The distinguished author and playwright John MacLachlan Gray discusses his new novel The White Angel (Douglas & McIntyre, 2017), the 1924 murder of Janet Smith that the book is based on, as well he reflects on his writing, career, Vancouver and much more, with Joseph Planta.

The White Angel by John MacLachlan Gray (Douglas & McIntyre, 2017). Click to buy this book from Amazon.ca: The White Angel

Text of introduction by Joseph Planta:

I am Planta: On the Line, in Vancouver, at TheCommentary.ca.

John MacLachlan Gray joins me now. The distinguished playwright and author has a new novel out, The White Angel. It’s based on the infamous 1924 murder of a Scottish nanny, Janet Smith. Mr. Gray takes us back to 1920s Vancouver, its social mores, class tensions, racism, as well as gives us a sense of the city’s establishment, the political and law enforcement institutions, and the press. I’ve just started it and it’s got such appealing dialogue; I can’t wait to finish it. As a playwright, composer and director John MacLachlan Gray has created many acclaimed productions including Billy Bishop Goes to War, which was produced on and off Broadway and won the Governor General’s Literary Award for Drama. His previous books include A Gift for the Little Master, The Fiend in Human, White Stone Day, and Not Quite Dead. He is an Officer of the Order of Canada. This new book is published by Douglas & McIntyre. www.johnmaclachlangray.ca is the website for more. Please welcome to the Planta: On the Line program, in person today, John MacLachlan Gray; Mr. Gray, good morning.

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