Past Imperfect
with Suzette Mayr
Hosted by Jael Richardson
In Person Fiction History
Suzette Mayr brings to life –believably, achingly, thrillingly –a whole world contained in a passenger train moving across the Canadian vastness, nearly one hundred years ago. As only occurs in the finest historical novels, every page in The Sleeping Car Porter feels alive and immediate –and eerily contemporary. The sleeping car porter in this sleek, stylish novel is named R.T. Baxter –called George by the people upon whom he waits, as is every other Black porter. Baxter’s dream of one day going to school to learn dentistry coexists with his secret life as a gay man, and in Mayr’s triumphant novel we follow him not only from Montreal to Calgary, but into and out of the lives of an indelibly etched cast of supporting characters, and, finally, into a beautifully rendered radiance.
Author and founder of the Festival of Literary Diversity, Jael Richardson hosts a deep dive into Canada’s past with Scotiabank Giller Prize nominee Susette Mayr. Unfortunately, Chelene Knight is no longer able to participate in this event.
The Sleeping Car Porter, by ReLit Award Winner Suzette Mayr, brings to life an important part of Black history in North America. Told from the perspective of a queer man living in a culture that renders him invisible in two ways, it’s 1929. When a mudslide strands a train, Baxter must contend with the perils of white passengers, ghosts, and his secret love affair.
PLEASE NOTE: For the safety and comfort of all patrons, masks are required to attend in person.
Most people coming by car park for free at the Supreme Court of Canada on Wellington St.
Ticket holders unable to attend in person can request access to the livestream. Livestream links will be sent about an hour prior and will remain active for 48 hours. Please email leslie@writersfestival.org to request a link.
Books are available from our friends at Perfect Books.
The Ottawa International Writers Festival is supported by generous individuals like you. Please consider subscribing to our newsletter and making a donation to support our programming and children’s literacy initiatives.
