Standing Up for Ourselves

About this event

Kai Cheng Thom, Jay Odjick and Robin Stevenson will explore middle-grade fiction whose young characters confront insecurity, prejudice and difficult questions about what to believe. Featured books are Thom’s The Shapeshifter’s Guide to Gym Class, Odjick’s Kaboom! Volume 1: Blast Off and Stevenson’s The Book of Jupiter.

Moderated by Shannon Ozirny, the conversation encourages young readers to build confidence and trust their instincts. Themes include creative writing, humour, prejudice, self-discovery, cults, Indigenous stories and superheroes. Curriculum connections include English Language Arts 4–9 and Physical and Health Education 4–7.

Presented by Vancouver Writers Fest on Oct. 21, 2026, at 1 p.m. Vancouver local time. For Grades 4–7; admission is $12.

The in-person event runs from 1 to 2:15 pm. Regular admission is CAD 12; limited school-group subsidies and a separate free livestream have different eligibility.

General admission welcomes all ages; the grade range is a recommendation. School groups must book tickets for everyone, including adults. No exchanges or refunds except if the event is cancelled. For accessibility assistance, contact the festival box office at 778-658-0462. Thom’s shapeshifter learns to listen to her heart; Odjick’s young hero fights crime and protects Indigenous artifacts; Stevenson’s protagonist realizes she has lived most of her life in a cult. The CAD 12 price includes GST and service fees. Late admission is not guaranteed and missing the event because of lateness is not refunded. Contact the box office for a complimentary lap ticket for a child under two. Showpass support: 1-844-307-7469.