James McBride

Lecture

A Conversation with
James McBride

James McBride, author
Elaine Newton, host, Professor Emeritus of Humanities at York University, Toronto

Join us for an enlightening evening in conversation with James McBride, hosted by Elaine Newton, as they explore McBride’s latest literary work, The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store. McBride, whose seminal memoir The Color of Water graced The New York Times bestseller list for over two years, continues to captivate audiences with his powerful narratives and insightful perspectives.

During this special event, McBride discusses the creation of his new novel and reflects on his experiences as an author, musician and screenwriter. His career achievements, including receiving the National Humanities Medal for his role in enriching the national conversation about race, underscore the depth and relevance of his work.

Expect an evening of dynamic dialogue and personal stories that shed light on McBride’s creative process and his unique ability to intertwine his musical and journalistic expertise into his writing. This program promises to offer not only a deeper understanding of his new book but also an intimate look at the experiences that continue to shape his influential career.

Elaine Newton

Elaine Newton

Elaine Newton is professor emeritus of humanities at York University, Toronto, Canada. She has taught courses in literary theory and methodology, contemporary fiction, psychology and literature and archetypal criticism. Elaine was one of the founders of York University’s advising program and its much-emulated faculty of education. She is a recipient of the province of Ontario’s Teaching Award in recognition of excellence in university teaching and, in 1984, received a citation as Toronto’s Outstanding Professor. In 1996, she was the recipient of the university-wide Teaching Award. She has held appointments as professor of literature at Carlton University, Ottawa; University of Cape Town, South Africa; University of Sydney, Australia, Victoria University and the University of Otago, New Zealand. She has lectured throughout Canada and the U.S., London, Hong Kong, Zurich and Caracas. In 1992, she was a member of the faculty of the University of Pittsburgh’s Semester-at-Sea. Elaine retains an abiding commitment to adult education and the role of the university in the wider community.

For over 40 years, Elaine has planned and conducted adult education courses throughout North America. This is the 35th anniversary season of Critic’s Choice literature series and the 29th year she has presented Four O’clock at the Movies. 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.