Thank you to Wordfest and CPL for hosting Chris Cleave on his book tour to promote his new book, Everyone Brave is Forgiven.
For those who don’t know, Chris Cleave is a critically acclaimed British author whose previous work includes, the book club favourite, Little Bee.
This new book, which was just released on May 3, 2016, is loosely based on his maternal grandparents and their relationship during WWII. And with the help of photos and his own personal accounts, we learnt of the thousands of pages of his grandfather’s memoirs, the abundance of love letters, and his own personal visit to the island of Malta that helped inspire him to write this story. We were also lucky enough to hear him read a passage from the book, answer any questions anyone might have, and to my delight sign books.
He is very passionate about this book and his intelligence, knowledge, humour, and love for his family was clearly evident.
As most of you know, I loved this book, but if you haven’t already seen my review, you can find it here.
As an added bonus to the evening, Michael Crummey, a Canadian author, or should I say Newfoundlander, who has written several books of poetry and novels detailing the history, hardships, landscape and uniqueness of the “The Rock” was also present. We were also able to hear him read some of his work, ask him questions, and have him sign any books we might have.
I am a little embarrassed to admit that I have never previously read anything by Michael Crummey, but since last night, that has been rectified and Sweetland is now sitting nicely in my to read pile.
What an exceptional way to spend a Friday evening. It was insightful, interesting, and truly an honour.
I must also thank my friend Sogna who went as my date for the evening! What a great night!
Chris Cleave’s Book Tour is now heading back to the UK, so don’t miss him as he passes by, check out his future book tour stops here.
