Author Robert Munsch reads to school children from one of his books at City Hall in Toronto on Friday January 23, 2009.Frank Gunn/The Canadian Press
The memory of famed Canadian children’s author Robert Munsch is faltering. But Canadians everywhere keep the memories of him and his books close to their hearts.
The author of classics such as Love You Forever and The Paper Bag Princess was known to pop into schools and libraries for improvised storytelling sessions for children – especially in his chosen city of Guelph, Ont., where nearly everyone has a story of meeting Munsch somewhere in the community.
Robert Munsch and the art of dropping in
Last fall, Munsch made headlines for disclosing to the New York Times that he has chosen MAID, or medical assistance in dying, a decision spurred by a 2021 Parkinson’s and dementia diagnosis.
Deputy arts & books editor Rebecca Tucker, who was born and lives in Guelph, spoke to locals about their enduring impressions of Munsch, and the impact he had on their lives.
Now, we want to hear about your memories of Robert Munsch. Did reading his stories – either as a child or for your own children – leave a lasting impression on you? Did you ever see Munsch tell stories live? Are you a Guelph local yourself?
Share your memories in the live chat below, and take the chance to interact with other readers. On Friday, Oct. 16 at 11 a.m. ET, Tucker will join the chat and share her insights from her article.