TV: Coming to CBC this season...Pillars of the Earth

Pillars of the Earth, a book by Ken Follett that became an epic in the literary world and captivated millions of readers, is now making its debut on the CBC. Admittedly, the book was reeeeaally long and repetative, but nonetheless it created memorable heros and villains and will likely translate well on TV. The Canadian-German 8-part co-production mini-series is scheduled to air on Tuesday evenings. Watch your local listings for the start date.

Actors Gordon Pinsent and Donald Sutherland are two of the Canadians to be featured in the international cast.

Channel: CBC

When: Tuesday evening, CBC 2011 Winter launch

Rating: easy

Books: Hon. Romeo Dallaire speaks to us about child soldiers

For those of you who have followed the career of Hon. Romeo Dallaire (Shake Hands with the Devil) and cheered him on as he confronted the subject of child soldiers in Rwanda, you'll now have the chance to hear him speak in person at the Mayfair Theatre, Ottawa, on Dec. 2 at 7:00pm. He'll be speaking about his new book, They Fight Like Soldiers, They Die Like Children.

Venue: Mayfair Theatre, 1074 Bank St.

Cost: $15

Rating: medium (great experience to hear a national hero speak, but subject matter is difficult)