The Canadian Book Camp — July 9-13, 2007
An inspired angel named Joy Gugeler created a summer camp for kids and teens who love to read and write. Magic or what? The week-long camp (full-time hours, mind you! this isn’t for wimps!) features keynote author-speakers, author-presenters and workshop facilitators, time to read, time to write, professional critiques of your work, and publication of your best stuff in an anthology. To top it off, the week ends with a huge gala event that includes one last special author presentation, pizza dinner, and then a chance to read your own words to a riveted audience. All MC’d by yet another author/literary expert.
Now THIS is a camp I would have liked to attend, back in the day.
Lucky for me, I’ve been invited to present at this year’s camp!
I’ll be doing a special presentation, late Friday afternoon, July 13th, at the Vancouver Public Library, for the 100 or so campers, just before the start of the big gala evening. It promises to feature costume, drama, music and maybe even a little magic! One of many great reasons to sign up!
CWILL’s James McCann (Pyre) will be leading workshops, and The Vancouver Sun’s Amy O’Brien will, too. It’s never too early to network! Here’s a list of the keynote speakers for this year:
- Dennis Foon - Longlight Legacy Trilogy
- Julie Burtinshaw - The Freedom of Jenny
- Theresa Lalonde - CBC News reporter
- Mary Schendlinger - Prepare to be Amazed
- Carrie Mac - The Beckoners
There are groups for 11-13 year olds, as well as for 14+, and if the $185 camp fee looks a little steep, there are even scholarships available.
CLICK HERE for more information about how to get involved, either as a camper or as a volunteer!
If you’re not from around Vancouver, don’t despair - Joy has “franchised” the Book Camp idea and there are other camps around the country, with local authors as the presenters and workshop leaders.
If you’re interested in setting up a camp in your community, click on the link above and contact the camp director for more information.
Hope to see you on the 9th!