Critic’s Choice

Lecture

Critic's Choice My Friends

Elaine Newton, Professor Emeritus of Humanities at York University, Toronto

My Friends
by Fredrik Backman

No. 1 New York Times bestselling author Fredrik Backman returns with My Friends, a tender, funny and intricately crafted novel about friendship, memory and the power of art. Shifting between past and present, Backman tells the story of four teenage friends whose lives — turbulent, intimate and unforgettable — become immortalized in a now-famous painting. Decades later, a young artist named Louisa, mourning the loss of her closest friend, finds unexpected comfort in a postcard of that very painting. As she searches for its origins and contemplates the truths it holds, Louisa discovers that, like friendship, art has the power to transcend time. Elaine Newton leads a rich conversation on this poignant and beautifully layered novel.

This presentation is part of Elaine Newton's Critic’s Choice series.

Please note: The Thursday lecture will be held in Daniels Pavilion. The Saturday lecture will be held in Hayes Hall.

Elaine Newton

Elaine Newton

For over 40 years, Elaine has planned and conducted adult education courses throughout North America. This is the 36th season of her Critic’s Choice literature series and the 30th anniversary of her Four O’clock at the Movies series. She also initiated and taught the pioneering Artis—Naples seminar discussion program, the Questors, for 12 years. Elaine has worked as a book critic for Toronto’s The Globe and Mail, been a special consultant to the Ontario Library Association, led movie and theater discussions and served as a consultant to the North York Board of Education. She continues to conduct an annual lecture series at the Toronto Public Library and makes frequent guest appearances on TV and radio. Elaine has an enthusiastic and loyal following each season as she offers insightful commentary about contemporary fiction and motion pictures.