SHIRLEY NEWHOOK
The Telegram

I've spent a busy week trying to squeeze in a chapter here and a chapter there of a recently released novel that is a must-read. When I finished the last chapter, I was still hungry for more.

Helen Porter, and award-winning author herself, described "By the Rivers of Brooklyn" by Trudy J. Morgan-Cole as "one of the most satisfying novels I've ever read."

That really says it all. The story will be close to the heart of any Newfoundlander who has had to "leave home" and to those who chose to remain.

It transforms into fiction the experience of the 75,000 first and second-generation Newfoundlanders who once lived in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Morgan-Cole is a teacher, wife, mother and winner of several fiction and non-fiction awards. Her newest book has taken years of research, and it shows.

The story that begins in 1924 follows the highs and lows of a family and their friends up to 2004; from St. John's to Brooklyn, New York, and occasionally Toronto. It's "the experience of Newfoundlanders throughout history who have gone away to find work and prosperity but never stopped dreaming of home."

Morgan-Cole has a phenomenal gift for descriptive passages that makes you feel that you are there. One such passage reads: "It was muggy and overcast.

The yard was heavy with the scent of the wild roses, deep pink and smelling like heaven. Laundry hung limp on the line."

I hated to close the last page.

You're invited

Bally Haly at 100 Logy Bay Rd. is the location for the launch of a new, limited edition giclee print of Kent Cottage by well-known artist Gerry Squires. It's in aid of the work of The Landfall Trust Inc., "to preserve and conserve this important heritage property." Squires will make a short presentation about his work for Landfall. That's on Wednesday, June 24 from 5-7 p.m.

St. John's Day

The city is extending an invitation to all to celebrate our capital city's birthday. There will be over 30 events and activities throughout this weekend that will showcase the city's heritage and culture plus free concerts, historical walks, open houses, puppet shows, craft demonstrations, circuses and more.

Just check the website for all the details: www.stjohns.ca where you'll find a full calendar of events and activities. Or, you can call 311 for information. And, don't forget Saturday's St. John's Farmers Market at the Lions Club on Bonaventure Avenue from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Open season?

Now they're looking for suggestions from the public. A recent news release asks, "Who do you think would make a good candidate for the position of president of Memorial University of Newfoundland?"

In order to develop a comprehensive list of candidates, the university search committee (along with an executive search consultant) is developing a position profile and seeking nominations for the position.

Nominations can be e-mailed to: munpres@jwasearch.com or phone 416-923-3008.

Chocolate lovers alert

Mouthwatering chocolate from Tanzania, Madagascar, Cuba, Peru and more places. "A Berry Chocolate Affair" is a giant fundraiser for the MUN Botanical Garden described as "a gourmet tasting experience."

It includes a silent auction, dinner, art show, a garden tour, floral demonstrations, and each guest receives a plant.

Only 150 tickets available. For information or reservations: 737-8590. It's being held on Thursday, July 9 from 5-8 p.m.

Celebrate Canada

It's the celebration of Canada and the 30th anniversary of the Newfoundland and Labrador Multicultural Council on June 30 at the Holiday Inn in St. John's. The evening includes dinner, a multicultural show, dancing and midnight ceremonies to welcome the 142nd birthday of Canada. For tickets: 753-2917.

The Hectic Pace returns next Friday.