Jake MacDonald. writer, adventurer, bear transporter

NEWS RELEASE

STORIES IN THE NORTH

****************************** Some surprises at Thessalon writing event

Author/ adventurer Jake MacDonald is coming to Thessalon December 4.

There will be a few unexpected treats in store for those who come to town to participate in his workshop and evening show.

MacDonald is the author of eight books, both fiction and non-fiction, as well as several hundred articles for Canada's leading publications, such as Macleans andCanadian Geographic.

His recent book, Houseboat Chronicles, won the Writers' Trust of Canada Prize.

He's also taught creative writing at Humber College and the Banff Centre for the Arts, so he's ready to inspire participants to find and write stories from their own life experiences. 

But what people don't yet know about the event is that playwright Dan Needles will drop by after the workshop for lunch to meet and visit with  participants.

Needles, who is known for his series of one-man Wingfield Farm plays about a retired stock broker-turned-farmer, will be in the area for a private function. 

Another special treat will be the lunch put on by Stories in the North committee-member and cooking-enthusiast Tom Bird.

The menu includes a harvest soup, spinach salad with a warm vinagrette, a chicken main dish with seasonal vegetable and some killer chocolate cheesecake.

"The secret to this committee is that most members not only love to read and write, but we also love to cook and eat. Our food is always great," says committee member Dr. Heather Blois.

The day will be topped off by an evening show of stories by MacDonald who will share snippets from his books.

Local singer JC Charlemagne will complement MacDonald's work with his own musical offerings. 

Local writer Ali Doi will conduct a question-and-answer session with the author. 

There will be plenty of time for people to meet MacDonald and other local writers. 

And of course, there will be some classy snacks.

Workshop and lunch: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Zion United Church, Main St. Thessalon.

To register call: 842-3817 

Cost: $50 includes lunch, limited to 20 people.

Reading, musical entertainment  and “meet the author” in the evening at 7 p.m. at the IOOF Hall, Main Street, Thessalon. 

$10 at the door.

Cash bar.

****************************** Pictured: MacDonald helps transport a tranquilized polar bear during research for his latest book, Grizzlyville.