Author Event: David Nicholls

“This is where it all begins. Everything starts here, today.” 

-David Nicholls, One Day

Lovelies,

This past weekend, I had the wonderful opportunity to attend a special event at the HarperCollins Canada Toronto office once again to meet David Nicholls, author of the beloved One Day. His second novel, Us was released late last month (much to my excitement). I could not wait to meet Nicholls in person!

He was as every bit charming, funny, witty, and nice as I hoped he would be. Laurie Grassi was there to speak to him about the book, touching upon everything from the characters, to his writing habits, and funny travel stories along the way.

"I liked the idea that everything in the book is spot on, real places that exists...so you can re-enact this book and, hopefully, have a happier time!"

A couple of really neat moments throughout the Q & A:

Fruit Flies: Nicholls had a babysitter who was working her PH.D in fruit fly studies and on one occasion, had invited him, his partner, and two children to her lab.  As a result, this event got written into the book, specifically during Douglas' courtship with Courtney when he took her to see the fruit flies.

Travel:  There are instances in the book where Douglas takes the train as his primary means of transport. In order to make certain scenes in the book as genuine as possible, Nicholls ended up taking the train from Paris to Amsterdam and from Munich to Verona where it crossed through the Alps. Gosh. I need to add that to my bucket list!
One things for sure: "You can never predict what you might pick up from your research!"

(David Nicholls and I. Was squee-ing on the inside. Clearly, it showed)

Later on, when I asked him about his writing habits, he remarked that he tends to write early in the morning, where his creative juices are at its highest: he would aim to write at least 2000 words a day. Now that's something I need to work on!

 Great time all around. A very lovely bonus that I got my copy personally signed. Many thanks, HarperCollins Canada!

Us is out in bookshops everywhere: it would make a wonderful gift for your bookish loved ones- it's never too early to think about holiday gift-giving!

Lovely Musings

If the sight of the blue skies fills you with joy, if a blade of grass springing up in the fields has power to move you, if the simple things in nature have a message you understand, rejoice, for your soul is alive.- Eleanora Duse

Lovelies,

There's nothing like inspiration. It rejoices the heart, days seem brighter and the soul feels lighter. I begin to appreciate the beauty of the simple things in life. I admire the changing leaves, the laughter of a child, the feel of my favorite scarf, the sound of pages turning in a book. 

And Tumblr. Thank goodness for places like Tumblr. It's a cavern of great things, a daily whirlwind of gorgeous pictures, quotes, and songs for one's enjoyment. I like to think of my Tumblr page as the museum of my mind: what I love, what I'm inspired by, and my musings. Everything there is lovingly curated. 

If you haven't seen it, feel free to visit (I don't mind!): Paradise Unearthed

Lately I found myself drawn towards poetry: from Dante's Inferno to John Keat's Ode to a Nightingale, 'tis the season for a bit of verse.
Pick an evening this coming week and read a poem you haven't read!

On Travel and Other Happenings

It was one of those perfect English autumnal days which occur more frequently in memory than in life. The rich colours of grass and earth were intensified by the mellow light of a sun almost warm enough for spring... -P.D. James, A Taste for Death

Friends,

'

What an interesting couple of months it has been: I came back from my travels with the yearning to head out the door again and see another part of the world. I now have this strange, enlightening feeling of having arrived at a place in my life where everything is possible and everything seems to be illuminated. I have been shaken to the core. I am delighted by the fact that not everyone live to work but rather, it's quite the opposite! I want to take the road less travelled and go on more adventures.

Some places I have been included: Amsterdam, Florence, Tuscany, and Venice. Each carried wonderful memories along the way.

Firenze, Italy

It was Monday afternoon when I got off the bus from the Santa Maria Novella train station. Outside, I was thrilled by the fact that it was warm, the sun was out, and the sky was a riveting blue. I found myself overwhelmed by the people going to and fro around me, all the while catching snippets of Italian here and there, gawking at the way people were dressed- especially the men (some were impeccable), the way the Politzia were patrolling the streets in their smart-looking uniforms and white helmets, the smell of bread wafting through shops, and the thought "Holy mother of God, I can't believe I'm here!!" crossing my mind many, many times.

(Shot this while reaching one of the levels of Giotto's Tower. 

Splendid view.)

I skipped across the crosswalk and aimed for the church of Santa Maria Novella where, out of the corner of my eye, I saw the Duomo. Seeing it in pictures is one thing, but to see it in all its grandeur in person, where it peeked out between the buildings in front of me, had the power to stop me in my tracks. I gazed and gazed at it in wonder, speechless.

Emotions were running  very high as I closed the distance between Santa Maria del Fiore. It was unlike anything I ever felt. I was constantly taking in my surroundings, the feel of the cobblestoned streets underneath me and the sounds of people conversing and laughing. Somewhere, someone is belting out Puccini. 

Luckily I ended up purchasing a Firenze Card which for 72 hours, entitles you admission to a list of all these museums, galleries and churches. Well worth your Euros and you get to hop onto the priority line to save time. 

(Shot this while arriving the halfway mark climbing the 400+ stairs of the Duomo.)

Inside, I was awestruck by the sheer beauty of the cathedral and its architecture. As I walked further in, I glanced at people lighting candles, whispering blessings and prayers. I was drawn towards the warmth of these lighted candles, the murmurs of voices, and the quiet peace one feels within these walls. I was ready to climb the steps to the top!

More travel stories to come!

Books

I found myself enjoying this read! Initially, I wasn't too sold on the plot, but a few chapters in and I was immersed in the world of Estebanico: the first black explorer of America, who travels with the conquistador Pánfilo de Narváez to the coast of what is now the Gulf Coast of the United States- "La Florida", as it was known back then. Great storytelling to the very end: I was torn by the loss which Estebanico had endured as a slave. There were no hold-backs on portraying the very harsh realities many of these individuals suffered through. I would recommend this book.

This was my book club's September pick for Mystery Month and boy, was it a thriller! I previously read Gone Girl (can't wait to watch the film with a girlfriend of mine next week) and between the two, I have to say that Sharp Objects hits the spot. It was one of those reads I had to finish in a couple of sittings. The characters are intriguing and keeps you on edge until the very end. Overall, this book casts a dark glance of the cruelty of the human condition, often disturbing, but very real. Worth a read.

I am currently reading this book. Watched the film, which starred Simon Pegg and Rosamund Pike (it really is her year in films!) and loved it to bits. After my travels in Europe, I found myself widening my perspective on what it means to be truly happy. I cemented my purpose to fulfill what I wanted to do in life: I want to travel more, I want to volunteer with an organization I haven't done before, bake something different every month, take a creative writing course to fuel my writing ambition, spend more time with loved ones, and so much more. I aim to finish the other two books within this series and tell you my thoughts. In the meantime, I found this great summary on the interweb on the Lessons for the Search of Happiness!

Let us forever search for our own happiness. Sometimes, happiness is right in front of your doorstep- you need only to step out into the sunshine.

Until next time!

September Love

“He found himself wondering at times, especially in the autumn, about the wild lands, and strange visions of mountains that he had never seen came into his dreams.”
 - J.R.R. Tolkien

Lovelies,

This summer has gone by so fast, I couldn't believe that already it was September. That meant to places to go to, new products to try, new book to read, and unique places to eat.

Travel

This year, it's all about Italia! From Florence to Capri, I will be taking shots and telling tales when I get back. I can imagine myself weeping with sheer joy every step I take. It really will be my own version of The Trip To Italy. Of course, I'll have my own Steve Coogan with me- one must bring their finest companion on board for travels like this.
I could not go to Italy without bringing a copy of Dante's The Divine Comedy. I fear I might break out bouts of Puccini as we're driving along the Tuscan countryside. Only the good Lord can judge me. Follow me on Instagram for the signts!

I had the extreme pleasure of being invited to The Drake's Devonshire for a night and I must say, it was one of the best experiences I had up at Prince Edward County. A review will be up shortly!

Things I'm currently loving: 

Arbonne Lip Liner in Pink Mauve

I am currently loving this shade and I've got asked about it on several occasions. The perfect lip colour for Autumn and I sometimes add a hint of gloss and you're good to go! Smudge-proof and long wearing.

Living Proof Prime Style Extender, available at Sephora.

I swear by this product, and have even got a travel sized bottle of this stuff to bring with me to Europe. With my new digitally permed hair, I find I'm drawn towards hair masks and style creams: this one hits the spot: I use this right after my shower and it's a great product to use in between washes as it repels oil, weightless, and keeps your style in longer. No wonder it's got so much praise!

Currently Reading;

Summary (taken from Goodreads): 

In a finely woven series of flashbacks and correspondence, Lev Termen, the Russian scientist, inventor, and spy, tells the story of his life to his “one true love,” Clara Rockmore, the finest theremin player in the world. In the first half of the book, we learn of Termen’s early days as a scientist in Leningrad during the Bolshevik Revolution, the acclaim he receives as the inventor of the theremin, and his arrival in 1930s New York under the aegis of the Russian state. In the United States he makes a name for himself teaching the theremin to eager music students and marketing his inventions to American companies.

In the second half, the novel builds to a crescendo as Termen returns to Russia, where he is imprisoned in a Siberian gulag and later brought to Moscow, tasked with eavesdropping on Stalin himself. Throughout all this, his love for Clara remains constant and unflagging, travelling through the ether much like a theremin’s notes.Us Conductors is steeped in beauty, wonder, and looping heartbreak, a sublime debut that inhabits the idea of invention on every level.

So far I'm off to a great start: a story which weaves science and music together will host interesting questions and truths. The characters are riveting and I love how there are certain "cameos" of the greats at the time such as Glen Miller.

It was recently announced that this book has made it to the 2014 Scotiabank Giller Prize longlist!

Until next time! Ciao!

Late Summer Reverie

We travel for romance, we travel for architecture, and we travel to be lost.

-Ray Bradbury

Friends,

It has been quite a summer, what with the many road trips and undiscovered places to explore in this vast, grand country of ours. However, I find the days going by way too fast.

As such, here's a summary of things that I have been loving:

Gustave Dore

Scottish Landscape 

While heading East a couple of weeks ago, I had to stop by the National Gallery of Canada. The Gustave Dore exhibition was on and I had to pop by. His landscapes are phenomenal and his paintings move you to such a degree that you feel compelled to act upon something grand. I particularly loved his illustrations to John Milton's Paradise Lost.

Currently reading:

I feel very lucky to have author Kenneth Oppel partake in a Author Q & A session with my book club, the Matchbook Book Club  for this month! I thought it was a fun YA read that had memorable characters, a riveting plot, and an intriguing twist at the end.

I didn't know what to expect when I first received an advanced reader's copy of A Song For Issy Bradley... many chapters later, I fell in love with the characters and the deeply moving matter on the loss of a loved one. I did not know much about Mormons to begin with, but having read this book, it helped to provide a penetrating insight into their everyday world. Well worth the read.

Currently, I am reading this book. Already off to a great start. At first I thought the plot was predictable enough, but thankfully it has taken a turn so it's keeping me hooked. Stay tuned!



Don't I know it...





Recently, I've received lovely letters abroad from friends in England and Vienna! The art of letter-writing is even more important than ever. Take the time to contribute to snail mail, dear friends!
I still get a small thrill of seeing letters or parcels in my mailbox- it's honestly the best thing ever.

Films


Yes, yes, and yes!
I am huge fan of the first film, The Trip, and the lads are back at it with their witty humor and dialogue. This time, they're heading to the Italian countryside. Trust me when I say this, I am mighty envious of where they've been. Italy anyone?

To wander, to be lost...

“As it fell upon a day

In the merry month of May,

Sitting in a pleasant shade

Which a grove of myrtles made.” 

- Richard Barnfield

Lovelies,
          

Lately I've been thinking more and more about dedicating my life to travel, to read as much as I can about the world, and to paint my world and my inspirations more often.

I have encountered many happy moments and heartbreaking hours these past few weeks. How do I make sense of it all?
Outside, the world seems to slowly find it's way to revival. The grass is greener and I find that every so often, a warm breeze would pass my way which leaves a surge in my heart for something more.
I have dedicated some time to volunteer and spent more time in book stores, especially ones which will close its doors very soon. I have been planning for New York,  my first travel destination among many this summer.  So much planning, so much doing, so much dreaming.

It's also been a struggle to write lately. It's almost as if I'm holding myself back for some unknown reason. At one point, I would have focused hours on my short stories/novel and felt compelled to dedicate myself in this way.  Now, when I think about writing,  I would open my laptop (success), sit for a moment, and then move on to something else.
I have to find that stamina again, I must! No more hold-backs.

My round-up this past weekend:



On Saturday, it's the annual Free Comic Book Day! Of course, I went to my usual spot, the Silver Snail on Yonge Street. They had an anniversary sale, so I couldn't say no to picking up a few gems from  Marvel's Jane Austen series. I absolutely love the front cover of Northanger Abbey.

On Sunday, not only was it Star Wars Day, but it was also the 85th birthday of Audrey Hepburn, my lifelong role model. To celebrate, my Hepburn film of choice was Funny Face.




I love everything about this film: take Hepburn and Astaire and you've struck gold. Paris. The fact that her name is Jo (like yours truly!). The bookshop scene. Givenchy. The dancing. The singing. The bozazz!

Currently reading:



It's about time I read this book: my co-worker lent me her copy and with the movie soon to be released, my curiosity overwhelms me. Will let you know about my thoughts for this book soon!



I'm 3/4 through this book and already I don't want this book to end! Jo Baker writes with such poise and ease of the Austen world, it's almost as if I'm watching a BBC Drama Series (which I hope, they take this book on to adapt it onto the small screen!)
I'm thrilled to have met the author herself (and got my copy personally signed), she was truly a remarkable individual and I was glad that this book did justice on capturing the servant's perspective of the world of Longbourn. And yes, you will catch glimpses of Mr. Darcy in this book (to which I squee'd, obviously).



I enjoyed this book. The Museum of Extraordinary Things opens up to Coney Island in the early 20th century: an age of curiosities, wonder, and tragedy. The book is divided between two characters: one is Coralie, daughter of a Professor who houses a Museum of Natural Wonders, and the other is Eddie, a photographer who searches for answers amongst the cruel and exploitative world he's in.  The subject matter could be distressing and dark at times, but the writing haunts you as Hoffman weaves the storyline in a cinematic way that captures the love between two people. Would I read this again? Not really. Would I recommend this book to someone else? Indeed.


Until next time!

Jo

an owl post

April Love, The Weekend Edition

“I am seeking, I am striving, I am in it with all my heart.” -Vincent Van Gogh

Lovelies,



For Good Friday, I had the wonderful pleasure of attending Sacred Music for a Sacred Space performed by the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir at St. Paul's Basilica. A yearly tradition, I find that it is much needed. I find myself reflecting on challenges that I've faced lately, and praying for loved ones.
Simply put, it is salvation through music.
From Kyrie to Agnus Dei, I was overwhelmed. St. Paul's really is a gem here in Toronto. One feels light-headed observing the sheer size and details of this basilica.

I have found Easter to be a season of new beginnings. With more pleasant weather on the way, there's a lot to be thankful for.

Watch: 

The Life and Death of Mountains

Based on the work of British geographer L. Dudley Stamp, this short film was shot in Iceland to portray the life-cycle of these wonders. Apart from the marvels of the ocean, I have always been fascinated by these landmarks. Beautifully shot, it's well worth your eleven minutes of spare time.



The Weight of Mountains from Studiocanoe on Vimeo.

Currently reading:

Frog Music by Emma Donaghue

A Matchbook Book Club pick of the month. This month's theme is The Unexpected, so we imagine this book will give us quite a kick! Stay tuned.

Listen to:

Recomposed by Max Richter: Vivaldi, The Four Seasons

I love the works of Max Richter. From scoring films to his own compositions, he has never left my list of favorite composers. His rendition of Vivaldi's The Four Seasons will leave you mesmerized. Go on, have a listen- you'll be hooked.



an Owl post