I have to say I was kind of nervous about talking to him. He doesn't
mince words, just journalists. And he doesn't suffer fools. So I read every word.
Not that I don't, normally. But I paid careful, strict attention. Actually, the experience
of reading the book was easy and enjoyable. His stories are often poignant, often funny
and yes, sometimes he rants. It's Don Cherry, right all you kids?

We called him on the phone for the interview. The first thing I wanted to know was
what he was wearing. I won't ruin the surprise here. I had expected him to huff and puff
and blow my house down after he tested my knowledge of how many bull terriers he's
owned (he's on number three, by the way). But he was affable, engaged and is a
fine storyteller with a great memory. And he gets in the occasional rant, too.

Later in the program, the great Quebec writer Michel Tremblay will join me for the second in our
Canada Reads series of interviews with the selected novelists. A TV host named Anne Marie Withenshaw
selected Michel Tremblay's "The Fat Woman Next Door is Pregnant". She is in her twenties.
I'm betting Michel is ticked pink that her choosing him will turn a whole new generation onto
his writing.

Don Cherry and Michel Tremblay: together for the first time. It could only happen on The Next Chapter.