David Poulsen in Quebec

The week I spent in Montreal in the company of terrific people and being part of wonderful events – all organized by the amazing Carol-Ann Hoyte – reminded me again just how amazing Book Week continues to be.

My first day “on the job” set the tone for the week. Immediately after my arrival in Montreal I had dinner with Carol-Ann and three Quebec touring writers before heading off to meet with a talented group of CANSCAIP members.

The next day I was off on a whirlwind tour of schools and libraries in St. Hubert, Chateauguay, Kahnawake and finally back to Montreal for an evening presentation – a long day, but an exhilarating one.

Wednesday saw me headin’ west on a commuter train for a morning in Beaconsfield and an afternoon at St. Lazare. Two terrific schools, two marvelous librarians and a whack of cool kids made the day spectacular.

Carol-Ann had labeled Thursday the “day of the private schools” and it was that. I presented at Loyola High School (twice) and Selwyn House, where Carol-Ann is one of the librarians. A final stop that evening at the home of the Quebec Federation of Home and School Associations.

Friday found me back on the commuter train (by now I was a veteran of that mode of travel). This time the event was at John Abbott College in St. Anne de Bellevue.

We writers are so blessed to have the CCBC with its staff and volunteers putting together a program like Book Week. It’s obviously great for the artists who participate in the week, but I can’t help but think how important it is for the thousands of kids from coast-to-coast-to-coast who are given the chance to meet and interact with writers, illustrators and storytellers from other parts of Canada. Thank you to all who make this program possible and who made my small part in it so memorable.

Book Week = Great Week!