We’re really pleased to be able to bring writers and readers back together again,” said Knowlton Literary Association President Jane Livingston. “The pandemic forced us to cancel the 2020 festival, while last year we had to change gears to turn it into an online-only event. It worked out really well, but nothing quite matches being in the same room with an author you love, or perhaps may be just discovering.” 

Activities kick off with a local authors and poets evening, hosted by Brome Lake Books on Thursday, October 20th. Friday it’s the official opening reception at the Centre Lac-Brome. An evening not to be missed, author Jon Tattrie will present his book Peace by Chocolate, the true story of a family of Syrian refugees who rebuilt their lives in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, establishing a wildly successful chocolate company. 

A jam-packed Saturday begins at the Centre Lac-Brome with Steve Luxton hosting part one of a poetry workshop. Next up are authors Amy Tector and Kathleen Winter, and spoken word artists Liana Cusmano and Rachel McCrum. And that’s not all. Beloved author Louise Penny will interview crime writer Peter Robinson. Then, award-winning Globe and Mail health writer André Picard will present his book, an in-depth critique of elder care in Canada. 

Steve Luxton’s poetry workshop continues on Sunday, after which author, actress and musician Martha Wainwright will discuss her life and play some music as well. The traditional festival Sunday brunch features David A. Robertson, discussing his first novel for adults. An award-winning writer for young adults, Robertson will visit Knowlton Academy and Massey Vanier the following day. 

You can see the full schedule and purchase tickets at  https://www.knowltonliteraryfestival.ca/coming-events