“Alma Lee is affectionately known as the ‘madwoman’ who built the Vancouver International Writers and Readers Festival from the ground up and kept it going for 18 years. When Lee steps down as artistic director at the end of December, she will undoubtedly be celebrated for her tenacious work ethic and many earnest deeds.” But those who know Lee say that the best way to understand her is through the endless stories told by anyone fortunate enough to have spent time in her inner circle.