News
Inspiring the Next Generation of Writers
Writer Emma KNIGHT ’06 returned to BSS last week as this year’s Hill Canadian Author, joined by her friend and fellow writer Monica AINLEY de la Villardière ’06.
BSS English teachers Monica Hodgson and Annette Chiu introduced Emma and Monica with fond memories from their English and Media Arts days. Emma, whose debut novel The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus was short-listed for a Giller Prize, spoke about how motherhood, her university years in Edinburgh and the experiences she’s gathered along the way shaped her journey to writing fiction. She encouraged students to pay attention to what feels authentic and meaningful to them, and to take their creative interests seriously.
After the fireside chat and Q&A, Emma and Monica met with Grade 11 and 12 students to reflect on creativity and the winding paths that can lead to a life in the arts. That evening, we welcomed members of the BSS community and special guests, including our generous donors, for a reading and reception celebrating the 40th year of the Hill Canadian Authors Fund.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Hill Family for their vision and generosity, which make it possible for BSS students to connect with some of Canada’s most outstanding literary voices.
