A passion for stories lies at festival’s heart
Toronto’s annual book and magazine extravaganza offers myriad of subjects to discover and explore
While leaves begin to flutter to the ground and the fresh scent of autumn fills the air, The Word On The Street (WOTS) prepares to usher in its 29th year.
Toronto’s cherished outdoor book and magazine festival is the best place to stock up on reads for the chilly seasons ahead, but more than that, for the 200,000 word lovers it attracts annually, WOTS is a creative and inspirational gathering hub.
The free family-friendly fest, happening Sept. 23 from10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Harbourfront Centre (235 Queens Quay W.), is a showcase of Canadian literary works in all genres and includes some of the country’s most notable authors reading their works.
This is all topped off with a lively marketplace boasting about 265 vendors pedalling books, magazines and indie zines, appealing to readers of all ages and any literary appetite.
“We’ve tried to maintain the programming elements that have proved successful for us in the past,” said festival director David Alexander.
“The main goal is to be a place of exploration and discovery and to really provide the most genres as possible. It’s an entry point to books and writing in Canada.”
Festgoers can expect to find everything from homegrown bestsellers to works by up-andcoming authors, as well as books for kids, young adults, poetry fans and those seeking a good memoir.
Meanwhile, more than 180 featured guests are taking part with readings, panel discussions, book signings and workshops.
At the heart of the fair is a shared passion for stories. Even as modern times increasingly call our attention to multiple electronic devices, the demand for traditional books and storytelling remains strong.
Like many, Alexander’s connection to cherished memorable stories began during childhood.
“Growing up, my grandmother was sort of an amateur storyteller,” he explained. “She was with the Guelph Guild of Storytellers and told stories at the library. That was one of the joys of being there. For me, there is a connection to storytelling — it is kind of an intimate gesture. Even if you’re in a room with 50 other people you’re invited into someone else’s imagination. You trust that the writer has spent the time really thinking something through and you’re going to come away with ideas, a critique, a history. You have writers who’ve done the work of really crafting a story to take you places you don’t necessarily expect to go.”
Happening inside and on the outside grounds of Harbourfront Centre, the festival’s setting is idyllic. Nestled next to the scenic lakefront, the destination carries with it the sense of escaping the disruptive noise and chaos of city life. In other words, it’s the perfect place to kick back, relax with a cup of coffee and crack open a good book.
“Harbourfront has a lot to offer,” said Alexander. “The waterfront is certainly beautiful in September and the location is a bit more of a destination.”
For more information about the event, visit thewordonthe street.ca/toronto.