Back in 2003, when this collection hit the bookstores, I was in my first year of University. I was highly influenced by talented writers and creativity and the fact that my own Mother’s creativity was published, inspired me to continue to strive towards a career in the arts. Of course making it my favourite book on my shelf.

I’d love you to share with me your most cherished book. Leave a comment below or feel free to tweet it to me @reederreads

I’ll start by saying that in order to familiarize with the book, I reread it about two weeks ago. I may have forgot how infuriating Daisy made me and I forgot that the protagonist of the novel was named Nick Carraway, but I didn’t forget how much I loved Gatsby. I loved his innocence, yet powerful disposition. When I heard that they had cast Leonardo DiCaprio in the role, I automatically knew he would do the role justice. Even during my rereading of the book, I imagined Leo as Gatsby and I knew he’d have the acting chops to pull of this role. I wasn’t as impressed with Tobey Maguire’s performance. It wasn’t that he didn’t do a good job, it just didn’t feel as memorable as other characters. Which is odd, simply because I really enjoyed Nick Carraway’s character in the novel.

The movie itself, was a somewhat accurate portrayal of the book that was written in 1925 (minus the number of Jay Z songs in the film). There were some key points missing for me that I really wanted to see shown, but I also understand that you can’t please everyone. What did impress me was Baz Luhrmann’s amazing depiction of the roaring 20′s. Flapper dresses, cheap liquor and elaborate parties were captivating on screen (especially in 3D). There was no doubt you were watching a Baz Luhrmann film (please see Romeo & Juliet and Moulin Rouge) and I think he did a fantastic job at creating the world of J. Gatsby.

It might not be getting rave reviews in the media, but it is getting one from this Gatsby lover. I’m giving it a 4/5 rating using floating Leo heads, because I clearly have too much time on my hands.

Oh and if you’re looking for a chuckle, check out this video that shows what people think happens in The Great Gatsby.

This is also a great time to promote their upcoming event. As the title of this post suggests, if you’re a publishing students and interns, you’re going to want to come out to this event. It’s called the Mentor Mash Event and yours truly will be one of the people present to answer your questions and help “mentor” up-and-coming publishing professionals. A description of the event is quoted below from the CanBPA website,

On May 21st, the Canadian Book Professionals’ Association will be hosting an evening event at the Cadillac Lounge, designed to facilitate introductions and networking opportunities for those new to the industry. In what can be best described as a “group speed date,” students, up-and-coming professionals, and individuals hoping to get a foot in the door of Canadian publishing will have the opportunity to meet with industry veterans and virtuosos.

We’ve recruited experts from as many fields within the publishing industry as possible. Below, our star-studded list of experts:

Production: Valentina Capuani (Random House of Canada)
Sales: Sarah Labrie (Scholastic Canada)
Agent: Ali McDonald (The Rights Factory)
Publicity: Evan Munday (Coach House Books)
Design: Ingrid Paulson (Ingrid Paulson Design)
Digital Marketing: Lindsey Reeder (Random House of Canada)
Editorial: Alana Wilcox (Coach House Books)

How it will work:
There will be 8–10 of tables with five people at each table. Attendees can settle in with a drink while our

Image from David Crighton’s Urban Landscapes Artwork Toronto

experts move from table to table, meeting with each group for fifteen minutes. Each of them will give a short talk about their area of expertise, followed by an informal Q&A session.

This event will cost $10. Pre-registration is necessary. To secure a spot, you must reserve a ticket through Eventbrite (http://mentormash.eventbrite.ca). Payment will be at the door on the night of the event (cash only).

For more information, please see our website or the event page, or email us your questions and someone will get back to you shortly.

Where: The Cadillac Lounge, 1296 Queen Street West, Toronto
When: Tuesday, May 21, 7:00–9:00 pm
Info: http://canbpa.ca
Email: info@canbpa.ca
Event website: http://mentormash.eventbrite.ca

REMEMBER This is just one of many fun events that CanBPA organizes, so be sure to keep up to date with them online for continued innovative and interactive events.

I look forward to meeting each and every one of you on May 21st.

*My thanks to Keith Patterson, as well as, Electric.com for providing this fun and interactive graphic. The original link can be found by clicking here: http://www.electric.com/great-gatsby.html