More Photos (1)

                                        More Photos (2)
 

April 24, 2008

Watched the DVD of the 2007 film I Am Legend and thought highly of it. Very suspenseful, some good writing, and it even managed to be moving and thoughtful. Will Smith did a great job. I read the short 1954 Richard Matheson novel as a teenager back in 1964, when it was released as a 40 cent Bantam paperback (44 years ago... Egad...) and recall enjoying it, so I bought a new copy (of the Tor paperback) and read it again -- along with the 10 short stories they've included in the volume to flesh it out. Again, for what it is -- a piece of 1950s genre fiction -- it's rather impressive. (Quite different from the film, which uses only its central idea). Can't say the same for the 10 stories. Unlike the short title novel, they never transcend their genre and seem contrived, occasionally clever, and rather empty ultimately. But I can recommend Matheson's novel. It's a fine piece of suspenseful vampire lore, from the writer who also penned the book from which the 1957 film The Incredible Shrinking Man evolved. (Matheson also wrote that screenplay). Clearly, at his best, Matheson is a formidable fictioneer.

I've been offered the opportunity to teach 2 writing courses at The University of Western Ontario this coming Fall, and have accepted. I'll be teaching Writing 2295 (Creative Writing: The Short Story) -- a new course that I was asked to create and design -- Wednesday evenings, 7-10 PM. I'll stay over in London (Ontario) and teach Writing 2211 (Fundamentals of Creative Writing) the next morning (Thursdays), from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. (This latter course is the one I've taught for the past 3 years.) I'm looking forward to the experience and the challenge. I'll begin writing up the new course as soon as possible. First time through there's always a certain level of experiment and learning on the part of the instructor as well as the students. The plan: I'll leave Toronto Wednesday afternoon for Western, and leave London Thursday afternoon to return home to Toronto. This is gonna be neat. I think. I hope. I trust. Wow. Anyway, it's a great opportunity, and I'm grateful.

On a more sobering note, as a personal family update, my brother Dennis (2 years younger than I am), is undergoing very serious health issues, with a cancerous growth in his throat, an upcoming tracheotomy, and subsequent chemotherapy. I can't express how upsetting and distracting this is. He's my kid brother. My head is filled with memories of us as kids. (Check the Autobiography link on the Main Page). Devastating news. Wish our family the best.
 

April 18, 2008

Quick update notice...
The Toronto Public Library is  sponsoring a Canada Council, Heritage Reading Series in April and May, focusing on Speculative Fiction. It features more than 20 authors from across Canada. If you're interested, check the complete schedule for readers and dates here. I'll be at the Cedarbrae Branch (545 Markham Rd.) on May 7 and at the Centennial Branch (578 Finch Ave. W.) on May 15.

Great weather today. And it's Friday!

Ciao.
 

April 2, 2008

Finally... Thaw. Spring teasing us. I'm definitely ready.

Very busy (as always, really) of late. My son, Owen, 27 years old, has moved out to his own place (yesterday). He's been with us for the last 10 months, since he came back from a year in British Columbia. I know it's the right thing for him to do, but he's been a part of the household for such a long time that he'll be missed on a daily basis. Daniel, his little brother, will especially miss him. They're great pals. The good part is that he hasn't gone far. He's only 10 minutes away, and we're expecting him back for dinner weekly (right now, we've agreed on Tuesdays). He's working 6 days a week... Tuesday is usually his day off. Lifestyle changes -- especially those involving one's children -- are always emotional watersheds.

Been acquiring older kids' films on DVD. Daniel is 7 years old and we had such a positive response from him for Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948 -- a perfect kids' film) that I got hold of copies of A&C Meet the Invisible Man and A&C Meet the Mummy. We'll view them on successive weekends in the near future. We also watched Lon Chaney Jr. in The Wolf Man(1941) and it's a winner. Got copies of The Invisible Man(1933) and Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman (1942)  in the vault too. These older films work well with kids because they're the right degree of "scary" without going over the top like the graphic and adult modern versions. Pretty neat stuff.

Books... Tried Jeff Lindsay's Darkly Dreaming Dexter and Dearly Devoted Dexter (there's even a new TV series based on the character). The protagonist is supposed to be a somewhat darkly charming sociopathic killer, who only kills "those who deserve it." It's written in a black-humour, tongue-in-cheek style that's meant to take you to strange places in a bizarre fashion. I have no objection to the concept as a fantasy and a fiction. What I couldn't get my head around was the amount of dismemberment and disfigurement that accompanies it all. Way too gratuitous. I think we're just talking about simple bad taste here. I can't recommend 'em. In fact, I think I'll give any others in the series a pass. I guess I'm out-of-step. I've always felt cool and in were overrated. Trying two of these books qualifies me for this personal opinion/reaction. Right? Right.

I'm reading Storm Runners by T. Jefferson Parker right now. Much better.

Think I'll scout up the 1953 DVD of Invaders From Mars next. Then the 1981 The Legend of the Lone Ranger. I saw it at the Imperial 6 in downtown Toronto with my oldest son Conor when he was 3 years old and we loved it. According to the critical and commercial success it received, we were the only ones. Just another example of being out-of-step...
 

March 16, 2008

Climbing out of winter. Nearly record snowfall this year for Toronto, but of late you can feel spring hovering. Sunny, slightly warmer, longer days, sunglasses to stop melting snow from blinding. Hoping the thaw continues at a moderate pace so there's no flooding. So far so good.

This is the last day of our March Break. Daniel goes back to school tomorrow. We didn't really go anywhere (with the exception of a one-night-stay at the Delta Chelsea downtown and a dinner at Red Lobster... modest ambitions...)

We're already planning our summer. More when it's firmed up.

A few thoughts...
I set up this web site 8 years ago and maintain it myself. I realize it's not anywhere near state-of-the-art, but that's fine by me. Most of the sites I visit have evolved  during that span from curious, interesting personal spaces to pretty dazzling, slick entities, maintained by professional web-hosters (precision menus, search engines...). I'm not averse to that in any real sense, but I've resisted the siren call and take small pride in my idiosyncratic cyberspot here. Recently, I received an email from David Neelin, who wrote: "You know, I like your web site. It is what the net is supposed to be all about. Not a big corporate thing. Yes, it used to be folks would make their own home page. Now so many go to Facebook. That is unfortunate in that it is just fill-in-the-blanks, a certain creativity and uniqueness is lost. Home pages are what the net should be all about."

The 20,000th visit clicked in today, so I thought I'd note the event. Glad you dropped in. Come again.
 

February 11, 2008

I've seen New Year's pass since my last entry, along with my birthday. Upcoming is Valentine's Day, Owen's birthday, followed not long afterward by Conor's birthday. All these special-event-days keep me hopping, along with the minutiae of everyday life.

Just came back yesterday (Sunday) from an overnight trip to London (Ontario). Merle, Daniel and I drove down Saturday to see Conor in the children's play (Bluenose), during its stop at London's Grand Theatre. It was great fun, and it was also Daniel's first live theatre exposure. It was the perfect vehicle, especially with big brother Conor as a pirate in the 4-person cast.

Weather has been awful. Snow, freezing temperature, wind. Glad to get back and off the roads, but equally glad we went.

Got that depths-of-winter feeling. Lots of irons in the fire, lots of possibilities, but currently in stasis of sorts. Got 2 books for my birthday (the new hardbacks of Lee Child and John Sandford). Looking forward to immersing myself in them.

Talk to you soon, with more...
 

December 27, 2007

Christmas has come and gone. A really good one this year... Conor (and Angela) and Daniel and Owen all here with Merle and me. What a pleasure to get everybody together. The Xmas ham made its appearance. Toasts and Cheers. We actually all played Monopoly Christmas evening (Daniel loving it) before I drove Conor and Angela home for the night.

Daniel got his requested Gamecube setup, with 3 games to go with it. I gave Merle some Nahema perfume and an oak bedroom valet. I got a handful of wonderful books (The Film Club by David Gilmour; Exit Ghost by Philip Roth; Born Standing Up by Steve Martin). Santa was good to us all.

Just finished Gilmour's The Film Club (A True Story of a Father and Son). I loved it. With Conor turning 30 in March, and Owen 27 in February, it really resonated. Highly recommended.

At Michael and Gina's on December 15, lunch with Greg Hughes on the 19th, Eugene and Anna (with Jan and Alus) and Steve and Fannie here on the 23rd, Bill and Judy here this evening (the 27th), and Alex over for dinner on the 30th. New Year's on the horizon. 2008 should be good. Will check in again soon to confirm.
 

December 7, 2007

Yesterday was my last day at Western (University of Western Ontario) for the year. I enjoyed it, as usual, and look forward to next fall, when I assume I'll be back.

And the course I mentioned in my November 2/07 entry (below) will be a reality in September, 2008. It's been scheduledin such a way that I should be able to teach both courses -- one on the Wednesday evening, the other on the Thursday morning (stay over in London one night a week). But I'm getting ahead of myself... Will keep you posted as it develops.

For now, the focus is Christmas. Lots of socializing coming up, along with shopping and the dispensing of inordinate amounts of cash.

Where's Santa when I need him?
 

November 11, 2007

Got a bad cold right now. Hoping to be past the worst of it this week, but still got headaches, sniffles, the whole bit.

Something a little different. Curiosa...
I subscribe to lots of unusual stuff. One of them, always erudite and interesting and literary, is Steam Engine Time, edited by Australian Bruce Gillespie, a writer and critic I've respected for more than 30 years. The publication draws its name from a quotation by the satirist and skeptic (and possibly kook) Charles Fort [1874-1932]("human thought is a growth, like all other growths...A tree cannot find out how to blossom... until comes blossom time. A social growth cannot find out the use of steam engines, until comes steam-engine time.")

In a piece titled Enjoy a Good Short Story, Gillespie lists his favorite short fiction (SF and Fantasy) published between 1977 and 2006. (He has 59 of them!) He writes: "The following list was prompted by discussion on one of the email groups (probably Fictionmags) more than a year ago. Somebody was asking for candidates for an upcoming anthology. I cannot remember why the years to be covered began in 1977."

The story "Ashland, Kentucky" (the original basis for my 1996 novel Shadow of Ashland) came in at number 12. I was flattered.

He lists the story's date as 1993, a bit of a puzzle to me (it was first published in 1985, saw subsequent intermittent reprints; perhaps the date is the year in which he read it). 8 of his 20 stories -- understandably, given his life in and around Melbourne (where he still lives) --  are by Australians. I'm the sole Canadian. I'm not going to reproduce the entire list, but to provide a context, I thought some might find the first 20 of interest:

1 The Mask (Stanislaw Lem) 1977
2 The Battle of Acosta Nu (Gerald Murnane) 1985
3 The Little Kingdom of Franklin Payne (Steven Millhauser) 1993
4 Little Red's Tango (Peter Straub) 2006
5 Seven American Nights (Gene Wolfe) (1978)
6 The Pressure of Time (Thomas M. Disch) 1980
7 On the Turn (Leanne Frahm) 1988
8 A Map of ther Mines of Barnath (Sean Williams) 1995
9 The Fittest (George Turner) 1985
10 A Letter From the Clearys (Connie Willis) 1986
11 The Caress (Greg Egan) 1990
12 Ashland, Kentucky (Terence M. Green) 1993
13 Seven Guesses of thre Heart (M. John Harrison) 2000
14 Leningrad Nights (Graham Joyce) 2002
15 Tendeleo's Story (Ian MacDonald) 2002
16 Pie Row Joe (Kevin McKay) 1978
17 Out There Where the Big Ships Go (Richard Cowper) 1979
18 Houston, Houston, Do You Read? (James Tiptree, Jr.) 1979
19 Life the Solitude (Kevin McKay) 1983
20 The Dominant Style (Sean McMullen) 1991

A selection of them just might make an interesting anthology indeed.

(If interested, you can find the entire list on page 28 at the following link:
http://efanzines.com/SFC/SteamEngineTime/SET07.pdf)

The general link to Bruce Gillespie's publications is: http://efanzines.com/SFC/index.html
 

November 2, 2007

Very little to report... Halloween two nights ago. Always fun (with a kid around). My class at Western zips along, week by week. As of yesterday (November 1) we're now finished Week 9 (of 13 weeks). Only 4 more to go. Workshopping short pieces of fiction yesterday and again next week. Stimulating and busy.

I've been approached about creating and teaching a separate 13 week course (in addition to this one) next Fall. Thought about it,  wrote up a proposal for it, and Roger Graves, Head of the Writing Program, is going to present it to the powers-that-be and (theoretically) get it approved. If it happens, they tell me they'll schedule it appropriately for me. Big Adventure. It would be a workshop course called Creative Writing: Fiction (The Short Story). I've kind of got myself talked into it. I'll keep you posted. Won't know,  really, until the Spring. What will be will be.
 

October 8, 2007

Got down to Niagara Falls at the beginning of September, and finally have a few photos to post to mark the event.

Me and Beyonce...  (met her in  the wax museum)

...also had a drink with Bogie & Marilyn  (same location)

Merle & Daniel  in peril!

Sunday, September 30, was Toronto's annual Word on the Street Festival. A beautiful day, weather-wise, and a fine time overall. Met and chatted with lots of folks (some from years ago... voices and faces from the past) and saw lots of books get into the hands of avid readers. Always a pleasure. Amy Lavender Harris (professor at York University... operates the site ImaginingToronto) posted a nice summary of the day, with special mention of the SFWA booth (see Section 3 of attached link). I'll let her sum it up for me. Her commentary is at Reading Toronto.
 

September 15, 2007

Started teaching again at Western (University of Western Ontario) -- Thursdays only. Had 2 sessions with the class so far... Just getting rolling. 24 students. Looks good. Nice to be back.

Next upcoming is the annual Toronto Word on the Street Festival, which draws circa 200,000 people for the day-long event. As I have been for the past decade, I'm once again coordinator/liaison for the Toronto-area SFWA table and booth. If you're interested, drop down to Queen's Park, get a book at a discount and get it signed by the author. A perfect gift for bibliophiles.

Writers at the SFWA Booth (Booth 183, east side of Queen's Park, just south of St. Joseph St.):

Terence M. Green: 11 AM - 6 PM
Robert J. Sawyer: 11 AM - 6 PM
Scott MacKay: 11 AM - 3 PM
Karl Schroeder: 11 AM - 2 PM
Phyllis Gotlieb: 3 PM - 5 PM
Andrew Weiner: 2 PM - 3 PM
 

August 30, 2007

Summer slip-slidin' away. Gonna take in a waterpark in Niagara Falls before it all ends -- let Daniel (and us) grasp a final summer straw.

Wrote a 1000 word Intro/Bio of writer Robert Charles Wilson for the convention program book where he'll be Guest of Honour in October (in Portland, Oregon). Bob apparently suggested  me, and they were good enough to offer small remuneration, so we availed ourselves of the CNE (Canadian National Exhibition -- an annual Toronto tradition, complete with midway for Daniel) on the vast windfall.

Reading lots, as usual. Re-read Huckleberry Finn (been more than 40 years). Remarkable. Completely politically incorrect, but amazing stuff. Twain both of his time and way ahead of his time. Have also begun to read most of John Sandford's novels. He writes police procedurals/mysteries, with a continuing character (cop Lucas Davenport), and I'm hooked. Great page-turning fun.

Starting up teaching my fall course at UWO (University of Western Ontario) -- Writing 211 -- next week. (Have posted a link to the course outline on my main page). And next will come Toronto's annual Word on the Sreet Festival (September 30). More on that soon...
 

July 22, 2007

Got some photos of our week away on Loon Lake near Haliburton, Ontario, plus a couple of domestic ones of Conor, Owen and Daniel at home in June/July. Enjoy. (Click to enlarge).
 

Daniel and I on the dock

more summer leisure

a pretty nice beach

and great sunsets

Daniel, Conor, Angela, roasting marshmallows inside on a rainy evening

my 3 fabulous sons and the incredible backyard treehouse

Owen and Daniel playing his new Nintendo-DS game

July 2, 2007

Very little to add here at July's start. Planning a variety of summer activities (beaches, cottages) and hoping the weather will be good. Big news for our family is that my son, Owen (26 years old), has returned from a year in British Columbia, and is staying with us until he gets things settled and sorted here in Toronto. We're delighted to have him here and to see him again after the lengthy sojurn (his little brother, Daniel, is especially thrilled). His return has kept me busy, as has the placement of a new mortgage on our house -- which had to be done by July 1st (ie-yesterday). Now that it's out of the way, I'm onto insurance matters. How mundane. (Sound dull? You should be in my chair).

Discovered Stephen Hunter's Bob Lee Swagger books (three of them). Finished Point of Impact (filmed recently as Shooter) and am on Black Light. Great stuff.
 

May 22, 2007

Offered (today) the opportunity to return to teach Writing 211 at Western (The University of Western Ontario) for a third session (September 1st - December 31, 2007). Delighted. A couple of slight changes from last year... The class will be held from 12:30 to 3:30 PM, Thursdays (as opposed to Wednesdays, 1:30-4:30, as was the case last year). There's been a room change too. Last year we had a terrific spot -- a seminar room. This year I'm back in a lecture hall -- not as ideal for a discussion/workshop class like this one. Small cavil, though. I'm adaptable. I think.

Been reading lots of good novels of late. Really enjoying Lee Child's Jack Reacher character (Killing Floor, One Shot, The Hard Way, The Enemy, Echo Burning, etc.). Very readable. Lots of fun. But I wanted to single out Cormac McCarthy's The Road (recent winner of The Pulitzer Prize, and totally unrelated to anything by Lee Child) as a book that has "weight" and "heft" and is also eminently readable and provocative. Like Philip Roth's Everyman, it hits the reader between the eyes with its force and simplicity. Anybody out there looking for recommendations/suggestions?
 

April 8/9/26, 2007

Want to link to a very positive review of Sailing Time's Ocean posted today by the most popular blog about Toronto (BLOGTO): Click here.
[And another at Andy's Anachronisms (timetravelreviews.com).]
Also: here are a few photos (promised last entry, March 25) of the UWO reception and our trip to the Butterfly Conservatory near Niagara Falls)... (Click on photos to enlarge):
 

Part of the display... a classy job

Chatting with the UWO Bookstore manager

Daniel... keeping me company

Check out the butterfly  on Daniel's arm

March 25, 2007

Lazy Sunday morning. Try to post a few updates...

March Break for schools here was the week of March 12-16. Merle, Daniel and I had our big vacation as an overnighter in a suite in Niagara Falls back on the 15th. (When you're 6 years old, the hotel pool is what the vacation is all about). Visited the butterfly conservatory there on the way back (wonderful) as well as the Book Depot in St. Catherines (box of books: 29.95).

This last week, the three of us got another overnighter in a suite in London, Ontario (took Daniel out of school for a day-and-a-half), as I was invited to take part in the Faculty Author Reception at Western (University of Western Ontario) on the 21st. Again: a fine time, a splendid event, and the pool was the hit of the stay.

Hope to have a few photos of both events to post shortly. (Apprehensive about my next VISA bill though).

Reading Bill Bryson's A Short History of Nearly Everything. Amazing stuff. Recommended. Talk about researching a book. Egad.
 

March 8, 2007

Thought I'd take one of my irregular detours, have a bit of fun and talk about some books I've been reading and a few DVDs I've seen of late. I like to read these types of lists/commentaries, and suspect many others do as well.

Read two Philip Roth novels since Christmas: a new one (Everyman) and an old one (The Professor of Desire). Both are further eveidence for me that he and John Updike are the two premier authors of the last half of the 20th century (and early 21st, of course). Incredible, profound observations, beautifully delivered. Read Margaret Atwood's new collection of stories Moral Disorder. As always, I enjoy her short fiction more than her novels. And Peter Behrens won the Governor General's Award (deservedly) for The Law of Deams, a terrific book about a young man fleeing Ireland during the famine of 1847 and making his way to England, Canada and the United States. Also read P.D. James's The Children of Men (recommended), an Orwellian look at a near-future where everyone is infertile, and the myriad consequences beyond the obvious. I look forward to seeing the recent feature film based on it. Ronald Wright's A Short History of Progress made me want to read his own Wellsian novel A Scientific Romance, which I ordered online and which is in the to-be-read pile beside the bed. Also tried a James Patterson novel, Mary, Mary. Give it a miss. Patterson is a best-selling mystery writer whom I thought I should try. He didn't work for me. It was okay... but I'm not sure that's enough. One's tastes get more rarefied as one ages and realizes that time is  more precious than ever. There are better cop/mystery writers (Robert Crais, Michael Connelly) out there, and I'll stick to them (but keep trying the odd new one... Trying George Pelecanos right now... We'll see...).

Two fine films caught on DVD: The Rocket, a Canadian film, the story of Montreal Canadien hockey legend, Maurice ("The Rocket") Richard, and Hollywoodland, the story of the death of George Reeves (TV's Superman) back in the 1950s. Both much better than most of the more highly touted fare assailing us from every angle. Hollywoodland is a neat little film noir. For folk of my vintage, the memory of George Reeves as Superman in the 50s is a powerful one, and this story, based on the true-crime book Hollywood Kryptonite, which I read about a decade ago, is a gemlike evocation of the place and the era.

You should also catch United 93, if you haven't already. Another small (important) gem.

Signing off, this bright, sunny, dazzling white March afternoon.
 

February 21, 2007

And just as I noted at the beginning of the February 19 entry below, I usually post these things too late... But I'm tryin' to get my act in gear...

The annual Ad Astra convention takes place March 2nd to 4th at the Crowne Plaza Toronto Don Valley Hotel, 1250 Eglinton Ave. East. I've agreed to sit on 2 panels Saturday (moderating the "Not Just a Fiction Writer" panel at10 AM, and joining the Sunburst Jury panel at1 PM) and to give a Reading (Sunday, 2 PM). It's always entertaining, and if you're local, you might have some fun too. I enjoy the Dealers' Room -- lots of books that I seldom come across in other venues. Bibliophilia. You know.
 

February 19, 2007

I usually think of posting these things too close to the event, but this time I'll try a reasonable lead-time...

On Wednesday, March 21, (7 PM - 9 PM), The University of Western Ontario (in London, Ontario, where I teach Creative Writing in the Writing Program,  Faculty of Arts and Humanities) is hosting a Faculty Author Reception at the UWO Book Store. Twenty-eight authors are participating. Book displays will be set up in the reception area for browsing and book signing. Book prices will be 20% off. To ensure adequate refreshments, RSVPs are appreciated (to pmcarthu@uwo.ca, by Monday, March 19.) Invitations will be extended to Western's Board of Governors, The Senate, Deans and Chairs. And I'd like to personally invite any of my past (and future) students to drop by and say hello. It'd make my day.

I'll be signing copies of the novel Sailing Time's Ocean, my latest release. (You can check the February 15, 2007 edition of Western News for a nice review of the book.) Sounds like a grand time. Hope to see you there.
 

February 4, 2007

I turned 60 on Friday, February 2nd. Kind of stunning. Me and Farrah Fawcett. Christie Brinkley was a mere 53 and James Joyce turned 125. What exalted company!  Merle took the day off work and we had a great time and a great lunch -- just the two of us. Merle actually shucked a dozen oysters for the occasion, so I now know that anything is possible.

Chester and Bill (contemporaries from high school!) took me to lunch last Wednesday. They're already 60 -- old hands at the experience. Tom Potter and I are getting together for lunch two days from now (the 6th). He's another veteran helping me along with this. And last night (the 3rd), Merle and Daniel and I were guests at Michael and Gina O'Gorman's for dinner and Michael's 60th birthday celebration. He's one day younger than I am. We met in grade one when we were 5 years old. Thought you might enjoy the contrasting photos below, unearthed from several layers of archaeological strata...

See what time can do to us (besides wipe out our innocence?) Click on photos to enlarge.
 

Michael 1953

Me 1953

Michael and I February 3, 2007

I'll get back to more literary matters next time. I think.
 

January 1, 2007

Sitting here New Year's Day, trying to give a thumbnail recap of the holiday season so far (the 12 days of Christmas aren't up yet). It's an unseasonal (but welcome) balmy day for January 1st (going to 10 degrees celsius -- about 50 degrees fahrenheit, and sunny). No real winter yet, especially in light of the storms that have hit other cities in the news. We'll take it while we can.

On December 23rd, Michael (friend from grade 1) and Gina O'Gorman were here for dinner and to sample Merle's traditional homemade Irish Cream. Conor and Angela were here for Xmas. Daniel got a small laptop and an air hockey game. The meal was spectacular, as usual. Tom and Will Potter (and Noah from next door) were here for dinner on the 27th, Ken and Judy Luginbuhl on the 28th, and we were invited to a beautiful meal at Eugene and Anna's on Saturday, the 30th. Merle prepared some fabulous scallops last night for our own New Year's Eve. Food and good company, as you can see, have been plentiful.

Daniel, Merle and I have seen Charlotte's Web and Night at the Museum. We've watched more than our share of DVDs (Conor gave me The Errol Flynn Collection). Today, we might take in Rocky Balboa and then off to East Side Mario's (at least, that's the plan at 10:30 AM as I write this).

There was one sobering event to balance the scales. Got a call Christmas Day from my friend Joe Quinto (living in Brantford, Ontario, some hour or so west of Toronto) to say that his wife Lynda had died on Christmas Eve. She'd been suffering from cancer for some time, with intermittent remissions, but it accelerated alarmingly the last month or so. She was 60 years old. Joe and I have known each other since high school. This was inordinately hard on everybody, especially at this time of year. Like I said: sobering.

Other old friends from high school -- Chester and Bill -- accompanied Merle and I to a memorial service in Brantford on Saturday the 30th. All our lives shrank a bit. It's a profound loss.

To end on a more positive note: Daniel (6 years old) spent the 30th with Conor (his big brother -- 28 years old) and Angela at their place, and told us that it was "the best day of his life." I emailed them and told them his comment. I don't know if they're flattered, thrilled or terrified. It looks like a pretty serious turning point. I recommend they begin getting more sleep, preparing for the future.
 

December 23, 2006

2 photos here of my Writing 211 class this past fall at The University of Western Ontario. (I'm in the first one -- taken by Blake; Blake's in the second one, taken by me). As you can clearly see, they're a brilliant, creative group! Good Times... (Click on images to enlarge).
 

December 9, 2006

In today's Globe and Mail (Saturday Books Section), Jack Kirchhoff reviews Sailing Time's Ocean briefly in his weekly Paperbacks column. He calls it "a snappy time-travelling nuclear bomb thriller." It's nice to get a positive mention (especially just before Christmas).

Been busy. My term at Western ended this last Wednesday (December 6). Now I've got to finish marking the stories submitted on that date, as the final grades are due one week after the last class. Then comes Christmas, charging like a rhino. The tree went up (and fell down once -- to go up again... almost a necessary ritual stolen from National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation) in our house last night. It's happening. It's coming. Soon I'll be broke, just like you!

Cheers!
 

November 20, 2006

Daniel's 6th birthday yesterday. Conor and Angela came over for dinner to join in the celebration. Daniel got a giant (foot-long?), remote-controlled insect that looks like something out of the movie Starship Troopers -- something he'd always wanted, but something he never believed we'd buy him. I can't believe it either.

And yesterday was 102nd edition of Toronto's Santa Claus Parade; we were among the hundreds of thousands lining the streets. Bundled up with 2 pair of socks each, we still froze after 2 hours of losing body heat. I could just imagine the surge on the water system afterward as all those folks rush to a washroom.

Marking papers and reading for Wednesday's class at Western today. (Only 3 more classes to go).

Battling a cold. And so it goes.

For now...
 

October 28, 2006

If I was a bit more organized (wouldn't we all like to be?), I'd have posted a notice about this before the event instead of during it. But perhaps better late than never...

I was a guest panelist (yesterday) at a seminar introducing The 2nd Annual Fantasy Worldwide International Film Festival, held this weekend at Innis College, University of Toronto (the seminar was held in Innis Town Hall -- a very nice venue). I was impressed by the event and the array of young talent showcasing their films at the festival.

The panel consisted of myself, Karl Schroeder (writer), Julie Czerneda (writer), Hoku Uchiyama (director), Sibel Guvenc (director/writer), Perry Mucci (actor), and Michael Sparaga (producer/writer/editor). I'm sure I was the senior member of the group. As I said above: the youth and talent around me was exciting. If you're interested in the next wave of film makers -- what's on the horizon -- I suggest you keep an eye on any of the names in that list.

On the home front...
We're having a Halloween party tomorrow afternoon (Sunday, 2-5) for Daniel and 4 of his close friends (Jan, Ethan, Leander and Chris). Wearing costumes is encouraged. The main event will be the DVD movie Monster House, but there'll be treats and lots of other neat stuff. Ah, to be 6 years old...

Think of me when you're placidly reading your Sunday newsaper, sipping that 3rd cup of coffee.
 

September 25, 2006

Toronto's Word on the Street Book Festival took place yesterday. With the exception of a bit of rainy weather late in the day (4 to6 PM), it was a great success, with good crowds and lots of interest (the rain did close things up suddenly, though). I sold lots of books (including about 20 copies of my new Sailing Time's Ocean) and met and chatted with lots of interesting folks.

Near the end of the day, I was approached by Jamie Fraser, a well-known local rare book dealer who wears another hat as editor of the Merril Collection's SOL Rising newsletter (the Merril Collection is one of the world's largest public library collections of SF, F & Speculative Fiction -- a special collection in the Toronto Public Library system). He asked me for a few words for the newsletter about my experience at The Word on the Street, and I wrote a short (450 word) piece for him today. Since it serves to explain much of what the day and the event is about, I'm linking it here for its self-explanatory value. Enjoy: The Word on the Street recap. (Also here on page 5 of the published version: http://www.friendsofmerril.org/dec_2006.pdf-- posted April 4/07).
 

September 10, 2006

The 17th annual Word on the Street Book Festival takes place Sunday, September 24, on and round Queen's Park Crescent in Toronto. This is a big event celebrating the written word, annually attracting in excess of 200,000 people, and is a great opportunity for readers and authors to interact. Since 1998, I've been the organizer/liaison for the SFWA (Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America) Booth, and always enjoy the day. There are meet-and-greet-the-author events, book signings, and great deals on books themselves. This year, for example, I'll have signed copies of my just-published Sailing Time's Ocean available at Festival discount price, as well as discount-priced copies of most of my other books -- as will the other participating authors.

We're located in Booth 235, on the northwestern arc of Queen's Park Crescent itself.

The schedule:
Terence M. Green: 11 AM - 6 PM
Scott Mackay: 11 AM - 3 PM
Karl Schroeder: 11 AM - 2 PM
Andrew Weiner: 2 - 3 PM
Phyllis Gotlieb: 3 - 4 PM
Ad Astra Convention Reps: 3 - 5 PM
David Clink: 11 AM - 6 PM

Hope to see you there.
 

September 7, 2006

It's published.

My contributor copies of Sailing Time's Ocean arrived at my door yesterday. It's a really nice looking book, and I thank Rob Sawyer for bringing it back to life in a new incarnation. I think the cover design and artwork (see March 28/06 entry below for cover image), the Afterword (by Robert J. Sawyer), my new Foreword, the Book Club Guide and the substantial, new About the Author additions make it a solid book and good value (at $19.95 Canadian, $16.95 US) -- all in addition to what we think is a pretty good story. And you can take this with a grain of salt if you wish, but as I re-read and edited the story over (and over) during pre-publication, getting the opportunity to look back on it (and myself) some 15 years ago, I was both amazed and impressed with the imaginative concepts and the overwhelming research that it contained. It speaks to this thing called "creativity," because I often wondered, "Where did this come from? How did I come up with this? Where did I get the energy and drive?" In so many ways, the book, its genesis, its appearance, like everything else, is a mystery.

Hope it is warmly received and enjoyed.

(If you'd like to order a copy from the publisher -- or even just read the back cover copy -- click here).
 

August 23, 2006

My computer came back (finally). Needed a new fan, cleaning, and they reprogrammed the Bios (?). How's that for esoteric info...

Anyway, because it's back, I was able to scan some summer photos -- several from our week at Coe Island Lake (see August 10 entry below)... Click on thumbnails to enlarge... And enjoy.
 

Daniel in his backyard treehouse

Fishing at dusk. Beautiful.

Merle & Daniel on the island opposite the cottage (at top, background)

A fine smallmouth bass, landed with the aplomb of a seasoned pro.

2 we dined on for breakfast.

Relaxing with a book on the dock.

Merle & Daniel floating in the perfect water off the dock.

August 10, 2006

Summer's funneling down. Been a fine one, though. Highlight was the week (July 22-29) that we spent at the rented cottage on Coe Island Lake south of Bancroft, Ontario. It was a beautiful spot, a lovely cottage and the weather held up. Daniel and I caught more than 20 smallmouth bass (without trying overly hard). This is one we'd like to return to -- and perhaps we will.

Visited my cousin Jacquie in Madoc on the way up, and my friend Tom Potter and his family at their cottage on the way back. It really was nice to see his two oldest -- Jeff  and his family, and Jill, visiting from the Yukon. Been too long.

Since getting home, it's been more summer idyll. Daniel's had playmates over this week (Benjamin, Matthew, Wesley tomorrow), and last week we had dinner at Eugene and Anna's, with their two -- Jan (Daniel's friend) and Alex.

I've spent time finishing all the necessary work on Sailing Time's Ocean. Everything seems to be on schedule. The book should appear within a month.

Took my computer (purchased August, 2003) in for tune-up /repair back on July 21, just before heading out of the city -- and just before its extended, 3-year warranty runs out. It was making a lot oif noise when the fan came on to cool it down. Knew I should get it looked after. They sent it out to the factory and I'm expecting it back anytime now. In the meantime, I'm working on my old desktop (purchased 9 years ago) with Windows 95 as its operating system. It barely handles the 21st century world, and this explains some of my lapse in posting any recent updates. It also will explain why I haven't scanned in any photos to accompany this piece. Need the other computer... When I get it back, I look forward to posting some nice shots of the summer detailed above.

Till then...
 

June 27, 2006

Treehouse completed! (Will dust off my camera  and post a picture soon.) Yesterday, Daniel's friend Benjamin was over from 3:30 till 8:30 (stayed for dinner) and the treehouse was the focus as they dressed up in Spiderman and Batman costumes.

Sunday, we had some parents (5 sets) of his school friends (and all the kids, of course) over for a few hours in the afternoon for an Open House in the backyard -- before we all scatter to the winds for the summer. A fun event. The newly-famous treehouse got its true initiation and workout then, and stood the test. Tomorrow is the last day of school for all of them.

Lunch with Tom Potter tomorrow. He heads to his cottage with his kids for the summer shortly. Hope to visit him there later in July.

Superman movie opening in the next few days. Guess who'll be there, with their own superhero in tow?...
 

June 13, 2006

On Saturday. June 10, we went to a nice gathering at Rob Sawyer's place. It was a combination social/professional occasion... As editor, he was amassing the authors in his new line: Marcos Donnelly, Karl Schroeder, Andrew Weiner, Nick DiChario, Danita Maslan and myself, and had Fitzhenry & Whiteside representative, sales rep Tracey Dettman there for us to meet as well. The next day (Sunday the 11th), I dropped down to Book Expo at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre to help promote and meet and greet. Authors were giving away autographed copies. Sailing Time's Ocean doesn't happen until September, so I wasn't actively involved in this part. .. But next year...

Have spent the past few weeks proofing copy of Sailing Time's Ocean and updating the Course Outline for Writing 211 at Western. (Still got some work to do on the Course Outline). But my real project has been building the treehouse in our backyard for Daniel. I'm well underway. Got the frame set up. Tomorrow, we go to Home Depot and buy more wood and hardware and continue. Daniel and I are both excited. A work odf art! Will keep you posted...
 

May 21, 2006

Last week I was offered the chance to return to teach Writing 211 (Fundamentals of Creative Writing) at The University of Western Ontario, starting in September, and I accepted. I'm committed only to the fall term. I did this last fall and enjoyed it immensely (see entries below from last year). This coming year, they were good enough to put the 3-hour-a-week course on one day for me (it was split into 2 separate days last year), something I suggested and requested. The class is slated for 1:30 to 4:30 PM, Wednesdays, in a room on the second floor of University College. Surrounding these hours, I'll have to schedule 3 additional "office hours," so I'll likely be there from 12:00 to 6:00 -- with travel time, a full day.

For me, this is great news, something I was hoping would materialize (and continue into the future). It will give me a solid footing once again in the academic community, provide me with the opportunity to teach what I want (creative writing) to whom I want (university students) in a great spot (Western). Also starting in September, Daniel begins grade 1 and will be in school full days. I'll be able to spend the day in London (Ontario) with greater ease as a result, and when home will be able to focus more regularly on my own writing.

Small blessings mixed, as usual, among the magic chaos of life...
 

April 25, 2006

An off-centre entry today...
Finally read Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code. Figured I might be one of the last guys on the planet to do so. Thought I should find out what all the hoopla was about.

I'm still shaking my head at its incredible success.
Verdict: save yourself the time and trouble, unless you're just curious, as I was. It's quite a load of codswallop. If I'd stumbled across it as a small, unknown novel, I think I'd have thought it was a fun, sometimes clever little book. But given its phenomenal sales, I was expecting much more, and it just doesn't deliver. I guess nothing could live up to that hype.

I'm a pretty voracious, ecelctic reader, and it's not like I don't know the genre. Over the past year, I've read all of Robert Crais's novels, most of Michael Connelly's, as well as 5 of James Swain's (I counted on my shelf: 28 total in this field alone). These are all thriller/cop novels, and every single one of them is a better read than Dan Brown's book. In some ways, Brown's is like reading a James Bond novel: totally unbelievable. There are about 6 or 7 pages that are really interesting bits of historical trivia (if true). The rest is a chase story, founded on nonsense, with no believable, adult characters.

Immediately after reading Brown's book, I read Scott Turow's Ordinary Heroes, a mystery/family/war novel. Although nothing he's written since his own phenomenal best seller Presumed Innocent has been as good or riveting, Ordinary Heroes is still head and shoulders above Brown's novel. It has real historical research, real characters, and much wisdom -- in short, an impressive book, and a complete contrast.

Nobody in the book industry can account for (or duplicate) the success of Harry Potter or The Bridges of Madison County. There's no accounting for what the public will suddenly leap at. Now you can add The Da Vinci Code to that group.
 

March 28, 2006

Here's a sneak preview of the tentative cover design for Sailing Time's Ocean (see March 19 entry below).
I think it's a stunning visual, and am appropriately delighted:

(Click on image to enlarge)

I'm posting the New Foreword to the book here too. I think it's self explanatory about the whole process. September should be fun. We expect to have copies for Toronto's annual Word on the Street Festival.

I'll be at the Ad Astra convention held this weekend at the Crowne Plaza, Toronto Don Valley Hotel, 1250 Eglinton East. There's a book launch I want to attend on Friday evening (March 31); as well, I have a Reading and will be on scheduled panels the following Saturday and Sunday. Busy time. Good time.
 

March 19, 2006

Just finished our March Break here. Three playdates for Daniel (M,T,W) plus an overnighter to Niagara Falls (Th, F... a great suite, nice dinner, the mandatory Wax Museum). And today (Sunday), Merle, Daniel (age 5)  and I saw The Shaggy Dog (actually, it's a great kids' film), which pretty much put a wrap on the vacation. Stopped and visited (and shopped at) The Book Depot in St. Catherine's on the way back. It's a terrific warehouse, stocked with remainders, open to the public. Every bibliophile in the environs knows of it, but this was the first time I'd ever actually been there. I'll be back.

Small update re the reissue of Children of the Rainbow by Red Deer/Firzhenry & Whiteside (see Aug 3/05 entry below)...
Target date as of now is September 1, 2006. I've written a new Foreword, there will be an Afterword by Robert J. Sawyer, small changes and amendments to the text itself, and it'll get a new cover and be retitled Sailing Time's Ocean, giving its second life a truly new presentation. I'm looking forward to it.

Western (The University of Western Ontario) has been in touch with me about returning to teach creative writing again this fall (and perhaps spring). I've signaled my interest and things should be firmed up sometime in April. Something else I'm very much looking forward to. Will keep you posted.

Spring's starting. So long winter. We hardly knew you.
 

February 17, 2006

I'll make this entry a brief one about my 2 older sons (Conor, who turns 28 within 3 weeks, and Owen, who turned 25 yesterday). Conor is one of the writers who is producing and acting in a play being staged at the Neptune theatre in Halifax, Nova Scotia, from February 21 to March 12 (Soul Alone). I'm thrilled for him, and wish I could be there, but it doesn't look like it's in the cards. Here's a link to the production.

Owen turned 25 yesterday and has just been hired as a personal trainer at a local Goodlife Fitness Centre. He finished his physiotherapist assistant course (which included 320 hours of volunteer work at a physiotherapy clinic), where he got exceptional ratings and references. Again: I'm thrilled for him. He starts in March.

I get my kicks just watching them get somewhere. Parenthood in a nutshell.
 

February 4, 2006

Rereading Alfred Bester's 1956 novel The Stars My Destination (first read in the 60s). Remarkable, really. I'm impressed. Flamboyant, extravagant, grotesque, fantastic, conceptually rich. Baroque. Jeez, not bad... I should do reviews again... Seriously: Bester is better than I remembered.

My birthday was Thursday, February 2nd. Merle and Daniel treated me fine -- beyond all expectations. Tom Potter and Chester Kamski took me to lunch yesterday, and Michael and Gina O'Gorman came over for dinner yesterday evening (Michael's birthday was February 3rd -- he's one day my junior... we go back to grade school together... Incredible.) I asked for (and got, from Merle) DVDs of seasons 1 & 2 of the 1950s Superman series starring George Reeves. Daniel and I watched an episode already. Great stuff.

If I wasn't gettin' so old, I'd say that things are just gettin' better!

Ciao.
 

January 2, 2006

And the New Year begins.

Everything worked out (I guess). Merle was off for 2 weeks (goes back to work on the 4th). Santa came and left lots of stuff. I heard Daniel tell a friend of his that his Christmas was "amazing." (That's a favourable assessment). Movies: the 3 of us saw King Kong, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, and today, as I write this, Merle has taken Daniel and her mother to see Cheaper By the Dozen 2 (I passed on that one). I read Frank McCourt's Teacher Man. He's a great memoirist and raconteur -- and he speaks for all teachers. Bill and Judy Kaschuk were over for an evening; Michael and Gina O'Gorman were here for dinner and a great evening (December 23). Chester Kamski, Merle, Daniel and I went to an open house on December 18 hosted by Bill and Judy Reddall. Bill Reddall was Chester and my grade 9 English teacher a million years ago. It was a fine reunion. Tom, Will and Sam Potter were here for dinner yesterday (the kids watched Sky High on DVD). And back on December 14, we were invited out to Rob Sawyer's place for a small get-together for David Hartwell (my editor at Tom Doherty Associates, NY), who was in town for the Fenn sales conference (Fenn distributes their titles in Canada). I hadn't see David in more than 2 years (summer, 2003). I updated him about my teaching, family, etc., and he told me to write another book. I said I would. I said I needed the space and time and ability to focus that I just didn't have right now, but that it would come back. He left me with the impression that he was waiting, which was nice.

Christmas Day, Conor and Angela and Owen were here to join us for dinner. Owen got up early with Daniel to help him set up some of his presents. Merle abandoned the annual turkey for a ham this year, and it was a good decision. Good will all round.

New Year's Eve, Merle and I stayed home and ate Alaskan king crab legs and drank bubbly. Nicely, quietly decadent.

I got an Ergo, orthopedic pillow for Xmas. In my advanced years, my neck and shoulder get sore in the night. I'm about to wage battle against Time. Again.
 

December 10, 2005

My teaching at The University of Western Ontario is finished for now. Daniel will have me back home for the winter and spring. Last day was Tuesday, December 6. I visited a campus Tim Hortons before the 1:30 class, bought enough coffee and hot chocolate for the group of 22 and we had an informal (and enjoyable) final meeting. I delivered back their journals to them (handed in the previous Thursday). They handed in their last assignment (a short story), and those that wanted them back (complete with written feedback) provided me with a stamped, self-addressed envelope (an SASE in the biz) as well.

This is Saturday, the 10th. I've finished reading all the stories, mailed back the ones with envelopes attached, calculated final grades, entered them on the grade-software program used by the department and emailed them as an attachment to the Writing Program's Administrative Assistant. So it is truly over. (For now.)

Part of me misses the group already. It was a terific class. Part of me doesn't miss the twice-a-week long-distance drive at all (the worst was getting in and out of Toronto). But that was the trade-off. And it was worth it, in the final analysis.

I had a talk with Roger Graves and Shelley Clark (the Writing Program Director and Administrative Assistant respectively) the week before it all ended. They were enthusiastic about having me come back and teach at Western for them in the future and I was equally interested in continuing and evolving the course. We arrived at what I hope will be the future of WRITING 211, starting in Fall, 2006. They agreed to change it from its current schedule of 1-hour on Tuesday and 2-hours on Thursday to a single 3-hour class, 1 day a week. This would be ideal for both myself and the students. Clearly, the single day a week timetable simplifies my life immensely. But the chance to work for a solid 3-hour block of time will allow for workshopping of written work in a way that just wasn't possible in the split 1 & 2-hour set-up, with a class averaging around 20 students.

I'm delighted. Already I'm reading books and planning for September, 2006. I hope this will be the kind of ongoing and developing relationship between myself and Western's Writing Program that I hoped it could and would be when I started there September 1st. Simply: it has worked out as best as possible.

And now the Holiday Season...
Merle and Daniel are out shopping right now. I know I have to do it too. I can see myself now, wandering aimlessly about department stores and malls, my mind blank, fearful of disappointing everyone because I have no idea what I'm doing. Egad. *The Pressure.*

Wish me luck.
 

November 20, 2005

Daniel's 5th birthday yesterday. We celebrated with a joint party with his friend and classmate Ethan, who will turn 5 in a couple of weeks. 17 kids at a local Kids' Emporium and Playground called Fantasy Castle. Daniel's big brother, Owen, attended, and broke open the pinata for the gamg, to cheers all round. A great (if overblown) event: good fun.

Today was the 101st annual Santa Claus Parade in Toronto, and we attended. Weather was good. Santa came to town and now the next loop of holiday madness commences. We're gritting our teeth, bearing down, and heading into the whirlwind!
 

November 16, 2005

Not much to say, but thought I should try anyway.

Teaching still going fine. Course ends December 6. Coming like a steamroller. I'm there tomorrow (Thursday) for a 2-hour class. Right now, we're beginning to write our own short stories. Intriguing challenge to convey the rudiments and get others on track (and reasonably inspired) for the task. Marking papers this evening to return to them tomorrow.

Daniel and Merle were in at Western London with me back on November 3 (2 weeks ago) and I took Daniel to class with me. He was so well behaved even I was impressed (and proud and delighted). He turns 5 years of age this Saturday, the 19th, and he and Ethan (a classmate) are sharing a party. Should be wild. Then the Santa Claus Parade the next day (Sunday). I'll try to keep you posted.
 

October 15, 2005

Thanksgiving (Canadian date and style) was celebrated Monday, October 10. Turkey time. Conor and Angela and Daniel feasted with us on Sunday the 9th... Owen was at work, came in late, and devoured leftovers. Much to be thankful for.

My teaching adventure at Western still terrific. Doubt I'll be there 2nd semester (January to April, 06), but expect things to fall into place for next September (06) -- and hopefully make it an annual Fall opportunity. I'd like that.

Daniel and Merle and I spent today with Jan (Daniel's friend) and Eugene (Jan's father) and their family at a "fun farm" an hour or so north-east of Toronto. Animals, things for kids to do, picked apples, raspberries, got our pumpkin, and overrall enjoyed a pretty nice Fall day. Harvest time. Shadows lengthening.

Wonderfully tired right now.
 

September 29, 2005

Word on the Street was a fine event -- as ever. Sold lots of books, talked to lots of people, lots of exposure and lots of goodwill. I'd hazard a guess that the crowd size was down a bit from the previous year. Weather threatened rain most of the day.

Tom Potter and Will here for dinner Saturday the 24th. Will and Daniel watched Shark Boy and Lava Girl on DVD (put those 3D glasses on) afterward while the old folks got a chance to chew the fat like adults.

Still enjoying teaching at Western immensely (one month into the course). What a terrific oportunity and experience. Great class. I feel lucky.

Dinner last night with Michael O'Gorman at his place -- just the two of us... his wife's out of town (Merle will be out of town on business this coming weekend... Daniel and I will be batching it Sunday to Tuesday). Threw a couple of steaks onto the bbq and treated me to his homemade wine. Very nice. Daniel and I will probably have Kraft dinner...

For now...
 

September 11, 2005

An auspicious date above...
Quick update... The trip to Western and London (see Aug 25, below) was a success. Something for everybody. Merle and I celebrated our anniversary with Daniel at East Side Mario's -- the perfect choice with an almost-5-year-old accompanying. We had a small suite at the hotel, so even had a kind of privacy and space that felt luxurious. Managed a day-trip to Grand Bend on Georgian Bay, a big beach resort town. Kinda like taking a mini Fort Lauderdale or Daytona Beach and plunkin' them down in Ontario. A pop-cultural experience.

Back in Toronto on Monday the 5th (Merle's birthday), we went out to Mandarin for the buffet. Daniel had his friend Noah along. Again: fine time.

Fabulous weather. Meetings at Western on Tuesday the 6th, and my first class Thursday the 8th.. Simply: I enjoyed it immensely. A good group. About 20 students present. Got things started and looking forward to future classes. Teaching creative writing at this level  is something I really want to do, and things have started well.

For now...
 

August 25, 2005

Summer sliding to its close. And what a summer. Hot, mostly. We'll be taking a small jaunt to London (Ontario) soon as a family and staying in a hotel (with a pool, for Daniel) for 2 nights (I'm going ahead to take care of some business at Western (University of Western Ontario). Merle and Daniel are coming on the train (complete with dining car!) to join me at the end of the first day. Owen, as usual, will be staying and taking care of the house and his own life. Other than that...

4 photos from the summer so far... Two are from the cottage we rented on Haliburton Lake in July (see August 3 below). Two were taken during a day-trip to the beach at Port Dover (on Lake Erie) in early August (click to enlarge). It was all as good as it looks.
 

Evening on the dock:  baiting the hooks

That moon  hanging over us...

A perfect day...

...for building a sand castle...

Along with Toronto-area-based SF&F writers Robert J. Sawyer, Robert Charles Wilson, Karl Schroeder, Phyllis Gotlieb and Scott Mackay, I'll be at the SFWA (Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America) booth at Toronto's annual Word on the Street Festival (free to the public), held at and around Queen's Park on Sunday, September 25, 2005. Last year it drew more than 200,000 people. I'll be there from 11 AM to 6 PM. It's always a great day, and a unique chance to meet a favorite author and get a signed book (great Christmas present!). Books will be plentiful... Lots of hard-to-find titles, most priced well below retail cost -- a specialty of the festival. Lots to do and see for kids too. Drop by and say hello if you can.

Full schedule for all the authors' appearances at the SFWA booth (#167) at Word on the Street:
Terence M. Green: 11 AM-6 PM.
Robert J. Sawyer: 11 AM-6 PM.
Scott Mackay: 11 AM-3 PM.
Karl Schroeder: 11 AM-1 PM.
Robert Charles Wilson: 1 PM-3 PM.
Phyllis Gotlieb: 3 PM-5 PM.
Ad Astra Convention Rep: 3 PM-5 PM.
 

August 3, 2005

Summer's flying by... The heat wave continues...

Daniel went to Mrs. Park's Summer Fun Camp for the first 3 weeks of July (9 AM to 2 PM, M-F). They have themed weeks. His 3 were Pirates, Bugs and Space. Doesn't get much better than that, folks. Then we were off to a rented cottage on Haliburton Lake, a few hours north of  Toronto, where the summer weather continued to cooperate. Swimming, fishing, lolling about. Read the 2 books I got for Father's Day (see June 22, below) -- both excellent. On the way back, stopping at Kawartha Dairy in Minden for mandatory ice cream, I took a flyer and called old friend Roger Saarimaki at his cottage on nearby Canning Lake, and lo and behold he was around, so we spent the afternoon with him and Leigh and everyone else who dropped by, and had a fine time. Too many years pass by between visits.

Merle and her mother and Daniel are off visiting relatives in Midland, Ontario for a couple of days, so I took the opportunity yesterday to drive to Western (The University of Western Ontario) in London, a 2-hour jaunt, to get a better sense of where I'd be teaching in September. Met Roger Graves, the head of the Writing Program, who was both helpful and friendly, and with whom I look forward to working. Took care of some administrivia, sauntered about the campus, and came away with only positive vibes.

When I began to head out of the city on my way back to Toronto, the exhaust system in my 12-year-old Honda Civic gave way. Rather than drive 2 hours and go deaf, I scouted about for a shop that could repair it, but the work-day was over (close to 6 o'clock.) Booked myself into the Best Western Lamplighter Inn on Wellington, got some dinner (whitefish at Crabby Joe's), relaxed, and spent an unexpected night on a Simmons Beautyrest "Do Not Disturb" Superb Innkeeper (Firm) mattress. Bright and early next morning (8 AM) I was at the Speedy Muffler Shop down the road, where they pulled off the whole rotting mess and replaced it for only a small fortune. Anyway, I'm home. Just another big adventure.

Book News:
Before I left for London, I got a phone call from Rob Sawyer, saying that he wanted to republish my 1992 novel Children of the Rainbow in the "Robert J. Sawyer" line of books that he edits for Canada's Red Deer Press. I'm very pleased. The novel has a curious history, as it was published originally by McClelland & Stewart, Canada's largest publisher -- their first (and last) venture into SF/F. They were unable to acquire a desired US co-publisher for the book, and it didn't sell well enough in Canada alone for them to want to continue with other similar books (in spite of some fine reviews... here's the Books In Canada one at the time...), so I moved (back) into the US market, ending up with Tom Doherty Associates (Tor and Forge Books) in New York for subsequent novels. What should have been a major breakthrough for Canadian SF/F writers never materialized. Truth be told, M&S didn't know anything about SF/F -- what it was, how to market it. A few enthusiastic members of the firm (at the acquisition and editorial level) wanted to get into the field, but it was never sufficiently supported at the top, so the book's life was short and its readership never international. Sometimes this is the way the business goes.

Rob Sawyer, on the other hand, does know the field, and there is definite support at the top. Red Deer Press has international distribution, so for the first time the novel will be available in the US, published and promoted by people who know and care about what they're doing in the field. They're targeting Fall 2006 publication, with a hoped-for launch at the World Fantasy Convention in Austin, Texas (Nov 2-5, 2006).

Good news indeed... Will keep you posted...
 
 

June 22, 2005

Father's Day was Sunday, June 19. I got new pajamas (needed), new garden pruning clippers (needed), lovely breakfast and dinner, and 3 new books (hardcovers of the new releases of 2 of my favorite writers: Robert Crais's The Forgotten Man and James Swain's Mr. Lucky) and the paperback of My Life: (Volume 1, The Early Years), by Bill Clinton. I'm 250 pages into the Clinton already (an interesting take on fathers and sons in its own way), and think I'll try to save ( and savour) the former 2 until we're off for a bit of break in July.

Signed the contract with The University of Western Ontario last week (see June 16 & April 19 below). I'm on faculty  at the rank (and pay scale) of Lecturer. A whole new adventure on the horizon.

Had lunch with Tom Potter at Tim Hortons today. Daniel at soccer tonight. Weather really nice. Things are good.
 

June 16, 2005

Just finished a crazy heat wave here in Toronto, with debilitating humidity (the word humidex has become a modern epithet). Not what we want when we think of summery weather. Rainstorms last night seem to have blown it away, and with it I'm quite amazed to find how much more energy everyone has. Didn't fully realize how sapping it was. Maybe I've even got the steam to write a. small entry here!

Lunch Sunday with Michael and Gina O'Gorman at their house in the west end -- a fabulous spot overlooking the Humber River. The heat was so oppressive, we had to move inside!

Was asked by The University of Western Ontario to give them a list of textbooks to be used in September for the course "Writing 211: Fundamentals of Creative Writing" (see April 19 below), and came up with 3 plus 1:
On Becoming a Novelist, by John Gardner
What We Talk About When We Talk About Love, by Raymond Carver
Flash Fiction, ed. by Thomas, Thomas, Hazuka
plus
Shadow of Ashland, by Terence M. Green

Although I don't believe it likely that folk will become novelists, the Gardner book is nevertheless one of the best I've read on the whole topic of creative writing. The Carver book -- of which I am a great admirer --  is a collection of his stories, all of which can lead to discussion and analysis of the craft and art of fiction. The Flash Fiction anthology contains 72 small fictions, many of which can serve as models and inspirations from which to proceed to one's own voice and vision. And my own Shadow of Ashland should be fun for them to read because I'm right there to ask questions about it, and there should be many. Teaching this course has become something foremost in my mind, and something I'm looking forward to more and more as the fall approaches.

And there have been some preliminary discussions regarding a story of mine in an upcoming anthology, as well as some renewed interest in the film option for Shadow of Ashland. But that's all still floating in the ether...

Daniel's JK world ends in 2 weeks. Unbelievable how quickly the year went, in hindsight. He's there right now, and after school, he's off to play with his friend Jan at his place. We still have to see several movies, including Batman Begins, Madagascar, and Shark Boy and Lava Girl (in 3-D... those glasses!). Are these the kind of films on your must-see list too?
 
 

May 9, 2005

The story Room 1786 will be broadcast on CBC Radio's Between the Covers (Canada's premier book-reading program, aired by over 400 stations nation-wide) Tuesday, May 17 at 2:30 PM and again at 10:40 PM (local Toronto time). It's the second part of a 10-day series entitled SIX IMPOSSIBLE THINGS, curated by Nalo Hopkinson.

Between the Covers airs on CBC Radio One, which is 99.1 FM in the Toronto area. (Check here for station frequencies in other areas.)

The description on the CBC Between the Covers website:

Hope you can tune in...
 

April 19, 2005

Got offered the opportunity yesterday to teach a credit course in the Writing Department in the Faculty of Arts and Humanities of The University of Western Ontario (located in London, Ontario, pop. 500,000 -- some 2 hours west of Toronto), and accepted. It'll mean being on campus only 2 days a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays), commencing in September, 2005.

The course is titled WRITING 211:"Fundamentals of Creative Writing." Classes will be Tuesday, 1:30 - 2:30 PM, and Thursday, 1:30 to 3:30 PM -- a total of 3 hours a week; it runs till December 31, making it officially a "half-course." Added to this will likely be a total of 3 more "office hours" per week --  to be determined on either/or/or both of Tuesday, Thursday as well.

Western has a student population of around 30,000, and is a venerable institution. I'm both pleased and excited. My experience at Mohawk College in 2003-2004 (see Sept 03 - June 04 below) was so positive that it led me to poking about, seeing what else (similar) might be available, and I feel fortunate to have this chance... (Especially at my age...)

I'll keep you posted.
 

April 10, 2005

Spring has sprung here: lovely, warm weather this past weekend. Changed the oil and oil filter on my motorcycle, polished it with turtle wax, and took it for a brief spin. Exhilarating. My good friend Tom Potter and his son Will (10 years old) were here for dinner last night, and we put on a video of Ghostbusters afterward for the kids. The adults ended up watching it too.

The previous week, Marcelle Dube from the Yukon (see March 20, below) was here for dinner and we had a great evening.

Domestic crisis: my automatic garage door opener is acting nuts. The door keeps goiing up and down non-stop. To get it to stay down, I have to wait until it settles and then unplug it. Repairman coming tomorrow or Tuesday. My teeth are gritted.

This weekend the annual Toronto SF convention Ad Astra was held at a hotel here, and I gave a reading from St. Patrick's Bed Saturday and sat on two panels today. Went well. Bought the new Gene Wolfe story collection Innocents Aboard there (with a great cover painting by Rene Magritte) and am loooking forward to reading it.

My son Conor (27 years old) is in Halifax for a few days this week. He and a friend (in the theatre) got a Nova Scotia Arts Council grant to write a play and produce it in Halifax, so he's out there. And in February he got an Ontario Arts Council "Theatre Creators' Reserve" grant to write a play here in Toronto. I'm delighted, and very proud.

Got word that my 1982 short (very short) story "Room 1786" will be read on CBC Radio's Between the Covers, as part of a larger programme featuring short fiction (called Flash Fictions), sometime near the end of May. Will announce times/dates when I know them.

Still working on my income tax return. Kafkaesque.

For now...
 

March 20, 2005

Lots of recent reading and DVD/videos...

Saw the 2003 film (DVD) The Human Stain (see comment, March 2, below), based on Philip Roth's novel. Finest film I've seen in a long time. Read the Robert Crais novel Hostage -- on my son Conor's recommendation. It's a clinic on how to write fast-paced, page-turning commercial fiction. I enjoyed it immensely as such, and would like to see the Bruce Willis film (based on the book) that's just been released. (At the rate we get out, though, I'll probably wait to catch it on DVD/video.) Also read the novel The Searchers by Alan Le May -- the book on which the 1956 John Ford film starring John Wayne is based. A fine book, but I think the film (highly recommended) gives the story even more depth (that rarity: a film that betters the book).

March Break has started here. Merle took Daniel to the Ontario Science Centre today, where they have a wondeful kids' area and they were there the entire afternoon. I stayed home and did my son Owen's income tax. My own is hovering on the horizon -- a task that I never look forward to.

Marcelle Dube, who ran the Yukon Writers' Retreat (that I was invited to as a guest instructor back in 2003), is visiting Toronto this coming week, and will be joining us for dinner on March 22. Looking forward to it for many reasons, the least of which is not the chance to acknowledge and return the terrific hospitality I received while there.
 

March 2, 2005

Been getting lots of snow here in Toronto the last week or two. Shoveled again this morning. And Daniel's home from school today, sick -- bad cold. It's the first day he's missed since he started in September.

Fixed my downspout (see January 30 below), but not sure if it's a permanent solution. Time will tell. Saw both The Aviator and Million Dollar Baby in February, just so I'd know what the Oscars were about. Thought The Aviator was the more impressive of the two. Read Roth's The Human Stain. Very impressive. Watched the 1946 John Ford western My Darling Clementine on video last week, and enjoyed it immensely. Henry Fonda is magnetic.

Making serioius notes (and fumbling starts) to a new novel. I think I've got a handle on it finally. Wish me luck.
 

January 30, 2005

Sunday afternoon. The cold and snow for the month has broken today, and we've got sun. Pretty nice. Now I can see how the ice has split the seam on the downspout of my eavestrough, and I'm scheming (and measuring) how to replace it.

Been re-reading some novels from bygone years and enjoying them. A Canticle for Leibowitz (probably been 25 years since I read it last) is as good as I remembered. And Gregory Benford's Timescape (last read in 1980) is another that holds up as well or better the second time around.

Bought a used hardcover of Paul Theroux's 1989 novel My Secret History and started it today. At page 50 already and looking good.

Saturday Night Event (i.e. -- last night): popcorn, cheesies and beer or apple juice (depending on age), and  watching the 1981 (video) flick Raiders of the Lost Ark with Daniel (born 2000). It's all new to him!
 

January 12, 2005

Had a great Christmas and New Year. Trust and hope the same was true for you. Santa left Spiderman City, new skates for Daniel, books for all of us, and sundry other stuff under the tree... and we now live in a DVD world (perhaps the last people we know to hop on this techno-train). Conor, Angela and Owen were all here too --  the way it should be.

Merle and I stayed home on New Year's Eve and had some crab legs and bubbly to help celebrate. On New Year's Day, good friend Tom Potter and his son, Will (10 years old) joined us for dinner, giving Daniel someone to play with for the evening. And thus we slide into 2005...

Already trying to book a cottage for a week this coming July. How's that for advance thinking?

Two copies of the Polish edition of Shadow of Ashland arrived in the mail today (see December 11, below). Neat. They did a good job... I'm impressed. Good motivation to try to get producing again...

It's actually raining today -- quite miserable. Strange weather for January.  I'm reading Philip Roth's The Plot Against America. It's an incredible book -- most impressive I've read in a long time. Puts most of the rest of us writers in our place...
 
 

December 11, 2004

Shadow of Ashland was published this month by Zysk, in Poland. Translator: Beata Hrycak. I don't have a copy yet, but here's the cover... Fascinating (click to enlarge):

Christmas right around the corner. Put the tree up yesterday. Try to remember/imagine what it's like to be 4 years old at this time of year, like Daniel in our house. He's in a definite whirl...

Saw The Polar Express at the movies last week with Daniel. It scared him. A good movie, but it wasn't the Christmas experience we were hoping for. We're looking forward to his concert at the school this coming Wednesday. Should be head-shaking incredible. And the latest (JK) class picture, taken earlier this fall (click to enlarge):

It's Saturday afternoon. There's a soft snow falling outside. The house is transforming inside and out to the season.
 
 

November 21, 2004

Today was the 100th Annual Santa Claus Parade in Toronto, and Daniel and Merle and I attended, along with several hundred thousand others. The weather cooperated as well -- very nice... sun/cloud, about 10 degrees celsius. Our terrific fall weather continues. At 4 years of age (his birthday was 2 days ago), Daniel was the perfect age to appreciate the event, and that made it special fun.

And Parenting has been the name of the game this past weekend... Friday (I'm writing this on Sunday evening), we had Conor, Angela, Owen and Merle's mother here for Daniel's birthday, and Conor and Owen helped him put together his special present (the Hot Wheels Cyborg track, which he asked for). It's an amazing piece of nonsense. You have to be 4 years old. And Saturday afternoon, he had a kids' party here, with 6 friends, and we hosted that incredible event. Needless to say, we're whipped this evening -- but everyone's happy.

Life is good.
 

October 13, 2004

Thanksgiving (of the Canadian sort) came and went this past weekend, and we were the beneficiaries of more continuing fabulous fall weather. The turkey made its appearance, and Conor and Angela and Owen and Daniel and Merle and I wined and dined together, a gathering for which I honestly and easily give thanks.

JK is still a work-in-progress for Daniel, but we're getting our routines down nicely. He told me yesterday that I was right... School was fun.

Enjoying the soft sun and distinctly fall edge to the weather. It's the best time of the year. Every day richer than the last, because it just can't last.
 

September 28, 2004

The Word on the Street Festival was held this year in and around the Queen's Park circle here in Toronto, and according to newspaper reports attracted some 200,000 people. The weather cooperated and we had a stunningly lovely, September day. Participating at our SFWA booth: myself, Robert J. Sawyer, Robert Charles Wilson, Scott Mackay, Karl Schroeder, and Andrew Weiner, as well as a team promoting the annual Toronto Ad Astra Convention.

Had a chance to sell books, meet people, and hopefully broaden our readership. A fine day. Tom Potter and his son, Will dropped by, as did former EYCI teachers George Heighington and Ted Anderson, and one-time colleague Peter Paulseth. Also saw ex-students who were kind enough to come up and say hello (and buy a book!). A big annual event here in the city, and getting bigger...
 

September 10, 2004

Yesterday was one of those days a person has every 50 years or so. I had dinner with Michael O'Gorman, my boyhood "best friend" from grades 1, 2 & 3, who moved away back circa 1954-55, and with whom I was able to reestablish contact recently. We met at Yonge & Eglinton here in Toronto, about 3 blocks from our boyhood homes and the grade school we both attended, and settled in for 3 hours or so at a local restaurant for a remarkable evening of shared reminiscences and updating. I'm still a bit dizzy from it. He's done fabulously well, and I'm looking forward to similar get-togethers in the future.

Now this is time travel.
 

August 27, 2004

And 2 more photos from the recent vacation (see August 16, below), sent to us from my cousin, Jacquie, who viisted us there for an afternoon... (click to enlarge):

August 16, 2004

Back from a week's vacation (Aug 7-14) at a rented cottage on Steenburg Lake, about 150 miles northeast of Toronto. Weather wasn't the greatest, but we enjoyed ourselves. And Daniel caught a fish, so the trip was complete. I love our cottage country, and try to get there at least once a summer. Always stirs memories of my own boyhood, with my parents. Try to pass some of that on.

A few summary photos (click on each to enlarge):
 

Daniel & I in deep discussion

The paddleboat

Marshmallows in the evening

Fishin' off the dock

July 25, 2004

This writing business... Hard to explain to others how things progress.. Two steps forward and one backward... I've been working on the beginning of a novel for some time now, and although I'm sure I've got something, it never quite satisfied. I've been having trouble making the main character sympathetic and someone with whom a reader might identify (given what he does)--both vital areas. I've  tried exploring his thoughts and psychology in various ways, but always had a nagging feeling about it all. I think about it while I'm dressing, while showering, when I'm driving in the car... Whenever I seem to have a slightly glassy, otherworldly glaze on my face, I'm usually "writing," no matter where/when I am.

So I think I finally solved it. It'll involve rewriting most of what I've done to date (rewriting is always easier than writing, because you're working from something instead of from nothing). That's the way it goes sometimes. To the outsider, the final reader, it can appear so smooth, so seamless, that they seldom know the false starts, the dead ends that are encountered and must be backed up from, the rewriting that is what most writing consists of. I was reminded of this recently when I read an account of John Irving having turned in his latest novel, all written in the 1st person, and how he "suddenly realized" that it should have been written in the 3rd person, and how he asked for the manuscript back and delayed its publication while he rewrote the whole thing. Made my decision seem like small potatoes.

So I'm going to try a different approach and hope it leads the story where I want it to go. Once again into the breach. Wish me luck.

Daniel loved Bug Camp, so we enrolled him in the next week's Space Camp. I think he's all camped out now. Today he's off to Emmy's 4th birthday party. What a life!
 

July 10, 2004

As writer-in-residence at Mohawk College, I met lots of great people. One of them was J.S. Porter, gentleman and scholar. John teaches liteature there and is a fine writer and sensitive critic. His book, Spirit Book Word, An Inquiry into Lterature and Spirituality, deserves a much wider readership. He's recently launched his own web site, and I wanted to provide a link to it for anyone interested. I recommend it as a portal into a quiet, thoughful space, and an introduction to an underrated writer. See for yourself: Spirit Book Word (also linked at bottom of Main Page).
 

July 5, 2004

Had a lovely holiday weekend... Merle had 4 days off work, and we enjoyed the break. Took Daniel to see Spiderman 2 yesterday, and was very impresed. It's a terrific movie. We've been answering questions about Doc Ock ever since, so today I took him to Indigo Books to buy the Spiderman 2 book, then off to Zellers where we bought an action figure of Doc Ock. Everybody seems happy.

Two recent videos that we rented and thought highly of: In America, and Big Fish. Quite different from one another, but both moving, thought-provoking films. Reading Paul Theroux's Dark Star Safari, his travel memoir about the overland trip from Cairo to Capetown. Engrossing.

Next week (July 12-16) Daniel goes to a Summer Fun Camp (9 AM to 2 PM daily, for one week only). It's called "Bugs and Other Friends." Sounds perfect for a guy with his interests.

Off to McMaster University (Hamilton, Ontario) on Tuesday, July 20. I've been asked to give a workshop to the summer students who participate in the Shad Valley program. I've just learned about it myself (since being asked). It's a program located in 11 participating universities across Canada (McMaster being one), involving senior high school students who apply and pay for the privilege of being selected to partake of the "enriched" activities offered. [A web site link, if you're interested in further details: Shad Valley.]

Finished a draft of a short story this last month. Will keep you posted.

Summer's definitely here.
 

June 1, 2004

Ah, high school... My time there was 40 to 45 years ago, but when I see folks from then, it's only yesterday... and that's what happened. Bill Kaschuk and I have been friends for some 40 years now, and he lives locally, so we still manage to get together. But Larry Swain lives in Ottawa, and I last saw him 8 years ago, and before that, 20 years slid by. They both dropped by for an afternoon visit yesterday, as Larry was in town and made the requisite phone call to see if we were still compos mentis. Clearly, the jury's still out on that, but he visited anyway, and it was a great time. I'm still reeling from it. 40 years in the blink of an eye.

I'll be in Hamilton this coming Sunday, reading at the Junction Cafe, so since I'm on the theme of reminiscing, a bit here re my time as writer-in-residence at Mohawk College...
During my 2 semesters there, I handled 19 individual one-hour consultation/critiques with student/faculty/community writers. I was invited speaker in 21 different classes, averaging more than an hour per session. I conducted a 2-hour journalism workshop for Darryl Hartwick (Coordinator/Professor, Journalism & Communications Media), a one-and-a-half hour professional development session for Mohawk faculty (arranged by Cate Walker-Hammond), was Keynote Speaker at the OASFAA (Ontario Association of Student Financial Aid Advisors) Fall Conference, attended by multiple representatives of every college and university in Ontario, and delivered a one-hour public lecture ("The Naked Writer"), attended by more than 50 people. In addition, Christine Cox of The Hamilton Spectator ("average daily readership of 260,000 adults") attended one of my class visits, accompanied by a staff photographer, and the result was much positive publicity for Mohawk (cf. article online)   And this is just what I can remember sitting here. All this--good memories all--will float about in my head as I drive down the QEW on Sunday,
 

April 30, 2004

Domestic and family stuff this last few weeks... Attended my brother's (Dennis's) daughter's wedding on April 17. Vanessa asked our Daniel to be the ring bearer, but at the last minute he froze and Merle became the ring-bearer-bearer down the aisle--another memorable family moment. It was a good time, though--a rare chance to see distant family.

Had my garage vinyl-sided the last few days, so I'd never have to paint it again (as if I have nothing better to do with my money). Have to admit, though, it looks great. The same folks are coming back some time next week to install new sliding doors to the back deck, so I don't have to struggle with them ever again. As you can see, I'm beginning to doubt the wisdom of spending time battling real estate entropy.

Next week we meet with the teacher, Mrs. Brown,  who will be in charge of Daniel's junior kindergarten class next September. (Mrs. Brown, this is Mr. Green). Should be a slice.

Things are good. Will keep you posted.
 

April 6, 2004

Today was my last day as writer-in-residence at Mohawk College for the semester. I won't be back for the spring or summer terms, but the Language Studies Department would like to bring me back in September, if it's in the upcoming (still unresolved) budget picture, so it's out of my hands. Simply: I enjoyed it immensely, and would welcome the (relatively rare) opportunity to continue in the post. It was a unique opportunity, and I have nothing but good things to say about the people and work being done at Mohawk.
 

March 20, 2004

Merle and Daniel accompanied me to Mohawk College yesterday (Friday). Merle had never been, and Daniel got a chance to see "where Daddy goes to work." My contract there expires at the end of this semester (April 23), and they might not get another chance to visit (although things are still being decided at Mohawk regarding September; I would enjoy it very much if the position continues).

From Hamilton we continued on to Niagara Falls overnight, where we had a suite booked overlooking the Falls. It's a great spot for kids. There's lots of mindless stuff to do, and Daniel enjoyed it (and we enjoyed his enjoyment). Back home today, tired. Good time.
 

February 26, 2004

Sunny  outside (but still winter with lots of snow on the ground). Daniel's friend Garrett is here today as a playmate. They're downstairs now, discussing whether they'll play Rescue Heroes, Spiderman or Power Rangers. It's a big decision.

Feeling much better (see January 31, below). Still think I'm more tired than I should be, but...

Will be speaking next Wednesday, March 3, at St. Francis Xavier Secondary School, a  local secondary school in nearby Mississauga, during their "Celebrate Reading" week. Looking forward to it. The next day, March 4, I speak to a class of 45 music students at Mohawk College (Hamilton). It's been suggested I compare the composition of a piece of writing to a piece of music, and the value of each. Looking forward to that too.

Carrying on...
 

January 31, 2004

Under the weather the last couple of weeks. Turns out I've got what my doctor called a "patch of pneumonia" in my left lung. I've had fever, chills, headaches, lack of energy and appetite, coughing too much, and a chest full of crud. I'm in the middle of 10 days of antibiotics. Other than all that, life is beautiful.

I was able to get a good portion of the beginning of the new novel on paper this last month. Will be reporting on it more regularly this spring I trust, as it takes more shape.

There's been a flurry of renewed interest in my novel Shadow of Ashland in the city of Ashland itself. Several letters to the editor about it (it's being rediscovered) have appeared this week in the city's paper, the Daily Independent, and there's some interest in having me visit the city for their 150th birthday in September of 2004. I've been talking (phone, email) to a couple of people in Ashland about it this week, and will follow up further. We'll see what happens. I'd love to go back for a visit -- especially under such circumstamces.

January 1, 2004

Both the Batmobile and the tool bench (see Dec 15, below) showed up under the Xmas tree, as did sundry other goodies.

Conor and Angela stayed over Xmas Eve to be here for the next morning's excitement--as seen through the eyes of 3-year-old Daniel. Owen and his friend Laura were also here. The Xmas turkey made its annual appearance. A smooth, lovely event.

Merle and I stayed home last night (New Year's Eve), ate some snow crab, popped a small bottle of inexpensive bubbly and celebrated by watching the countdown on TV, then retired to sit in front of the fireplace with our bottle of wine. Owen stayed in as well, and he and Laura ate dinner and celebrated by themselves in his place downstairs. Our holidays have been incredibly civil and enjoyable. Add to it all the uneasonably warm (and welcome) weather, and it's been really good.

Daniel starts nursery school Monday, January 5. He'll be attending 3 days a week (M,W,F) from 9 AM to 11:30 AM.
I start back at Mohawk College Monday January 12--with 2 appointments already booked for that day.

Happy New Year!
 

December 15, 2003

We actually got him onto Santa's knee. He asked for a tool bench and a Batmobile. Santa thought both were possible, so he's got his fingers crossed. (Click photo to enlarge).

November 30, 2003

Got a couple of recent photos of Daniel that I wanted to post here... A great Halloween shot, and a 3rd birthday party (with playmate Garrett)... Click on each to enlarge.

November 26, 2003

It's been public speaking time as Writer-in-Residence...:

• Two weeks ago (November 12) I gave my talk to the 50 or so folks who showed up at noon at Mohawk, which went very well.
• On Friday, November 21, I went to Grimsby, Ontario (between Hamilton and Niagara Falls), and was guest speaker at the 2003 OASFAA Fall Conference (Ontario Association of Student Financial Aid Advisors). I spoke to a large group of close to 200, gathered from all Ontario colleges and universities. The conference was held at Kittling Ridge Winery Inn and Suites, a pretty spot in the Niagara wine region. Again, I felt it was more than worthwhile, and the lovely sunny day made the drive quite pleasant.
• Today I spent from 10 AM to 11:30 AM with a group of 35 or so journalism students at Mohawk -- another interesting and worthwhile experience.

On Tuesday, November 18, I had lunch with outgoing Mohawk President, Cal Haddad in a nice restaurant overlooking Hamilton Harbour at the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce. Cal is retiring at the end of 2003, and even though I've known him only briefly, I feel like I know him well. He tells me he'll be travelling. I think he'll find something else at his level to interest him within a year or two. Cal Haddad made many innovations at Mohawk in his tenure there, including my post. He tells me he's also instituted 2 musicians-in-residence for next semester, as well as extending my position. If only all college presidents could see their way so clearly to the benefits of supporting the Arts. May his successor have his vision and sense of innovation.

[Oh yes... The Globe and Mail published the book review I mentioned (see Sept. 11/03 entry below) back on
November 1st. If interested, you can click here.]
 

November 8, 2003

For anyone out there who might be interested...
I'm scheduled to give a one-hour public talk at noon, Wednesday, November 12, at Mohawk College (Fennell Campus) in Hamilton. The topic has been posted as:

I'll be in Room C114. Directions to Mohawk College can be attained by clicking on this link.
 

October 31, 2003

I'll be back as Writer-in-Residence at Mohawk College again in the second semester (January - April, 2004). We created a situation that would work for all of us, and agreed on the terms today. The major difference is that I'll only be on campus one day a week instead of two, as is currently the case. Something like this: 3 Mondays in a row, then 3 Tuesdays, then 3 Wednesdays, etc.... All else remains essentially the same.

The Canada Council isn't a part of it this time. It's strictly a deal between myself and Mohawk, based on our mutual satisfaction with how well things are going this semester. I'll be there as "part-time faculty."

I'm very pleased. I'm working with good people. This is a unique situation, and I consider myself lucky to be a part of it.
 

October 23, 2003

The Hamilton Spectator today ran a very nice piece about my Writer-in-Residency at Mohawk College. The writer of the article, Christine Cox, spent time interviewing me and folks in the Language Studies Department last Thursday (Oct 16), and came with a photographer to a talk I gave to a group of students on Tuesday (Oct 21). The result is fine press for Mohawk (in fact, they've posted the article on their website), and a positive look at the advantages of hosting such a post for students and faculty in Ontario colleges.

Hamilton, Ontario is a city of 500,000. The Spectator is the dominant newspaper for the city and area.

If interested, I've posted the original HERE.

(There's the start of an attempt to bring me back to Mohawk for a second semester... Things to be worked out still... Will keep you posted.)
 

September 30, 2003

It's Tuesday. Sunday's Word on the Street Festival has come and gone, and ranks as a great success. Newspapers reported 170,000 people out and about, strolling past the tables and booths on Queen Street.  Met readers, sold books and enjoyed the day immensely. And we got good weather (well... until it cooled down later in the day, then these old bones felt it).

The October 2003 issue of The New York Review of Science Fiction showed up in my mailbox yesterday, and there staring at me was the lead article: Growing into Writing: An Autobiographical Essay (by Terence M. Green), complete with 2 photogeaphs taken by David Hartwell during his August visit to Toronto. The amazing thing is that it got into print so quickly. If you know anything about the writing/publishing business, this is unheard of. Everything usually moves at a snail's pace (this is not a business for the impatient). Be interesting to see if there's much (or any) response) to the piece, in the form of letters of comment, since a personal essay of this sort isn't the magazine's usual fare.

At Mohawk today, I visited a class to talk about aspects of effective description (as asked by the teacher). It's been quite a while since I've been in the classroom (4 years since my retirement from teaching), and I enjoyed the experience very much.
I'm slated to visit another class tomorrow.

For Now...
 

September 26, 2003

Finished another week at Mohawk College. Still enjoying the experience very much (the drive there and back less so). It's really going to pick up in the next few weeks, though, and get busier.

Going to a wedding tomorrow. Conor and Angela coming over to look after Daniel. He's looking forward to it. And Sunday (day after tomorrow) will be the Word on the Street Festival in Toronto. I'll be at the SFWA tables (66 & 68, near Duncan and Queen) all day

David Hartwell  (my editor at Tor/Forge Books in NY) sent a handful of photos (arrived in the mail today) that they took while visiting here (see Septembe 6/03 entry below) during Torcon in late August. Here's one I like... (Click to enlarge)... Me and Daniel, David and Elizabeth:

September 11, 2003

Spent today (Thursday) and Tuesday at Mohawk College, Mostly, it was a matter of meeting folks, filling in forms, setting up, getting a key to my office, learning where the washrooms are (and other vital info of that sort). But I did enjoy myself very much, and am heartened by everything so far. It looks like it'll be a great experience. I feel very fortunate to have happened upon all this. I've booked a couple of appointments and had a request to visit and speak to 2 classes in early October, so word is spreading that I'm out and about. It's a start.

The New York Review of Science Fictionwill be reprinting my autobiographical essay (see August 20 entry below) in an upcoming issue. And I've agreed to do a book review for The Globe and Mail (Canada's National Newspaper), who asked. I haven't reviewed for them since my last stint (1988-1990), in spite of offers. Once I started to write and publish my own novels, it was something that just slipped aside. But the one they've asked for sounds interesting, and I'd like to do it.

And Daniel has taken nicely to going down the street to Sandra's, playing with the other kids and spending his day in a completely new environment. It seems to be working fine for him too, and this is really the important part.

More soon...
 

September 6, 2003

The World SF Convention was held here in Toronto (first time in 30 years) August 28-September 1. About 4,000 people involved--fans, readers, editors, publishers, writers, etc. Had a chance to have dinner  with editor David Hartwell and his family (here from New York), participate on some panels, and in general, enjoy the event.

One of my best friend's daughters got married (a telltale sign of my age?) on August 30. Conor and his friend Angela looked after Daniel for the day. It was, as a result, a great day for all.

And yesterday, I attended a get-together at Mohawk College, getting to know a few more people. Getting myself organized for next week. Will keep you posted...

New photo taken last week in August of Conor, Owen, Daniel. Click to enlarge. Enjoy.