Prince Edward Island chooses Bren Simmers as newest poet laureate

From left to right: Meaghan Brander, The Honourable Wassim Salamoun, Bren Simmers and Her Honour Marie Salamoun are pictured. (Source: Province of Prince Edward Island)

Bren Simmers will be promoting the literary arts across Prince Edward Island as the province’s newest poet laureate.

The award-winning poet and author of five books has received local, regional and national awards for her contribution to Canadian literature.

“Her work is rooted in a sense of place and explores relationships between people, land, and memory,” said a news release from the province.

Poet laureates are chosen via a peer selection process and appointed by the Minister of Education and Early Years.

“We are confident Bren will inspire Islanders through her deep connection to place and story,” said Minister of Education and Early Years Robin Croucher. “She plays an important role in supporting literacy, creativity, and cultural engagement, encouraging Islanders of all ages to explore literature in meaningful ways.”

Croucher also extended a thank you to Tanya Davis, the outgoing poet laureate whom Simmer is succeeding.

The poet laureate program is administered by PEI Public Library Service.

For more P.E.I. news, visit our dedicated provincial page.