March 16, 2006 - 4:00pm
Eden Robinson, a First Nations novelist from the Hasisla territory near <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" />Kitimat BC, will be reading from her book Monkey Beach at Malaspina University-College March 23.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />
Robinson was invited by the Arts One First Nations program faculty but her visit will also coincide with the annual Aboriginal University-College For A Day event being held the same day.
“In Eden Robinson's novel, Monkey Beach, we found a new First Nations voice who had the astonishing ability to get inside the First Nations characters - on and off reserve - and to reveal nature of social relations in oppressed communities,” said Laura Cranmer, First Nations Studies professor at Malaspina.
“The novel strikes a deep emotional chord in the students because of how realistic and familiar the story, settings and characters are. It is also eloquently and effectively written. We have taught it for four years and will continue to teach it.”
Monkey Beach is Robinson’s first novel. It was published in 2000 and won the Winifred Holtby Prize for Best Fiction.
Robinson’s visit is made possible by the generous support of the Canada Council, The Writer's Union of Canada, Malaspina's Creative Writing Department, First Nations Studies Department, Student Services and First Nations Student Services.
The public reading will be held at the Nanaimo campus, building 355, room 203, 3 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. The reading will be followed by a potluck reception and book signing in the building 355 student lounge from 4:15 p.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free to both events. Bring your favourite potluck dish to the reception.
For information contact Laura Cranmer at cranmerl@viu.ca.
Tags: In the Community
