Author Louise Penny says she didn’t think twice before cancelling U.S. book-tour dates
Award-winning Canadian novelist Louise Penny has made the difficult decision to cancel her upcoming U.S. book tour for her latest novel, The Black Wolf, due to the ongoing trade war threats made by U.S. President Donald Trump against Canada. In a recent interview with The Current’s host Matt Galloway, Penny explained that the decision was immediate and necessary, as she could not enter a country that had declared war on her homeland.
Penny expressed her regret for the impact this decision will have on her American fans but emphasized that she could not in good conscience travel to the U.S. while fellow Canadians were facing economic ruin due to the imposed tariffs. She highlighted the importance of standing up for Canada in the trade war and stated that remaining silent would only enable further harm.
Reflecting on the current state of affairs, Penny referenced the poem “First They Came” by Martin Niemöller, emphasizing the importance of speaking out against injustice and oppression. She stressed that her decision was not political but moral and ethical, transcending boundaries and political affiliations. Penny asserted that her stance was not aimed at dividing but rather at preserving the profound friendship between the two nations.
The upcoming book, The Black Wolf, touches on the sensitive topic of Canada potentially becoming the 51st state of the U.S. due to its abundant natural resources. Penny revealed that the plot, written a year ago, now seems eerily relevant given the current political climate. She expressed concern that the fictional scenario she depicted may not be far from reality, given the escalating tensions between the two nations.
Penny’s decision to cancel her U.S. book tour serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of political decisions on individuals and communities. By taking a stand and refusing to participate in events that compromise her values, Penny exemplifies the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
