In the waters with…

author Alison Pick on writing, mentoring and her latest book, “Far to Go”

1. What is your career? What do you love most about it?
I’m an author, most recently of the novel “Far to Go”. It has been published in five countries and has just been long listed for the Booker Prize. It has also been optioned for film, and won the Canadian Jewish Book Award for Fiction. I have the best job in the world, and love so many things about it, but sitting at my desk all day is hard on my back and shoulders…

2. Tell us about your first experience with body blitz?
When “Far to Go” came out in the fall of 2010 I was incredibly busy with readings, publicity, and interviews. I was also teaching, AND I have a two-year old, so it was a busy, hectic time for me. A friend told me about body blitz and I thought I’d found heaven. The waters are a huge balm for a busy mind and body.

3. How often do you visit the waters?
As often as possible!

4. Three adjectives to describe yourself?
Introspective. Caffeinated. Lucky.

5. Early bird or night owl?
Early bird.

6. What books are on your nightstand?
The Continuum Concept by Jean Leidloff; Liar by Mary Karr; The Dance Most of All by Jack Gilbert; Up Up Up by Julie Booker

7. Favourite place to eat in the city?
There are so many. Currently: Delux on Ossington.

8. If you could, what advice would you give yourself 10 years ago? 5 years ago? 20 years ago?
Trust yourself. Treat yourself. Relax.

9. Top 3 pieces of advice you would give to other women?
See above.

10. Who is your role model or mentor?
I’m a big believer in mentoring, and have had different mentors for different areas of my life. Sasha Padron who teaches prenatal yoga at YogaSpace was a wonderful guide for me during my first year of motherhood. Michael Crummey mentored me when I was starting out as a writer – we still read each other’s work. Recently I’ve been mentoring five emerging writers through the Banff Centre for the Arts Wired Writing Studio. It’s been fun to be on the other end of a mentoring relationship, and to give back even a little of what I’ve received.