Vancouver Writers Fest 2021

The Vancouver Writers Fest is back in full force this October, bringing a slew of Friend member’s favourites to its stages, both in-person and online.

More than 110 books will be shared by authors, poets, and spoken word artists during the week-long flagship Festival from October 18-24. In addition to exciting new ventures (including a cinema-like viewing experience of certain digital events at The Nest), podcast episodes and the always in-demand Literary Cabaret and Afternoon Tea, the Festival remains dedicated to its ongoing commitment to accessibility: all youth events remain free and online; adult digital events are Pay-What-You-Can; and ASL and CART offerings have also been significantly expanded.

Featured authors include Scotiabank Giller Prize-longlisted authors Casey Plett (A Dream of a Woman), Omar El Akkad (What Strange Paradise), Rachel Rose (The Octopus Has Three Hearts), Miriam Toews (Fight Night), and Katherena Vermette (The Strangers), as well as Booker Prize-shortlisted author Richard Powers (Bewilderment). 2021 Guest Curator Lawrence Hill, author of The Book of Negroes, has contributed five special events alongside Artistic Director Leslie Hurtig, which include appearances with instant NYT-bestselling authors Cherie Jones (How the One-Armed Sister Sweeps Her House), Myriam Chancy (What Storm, What Thunder), André Alexis (Ring), and more, while Zoe Whittall (The Spectacular), Mona Awad (All’s Well), and Bevereley McLachlin (Denial) all return with new books for Vancouver Writers Fest encores.

The full line-up of events can be viewed on the Vancouver Writers Fest’s website, or buy tickets directly through their online ticket provider, Showpass.