November Newsletter

NOVEMBER BOOKMARKS

Relax and stay warm……

 It’s time to slow down.  Light a fire in the fireplace.  Pick up a book and read.  The snow hasn’t arrived, with skiing and snowshoeing to keep us active, but the winds outside are blowing colder and the leaves left on the ground are painted with frost.   November is a month to enjoy the luxury of relaxation.  With so many great new fiction and non-fiction releases at this time of year, there is a wealth of enjoyment to experience.

At Curiosity House we are working hard to prepare for the Holiday season.  A very special gift for anyone is an author signed book and we have several excellent choices in the store from past book signing events we have hosted this fall.  You may also pre-order personalized copies for our upcoming events with Hugh Brewster, Ted Barris and Terry O’Reilly.  We are stocking up to provide you with plenty of gift-giving choices for everybody on your shopping list.  Soon we will be rolling out our Christmas Gift Registry file.  Please pick up a Books for Everybody catalogue the next time you are in the store.  This excellent resource is a co-operative effort between publishers and independent booksellers, which features valuable gift-giving suggestions suitable for every member of the family.   Don’t forget to take advantage of the $5.00 coupon inside your catalogue, as well!   

November Dates to Remember

•  Sunday,  November 1st ,   2:00 to 4:00 pm

Artist’s Opening Reception

 In The Gallery:  Roslyn Levin

 Roslyn Levin is an award winning sumi-e painter who refers to her work as Ki Painting. Ki is the Japanese word for Universal Energy, also known as qi or chi.  She has been painting professionally since 1981. Her work has appeared in both national and international exhibits in Canada as well as in group exhibits in both China and Japan.  She has received various corporate commissions and has illustrated various books.  Her work has appeared in In the Hills magazine and other local media.  Join us for an opportunity to meet Roslyn, see her exciting brushstroke paintings and enjoy some refreshments.

• Saturday,  November 14th, 10:30 to 11:15 am 

Monthly Story Hour

 Please join Miriam for our monthly Story Hour, from 10:30 to 11:15 am.  Children will have the chance to listen to captivating stories, share the love of reading and complete a small craft activity.

• Sunday,  November 29th, 1:00 to 3:00pm –

Author Event  – Hugh Brewster and Ted Barris

(Creemore Legion)

Hugh Brewster has just released the third book in his war trilogy.  Dieppe, Canada’s Darkest Day of World War II.  This book, as in On Juno Beach and At Vimy Ridge, brings the subject vividly to life with text, many illustrations and photographs.  Although classified for young adults, we find these books of great interest to readers of any age.

Ted  Barris’s new book is Breaking The Silence: Untold Veterans’ Stories From The Great War To Afghanistan.   Ted is the author of many books including Juno and Victory At Vimy.  Both Hugh and Ted are wonderful story tellers and will each have visuals and artifacts to enrich their presentation.   Join us at the Creemore Legion for an entertaining and educational afternoon.  As a bonus there will be delicious refreshments provided by the Legion Auxillary.

 Book Club and Knitters Share Ideas, Opinions and Good Company

The Curiosity House Book Club  will  hold  its  regular  monthly  meeting  on  Wednesday November 4^th, from 2 to 3 pm.  This month, we will be discussing Lloyd Jones’, Mister Pip.  Our selection for December will be James Orbinski’s An Imperfect Offering.  Meanwhile, our Knitting Group continues every Wednesday, from 2 to 4 pm to trade knitting tips, and enjoy lively conversations and good company.  Please call us for more information.

Remembering ….                                                                           

(Reviewed by Catherine Randall)

The latest book in the more than 15 non-fiction books written by accomplished author Ted Barris is Breaking the Silence: Untold Veterans’ Stories from the Great War to Afghanistan, HC, $32.95.  In his telling of these, as yet untold stories, the author captures the war experience of nearly 3,000 veterans.  Ted is a wonderful story teller and I am eagerly awaiting his presentation, with Hugh Brewster, on Nov. 29^th at the Creemore Legion.

Other new books to do with war experiences are A Soldier First, Bullets, Bureaucrats and the Politics of War, by General Rick Hillier, HC, $34.99 and by author David Bercuson The Fighting Canadians, Our Regimental History from New France to Afghanistan, PB, $22.99.  This last book is a moving account of Canadians on the frontlines from the 17^th century to today.   A beautiful coffee table book is The Naval Service of Canada 1910 – 2010: The Centennial Story, HC, $39.95.  This multi-author volume, with detailed chapters on a century of service, celebrates the contributions of many through written history, drawings, paintings and photographs.  Very topical is What The Thunder Said: Reflections of a Canadian Officer in Kandahar, PB, $29.95, by Lieutenant-Colonel John Conrad, both a soldier and a poet.  In the foreward by Christie Blachford, she comments that the book is about the unsung men and women who maintain supply lines and the tools of warfighting according to the ancient motto of soldiers “Arte et Marte”, Latin for “by skill and by fighting”.

Hugh Brewster’s Books for Aren’t Just for Kids…             

(Reviewed by Miriam Vince)

Hugh Brewster has certainly earned his reputation as ”a master craftsman of history”. His award-nominated titles include books about John Singer Sargent, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Princess Anastasia, and the RMS Titanic. 

His newest book, DIEPPE: Canada’s Darkest Day of World War II ($19.99, HC), was released in August to critical acclaim.  It tells the story of “the bloodiest nine hours in Canadian military history” in words and pictures.  Meticulously researched, this book tells the story of a disastrous raid and its tragic aftermath.  Brewster maintains that “interviewing veterans of that fateful day and the subsequent POW camps was one of the most rewarding aspects of working on this book.”  Most young people have not heard of Dieppe, but when they hear the stories of endurance and courage they will have a greater understanding of the sacrifices made by these remarkable men who are now in their late ‘80s or early ‘90s.  

Along with DIEPPE, Brewster’s previously released award-winning books, At Vimy Ridge: Canada’s World War I Heroes ($10.99, PB) and On Juno Beach:  Canada’s D-Day Heroes ($10.99, PB), detail the fateful battles which shaped our nation on the international stage.  Where possible he has used unpublished accounts of eyewitnesses and participants. Captivating photographs and memorabilia bring these stories to life. Hugh’s research is deep and precise, and his storytelling is engaging.    His books are a favourite with audiences of all ages. 

I am looking forward to our author signing with Hugh Brewster and Ted Barris on Sunday, November 29^th.  I will take the opportunity to purchase a copy of his new book for my father-in-law, a 91-year-old veteran of WWII.  Two years ago, I bought him copies of Hugh’s earlier books about Vimy Ridge and Juno Beach, for Father’s Day.  He thoroughly enjoyed them, just as I am sure he will enjoy Hugh’s newest offering.

Mark Your Calendars!

 On Saturday, December 12^th, author and CBC radio personality, Terry O’Reilly, will be signing copies of his new book The Age of Persuasion at the store,  from 2 to 4 pm.  Mark your calendars and join us for this special event!

Quips, Quotes and Unnecessary Trivia

 “To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark.”

                                                                                                                             ~ Victor Hugo

 

News From the David Suzuki Foundation Book Club

The first David Suzuki Foundation Book Club selection is The Sacred Balance by Dr. David Suzuki. To wrap up this month and celebrate this book club title, the the Foundation has invited Curiosity House and our customers to join them for a live webcast on Tuesday, November 10th at 4:30 PST (url will be sent to us next week). During this event, they will be showing never-before-seen in public footage of David Suzuki talking about his personal journey and the book that transformed him from scientist to environmentalist.

Everyone is urged to join the DSF Book Club to gain access to the exclusive webcast link.

Here are the David Suzuki Foundation Book Club titles for the next 3 months:

November:   Less is More, Embracing Simplicity for a Healthy Planet, a Caring Economy and Lasting Happiness by by Cecile Andrews and Wanda Urbanska

December:   Climate Cover-up, The Crusade to Deny Global Warming by Jim Hoggan

January:   Not Just a Pretty Face, The Ugly Side of the Beauty Industry by Stacy Malkan

For more information regarding the David Suzuki Foundation Book Club go to http://www.davidsuzuki.org/bookclub.

October Newsletter

OCTOBER BOOKMARKS

Let us share the richness of our lives…..

At this time of the year we acknowledge the good fortune we have. The beauty of the landscape which surrounds us is inspiring. We want for little. Our country is blessed to be prosperous, with a wealth of natural resources. May we all take the opportunity, as we sit down to our Thanksgiving meals, to recognize our good fortune.  Let us all give thanks!

October Dates to Remember

 Saturday, October 3rd, 9:30 to 11:30 am, Creemore Farmers’ Market 

Author Signing – Margaret Wente

Margaret Wente, a columnist for the Globe & Mail and author, will be signing copies of her new book, You Can’t Say That in Canada (HarperCollins, $29.99). The book is a collection of some of her columns, readers’ comments and lots of new material. This is your chance to pick up a copy and have it personalized before it is in wide release. If you can’t make it to the market just phone the store to reserve your signed copy.

 Saturday, October 3rd,  2:00 to 4:00 pm

 Artist’s Opening Reception

In The Gallery:  Rosemary Hasner

Curiosity House is pleased to welcome artist Rosemary Hasner to the gallery for September. Rosemary’s artwork is born from photography. Her photos form the foundation for evocative and emotive constructed images, mostly of rural and environmentally-inspired scenes. Each piece she creates tells a story, one of icons, landmarks, symbols and metaphors. Join us at our opening reception and take the opportunity to meet this talented artist and enjoy some refreshments.

 Saturday, October 10th,  10:30 to 11:15 am

Monthly Story Hour

Please join Miriam for our monthly Story Hour from 10:30 to 11:15 am. Children from 18 months to 6 years of age will have the opportunity to listen to captivating stories and complete a small craft activity.

 Saturday, October 10th,  4:00 to 6:00 pm,  Station on the Green

 Book Launch – Catherine Gildiner

On October 10th, Catherine Gildiner and Curiosity House are pleased to host the official Creemore book launch of After the Falls the long awaited sequel to Too Close To The Falls. It will be a party with a 60’s theme – music, refreshments, an interview, a reading and time for signing. Join us at the Station on the Green. This is sure to be the event of the year! To have more time to enjoy the event we encourage you to pre-purchase the book and pick it up at the Station or the store.

 Saturday, October 17th  

Independents’ Day – Local authors

We celebrate, with other independent bookstores across the country, the importance of independently owned bookstores. Visit us today to meet some of our local authors whom we support and feature in our store.

Knitting and Reading on Wednesday Afternoons – A Winning Combination

Wednesday afternoons provide an opportunity for stimulating discussions and creative expression. The Curiosity House Book Club will meet on Wednesday Oct 7th to discuss Margaret Atwood’s Massey Lecture, Payback: Debt and the Shadow Side of Wealth. Our selection for November will be Mr. Pip by Lloyd Jones. Our Knitting Group also meets every Wednesday, from 2 to 4 pm. There’s always a place at the table for one more person.

New Books…..

(Reviewed by Catherine Randall)

I was privileged to be able to read, from an advanced copy, Catherine Gildiner’s new book After The Falls, HC, $32.95. What a book! This is her sequel to Too Close To The Falls, one of our all time favorite books. In this memoir Cathy recounts her teenage years in high school in Buffalo and college days in Ohio in her very humorous, frank and exhilarating style. Her personal story unfolds against the backdrop of the decade of the 60’s and its turbulent history of the Kennedys, civil rights, assassinations, the Black Panthers and Chicago. And Cathy is there! Alternately laughing at her hi-jinks, her wry wit and keen observations of herself and those around her and then being wrung emotionally by some of her other experiences, this book is an amazing story. I predict lots of attention for this book on both sides of the border. It is a must read! Copies will be available in the store by Thursday, Oct. 8th.

Yes, I have read Dan Brown’s new book, The Lost Symbol, HC, $36.95. It is a page turner, like The Da Vinci Code, and similarly, takes place over the course of 24 hours. One doesn’t read Dan Brown for the writing but for the action and intriguing story and this book sweeps you along. Set in Washington, D.C., fascinating descriptions and information about the Capitol building, The Smithsonian and the Washington Monument will have you wanting to visit Washington as soon as possible. The Masons and their secrets and symbols and how these are woven into the architecture of the city form the basis of the book…recommended if you like a good adventure.

Great Interactive Books for Kids…

(Reviewed by Miriam Vince)

Looking for some informative and entertaining books kids aged 7 and up? Each of these wonderful books has interactive features, including flaps, tabs, fold-outs and pop-ups:

Imagine You’re a Knight, by Peter Chrisp ($22.99 HC) takes children on an imaginary journey to medieval Europe, at a time when knights lived according to the rules of chivalry. Every page shows and describes the typical knight, as well as how knights were trained for battle and tournaments including armor, weapons and horses.

In Extreme Animals, by Steve Parker ($27.50 HC) children can learn which animals are the fastest, the deadliest, the largest, and the most intelligent. Filled with fascinating illustrations and photos along with astonishing facts this book explores the animals which inhabit the earth’s most distant realms, from tiny poisonous insects to the deadly giant king cobra. Of special note is a pocket on the inside cover, which contains a giant animal poster that displays the world’s most venomous animals.

Ice Age, by Stewart Ross ($23.99 HC) takes young readers on an exciting pictorial journey back to the time when a third of the Earth’s surface was covered in ice and snow. An illustrated time chart guides young readers back 1.7 million years to the Great Ice Age where the Neanderthals and early modern humans struggled to survive while in a world of extremes, including fearsome, now-extinct creatures.

In Creatures of the Deep, John Woodward ($22.99 HC) provides readers with an enjoyable and engaging introduction to life at the bottom of the ocean. The book’s main focus is on the deep ocean, detailing dramatic deep-sea landscapes and the fascinating species which inhabit them.

Quips, Quotes and Unnecessary Trivia

“Lord! When you sell a man a book you don’t sell just twelve ounces of paper and ink and glue – you sell him a whole new life. Love and friendship and humour and ships at sea by night – there’s all heaven and earth in a book, a real book.”

~Christopher Morley~

September Newsletter

SEPTEMBER BOOKMARKS

 An exciting fall season ahead at Curiosity House…

The fall is the most exciting season of the year for the book industry and this fall in particular the list of authors with new books is exceptional. To name just a few of our fall authors – Alice Munro, Margaret Atwood, Bonnie Burnard, Catherine Gildiner, Margaret Wente, Rex Murphy, John Irving, Dan Brown, Douglas Coupland and many more! Also, we have a number of exciting author events scheduled this fall. A separate email will be coming soon about these.

September brings the Purple Hills Studio Tour and Curiosity House is pleased to be a sponsor and a participating gallery in this exciting annual event. More than 40 resident and guest artists, representing a wide variety of disciplines will be showcasing their best work.

September Dates to Remember

• Saturday, September 5th, 10:00 am to Noon,  Peter Rabbit at the Children’s Market

Who’s the rabbit most loved by both adults and children? The answer to that is simple. It’s Peter Rabbit!
As part of the annual Children’s Farmers’ Market, kids and adults alike are welcome to join Miriam at the Station on the Green for some stories, a craft and a chance to meet Peter Rabbit in person. It’s sure to be a wonderful time. Hop on over!

• Saturday, September 5th,  2:00 – 4:00 pm , Artist’s Opening Reception

In The Gallery: Elke Scholz

Curiosity House is pleased to welcome Muskoka artist Elke Scholz to the gallery for September. Elke is featuring her paintings and ceramic tiles which reflect the beauty of nature and her surroundings. This series was inspired by her adventures sailing on Georgian Bay and circumnavigating Newfoundland and Labrador. Come to our opening reception to meet this fascinating artist.

• Saturday, September 27th,  9:00 – 4:00 pm,  Purple Hills Studio Tour
   Sunday, September 28th

Over its 20-year history the Studio Tour has become a popular fall event for area residents and visitors. Timed to coincide with the spectacular fall colour display, the tour offers scenic drives along the edge of the Niagara Escarpment, Tour gain their inspiration from the landscape around them. Nancy Falconer is the featured artist at Curiosity House for this year’s Studio Tour. She will be at Curiosity House on Saturday and Sunday to meet with visitors and discuss her body of work.

• Saturday, September 27th, 2:00 – 4:00 pm,  Author Signing
   Damian Tarnopolsky

Damian will be at the store to sign copies of his just released novel Goya’s Dog. Russel Smith has said that Damian’s style is witty…elegant and articulate. He has made a book about a troubled person…a turbulent place in history, a book about Canada as seen by an Englishman, a book about art and war and desire…” Come and meet Damian in the store.

Wednesday Afternoons at Curiosity House – Knitting and Reading Friends

The Curiosity House Book Club will reconvene on Wednesday Sept. 2nd to discuss Sebastian Barry’s The Secret Scripture. The title for October will be Margaret Atwood’s Massey Lecture, Payback: Debt and the Shadow Side of Wealth. The Knitting Group continues to meet and work on projects every Wednesday, from 2 to 4 pm.

New Fall recommendations…                         

 (Reviewed by Catherine Randall)

I have had the chance to read a few of the hot fall titles in advance reading copies. My favorites are:
Suddenly, HC, by Bonnie Burnard whose last book, A Good House, won the Giller Prize 10 years ago. I loved this new book. A woman looks back at her life in the company of her two best friends and her husband. Each has their own memory and feelings of events. This is a lovely book of friendship, love and family relationships all in the familiar setting of London, Ontario.
The Year of the Flood, HC, by Margaret Atwood is the 2nd book in the trilogy that began with Oryx and Crake. A pandemic has devastated the country and the few remaining survivors struggle to make their way in the chaos that exists. A bit of a challenge to get in to but I was soon captured and intrigued by the characters, good and bad. Some parts are chilling because she has anticipated actual events that are occurring or could easily happen.

I just last night finished Catherine Gildiner’s After The Falls, HC, her memoir and sequel to one of our favorite books Too Close To The Falls. Cathy is in high school and college in the decade of the sixties and her book is a compelling telling of not only her own teenage years but also the tumultuous time of the sixties from JFK to Black Power. Told in her witty, acerbic style it is at once poignant, hilarious, tender and sad – you laugh and you cry. I could not put it down and also, unwillingly, was reminded often of my own angst-ridden teenage school years. There will be a Creemore launch of this book on Saturday, Oct.10th at the Station on the Green from 4-6pm. Hope to see you all there.

New Kids Releases for Fall…

(Reviewed by Miriam Vince)

There are all sorts of wonderful new releases for kids to anticipate for Fall. I haven’t had a chance to see all of them yet, but here are the highlights:

For kids from birth to 6 years, we have Night Night Little Pookie ($6.99, board book) from Sandra Boynton. Children who enjoyed the Scanimation books Gallop! and Swing! by Rufus Butler Seder, will be thrilled to know that Waddle! is a new animals-in-motion book from this very popular author. This book is sure to be a great addition to every kid’s library ($16.95, hardcover). Finally, we have Fancy Nancy: Halloween or Bust ($6.50 hardcover), a new Fancy Nancy title for kids who know that life as always better when you make it fancy .

Children from 7 to 11 can look forward to a new Wimpy Kid title from author Jeff Smith, coming in October. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days finds middle school anti-hero Greg Haffley continuing his hilarious life as he tries to survive the “dog days” of summer. In Thea Stilton and the Mountain of Fire, Geronimo’s younger sister will be off to Australia with her friends to solve a mystery in the outback. In Too Deep is the sixth book in the Thirty-Nine Clues series, due to be released in November. Amy and Dan Cahill will continue their adventures as they find themselves on the trail of a new mystery which involve their family and secrets from its past.

Finally, for young people 9 to 11 years of age, the long-awaited sequel to the Artemis Fowl graphic novel, Artemis Fowl: The Arctic Incident, finds the world’s youngest criminal mastermind rushing to save the life of his kidnapped father ($12.75, paperback). We will also have a new installment in the very popular House of Night series. Tempted is the unforgettable continuation of Zoey Redbird’s compelling story (19.99, hardcover).

Quips, Quotes and Unnecessary Trivia

“Reading well is one of the great pleasures that solitude can afford you.”

                                                        ~Harold Bloom~

August Newsletter

AUGUST BOOKMARKS

Goodbye Old Friend….

It is with sadness that we say, “Goodbye!” to our good friend and business partner, Jim Vandewater, who passed away suddenly on July 12th. Jim was a true gentleman and patron of the arts and culture in Creemore. There is a special chair by the window which was reserved for Jim. He loved the bookstore and enjoyed his weekly visits to chat with his business partners and the rest of the team about how we were doing. We will miss his wisdom, humour and generosity.

August Dates To Remember

•  Saturday, August 1st        2:00 to 4:00 pm      Artist’s Reception

In The Gallery:   Sonja Gabalis-Mortimer and Lucille Weber

Curiosity House welcomes Sonja Gabalis-Mortimer and Lucille Weber. These talented artists will be showcasing their dynamic abstract art in the gallery during the month of August. Their mixed media collages are uniquely created on paper, board or canvas. No two are alike! Join us at our opening reception and take the opportunity to meet these talented artists.

•  Saturday, August 8th      10:30 to 11:15 am    Monthly Story Hour

Please join Miriam for our monthly Story Hour from 10:30 to 11:15 am. Children from 18 months to 6 years of age will have the opportunity to listen to captivating stories and complete a small craft activity.

• Saturday, August 29th     11:00 to 4:00 pm     Copper Kettle Festival

The village of Creemore will be buzzing on this day, with old fashioned fun for kids and adults alike. This annual celebration of beer and brewing will have something for everyone, including live music, a children’s play area, a beer tent and a vintage car show. Curiosity House will be have colouring tables set up for kids to explore their creative side. For further information, look for ads in the Creemore Echo or at  www.creemore.com.

Special Orders Are Our Specialty!

Looking for a book that we don’t presently have in stock?

Books are ordered from a number of publishers, distributors and other sources every week, usually on Mondays. We are able to order any book currently in print and available and while we don’t carry talking books and CDs or other specialized materials like large print, we can order those as well. Some books we receive the following day, some by the end of the week, and some take a little longer. We will advise you of the estimated time when you place the order and call you when the book arrives. Our special order business is growing and we’d like to help you find that book you are looking for…..

Curiosity House Book Club And “Knitting Group”– Rewarding Wednesdays

Just a reminder that the Curiosity House Book Club will reconvene on Wednesday Sept. 2nd to discuss Sebastian Barry’s, The Secret Scripture ($18.50, Paperback). In October we will be discussing Margaret Atwood’s Massey Lecture, Payback: Debt and the Shadow Side of Wealth. Our Book choices for subsequent months are:

November               Mr. Pip                                          by Lloyd Jones

December               An Imperfect Offering                by James Orbinski

January                  The Cellist of Sarajevo               by Steven Galloway

Meanwhile our Knitting Group will continue to work on projects and share good company throughout August, every Wednesday, from 2 to 4 pm!

David Suzuki Foundation Book Club

The David Suzuki Foundation Book Club is now online and available to Canadians! The first book title will be The Sacred Balance ($22.95, PB) For more information about this exciting bookclub, go to the David Suzuki Foundation website http://www.davidsuzuki.org/bookclub.

Guest Book Review

(Reviewed by Kate Fleming)

Shannon   by Frank Delaney, ($30.00, hardcover)

Set in Boston and Ireland in the 1920’s, this is a story of personal struggle and recovery, church cover-ups, Irish legends and a travelogue of the River Shannon, Ireland’s longest river. Not once, but twice, Father Robert Shannon is “shell shocked”! First, in the trenches during the war and then by the church of his faith. What unfolds, as he walks the banks of the Shannon, is the story of a man slowly putting the pieces of his life back together. Along the way, he encounters many different strangers with each one playing a key role in his journey to recovery. This is a well-written and fascinating tale and I could hardly turn the pages fast enough to find how it would conclude.

August New Releases For Kids

(Reviewed by Miriam Vince)

August is shaping up to be a great month for kids! We have lots of new releases arriving.

For younger kids, we have a new offering from award-winning Canadian author, Melanie Watt. Her new title, Have I Got a Book For You! (17.95 HC) is sure to be just as zany as her Scaredy Squirrel and Chester books. Jane O’Connor’s Fancy Nancy series is releasing two of its most popular titles, Fancy Nancy and Bonjour Butterfly, in paperback for the first time ($9.99 each). We are also looking forward to the first in a new and hilarious graphic novel series from Ashley Spires, Binky the Space Cat ($7.95, PB). This story of a house-bound cat with a taste for adventure, is sure to make everyone smile. Finally, Charles Pachter is releasing a follow-up to his 2008 success, M is For Moose. In Canada Counts: A Charles Pachter Counting Book, new artwork illustrates numbers from 1 to 20, as well as other important Canadian numbers such as 1867 and 1982.

For our older readers we have the fifth book in the Thirty-Nine Clues series, The Black Circle (Patrick Carman, 15.99 HC). Danger and adventure follow the Cahills, as they track down one of history’s greatest lost treasures. In Rose, author Jeff Smith provides a prequel to the Bone series ($13.99, PB). He has created an unforgettable story with beautiful, sweeping artwork, fitting to a graphic novel which explores the fateful beginnings of this epic saga. For those who are fans of the Twilight series, we have the paperback version of Eclipse ($14.99) releasing in August. This series has been tremendously popular with teens and adults and the release of New Moon in movie format, coming in November of this year is eagerly awaited by many.

August is sure to be an exciting month for kids and young adults. Next month we’ll have a sneak peek at the great new Fall releases which will be arriving in the store over the next few months.

Quips, Quotes And Unnecessary Trivia

You know you’ve read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend.
                                                                                 

                                                                                     ~Paul Sweeney, author

July Newsletter

JULY BOOKMARKS

It’s Hot, Hot, Hot….

It’s finally here!  We’ve waited for months for the temperature to rise, the sun to shine and our lives to slow down for a while….

It’s time for us to enjoy the beauty of the world around us, to spend time sitting on a beach, looking at a sunset, lazing in a lawn chair.  Summer affords us the opportunity to savour many of life’s little pleasures.  What would be more satisfying than taking some time to lose yourself in a book?  Whether it’s a great grilling book, a fascinating biography or a riveting mystery, we’re sure to have just the right selection for you.  Make sure the bookstore is one of the stops on your shopping itinerary.  You won’t be disappointed.

July Dates to Remember

Saturday,  July 4^th               2:00 to 4:00 pm               Artist’s Reception

In The Gallery:  Ruth Irvine and Claudia McKnight

July will be an extravaganza of abstract art as we welcome Claudia McKnight and Ruth Irvine to the gallery.  Claudia Mandler McKnight is an artist, art therapist, visual arts educator, and former curriculum consultant.  Her art reflects the beauty of nature through mixed media on stressed paper, eroded wood, and scarred canvas.  Ruth Irvine works in a variety of materials including acrylics, oils, and encaustics. With brilliant colour and texture, she portrays movement and emotion in her art.   Please join us as we welcome these talented artists to the gallery.

Saturday, July 11^th                 10:30 to 11:15 am         Monthly Story Hour

Please join Miriam for our monthly Story Hour from 10:30 to 11:15 am.  Children from 18 months to 6 years of age will have the opportunity to listen to captivating stories and complete a small craft activity.

Check out our Blog!

Great news!  Curiosity House has started blogging.  We’ll be using our blog to keep you up-to-date with what’s going on in the store and with late breaking news in the publishing industry and the arts scene. We’ll even take a few minutes to let you know about the most recent books we’re reading. Every month our newsletter will be downloaded to the blog, so that you can stay connected with us all the time.  Check us out at curiosityhouse.wordpress.com or click onto “blog” on our website (curiosityhousebooks.com).

Curiosity House Book Club and Knitting Group – Rewarding Wednesday Afternoons

Our Book Club is currently on vacation, but reading, during the summer months.  At our last meeting, we decided on our reading list for the Fall.  We will reconvene Wednesday Sept. 2^nd to discuss Sebastian Barry’s, The Secret Scripture ($18.50, Paperback).  Our Book choices for subsequent months are:

October                  Payback                           by Margaret Atwood

November               Mr. Pip                             by Lloyd Jones

December               Imperfect Offering          by James Orbinski

January                  The Cellist of Sarajevo    by Steven Galloway

The sunny warm weather will find our Knitting Group continuing to work on projects throughout July and August.  Please join us every Wednesday, from 2 to 4 pm! 

Curiosity House Supports the David Suzuki Foundation Book Club

We’re really thrilled to be part of this fantastic and meaningful initiative…

The goal of the David Suzuki Book Club is to give citizens an opportunity to take part in a meaningful discussion about sustainability and our shared future as Canadians.   A reading guide will be available mid-July at www.davidsuzuki.org  We’ll post the reading guide at the store and will be happy to order any titles we don’t have on hand.  Want to join this exciting new book club?  Any books from the David Suzuki Book Club reading guide will qualify for our 10% book club discount!

Summer Reads                                                                                                   

(Reviewed by Catherine Randall)

I am packing to go to the cottage for a couple of weeks and of course taking along books…many books!  I thought I would share with you my “want to read” list and also highlight a few of the “hot” new books.

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson is just out in paper, $13.50, and has been raved about as a fantastic mystery.  My fiction reads are The Elegance of the Hedgehog by Muriel Barbaery, PB, $18.50, is another much talked about book – a must read I have been told; also I am going to read Geraldine Brooks’ People of the Book, PB, $16.50.  This is historical fiction, inspired by a true story, about the famed Sarajevo Haggadah and the mysteries contained in the book.  Summer has to include humour and I am taking David Sedaris’ new collection When You Are Engulfed In Flames, PB, $17.99 for a light read.

A couple of other books that are creating quite a stir are Why Your World Is About To Get A Whole Lot Smaller, by former CIBC Chief Economist Jeff Rubin, HC, $29.95 about the change that the scarcity of oil will cause in our lives.  Slow Death By Rubber Duck, HC, $32.00, is about how the toxic chemistry of things in our everyday life affects our health.  Those are if you want to think on your vacation!  Just out is the 2^nd book (fiction) by Carlos Ruiz Zafon who wrote The Shadow of the Wind, PB.  This new book, The Angel’s Game, HC, $34.95, has received glowing reviews.   Happy summer and happy reading!

Kids Celebrate Canada!                                                                            

(Reviewed by Miriam Vince)

We have lots of great titles for parents who want to celebrate Canada with kids. 

For babies and toddlers we have two great books – A, B, C of Canada and Canada 1,2,3  by Kim Bellefontaine.  Each of these enchanting books takes children on a tour of this wonderful land, while brilliant illustrations help teach basic learning skills.  These books are available in paperback, hardcover and board book format ($6.99 to $14.95).  I Am Canada by Heather Patterson ($6.99, Paperback) is a colourful celebration of the diversity of Canadian children.  With simple text, this delightful book conveys the freedom and space Canadian children enjoy in this wonderful land.  For older kids we have The Kids’ Book of Canadian Geography by Briony Penn and The Kids’ Book of Canadian History by Carlotta Hacker ($19.95 each, Hardcover)  Each of these titles is well illustrated and informative, providing a great overview of their uniquely Canadian content. 

Looking for great kids books by Canadian authors?  Why not choose from our selection which includes some of the best work from such notables as Robert Munsch, Melanie Watt, Bill Slavin, Barbara Reid for younger children and Roy MacGregor, John Ibbitson, Sarah Ellis and Gordon Korman for young adults.  Curiosity House is proud to support Canadian kids’ authors!

Quips, Quotes and Unnecessary Trivia

There is a temperate zone in the mind, between luxurious indolence and exacting work; and it is to this region, just between laziness and labor, that summer reading belongs. 

                                                                        ~Henry Ward Beecher

Miriam and I were at the Canadian Booksellers Conference last weekend learning and networking and having fun. We think we might have to have a facebook page!

Curiosity House Supports the David Suzuki Foundation Book Club

We’re really thrilled to be part of this fantastic and meaningful initiative…

The goal of the David Suzuki Book Club is to give citizens an opportunity to take part in a meaningful discussion about sustainability and our shared future as Canadians.   A reading guide will be available mid-July at www.davidsuzuki.org.   

We’ll post the reading guide at the store and will be happy to order any titles we don’t have on hand.  Want to join this exciting new book club?  Any books from the David Suzuki Book Club reading guide will qualify for our 10% book club discount. 

Join us as we embark on this exciting new project!

JUNE BOOKMARKS

Summer’s Coming

With summer just around the corner and lawn chairs on patios and verandahs, barbequing, gardening and our weekly pilgrimage to the Creemore Farmer’s Market are our new pastimes. Now is the time for lazy backyard reading.

We are looking forward to the completion of the Mill Street construction project and a fresh, new look for the Creemore business district.  The past few months have been dusty and challenging, but on June 20^th the Creemore BIA and Creemore Springs will be holding a street party to celebrate the grand re-opening of Mill Street. 

We would like to thank our customers for their loyalty and patience over the past few months. Your support has helped the bookstore to continue to be a vibrant part of our community and we are very grateful – thank you, thank you, thank you!

June Dates to Remember

• Saturday, June 6^th     10 am to noon     Author Signing

     Lee Gowan  

In 2001, Lee Gowan was named one of Random House’s New Faces of Fiction.  He has been nominated for a Trillium Award, has won several awards for his work as a screenwriter and currently directs the creative writing program at the School of Continuing Studies, University of Toronto.  With his new novel, Confession Lee has written a compelling story which portrays one young man’s struggle between fate and faith, with the searing prairie landscape as a backdrop.  Please take an opportunity to meet this talented author and have him sign a copy of his powerful new book. 

• Saturday,  June 6^th     2 to 4 pm     Artist’s Reception 

In The Gallery:  Graeme Hughson’s ‘Sails & Sky’ Show

Graeme Hughson was chosen as Curiosity House’s Emerging Artist for 2007, when he launched a very successful first solo show in the gallery.  Graeme uses colour, texture and a dynamic style to reflect his surroundings in his paintings.  Join us for the opening reception, enjoy an opportunity to meet this very talented artist and see his new work.

• Saturday, June 13^th     10 am to noon     Story Hour& Book Signing

     darci-que       

This month darci-que, Emily and Mollie are taking some time to come to join us at Curiosity House for the launch of her new book in the Mollie Doodle series, The Adventures of Mollie-Doodle:  Making Friends.  This delightful tale features a very special puppy who has some very exciting adventures. Please join darci from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon    for a special story hour, book signing and lots of fun.   This event is sure to entertain children from ages 1 to 100!

• Saturday, June 27th^th     All Day     Author Signing

     Rose Murray

What is Canadian cuisine? In her new book, A Taste of Canada: A Culinary Journey, veteran cookbook author Rose Murray shows us just how distinctive Canadian cuisine really is.  With stunning photography, fascinating essays and delicious recipes, she celebrates our traditions and pays homage to Canada, its people and our culinary classics.   Rose will be signing copies of this fascinating book at the Creemore Farmers’ Market from 10:00 am to noon, and from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at Curiosity House Books. 

Curiosity House Book Club and Knitting Group – Rewarding Wednesday Afternoons

Monthly Book Club                 

Wednesday June 3rd from 2 to 3 pm

On the first Wednesday of June, the Curiosity House Book Club will gather to discuss Joseph Boyden’s, Three Day Road.  The Book Club will be on vacation, but reading, during the summer and will reconvene on Wednesday Sept. 2^nd.  A list of our reading selections for fall will be posted in our July newsletter.  Our Knitting Group will continue to work on projects throughout the summer, meeting every Wednesday, from 2 to 4 pm.  Please join us! 

New Reads                                                                                          

(Reviewed by Catherine Randall) 

We have the winners!   Alice Munro has just been named the winner of the third Man Booker International Prize for fiction.  This award is given for the author’s body of work and is a great achievement for Munro.  We have her latest book Alice Munro’s Best: Selected Stories, HC, $34.99 as well as a selection of her other books.

Author Elizabeth Strout has just won the Pulitzer Prize for her novel Olive Kitteridge, PB, $16.50.  Strout sets her fiction in a small town in Maine, examining the lives of townspeople and their problems, tragedies and joys. 

Two other books getting quite a buzz in the literary world are A.S. Byatt’s The Children’s Book, HC,36.95 and The Selected Works of T.S. Spivet, HC, $35.00, by Reif Larsen which is a novel but also visually a very unusual book with many side bars, drawings and other bits and pieces of narrative. 

Come and visit.  We always have lots to choose from and suggestions.  See you soon!

Dan Brown Alert!  Pre-Order The Lost Symbol Today!

Dan Brown’s new novel is the eagerly awaited follow-up to his international bestseller, The Da Vinci Code, will be on sale in the US and Canada by September 15, 2009. The retail price will be $36.95 and we will be offering a 15% discount for prepaid orders, until August 30^th, 2009.  Pre-Order your copy today.

Kids need something to Do?  Try these Activity Books!     

(Reviewed by Miriam Vince)

This time of year, when the kids have a bit more time on their hands, it is always good to have a few resources to keep them occupied.  We have lots of great activity books at the store, including colouring, doodling and sticker books.  Three excellent choices are:

Creative Crafts for Kids:  Over 100 Fun Projects for Two to Ten Year Olds Gill Dickinson & Cheryl Owen  ($16.99 PB),  Mister Maker:  Let’s Make It!  Dorling Kindersley Books  (14.99 HC),  and Crafting Fun:  101 Things to Make and Do With Kids  Rae Grant  ($21.95 HC).  Each of these books gives step-by-step instruction which will help kids of all ages complete a variety of crafting projects.  From sewing to candlemaking, from cardmaking to papier-mache, Mums and Dads are sure to find something to keep the kids occupied when it’s raining out and somebody says, ”There’s nothing to do!” . 

Still can’t decide on a project?  Why not try a little baking?  Eat It Up!  Lip-Smacking Recipes for Kids, by Elisabeth de Mariaffi  ($22.95 HC) is just one of the  kid-friendly cookbooks we have in the store.    Come on out and take a look.  We’re sure to have a book which will help keep young hands busy on boring days….

 Quips, Quotes and Unnecessary Trivia

          “The more that you read,
            the more things you will know.
            The more that you learn,
            the more places you’ll go.”

                                                                       ~ Dr. Seuss ~