Critic’s Choice

Lecture

Critic's Choice Whistler

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

Whistler
by Ann Patchett

A chance encounter at the Metropolitan Museum of Art reunites a successful woman with the stepfather she has not seen since childhood. Their time together decades earlier was brief, ending after a car accident altered both of their lives, but its influence never disappeared. As past and present converge, Pulitzer Prize finalist Ann Patchett’s Whistler considers the choices we make, the choices made for us and the rare relationships that continue to matter long after they end.

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.