Squished between all the dentist appointments and teacher conferences on our calendars are those wonderful things called “holidays.” Or sometimes they’re called “birthdays” or even “parties.” For Bunchland families, there’s always a reason to celebrate.
Purim is based on the story of the Jews’ kiboshing Haman’s evil plot to annihilate them, but in Israel it’s basically a huge day-long public celebration. Little kids and bankers alike wear costumes, dance, laugh and party in the street. And we’re not sure how closely this is observed, but the adults are encouraged to drink until they can’t tell the difference between good and evil. There’s even a word for it (ad delo yada). It’s the one time of year where everyone is free to be wild and mischievous and even cross-dress. Schoolchildren also trade homemade baskets of treats and blessings, which is just really nice. Hamutal tells us how her Tel Aviv family celebrates.Read more...
Susan Rich is the editor of “Half-Minute Horrors”, a new anthology of instant frights for young readers by a stellar line-up of writers and illustrators including Margaret Atwood, Neil Gaiman, Adam Rex and Lemony Snicket.
Toronto families are invited to attend the launch of this collection of spooky stories on Halloween Saturday at the Gladstone Hotel.
Ms. Rich recently interviewed the mysterious Lemony Snicket exclusively for Bunch.
Susan Rich: Hello Mr Snicket. Thank you for agreeing to speak with us about matters relating to Halloween. Halloween can be a very creepy time. What sorts of things scare you?
Lemony Snicket: Masks, silverfish, a woman I once knew, iced tapioca drinks, injustice, things that jump out suddenly at me in the dark, things that approach me slowly in the dark, corporate hegemony, flickering lightbulbs and bland, self-serving philosophies concerning the world.
SR: Many people who usually dress in regular clothes find Halloween a good time to put on a disguise. Can you tell us about your most successful disguise?
LS: No, but the next time you sit down at your “desk” you might look a bit more closely. Read more...
Toronto: A Halloween Day Family Cabaret Saturday, October 31st The Gladstone Hotel, 2-4 PM 1214 Queen St W
A creepy literary event for kids eight and older featuring performances inspired by “Half-Minute Horrors”, a new anthology of instant frights for young readers. Put your kids in their costumes early and head out! Mariko Tamaki, Ken Oppel, Ron Hawkins and more are on the bill! Royalties benefit First Book, a not-for-profit organization that brings books to children in need. There is a suggested donation of $10 per family.
Bunch has been noticing something strange happening in the neighbourhood: Ghosts showing up on doorsteps!! It’s a new Halloween tradition, called “Ghosting” or “Boo’ing.”
