Spotlight on: Fiona McIntosh

ImageFiona McIntosh was born in England and spent several years of her early life  travelling the globe with her family before settling in Australia when she was 19. Her primary career was in the travel industry, before she claims ‘a mid-life crisis… for the sudden shift to becoming a full time author.’

Her early novels are of the fantasy genre and her first,  Betrayal, part one of the Trinity trilogy, was snapped up by the first publisher she sent it to, a very rare thing for an author. She then went on to write three more fantasy trilogies, as well as some children’s fiction and lately large historical epics. Her latest book, The Lavender Keeper was released just last week.

Fiona will be visiting the Library to talk about her life and her writing on May 28 at 6.30pm. Bookings details will be available on our website.

Get down and literary with the National Year of Reading

I’m very proud to be a librarian and I’m a huge supporter of life long learning but I’m sad to say –  I just don’t read enough! However, if there was any year to get myself into gear it would be twenty-twelve for it is the National Year of Reading. Inspired recently by some very clever women out there I have a theme to my recreational reading pursuits – “Beginnings.” I’ll be searching out first novels by cult authors Julian Barnes and Martin Amis, and, reaching for debut novels that are released this year by Australian authors. Celebrate and participate in the National Year of Reading however you choose but if you’re looking for somewhere to start Public Library Services is hosting a launch on Tuesday 14 February from 12pm under the Gawler Place Canopy in Rundle Mall, Adelaide. Included on the list of guests is the charming Mem Fox who will be reading from one of her famous books. So scrap all of your Valentine’s Day plans and get literary with your fine self.

You can find all of the official details here.

The Nun’s Story

Margaret Bolton launches Not Another Nun Story

Local author Margaret Bolton launched her debut book, Not Another Nun Story with a record start to the new year program of events. 90 people came along ,which for a local author, launching their debut book, is a remarkable turnout! Even the publisher sold out of their available stock for the night as well. Margaret’s book describes her late teens and early twenties as a nun and how convent life is challenging for an adolescent. The Library has a copy you can check out, or you can buy a copy from Ginninderra Press.

South Australia’s Extreme Weather

Bureau of Meteorology historian Tony Rogers will be giving a talk at the library on the extreme weather that South Australia has faced since colonisation and its impact on people. This is an evening event on November 3rd and should prove to be a fascinating account of the catastrophes and necessity for human adaptation to cope with the variances in SA’s weather.  Cheese and wine will be served at this event. Further info from our website.

Michele Hill, maker of beautiful quilts

Michele Hill will be visiting the Library on Wednesday 27 October at 11am, to give a talk about William Morris, textile and pattern designer, and the quilts she has made inspired by William Morris and the Arts and Craft era. Her book, William Morris in applique is available for loan from the Library – reserve it now to have a look at Michele’s gorgeous handiwork! Or to read more about the man himself, we also have his autobiography.

Michele is currently travelling overseas, and you can get to know her via her website, or follow her travels via her blog. She is in Lithuania at the moment!

Bookings are now open to meet Michele in person, just call 8397 7333. Places are limited, and there’s been a number of people really looking forward to this event, so book now!

Are you brave enough to be a poet?

Local publisher Ginninderra Press are hosting a free public forum at the Library on Sunday September 12th. As described by Stephen Matthews from Ginninderra it’s “a discussion chaired by Sharon Kernot with guest speakers Brenda Eldridge, Jill Gower and Gary MacRae followed by readings by local poets including Graham Catt, Max and Jaqui Merckenschlager, John Sabine and Ros Schultz.” More info on our website. Cheese and wine will be supplied!

Making it happen in SA… and in China

SA author and rural pioneer Hugh Robinson will talk about his teaching experiences in China and the current situation there as well as his involvement with opening up rural SA with his family in the 1960s. Hugh’s family were pivotal in opening up the Southeast of South Australia in the area around Keith for pastoral land during the 1950’s. Hugh went to China with his wife in 2005 to teach general and business English to Chinese students and was encouraged to write a book about his families’ exploits and his experiences in China upon his return which became the book ‘Making it happen in South Australia.’ Hugh will talk mainly about his experiences in China and also a little about his family’s role in the south east. More info about this event is available on our website.

Jill Wherry launches her CD

Local humorous bush poet Jill Wherry returns to the library to launch a CD recording of some of the poems from her recently published collection Definitely not Shakespeare. Featuring trademark poems like ‘Shopping for a bra is hell’, Jill will delight with her wit and humour at this special event. Next Wednesday September 1st from 6.30pm. Check out the website for more info.

Romancing the Chinese Characters

Local resident and Tea Tree Gully councillor Joy Ricci, is launching her second non-fiction work, Romancing the Chinese Characters in Classical Chinese Poetry at a special event on Saturday June 26th. Joy’s work is a result of her PhD study, which focusses on translation and historical mis-translation of Chinese poetry. Lieutenant Governor Mr Hieu Van Le is set to officially launch the book! Come along for a taste of Eastern culture. More details are on the website.