Chatham-Kent Public Library will host an author talk with Ray Robertson on April 29 at its Chatham branch.
The event, scheduled from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at 120 Queen St., will celebrate the launch of Robertson’s latest book, “The Right to Be Wrong,” and feature a discussion on writing, intellectual curiosity and the importance of respectful dialogue.
The evening will include a moderated conversation between Robertson and Alysson Storey, followed by an audience question-and-answer session. The event is supported by the Hydro One Community Benefits Fund.
“Chatham-Kent Public Library is proud to host author talks that celebrate book launches, highlight Canadian writers, and connect our community with meaningful ideas and conversation,” said Erin Auger, manager of public services.
Robertson’s new work has drawn praise from Open Book, which wrote: “Sharp, accessible, and laced with keen humour, even as it tackles serious ground, The Right to Be Wrong makes a clear case for intellectual humility and independent thought. All while arguing that the freedom to be mistaken is essential if we hope to learn, grow, and live with one another in a divided world.”
Storey emphasized the importance of recognizing local talent.
“Supporting artistic talent from Chatham is so important—to inspire others and to remind each other of the wide variety of immense talent coming from our community. Ray’s perspective is an interesting and unique one during a time of political strife and uncertainty. The need for robust and respectful disagreement and debate is more important than ever,” she said.
The event is free and open to the public. Copies of “The Right to Be Wrong” will be available for purchase, followed by a book signing. Light refreshments will be provided by the Library Café.
Robertson, who was born and raised in Chatham, is the author of nine novels, seven collections of nonfiction and one book of poetry. His work has been translated into several languages, and in 2025 he was inducted into the Chatham-Kent Arts and Culture Heroes Wall of Fame. He currently lives in Toronto.
More information about library programs is available at www.ckpl.ca.
