Authors Phoenicia Rogerson and Kate Heartfield join us to discuss their new novels, retelling classic Norse and Greco-Roman tales.

Phoenicia Rogerson's Herc is a queer, revisionist retelling of the myth of Hercules which gives voice to silenced characters. Told with humour and heart, this is not the story of Hercules, but the story of everyone else—his friends, his enemies, his wives, his children, his lovers, his rivals, his gods, and his victim.

Kate Heartfield’s The Valkyrie is a lyrical retelling of one of Norse mythology's greatest epics, introducing us to Brynhild, a Valkyrie in exile; Gudrun, a princess of Burgundy and prize for an invading king; and Sigurd, a warrior with a sword sharper than the new moon. As the legends tell, these names are destined to be rivals, fated as enemies. But in the world of Midgard, legends can be lies.

Phoenicia Rogerson and Kate Heartfield speak with journalist Tabassum Siddiqui about their new novels and what it means to reconsider, reimagine, and retell some of history’s most beloved stories.

This event is part of our signature Salon Series, where we host local and international authors, artists and thinkers in conversation about their new books and big ideas.

Toronto Public Library is committed to accessibility. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks’ notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email accessibleservices@tpl.ca.

Stories We Retell: Myth in Two Novels