Much-anticipated, curious, or simply thrilling, here are some new and notable books out this month.

Margaret Atwood and the Labour of Literary Celebrity (University of Toronto Press) by Lorraine York — York’s in-depth study examines the process by which a “literary celebrity” is created, specifically considering renowned Canadian author Margaret Atwood and her team of publishing professionals including agents, editors, publicists and office staff. Taking advantage of previously unpublished material from the Margaret Atwood Papers at the University of Toronto, it offers a unique insight into Atwood’s career.  Release Date: May 28, 2013

Aisthesis: Scenes from the Aesthetic Regime of Art (Verso Books) by Jacques Rancière, translated by Zakir Paul — The French philosopher traces the history of modernity and aesthetic perception, ambitiously seeking to answer “What becomes art and what comes of it?” His quest takes the reader through a series of scenes from Dresden in 1764 to New York in 1941, challenging established boundaries and conventional notions of modernity, aesthetics and what constitutes art.  Release Date: June 4, 2013

One Thousand And One Nights: A Retelling (Pantheon) by Hanan al-Shaykh — Lebanese writer Hanan al-Shaykh retells nineteen fantastic fables in modern English through the point of view of a beautiful young woman whose life depends on the power of her storytelling skills.  Release Date: June 11, 2013

Canoe Nation: Nature, Race, and the Making of a Canadian Icon (University of British Columbia Press) by Bruce Erickson — “In the summer of 2007, the CBC declared the canoe to be one of the Seven Wonders of Canada.” Erickson traces the meaning and use of this “symbol” of our nation, offering up a re-evaluation of the perception of Canada as a whole.  Release Date: June 15, 2013

Escape Is At Hand: Tales of a Boy and a Band (Eternal Cavalier Press) by Joshua Kloke — The debut novel for the new independent Toronto-based press, Escape Is At Hand, is both an examination of The Tragically Hip’s career and the memoir of a boy whose life was shaped by their music. Kloke’s devotion to his rock-and-roll dreams will ring true to music fans of all ages.  Release Date: June 2013 (for details on the launch party, click here)