This week we head back to the July 2002 issue of Q&Q, and an article by Erin Gault on how young authors such as Dave Eggers and Sheila Heti were forgoing the traditional bookstore readings in favour of “offbeat happenings.”

Gault writes:

These new-style book events rarely take place in bookstores. They are more likely to be found in pubs and clubs, with lots of booze, smoke, and, sometimes, live music. They are open-to-the-public events, not invite-only, industry affairs. But it’s the events themselves, not just their venues or audiences, that are breaking boundaries.

As examples of alternative book launches, the article cites events such as Heti’s Trampoline Hall lecture series, Wayde Compton’s DJ and poetry night, and Joe Ollmann’s 13- city puppet show tour for the launch of his graphic novel, Chewing on Tinfoil.

Trendsetting authors Dave Eggers, Sheila Heti, Jim Munroe, and Joe Ollmann