"One of the many lessons I hope I've learned is how much I underestimated people, their open-mindedness and their willingness to understand. I think, moreover, I underestimated the degree to which everyone has a story. So my advice, for whatever it's worth, is to trust readers, trust the truth and trust the power of storytelling.”
- Jeannette Walls, author of The Glass Castle
Welcome to the 2024 Whistler Writers Festival. We are grateful to live, work and learn on the unceded territory of the Sḵwxwú7mesh Nation (Squamish) and Lil̓wat7úl Nation (Lil’wat).
This year our festival theme is Everyone Has a Story to Tell.
If we take the time to listen, we soon discover that everyone has gone through something that has changed them or their life. And, as listeners, we bear witness to their struggle and honour the storyteller’s truth.
Through listening comes learning, understanding and empathy. This is the power of storytelling. Even though we may have had different lives and experiences, we can connect and care for each other by hearing individuals tell their stories. And with every story told, I believe the world becomes a better place.
The festival has gathered together an extraordinary group of storytellers, spoken word artists, authors, poets and musicians, who are local and from across Canada. We are so grateful that you’ve come to listen, ask questions, and have conversations with our guest speakers, volunteers and each other.
With open minds and open hearts, we are all here to give life to stories. Thank you for joining our community.
Rebecca Wood Barrett
Artistic Director