Martyn Burke is returning to McMaster, and you’re invited to the party.

The award-winning filmmaker, journalist and author will be on campus Wednesday evening to celebrate the launch of his latest book, Music For Love Or War.

In the novel, Burke tells the fictional story of two veterans of the post-9/11 War in Afghanistan — Hank, a soldier in the U.S. Army, and Danny, a Canadian sniper — who are scouring the streets of Los Angeles for a psychic who may be able to find their lost loves.

Read an excerpt from Music For Love Or War

Burke, a longtime war correspondent, cut his teeth in the jungles of Vietnam not long after graduating from McMaster in 1964.

He has spent the past four decades carving out a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and daring storytellers, with armed combat and geopolitical strife informing much of his work.

He received a 2012 Peabody Award for his most recent film project, Under Fire: Journalists In Combat, which was also shortlisted for an Academy Award.

The documentary places some of the world’s top war correspondents in front of the camera rather than behind it, and explores the psychological toll that comes with reporting from the most dangerous places on earth.

Late last year, his 1984 novel The Commissar’s Report was put into development by HBO. The book centres on Dimitri, a young Russian spy, who is sent overseas to help topple the U.S. government during the height of the Cold War.

Most recently, Burke was honoured with the prestigious Auteur Award from the International Press Academy in recognition of his creative vision, unique artistry and the lasting impact of his overall body of work.

Past recipients of the Auteur Award have included the likes of George Clooney, Guillermo del Toro, Baz Luhrmann and Peter Bogdanovich.

When not travelling abroad, Burke splits his time between Santa Monica, California and his hometown of Toronto.

Music For Love Or War can be purchased in advance at Bryan Prince Bookseller in Hamilton, and will also be available at the event.

The evening will be moderated by McMaster public relations manager Wade Hemsworth, an award-winning former journalist and author.

In Conversation with Martyn Burke
Wednesday, May 6
Convocation Hall (University Hall, Room 213)
7 p.m. – Doors open
7:30 p.m. – Start
Wine and cheese to follow
Registration is free