JANUARY BOOKMARKS

Out with the old year…

Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man.
~ Benjamin Franklin

The arrival of the New Year encourages us to reflect on our achievements and look forward to new adventures.  2011 was a memorable year for Curiosity House Books and Gallery.

• Last February, to coincide with the Creemore “Big Heart Festival”, we held our fourth themed group art show.  Our theme was “Red is Best” and more than 40 artists submitted works for display.     The winner of the People’s Choice award  for this group show was local artist Cynthia Marsh.
• We held an informative and entertaining author lunch at Chez Michel, withWalrus magazine founding editor Joshua Knelman, who engaged a sold out audience with a presentation about his fascinating book, Hot Art. Our author lunches have been both well-received and fully-attended.  What a great way to spend an afternoon!
• Hugh Brewster came to visit the kids at the Nottawasaga and Creemore Public School with a presentation and discussion of his young adults’ book, Deadly Voyage: R.M.S. Titanic, Jamie Laidlaw, April 14, 1912.
• There were well-attended book signings featuring Terry Fallis, Terry Boyle, Trish Magwood, Kathleen Mundy, Terence Keenleyside, Pat Crocker and Sonia Day.  Local authors Ken Thornton, darci-que, Judith Plaxton, and Carolyn Morris also enjoyed successful author signing events in the store and at the Creemore Farmers’ Market.
• In August, Curiosity House was named one of Canada’s Top Ten Favourite Independent Bookstores, based on a survey by the CBC Book Club.  This was, perhaps, our greatest achievement of the year.  We were gratified to receive such incredibly loyal support from our customers and very happy to realize that our hard work had yielded a measure of success.

New challenges lie ahead of us in the coming year.  As many of you know, the building which houses this business has been sold and we will not have an option to renew our lease when it expires at the end of June.  We also anticipate that there will be changes to the public face of the store this year, as we work hard to find energetic new owners to take up our mission to connect our customers with the best possible offerings in the world of books and local art.  We don’t have a great deal of information to offer at the moment, but we’ll keep you informed as our plan unfolds…

Miriam Vince, Editor

What’s On In January

Friday, December 30th
5:00 to 7:00 pm
Artist’s Opening Reception

In the Gallery:
Lynn Connell – “Abundance”

Please join Lynn Connell for cocktails and an opportunity to see her new works, inspired by her travels and charity work in Africa.  A portion of the proceeds from the sales from this show will go to support Lynn’s passion and mission, The Majengo Orphanage in Tanzania.

Saturday, January 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 from 18 months to 6 years of age will have the opportunity to listen to captivating stories, share the love of reading and complete a small craft activity.

What’s New With The Book Club?

January 4th, 2012, 2:00 to 3:00 pm

On the first Wednesday of January, our Book Club will meet between 2:00 and 3:00 pm for a discussion of the prize-winning novel,The Sisters Brothers
by Patrick Dewitt.

Our Bookclub Selections for early 2012 are:

February
Northern Light (Roy MacGregor)

March
The Sense of An Ending (Julian Barnes)

Curiosity House Knitting Group

Our Knitting Group meets every Wednesday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.

We gather around the table to work on our latest projects, inspire, support and help one another.

Please call us at 705-466-3400 or email us for more information.

What’s On In the Gallery?

Feb. 3 – March 3

February Group Show  “Pinkalicious”
Opening Reception - Friday Febuary 3, 2012

March 3 – April 6
Adele Derkowski

Opening Reception – Saturday March 3, 2012

Travelling…

(by Catherine Randall)

January is the perfect time to plan a trip or to do some armchair travelling.  Some new books have caught my eye and whetted my appetite.  Ultimate Food Journeys: The World’s Best Dishes & Where To Eat Them (HC, $45.00) is a beautiful, large, coffee table book full of not only travel information but the best restaurants, where to stay and what to see.  I opened the book to Mussels in Brussels and saw on a map of Europe exactly where Brussels is, learned some of the history of Brussels and Belgium, what to do for three days in Brussels and also where to get the best Moules-Frites in Brussels, in Belgium and also other places in the world.  This is a fabulous book that will inspire any foodie.
Another inspiring book is The New York Times 36 HOURS: 150 Weekends in the USA & Canada (HC, $49.99).  It is thumb-indexed by region rather than country with ribbon book markers for each section.  Based on the popular 36 Hours column in the weekend paper, the book brings together 150 new and updated columns.  The premise is that these itineraries, with little tweaking, will appeal to the backpacker and the jet setter and all are in the realm of the possible.  It is fun to leaf through and read about places one has been and see how the writer has envisioned a weekend trip there and also fun to read about unknown or unplanned destinations that are close enough to imagine visiting.
The New Granta Book of Travel (PB, $29.95) is the perfect arm chair travel read.  Every story, one by each of 23 writers, is a mini-memoir of an event, in a place somewhere in the world.  The experiences are impressively diverse and might recall a long expedition or a walk of an hour.  This is not a guide book but a collection of stories that will be enjoyed but anyone who is interested in travel whether it is close or far.
Travels In Siberia (PB, $23.00) by Ian Frazier, is a fascinating read which was voted a New York Times Book Review Notable Book of the Year.  Time magazine says “Frazier’s rich account absorbs the tales of those who traveled before him, from Genghis Khan and George Kennan to the prisoners of the Gulag”.  I think this is a book that anyone who enjoyed John Valliant’s The Tiger, would also be interested in reading.
We also just received some copies of a book published by a group of hikers who are members of the Bruce Trail Conservancy.  It is called 100 Hikers, 100 Hikes: From Tobermory to Kilamanjaro (PB, $24.95).  Each contributor has described one hike that was memorable to them and, while most were enjoyable, not all were pleasant – one hike is described as “The Hike From Hell”!  Photos accompany most of the hikes and the stories are usually on 2 or 3 pages long.  As the editor says “Lace up a pair of virtual hiking boots and journey with us across mountains, savannahs, canyons and deserts”.  Enjoy and get inspired…!

Encourage your kids to read for pleasure!

(by Miriam Vince)

Normally, I would be taking an opportunity to use this column to make suggestions for books to occupy kids during the snowy days  ahead.  However, this month I am not going to make any suggestions.  Instead, I am going to pass on a piece of very important advice.
Recently, a study  by parent-led advocacy group People for Education, in co-operation with the National Reading Campaign, has revealed a dramatic drop over the past decade in the percentage of Ontario students in Grades 3 and 6 who say they “like to read.”  Literacy scores have apparently risen, but only 50% of all children recently surveyed by the province’s Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) indicated that they found reading enjoyable.  (The 1988/89 survey found 78% of all Grade 3 students and 65% of all Grade 6 students reported a positive attitude towards reading.)
The results of this study have far-reaching implications for student performance and school success. In the words of Annie Kidder, executive director of People for Education, “Just as we’ve recognized that reading and writing and math are very core and very important to school, we have to recognize that enjoyment of reading is a core, a vital aspect of school.”  Studies have shown that a positive attitude toward reading tends to translate to greater success in all academic areas.  Enthusiastic readers appear to become more inquiring students and develop a deeper understanding of the things they are learning.
So, while we work very hard to improve student literacy test scores, it is equally important that we foster the joy of reading in our young people.  A child who is excited about reading will become a student who is enthusiastic about learning.  Encourage your child to read for pleasure.  It will have lasting benefits…

Haven’t read them yet, but we’ve heard these books will be great…

This month’s book preview highlights two new titles from very popular young peoples’ authors. One is a great new release for kids and the other is a great new title for young adults.  Both of these books come from our partners at Scholastic Books.

It’s My Room by Robert Munsch $7.99, Paperback
Available February 12, 2012

Will Matthew ever get some peace in his own room?
Not a chance if his relatives have anything to say about it!

Matthew’s family has a brand-new trailer, which includes a brand-new room for Matthew — a room of his own! Or so his mother says…
Sure enough, before he knows it, the relatives start knocking and his room soon becomes a hotel for cousins and aunts and uncles and dogs. Fed up, and sleeping underneath the trailer (which is the only place to get some privacy!) Matthew hatches a plan to get these guests OUT of his room, once and for all!
Robert Munsch created this story after having a chat with a young boy in Fort McMurray, Alberta. The result? A funny romp of a story that will satisfy any Robert Munsch fan, especially those that have had to share their room when company comes!

Lament by Maggie Stiefvater $11.99, Paperback
Available February 12, 2012

New York Times bestselling author Maggie Stiefvater’s first novel is a powerful fantasy featuring dangerous faeries, otherwordly music and unrequited love.
Sixteen-year-old Deirdre Monaghan is a painfully shy but prodigiously gifted musician. She’s about to find out she’s also a cloverhand — one who can see faeries. When a mysterious boy enters her ordinary suburban life, seemingly out of nowhere, Deirdre finds herself infatuated. Trouble is, the enigmatic and conflicted Luke turns out to be a gallowglass — a soulless faerie assassin — and Deirdre is meant to be his next mark. An equally hunky — and equally dangerous — dark faerie soldier named Aodhan is also stalking Deirdre. Sworn enemies, Luke and Aodhan each have a deadly assignment from the Faerie Queen. Namely, kill Deirdre before her music captures the attention of the Fae and threatens the Queen’s sovereignty. Deirdre has to decide if Luke’s feelings towards her are real, or only a way to lure her deeper into the world of Faerie.
Caught in the crossfire with Deirdre is James, her wisecracking but loyal best friend. Deirdre had been wishing her life weren’t so dull, but getting trapped in the middle of a centuries-old faerie war isn’t exactly what she had in mind.

Quips Quotes and Trivia

We will open the book.  Its pages are blank.  We are going to put words on them ourselves.  The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year’s Day.

~ Edith Lovejoy Pierce
Inspirational Poet

DECEMBER BOOKMARKS

The Greatest Gift of All…

Christmas is not a time or a season but a state of mind.  To cherish peace and good will, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.
~ Calvin Coolidge, 1927

How lucky we are!  Curiosity House has the privilege of being a well-loved bookstore in a quaint village in one of the most beautiful locations imaginable.  We have the loyal support of a fascinating community and we have the opportunity to share in, and enrich, the lives of the wonderful people who call themselves our customers.
This year has been an affirmation of the reciprocal relationship we have with our community.  During the summer, we were proud to discover that our customers had chosen Curiosity House as one of Canada’s Top 10 Favourite Bookstores. This is one of our finest achievements and that recognition was a wonderful gift from the people we serve everyday. We try very hard to remember the importance of maintaining our connection to our neighbours and friends and we make every effort to nurture that relationship, by providing the best possible service. This is our gift to you.
To that end this year, we have put our heads together to provide the best possible selection for everyone on your shopping list.  Once again, we have rolled out our Christmas gift registry.  This invaluable resource allows customers to create a wish list for family members and is a valuable tool which will help you decide what would be the perfect gift for those you love. We are also happy to feature our Books For Everybody Gift Guide, with great suggestions for your holiday gift buying. A co-operative effort between publishers and independent booksellers, this resource provides gift giving suggestions for every member of the family.  Please pick one up the next time you are in the store and don’t forget to take advantage of the $5.00 coupon inside your catalogue, as well!
Sometimes the greatest gifts don’t come wrapped in pretty paper and festooned with bows and glitter.  2011 has been a memorable year for Curiosity House, a year when we have received a gift beyond value – loyalty and support of community.  We thank you for your goodwill and generosity.  From the bottom of our hearts, the staff and partners of Curiosity House would like to wish our community the very best of the holiday season.

Catherine Randall & Miriam Vince
Mary Vandewater & Family
Rowland & Kate Fleming
Deirdre, Cheryl & Caitlin

What’s On in December

Saturday, December 3^rd, 2:00 to 4:00 pm

Opening Reception

In The Gallery:

Our Annual Christmas Group Show

Featured Artist - Bruce Ley
Weavers - Rebecca and Jim Kalbfleisch
Jeweller - Kate Esplen

Working in acrylic, Bruce Ley’s paintings are abstract expressions of colour and movement.  His new show, Improbable Conversations features his dynamic style, inspired by his fascination with curves and puzzles.
Kate Esplen  hand crafts wire jewellery in sterling silver and 14 karat gold-filled wire. These handmade wearable works of sculpture are classic, elegant and  unique.
Members of the Kitchener-Waterloo Weavers and Spinners Guild, Rebecca and Jim Kalbfleisch weave afghans, scarves, tea towels and runners.  Their fabulous fibre confections  are very popular at the Guild’s Spring and Fall sales and are sold at the Silo Weavers in St. Jacobs.

Come to our opening reception to find that special something for the people on your Christmas list.

Saturday, December 3^rd, 10:00 am to Noon

Author Event
Sonia Day

Sonia Day is a Toronto Star gardening columnist, an artist and an award-winning author.  Her new book, The Untamed Garden – A Revealing Look At Our Love Affair With Plants contains delicious tales and tidbits that may surprise you. In this gorgeously illustrated little volume, Sonia reveals some of the garden’s lusty secrets. Sonia will be available to sign books and visit with customers.  Please take an opportunity to meet this engaging author.

Saturday, December 10^th, 10:30 am to Noon

Author Signing, Story and Craft Time
darci-que

Creemore’s own children’s author, darci-que, has just finished a delightful new book, Mollie’s Birthday Party.  This wonderful story is the next in her popular series, The Adventures of Mollie Doodle, which details the exploits of her loyal Labradoodle.   Please join darci-que for a special story and craft time.  She will be available to visit with kids and parents and to sign copies of her books.

Saturday, December  17^th, 10:00 to Noon

Author Event/Book Launch
Bruce Brigham

In December 2009, author and photographer Bruce Brigham released his first book, Abandoned Ontario, which featured a photographic exploration of abandoned houses in Grey, Simcoe, Dufferin Counties and Peel Region. Abandoned Ontario, Book Two profiles all new locations and features abandoned houses, ghost towns and other abandoned historical sites from various locations in the province of Ontario.  Bruce will be visiting with customers and signing copies of his books at this official launch of Abandoned Ontario, Book Two.  Please join us.

Saturday, December 17th, 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, share the love of reading and complete a small craft activity with a Christmas theme.

Friday, December 30th, 5:00 to 7:00 pm

Artist’s Opening Reception

In the Gallery:
Lynn Connell –  Images from Africa

Please join Lynn Connell for cocktails and an opportunity to see her new works, inspired by her travels and charity work in Africa.  A portion of the proceeds from the sales from this show will go to support Lynn’s passion and mission, The Majengo Orphanage in Arusha Tanzania.

Give Books…

By Catherine Randall

We have so many books in the store that make the case for always having a “real” book in your home.  A book you can hold, find unexpected pleasures within, marvel at and share with a friend.  I have described just a few that have recently caught my eye.
Gems & Minerals, HC, $40.00 highlights the beauty and uniqueness of 260 of the gems and minerals found in the collection of the Royal Ontario Museum.  This is a book that will surely be leafed through often by children and adults alike and perhaps a shared exploration as you can’t help exclaiming out loud at these splendid colour photographs.
A hot book now and one every sports fan in your family will want to read and share is How Hockey Explains Canada, HC, $32.95 by Paul Henderson and Jim Prime (with a foreword by the Prime Minister).  The chapters include how hockey explains… Confederation, Don Cherry, Quebec, Alan Fotheringham, Modern Canadian Dentistry (!).  You get the picture.  Lots of photos illustrate the book about “the sport that defines a country”.
World Architecture: The Masterworks, HC, $46.00, by Will Pryce illustrates with stunning photography on every page and the accompanying text is informative and interesting.  The author has divided the book in two, before 1500 and after 1500.  The earliest work is the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul and the final building is the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain.  You will want to leave this book out to dip into often and perhaps either remember a trip or plan a trip around a famous site.
Is there a lover of design and/or china in your circle of family and friends?  Dish: 813 colorful, wonderful dinner plates, HC, $40.00 would be a wonderful gift.  Beautiful and colourful photographs illustrate all sorts of plates from antiques to ultra modern.  There is some text but mostly page after page of stunning images of plates.
Who doesn’t love cook books?  I know people go on line to search recipes which is extremely helpful when you know what you want to make but what if you want to be inspired, find something new or an updated version of a favorite?  There are many luscious cook books on our shelves but the one I want to take home is Chef Michael Smith’s Kitchen, 100 of My Favorite Easy Recipes, PB, $32.00.  Just the photos of the food on the back cover are enough for me to get excited about getting in the kitchen.
Come and visit in December when we have the biggest inventory of books in the year and find that special book that you want to give or to own – a real book!

Great Christmas Suggestions For Young People…

(by Miriam Vince)

At Christmas, kids and books are a winning combination!  Publishers spend most of their year working hard to provide wonderful choices for the holiday season and booksellers are excited to provide imaginative and captivating gifts for you to give to the young people on your list.  Many of these titles can be found in your Books For Everybody 2011 Gift Guide, which contains a $5.00 coupon for qualifying purchases.  Here are just a few suggestions:

In A Porcupine in a Pine Tree ($16.99, HC)  by Helaine Becker  (Illustrated by Werner Zimmermann)  a hilarious cast of distinctively Canadian characters celebrate  the Twelve Days of Christmas, as only Canadians can! With Mounties who frolic, squirrels who curl and hockey players who celebrate the season as lords-a-leaping,  this hilarious, tongue-in-cheek  interpretation of the popular Christmas carol is the holiday perfect gift with a Canadian flair.
Author/illustrator Jan Brett is back with a new holiday offering.   Home for Christmas ($21.00, HC)  tells the story of Rollo the troll who, after spending time on the tundra with various animal families,  discovers that he wants to be home for Christmas even if that means behaving himself.   Lavishly illustrated, this book is sure to be an instant Christmas classic.

A Christmas Tree for Pyn ($19.50, HC) by Olivier Dunrea, captures the true spirit of Christmas.  Pyn has her heart set on decorating her very first Christmas tree, but Papa says, “No!”  Pyn is determined and she knows that a Christmas tree is just the thing their cottage needs to make the season festive and cheery.   A wonderful story of the love between a father and daughter, this book is sure to touch the hearts of kids of all ages.

Can You See What I See? Toyland Express ($15.99, HC) by Walter Wick is an  amazing search-and-find story from the creator of award-winning picture books,  and the photographer of the bestselling I Spy series. Can You See What I See? Toyland Express, follows the life of a toy train from the workshop to the attic, to the yard sale.  Readers can search for more than 250 hidden objects, and watch the train as it takes on various transformations along its journey.

For kids with a creative flair, we have a variety of book and craft kits from  Klutz, including, Draw the DC Universe, from Brett Breeding  ($21.99, HC),  Wicked Cool Friendship Bracelets, from Karen Phillips($18.99) and How to Draw Funny, by David Sheldon($19.99, HC).  We have several wonderful Lego books from Dorling-Kindersley.  Lego Brickmaster Ninjago ($32.99, HC) and Lego: Harry Potter: Building the Magical World of Harry Potter ($24.00, HC), provide book and brick combinations which are sure to appeal to all of the Lego fanatics in the family.  The Lego Star Wars Character Encyclopedia ($20.99, HC) and the Lego Ideas Book ($27.00, HC) will provide construction inspiration to kids of all ages.

Don’t forget classic books for children and young adults which are sure to please all members of your family.  Why not choose a copy of Where the Sidewalk Ends, Runny Babbit, The Secret Garden or The Wizard of Oz for your young person? We have a wonderful classics section with paperback, hardcover and beautifully illustrated editions which will make wonderful gifts for everyone on your list.  Can’t decide what to give?  A gift card gives the recipient the best gift of all – the gift of choice.

Whatever your gift-giving choices may be, please remember that the best gift you can give a child is the gift of reading…

What’s New With The Book Club?

December 7th, 2011, 2:00 to 3:00 pm

On the first Wednesday of  December, our Book Club will meet between 2:00 and 3:00 pm for a discussion of Adam Gopnik’s Massey Hall Lecture, Winter, Five Windows On The Season. Our Bookclub  Selections for early 2012 are:

January
The Sisters Brothers – Patrick Dewitt

February
Northern Light - Roy MacGregor

March
The Sense of An Ending – Julian Barnes

Curiosity House Knitting Group

Our Knitting Group meets every Wednesday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.

We gather around the table to work on our latest projects, inspire, support and help one another.   Please call us at 705-466-3400 or email us for more information.

What’s On In the Gallery?

Coming To The Gallery At the End Of December…

Lynn Connell

Images of Africa

Art Fundraiser

Friday, December 30^th, 5:00 to 7:00 pm

Please join local artist Lynn Connell, for cocktails and a chance to learn about her fundraising efforts for children in Tanzania.  A portion of the proceeds from this show will be donated to the Majengo Orphanage in Arusha, Tanzania.

Opening Reception – Friday, December 30^th

Feb. 3rd – March 3rd

“Pinkalicious” – Our February Group Show

Opening Reception – Friday Febuary 3rd, 2012

March 3rd – April 6th

Adele Derkowski

Opening Reception – Saturday March 3rd, 2012

Christmas Hours 2011

Our hours for the Christmas season will be:

Friday, December 23^rd
10 am to 5 pm

Saturday, December 24^th
9 am to 5pm

Sunday, December 25^th

CLOSED

Monday, December 26^th
to
Thursday, December 29^th
10 am to 5 pm

Friday, December 30^th
10 am to 7 pm

Saturday, December 31^st
9 am to 5 pm

Sunday, January 1^st 2012
CLOSED

Haven’t read them yet, but we’ve heard these books will be great…
This month’s book preview  highlights two books which are contenders in the CBC CANADA READS literary competition.  The first is distributed by Random House of Canada and the second is distributed by Harper Collins Canada.

On a Cold Road:  Tales of Adventure in Canadian Rock by Dave Bidini ($21.00, Paperback)
Currently Available

David Bidini, rhythm guitarist with the Rheostatics, knows all too well what the life of a rock band in Canada involves: storied arenas, one tour and bars wallpapered with photos of forgotten bands… Zit-speckled fans begging for a guitar pick and angry drunks chucking twenty-sixers and pint glasses. Opulent tour buses riding through apocalyptic snowstorms and cramped vans that reek of dope and beer. Brilliant performances and heart-sinking break-ups.

Something Fierce by Carmen Aguirre ($21.00, Paperback)
Release Date:  December 7, 2011

A gripping, darkly comic memoir of a young underground revolutionary during the Pinochet dictatorship in 1980s Chile.
On September 11, 1973, a violent coup removed Salvador Allende, the democratically elected socialist president of Chile, from office. Thousands were arrested, tortured and killed under General Augusto Pinochet’s repressive new regime. Soon after the coup, six-year-old Carmen Aguirre and her younger sister fled the country with their parents for Canada and a life in exile.
In 1978, the Chilean resistance issued a call for exiled activists to return to Latin America. Most women sent their children to live with relatives or with supporters in Cuba, but Carmen’s mother kept her precious girls with her. As their mother and stepfather set up a safe house for resistance members in La Paz, Bolivia, the girls’ own double lives began. At eighteen, Carmen herself joined the resistance. With conventional day jobs as a cover, she and her new husband moved to Argentina to begin a dangerous new life of their own.
This dramatic, darkly funny narrative, which covers the eventful decade from 1979 to 1989, takes the reader inside war-ridden Peru, dictatorship-run Bolivia, post-Malvinas Argentina and Pinochet’s Chile. Writing with passion and deep personal insight, Aguirre captures her constant struggle to reconcile her commitment to the movement with the desires of her youth and her budding sexuality. Something Fierce is a gripping story of love, war and resistance and a rare first-hand account of revolutionary life.

November Bookmarks

Save us a spot by the fireplace…

“May you have warm words on a cold evening, a full moon on a dark night and a smooth road all the way to your door”

~ Irish Blessing

November can be such a grey and dismal month.   We have spent our October days luxuriating in the warmth of Indian Summer, but we anticipate the inevitable change to a cooler backdrop for our lives. Trees have shed their leaves and skies have changed to an icy blue.  Coats are heavier and hands and feet need extra protection.  Staying warm is our new preoccupation.
The cooler days of November stir up a great deal of warmth and excitement at Curiosity House. We eagerly anticipate the announcement of the winners of the Giller Prize, the Governor General’s Award and the Rogers Writers Trust Prize.  We have been working hard to order wonderful books to satisfy our customers’ shopping and wish lists for the upcoming holiday season.  We look forward to the opening of a delightful show from a local artist.  In partnership with the local school board, we will be hosting a fascinating presentation by a nationally known author.
It may be cold outside, but there are lots of opportunities to warm the spirit.  There may not be any opportunity to ski or snowshoe, but November does offer a chance to slow down, find a comfy chair, add another log to the fire and lose yourself in a book.

Miriam Vince, Editor

What’s On in November

Saturday, November 5th

2:00 to 4:00 pm

Artist’s Opening Reception

In The Gallery: David Wilson presentsCountry Life

David Wilson is an artist, writer and businessman who lives and works in the Creemore area.  His new show, Country Life, presents works primarily in oil and acrylic, which reflect the inspiration David finds in the landscape which surrounds us.   Join us at our opening reception and take the opportunity to meet this fascinating and talented artist.

Saturday, November 12th

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, share the love of reading and complete a small craft activity.
Monday, Nov. 14, 11:30 to 1:00 pm
Author Presentation at
Nottawasaga & Creemore
Public School
Hugh Brewster

Hugh Brewster’s newly released offering in the new I Am Canada series, Deadly Voyage: R.M.S. Titanic, Jamie Laidlaw, April 14, 1912 is an historically accurate novel, which details the experiences of a young Canadian boy returning to Canada from Britain on the maiden voyage of a doomed luxury liner. In Deadly Voyage, this award-winning author and noted Titanic historian draws from his vast knowledge of that fateful journey to create an enthralling tale of historical fiction — the ultimate adventure, whose terrifying end we know all too well.
Hugh will be leading a presentation and discussion of his new novel at Nottawasaga & Creemore Public School and will be available to sign copies of many of his books.  This fascinating and informative event is open to the public.  We encourage you to join us.

Friday, November  18th

7:00 to 9:00 pm
Meet and Greet / Author Event
Dr. John Bacher

The Tree Society of Creemore, with sponsorship from Curiosity House will pay tribute to local residents, Diane and Brian McKay, for their 20 years of leadership and dedication.  As part of this event, Dr. John Bacher, author of Two Billion Trees and Counting – The Legacy of Edmund Zavitz, will discuss Ontario’s reforestation project with particular emphasis on how it impacted our region and the Mad and Noisy watersheds. Copies of his book will be available for purchase at the event.  Tickets are $10.00 and are available at Curiosity House.  For more information contact Ingrid at 705-466-2658

Our

Featured Event
In November

Monday, November 14th
11:30 am to 1:00 pm

Author Event

Hugh Brewster

Presentation at Nottawasaga & Creemore Public School

Please Join Us!

In the Gallery in November

David Wilson’s

Country Life

Art Show and Sale

What’s New

With The
Book Club?

November 2nd, 2011
2:00 to 3:00 pm

On the first Wednesday of November, our Book Club will meet between 2:00 and 3:00 pm for a discussion of
Esi Edugyan’s
Giller-nominated novel
Half Blood Blues

Our final book for the Fall  will be our  December selection

Winter, Five Windows On The Season
Adam Gopnik

Curiosity House

Knitting Group

Our Knitting Group meets
every Wednesday
from
2:00 to 4:00 pm.

As the winds of November begin to blow, our Knitting Group is crafting those warm scarves, mittens and sweaters to protect against the icy blasts of Winter!  Christmas is coming and there is still some time to make a gift with a personal touch, for loved ones.   We are always happy to order any needlework title which might suit your interest.

Please call us at
705-466-3400 or email us for more information.
What’s On
In the Gallery?

Dec. 3rd – Dec. 30th

Featured Artist
Bruce Ley
&
Our Annual Christmas Group Show
Opening Reception
Saturday, December 3rd

Dec. 30th – February 3rd

Lynn Connell

Opening Reception

Friday, December 30th

Haven’t read them yet, but we’ve heard these books will be great…
This month’s book preview comes from the catalogues of

Random House of Canada

These two books are wonderful additions to your non-fiction library.  In the first one, a former US president gives his prescription to cure North America’s economic woes.    In the second a notable Canadian biographer details the downfall of a Canadian political party.  Both books are sure to be in great demand over the next few months…
Back to Work:  Why We Need Smart Government For a Strong Economy
by Bill Clinton
$25.95, Hardcover
Release Date:  November 8, 2011

“I wrote this book because I love my country and I’m concerned about our future,” writes Bill Clinton. “As I often said when I first ran for President in 1992, America at its core is an idea—the idea that no matter who you are or where you’re from, if you work hard and play by the rules, you’ll have the freedom and opportunity to pursue your own dreams and leave your kids a country where they can chase theirs.”
In Back to Work, Clinton details how we can get out of the current economic crisis and lay a foundation for long-term prosperity. He offers specific recommendations on how we can put people back to work and create new businesses, increase bank lending and corporate investment, double our exports, and restore our manufacturing base…
Clinton also says that we need both a strong economy and a smart government working together to restore prosperity and progress. He demonstrates that whenever we’ve given in to the temptation to blame government for our problems, we’ve lost our commitment to shared prosperity, balanced growth, financial responsibility, and investment in the future…
“There is no evidence that we can succeed in the twenty-first century with an antigovernment strategy,” writes Clinton, “with a philosophy grounded in ‘You’re on your own’ rather than ‘We’re all in this together.’”

When the Gods Changed:  The Death of Liberal Canada
by Peter C. Newman
$35.00 Hardcover
Release Date:  November 22, 2011

Peter C. Newman, Canada’s most “cussed and discussed” political journalist, on the death spiral of the Liberal Party.
The May 2, 2011 federal election turned Canadian governance upside down and inside out. In his newest and possibly most controversial book, bestselling author Peter C. Newman argues that the Harper majority will alter Canada so much that we may have to change the country’s name. But the most lasting impact of the Tory win will be the demise of the Liberal Party, which ruled Canada for seven of the last ten decades and literally made the country what it is. Newman chronicles, in bloody detail, the de-construction of the Grits’ once unassailable fortress and anatomizes the ways in which the arrogance embedded in the Liberal genetic code slowly poisoned the party’s progressive impulses.
When the Gods Changed is the saga of a political self-immolation unequalled in Canadian history. It took Michael Ignatieff to light the match.

Quips, Quotes & Trivia
“A book is the most effective weapon against intolerance and ignorance”

~ Lyndon Baines Johnson

Interesting and Quirky New Reads

By Catherine Randall

I thought this month I would briefly highlight some new, non-fiction books; some by well known authors and others not likely to be reviewed in the mainstream press. Full disclosure – I have not read any of them!
I heard an interesting interview on the radio with Micha Glenny, author of the newly released Dark Market: Cyberthieves, Cybercops And You, HC, $29.95.  Ironically, several days later my email account was hacked so I am even more interested in what is a dark market indeed.  Glenny recounts true crime stories of these cyber criminals who do everything from hacking email to bank and credit card fraud to industrial espionage.  This is astonishing and amazing, is very widespread and ultimately affects all of us.
Two books just added to our food/cookbook section are Natalie MacLean’s Unquenchable: A Tipsy Quest for the World’s Best Bargain Wines, HC, $29.95 and Adam Gopnik’s The Table Comes First: Family, France and the Meaning of Food, HC, $29.95.  The titles pretty much explain the contents of each book.  Both are excellent writers and I am looking forward to dipping into each book.  You might remember MacLean from her previous book Red, White and Drunk All Over.  Gopnik will deliver the Massey lectures this year across Canada and broadcast on the CBC November 7 – 11.  The book, Winter, Five Windows On The Season, PB, $22.95, is our book club selection for December.
There is a new illustrated edition of Michael Pollan’s popular Food Rules: An Eater’s Manual, HC, $28.00. Illustrated throughout with colourful paintings by Maira Kalman it will appeal to anyone interested in food, anyone who thinks they already know everything about food or anyone who thinks that they don’t need to know about food!  “It is not food if it arrives through the window of your car” or “Don’t eat cereal that changes the colour of the milk”.  It’s fun with a message.
How The Dog Became The Dog: From Wolves To Our Best Friends, by Mark Derr, HC, $31.50 is another gift idea.  How did that happen and when, and what is the relationship between wolves and dogs today?  Find out!  Unlikely Friendships, PB, $16.95 in photos and text describes 47 remarkable stories of relationships between animals such as a gorilla and a kitten or a leopard and a cow.  The photos and the accompanying stories are both touching and amazing.  This would be a great gift for almost anyone you know. There are blurbs by Temple Grandin on the covers of both books which says a lot about their authenticity and relevence.
The holidays are coming and we have many, many more suggestions.  Also pick up a copy of the Book For Everybody 2011 Gift Guide the next time you are in the store.  There is a $5.00 coupon inside to be used on any purchase… our gift to you.

Great Christmas Suggestions For Kids…

(by Miriam Vince)

Twice, over the past couple of weeks, a young person has come to the counter and asked for a pencil and paper.  Apparently, our younger customers have decided that it is already time to be making out their Christmas lists.  In case you are wondering, these are a few of the titles that are likely to be in high demand over the next couple of months:
For children 3 years and up, Picture a Tree (Barbara Reid , $19.99, HC) is a wonderful new book, featuring Reid’s award-winning  Plasticine artwork, which will change the way you look at and appreciate the beauty of trees.  Caramba and Henry (Marie-Louise Gay, $17.95, HC) is another wonderful book from critically acclaimed author/illustrator and the creator of the Stella and Sam series about siblings and their complicated, loving relationships.  The Busy Beaver (Nicholas Oldland, $16.95, HC) tells the story of a multi-tasking beaver who learns the hard way that being busy can be great, unless it also means being careless and impulsive.
For kids aged 9 and up, we have two wonderful graphic novels from Brian Selznick.  The Invention of Hugo Cabret($27.50, HC) is the story of a young boy who is a twelve year old orphan, clock keeper and thief who lives in the walls of a busy Paris train station, where his survival depends on secrets and anonymity. But when his world suddenly interlocks with an eccentric girl and the owner of a small toy booth in the train station, Hugo’s undercover life, and his most precious secret, are put in jeopardy. A 3-D film version of this fascinating book debuts in theatres late November.   In  Wonderstruck ($29.99, HC), Selznick takes readers on an awe-inspiring journey which tells the parallel stories of Ben and Rose, two children trying to find their place of belonging in the world. One story takes place is 1977 and is told in text, the other in 1927 and is told in pictures. Selznick uses intricate pencil sketches to weave these two into a single story in the end.  Visually stunning and full of fascinating detail, this remarkable book is sure to appeal to young adults and adults alike.
For children aged 10 to 14 years we have two new installments in high profile series.  The Son of Neptune ($21.99, HC) is book two in the Heroes Of Olympus  series.  Featuring his intrepid  teenage adventurer, Percy Jackson, this much anticipated sequel features a growing cast of courageous heroes and despicable enemies.  We also have the fifth installment in Shane Peacock’s award-winning Boy Sherlock Holmes series, The Dragon Turn  ($21.99, HC).  With humor and dizzying plot turns, Peacock invites his readers into the fascinating world of one of literature’s favourite characters, with a fresh adventure involving magicians, dragons, wizards and murder.
Each of these titles can be found in theBooks For Everybody 2011 Gift Guide, which is  available at the store and crammed full of great suggestions for the young people in your life.

“Long before Canadian authors

became know internationally,

the independent booksellers

were devoted to encouraging

Canadian readers and Canadian

writers, and committed to

forging a bond between them.”

- Jane Urquhart

OCTOBER BOOKMARKS

Thankful…

   As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. 
                 ~John Fitzgerald Kennedy

      We are thankful for so many things…

      At Curiosity House, we have been lucky to have a loyal clientele and an energetic staff who make it possible for our sophisticated bookstore to survive in a small village in central Ontario.  We have been blessed with benefactors whose unwavering support has made it possible to continue to provide great service to the village and to our customers, in spite of quiet times and economic downturns.  We have been fortunate to have support from our local BIA, as well as local merchants.
     We are thankful to have friends and family who support our vision and who understand the importance of bookstores to the cultural landscape of our town, our province, and our country.  Our country is lucky to have committed small business owners, who are willing to provide important cultural content to the population, in spite of e-books, e-tailers and large format and deep discount retailers.  
     Let us all give thanks for the bounty  which we enjoy everyday.  We know a life which is free from war and hunger, a life which holds opportunies for us to learn and succeed, a life which celebrates learning, expanding our consciousness and reaching out to others.  Let us all give thanks for our commitment to keep the book, reading, and the independent bookstore alive.
               
                 Miriam Vince, Editor

Think Independent

Read Independent

Buy Independent

What’s On in October

Saturday, October 1st, 2:00 to 4:00 pm  

Artist’s Opening Reception

 In The Gallery: 

Diane Hasley 
Our Emerging Artist for 2011… 

    Curiosity House is pleased to welcome Diane Hasley as our Emerging Artist for 2011.  In her show Colours of the Bay, Diane uses encaustic techniques and, inspired by the ever-changing skies she sees from her cottage on Georgian Bay, she explores the beauty of the natural environment which surrounds her. Please join us at the opening reception and take an opportunity to meet this talented artist.
 

Saturday, October 8^th, 9:30 to 11:30 am
Local Author Signing
Creemore Farmers’ Market
Carolyn Morris and Judith Plaxton

     Curiosity House will  be presenting two local authors to the Creemore Farmers’ Market.  Carolyn Morris and Judith Plaxton will be signing copies of their captivating young adult novels from 9:30 to 11:30 am.  Carolyn Morris is the author of Mourning Dove, a heart-warming novel which chronicles a young boy’s experiences while living on his grandparents’ farm and his attempt to come to terms with the loss of his father.  Judith Plaxton is the author of Morning Star, an engaging novel which explores a young girl’s quest to trace her roots to the days of slavery and her family’s escape to freedom via the Underground Railroad.  Please drop by the Market and take an opportunity to meet these fascinating authors.

Saturday October 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, share the love of reading and complete a small craft activity with a Thanksgiving theme.

Saturday, October 15th, 3:00 to 5:00 pm
(Speaking at 4 pm for 15 min.)
Author Event – Donna McCaw

     Author Donna McCaw is a retirement expert, speaker and workshop presenter on Retirement Readiness and Retirement Planning for Women.  Her practical and entertaining new book, It’s Your Time:  Information and Excercises To Get You Ready For a Great Retirement, shows how to “plan a retirement that fits you and how you can enter this fulfilling time of your life with confidence and flexibility, ready for some nice surprises.”  Donna will make a short presentation and will be available to answer questions and sign copies of her informative book.  

Featured Event In October
Sunday, October 23^rd, 12 Noon to 3:00 pm
Author Event – Lunch with Joshua Knelman
At Chez Michel

A major work of investigative journalism, Joshua Knelman’s true crime story, Hot Art  is a fascinating look at the mysterious world of international art theft.  Joshua Knelman is an award-winning journalist and editor.  Tickets are $35.00 including taxes and gratuities.  Seating is limited and reservations are required.   Please join us and enjoy a special lunch with award-winning journalist and editor Joshua Knelman.  Tickets are $35.00 including taxes and gratuities.  Seating is limited and reservations are required. 
What’s New With The Book Club?

October 5th, 2:00 to 3:00 pm

On the first Wednesday of October, our Book Club will meet between 2:00 and 3:00 pm for a roundtable discussion of  John Vaillant’s powerful and critically-acclaimed book, The Tiger:  A True Story of Vengeance and Survival
Our list of selections for the rest of the fall season is: 

November
To the End of the Land
David Grossman

December
Winter: Five Windows On The Season
Adam Gopnik

Curiosity House Knitting Group                                                                     

Our Knitting Group meets every Wednesday from  2:00 to 4:00 pm.
With the arrival of cooler weather, members of our Knitting Group are sharing a renewed passion for their craft.  New projects have been started and we are regularly receiving new additions to our needlework and crafting section – inspiration!  

Please call us at 705-466-3400 or email us for more information.  

What’s On In the Gallery?

November and December 2011

Nov. 5 – Dec. 2

David Wilson
Landscapes and still life in oil and acrylic
Opening Reception – Saturday November 5

Dec. 3 – Dec. 30
Featured Artist
Bruce Ley & Our Annual Christmas Group Show
Opening Reception – Saturday December 3
Non-Fiction Suggestions For Adults

By Catherine Randall

     I thought I would highlight a few of the just released non-fiction titles that we recently received in the store and that have gone onto my “to read” list.
I am loving Joshua Knelman’s  book about art theft, Hot Art, HC, $29.95 and I am very much looking forward to hearing him tell his story of researching and writing about this truly fascinating subject at our event on Oct.23rd.   The subject grabs you right from the first paragraph and I am torn between page turning as fast as I can to see what happens, or slowing down to enjoy his excellent writing style.  You meet detectives, con men, lawyers, gallery owners, art history profs and, of course, criminals.  So far the story, and I am only part way into the book, has taken him to Hollywood, Toronto, New York, England and Egypt and I’ve just read about a Rembrandt painting that has been stolen 4 times.  Who would have thought that art theft is the fourth largest criminal activity in the world?  Fascinating!
     One of my favourite memoirs is Alexandra Fuller’s Don’t Let’s Go To The Dogs Tonight and I am so looking forward to reading her new book Cocktail Hour Under The Tree of Forgetfulness, HC, $29.95.  This book is in the same format with small photos at the beginning of each chapter which allows you to feel more connected to her family members and events in their lives.  She returns to the subject of Africa and her quirky family but the heart of the book is her mother Nicola, or Nicola Fuller of Central Africa as she sometimes introduces herself.  In her usual style the author is frank, humorous and insightful in describing her family’s journey of love, sadness, tragedy, hardship, optimism and acceptance.  I have skimmed a few pages just to feel again the thrill of her writing but look forward to settling down and starting at the beginning soon.
     Another author I like very much is Adam Gopnik who has written several books and is a frequent writer in The New Yorker magazine.   I was interested to learn that he is giving the Massey Lectures this year and has chosen the topic “ winter”.  His book, Winter: Five Windows On The Season, TP, $22.95 has just been released.  The lectures are November 7 – 11 and are broadcast on the CBC.  Winter is a season we know well in Canada and in our area we are familiar with the many personalities of the season.  This is also our book club pick for the December 7th meeting at the store.
     Two books sure to provoke discussion are right wing political writer Mark Steyn’s After America: Get Ready for Armageddon, HC, $32.95 and Ron Susskind’s Confidence Men, HC, $32.99 a critical look at Wall Street, Washington, President Obama and his circle of advisors.  We do also have copies of A Matter of Principle, HC, $37.00 by Conrad Black and the just released boxed set of book and accompanying 8 CDs,  Jacqueline Kennedy: Historic Conversations, HC, $60.00 which are her interviews with Arthur Schlesinger Jr. in 1964.
     There are many more new releases –literature, memoir, history, science, coffee table books etc so please drop in – catch up on what is current.

Great Kids Books For Fall…

(by Miriam Vince)

     There are some wonderful books for children and young adults which are set to be released this Fall.  I have spent the past few months reviewing catalogues and placing orders for exciting and entertaining new titles. Here are four new books which deserve special mention:
     Every Thing On It ($21.99, HC) by Shel Silverstein (1932 – 1999) is an amazing collection of never-before-published poems and drawings from the creator of Where the Sidewalk Ends, A Light in the Attic, and Falling Up. Silverstein was a cartoonist, playwright, poet, performer, recording artist, and Grammy-winning, Oscar-nominated songwriter and was the the author and illustrator of many beloved books of poetry and prose.  His crazy tongue-twister rhymes and goofy poems are sure to bend your brain and open your heart.
     The Bipolo Seed and Other Lost Stories ($17.00, HC) from Dr. Seuss (1904 – 1991) is the literary equivalent of buried treasure!  Seuss scholar and collector Charles D. Cohen has hunted down seven rarely seen stories by Dr. Seuss which were originally published in magazines between 1950 and 1951.  These seven stories were from a time just before Dr. Seuss became an internationally acclaimed children’s author and show some of the ideas which inspired his most popular books. This is a collection of stories that no Seuss fan, young or old, will want to miss!
     2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the fated maiden voyage of the luxury passenger liner RMS Titanic.  To co-incide with that fateful event, we have a riveting new novel from award-winning author and noted Titanic historian, Hugh Brewster.   Deadly Voyage:  RMS Titanic ($14.95, HC) is the next installment in the I Am Canada series from Scholastic Books.  Since its launch in Fall 2010, this series has been praised for its accurate and energetic exploration of fascinating moments in Canadian history, through the eyes of young men who lived through them. Brewster draws from his vast knowledge of that fateful journey to create an enthralling tale of historical fiction.
     Inheritance, by Christopher Paolini  ($27.99, HC) is the much anticipated conclusion of the Inheritance Cycle series which has captivated adults and young adults for the past ten years.  Due out in early November, this is the final book in the saga of Eragon Shadeslayer and his faithful dragon Saphira as they struggle to topple the evil king and save the people of Alagaesia.
     Each of these books has a special appeal – two are undiscovered treasures, one has historical significance and one is a much anticipated conclusion to a riveting fantasy series.  Most important, each is sure to provide hours of entertainment to the lucky young people who have the opportunity to get lost in the world of their imagination.

Haven’t read them yet, but we’ve heard these books will be great…

This month’s book preview comes from the catalogues of
Thomas Allen & Son Ltd.

One book is a long-awaited new offering from a literary giant, the other is a delicious offering from a culinary giant.  

The Prague Cemetery  by Umberto Eco ($31.95, Hardcover)
Release Date:  November 8, 2011

Nineteenth-century Europe—from Turin to Prague to Paris—abounds with the ghastly and the mysterious. Conspiracies rule history. Jesuits plot against Freemasons. Italian republicans strangle priests with their own intestines. French criminals plan bombings by day and celebrate Black Masses at night. Every nation has its own secret service, perpetrating forgeries, plots, and massacres. From the unification of Italy to the Paris Commune to the Dreyfus Affair to The Protocols of the Elders of Zion, Europe is in tumult and everyone needs a scapegoat. But what if, behind all of these conspiracies both real and imagined, lay one lone man? What if that evil genius created its most infamous document?  
Eco takes his readers on an unforgettable journey through the underbelly of world-shattering events. Eco at his most exciting, a book immediately hailed as a masterpiece. 

Translated from the Italian by Richard Dixon.

Essential Pepin by Jacques Pepin ($45.00 Hardcover)
Release Date:  October 18, 2011

In his more than sixty years as a chef, Jacques Pépin has earned a reputation as a champion of simplicity. His recipes are classics. They find the shortest, surest route to flavour, avoiding complicated techniques.
     Now, in a book that celebrates his life in food, the world’s most famous cooking teacher winnows his favourite recipes from the thousands he has created, streamlining them even further. They include Onion Soup Lyonnaise-Style, which Jacques enjoyed as a young chef while bar-crawling in Paris; Linguine with Clam Sauce and Vegetables, a frequent dinner chez Jacques; Grilled Chicken with Tarragon Butter, which he makes indoors in winter and outdoors in summer; Five-Peppercorn Steak, his spin on a bistro classic; Mémé’s Apple Tart, which his mother made every day in her Lyon restaurant; and Warm Chocolate Fondue Soufflé, part cake, part pudding, part soufflé, and pure bliss.
Essential Pépin spans the many styles of Jacques’s cooking: homey country French, haute cuisine, fast food Jacques-style, and fresh contemporary American dishes. Many of the recipes are globally inspired, from Mexico, across Europe, or the Far East.
In the accompanying searchable DVD, Jacques shines as a teacher, as he demonstrates all the techniques a cook needs to know. This truly is the essential Pépin.

 Quips, Quotes & Trivia

SEPTEMBER BOOKMARKS

The excitement of change…

Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns.
~ George Eliot

September is a month of change. The days are growing shorter and the evenings are cool.  Children are packing their book bags for school and we are beginning to see a change in the colour of the land around us. Orange leaves and golden skies are part of our new palette, as we head into Fall. Autumn is always a time of excitement in the bookselling industry.
This month the store welcomes an award-winning cookbook author and a local artist with a vibrant style.  We will also be participating in our final Art Crawl for the Summer.  We look forward to the excitement of the Purple Hills Studio Tour weekend and we are proud to be a sponsor of this important cultural event.

As we bid “Farewell!” to the waning days of a wonderful Summer, we eagerly anticipate Fall as an opportunity to discover new literary offerings and art experiences and to plan new events and programs for our customers.  The seasons are changing and we’re excited!

Miriam Vince, Editor

Celebrate!

Curiosity House Voted One of Canada’s Top Ten Favourite Canadian Bookstores!

In August, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation held a  contest to decide the best local independent bookstores in Canada.  Curiosity House is honoured to be included in the CBC’s Top Ten Independent Canadian Bookstores. For more information follow this link to the  CBC Books Facebook Page.
To those who nominated Curiosity House, we would like to say “Thank You!”  We will do our best to continue providing you with excellent service.

What’s On in September

Friday September 2^nd 6:00 to 9:00 pm
Creemore Inspired Art Crawl

Curiosity House Books & Gallery, Maplestone Gallery, Moyaboya and the Mad and Noisy Gallery present our new art exhibits for September with a special apres art menu at Chez Michel (reservations suggested.)  Please join us!

Saturday, September 3rd

9:30 – 11:30 am Creemore Farmers’ Market

2:00 – 4:00 pm Curiosity House

Author Event - Pat Crocker

Pat Crocker is a culinary herbalist, professional home economist and an award-winning author of several cookbooks.  She also writes for international magazines, newspapers and corporate clients.  Her newly released offering,  Preserving:  A Resource Cookbook For Home Canning and Preserving has all the information anyone  needs to get started, and to keep going! This cookbook is practical, focusing on simple but effective concepts, with easy-to-follow, accurate and thorough instructions, detailed information on canning, jamming and freezing techniques and more than 200 recipes.

In Everyday Flexitarian, Pat and co-author Nettie Cronish tackle the challenge of bridging the gap between the meat lovers and vegetarians in your family, by providing recipes that can be easily adjusted to please every person at the table. Pat Crocker will be signing copies of these wonderful cookbooks at the Creemore Farmers’ Market from 9:30 to 11:30 am and at Curiosity House from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.  Please join us.

Saturday, Sept. 10^th 11:30 to 2:30pm

Artist In the Gallery

In The Gallery:

Marlene Bulas
Bright and Joyous…

A graduate of the Georgian College Design and Visual Arts program, Marlene Bulas learned a love of painting from her mother, who studied with the Group of Seven.   On her website, Marlene describes her paintings as “bright and joyous”.  With an impressionistic style, she creates landscapes, florals, still life and figurative paintings, using a variety of media.  We are pleased to welcome Marlene to the gallery and we hope that you will take an opportunity to  meet this talented artist at our opening reception.

Friday, September 16th

Author Drop-In

Award-winning author Philip Shepherd is appearing at workshops in Collingwood and Nottawa on the weekend of Friday Sept. 16 to Sunday Sept. 18.  He will be dropping by the store to sign copies of his inspiring book, New Self New World.  Drop by and pick up a copy of this inspiring book. More information regarding Philip Shepherd, his books and workshops, is available at http://www.philipshepherd.com.

Looking forward to Fall…

(by Catherine Randall)

The Fall is an eagerly awaited season in the book business.  New books are being released from mid-August on and all authors have their sights on the long-lists announced in the Autumn.  We have been ordering some books from authors that you will be excited about.  I have just finished Wayne Johnston’s new novel, A World Elsewhere.  The writing is brilliant and for most of the novel I was in awe of his clever use of language which helped to make up for the rather lackluster plot.  Landish Druken from Newfoundland meets “Van” Vanderluyden, son of the richest man in the world, while they are both at Princeton and their ensuing friendship, which later turns to a darker relationship, is the core of the story.  Deacon is a young orphaned boy Landish has been asked to care for and, having been disgraced at Princeton and then disowned by his infamous sealing captain father, the two scrape out an existence while living in an attic room on Dark Marsh Road.   Ultimately they end up at Vanderland, the huge estate Van has built in North Carolina.  It isn’t until the last quarter of the book that the plot suddenly takes off frantically in several different directions and the ultimate ending is somewhat dissatisfying but I still marvelled at Johnston’s amazing skill with language. I am glad I read the novel but it is not one of my favourite Wayne Johnston books.  The author’s note acknowledges his inspiration for the book is George Vanderbilt II and his mansion Biltmore near Ashville, N.C.
I am eagerly waiting for Michael Ondaatje’s new book, The Cat’s Table.  I expect this to be up there with the best of his books judging from a chapter I read recently in The New Yorker.  Set in the 1950s  it is the story of an 11 year old boy who has been put on board a ship in Colombo and told his mother will meet him in England when the ship docks.  Alone, he teams up with 2 other boys he knows slightly from his school.   The several pages I read were enough to get me hooked.
Other new books to anticipate – a collection of short stories, This Will Be Difficult To Explain, from 2010 Giller prize winner Johanna Skibsrud; Guy Vanderhaeghe’s A Good Man, the third in his trilogy that includes The Last Crossing and The Englishman’s Boy; David Davidar, former head of Penguin Canada, will explore, in his novel Ithaca, the struggles of a publisher whose leading author suddenly and inconveniently dies.  Frances Itani’s book, Deafening is a favourite of mine so I look forward to Requiem, the story of a Japanese-Canadian widower who takes off on a cross-country journey of discovery.
In non-fiction we have Margaret Atwood In Other Worlds critiquing and musing on science fiction; Joan Didion’s exploration of aging in Blue Nights and sure to be THE blockbuster Conrad Black’s memoir, A Matter of Principle.
We have copies of these books, and many more new releases, on order.  If you would like us to reserve a copy for you just give us a call or an email.  I look forward to hearing your favourite fall reads.

Getting Ready for School…

(by Miriam Vince)

For very young children, it is a good idea to ease them into the rigors of the first days of school with books and activities which encourage skills acquisition and improvement, while providing entertainment.  Here are a few titles which combine learning and fun:
In Richard Scarry’s ABC Word Book ($14.95 HC),  his beloved characters take kids all over town on a crazy trip from A to Z, where each letter of the alphabet is accompanied by a brief story, with an emphasis on letter identification.  This is a great book for kids who are just beginning to learn to read, as it gives them a chance to identify letters in the context of words and sentences.  Lowly Worm, Huckle Cat, Mr Fixit and many of his beloved characters are the stars of Richard Scarry’s Big Busy Sticker and Activity Book ($14.95 PB).  Packed with more than 900 stickers and loads of fun, this excellent resource provides preschoolers and kindergarteners with hours of learning activity, as they fill in missing words and images, and complete dot-to-dots and mazes, games and puzzles.
Everything I Need to Know Before I’m Five (Valorie Fisher, $19.99 HC), is perfect for kids heading to junior kindergarten.  Using bright photos of retro toys, this award-winning author/illustrator presents the alphabet, counting, opposites, shapes, colours and the seasons with a fresh and engaging approach which will appeal to parents and children. Do you know your letters? Can you count to twenty? This book will help Mums, Dads and kids to tackle some of these challenges.
The Super Sweet Big Book of Activity Fun and Super Cool Big Book of Activity Fun (Katelyn Burke,  14.95  PB) are two excellent learning resources which use games, mazes and word searches, dot-to-dot and interactive sticker activities to help kids learn their ABCs, colours, shapes and numbers. For children aged 4 years and older, these full colour books contain punchout pieces and fun facts about a variety of topics.
Finally, Brain Quest Workbooks, ($16.50 PB) reinforce what kids are learning in the classroom. With a lively layout and easy-to-follow explanations, these books are jam-packed with hundreds of curriculum-based activities, exercises and games in every subject, which make learning fun, interactive, and concrete. Most important, they are designed to help parents follow and explain key concepts.  We carry books for children from pre-kindergarten to grade 3 in the store, but would be happy to order one which suits your young person’s grade level.
Starting school can be a bit intimidating for young children.  These books may help to make this exciting new experience a bit easier and a lot more fun.  Now if they can just remember not to forget their knapsacks…

SAVE THE DATE!

Sunday October 23, 2011 at 12:00 Noon

Author Lunch - Joshua Knelman at Chez Michel

Joshua Knelman’s Hot Art has been described as “The Thomas Crown Affair meets The Devil in the White City”, in this fast-paced international true crime story.

Joshua Knelman spent four years immersing himself in the mysterious world of international art theft, travelling from Cairo to New York, London, Montreal and Los Angeles. His investigation finds there are only a handful of detectives, FBI agents and lawyers fighting a global battle against a thriving black market estimated to be one of the largest in the world. Meanwhile, the chain of criminals moves from thugs on the street to multinational organized crime syndicates, to a global network of art dealers who wash the artworks’ provenance clean again. In a surprise ending, Knelman learns that corruption can appear in the unlikeliest places.  A major work of investigative journalism, Hot Art is a globetrotting mystery filled with cunning and eccentric characters.  We will be holding a special lunch with Joshua Knelman at Chez Michel, at noon on Sunday, October 23rd.  For more details regarding this exciting event and ticket sales, drop by the store or contact us at
705-466-3400.

What’s New With The Book Club?

September 7th, 2011 from 2:00 to 3:00 pm

On the first Wednesday of September, our Book Club will meet between 2 and 3 pm to discuss Isabel Allende’s Island Beneath the Sea.
Our list of selections for the Fall is:

October
The Tiger (John Vaillant)

November
To the End of the Land (David Grossman)

December
On Winter (Adam Gopnik)

Curiosity House Knitting Group

Our Knitting Group meets every Wednesday from
2:00 to 4:00 pm.

The Curiosity House Knitters will be shifting into high gear as they start crafting those warm scarves, mittens and sweaters for Fall and Winter! Please call us at 705-466-3400 or email us for more information.

What’s On In the Gallery?

October 1 to November 4
Diane Hasley – Our 2011 Emerging Artist
Opening Reception Saturday October 1

November 5 to December 2
David Wilson – Landscapes and still life in oil and acrylic
Opening Reception Saturday November 5

December 3 to December 30
Featured Artist, Bruce Ley & Our Annual Christmas Group Show
Opening Reception Saturday December 3

Haven’t read them yet, but we’ve heard these books will be great…

This month’s book preview comes from the publishers represented by Raincoast Books. One book is the latest installment in a popular Canadian detective series and the other is  a wonderful gift book for children.

A Trick of the Light:  A Chief Inspector Gamache Novel by Louise Penny  $27.95 HC
Release Date: August 30, 2011

“Penny has been compared to Agatha Christie [but] it sells her short. Her characters are too rich, her grasp of nuance and human psychology too firm….”
~Booklist (starred review)

“Hearts are broken,” Lillian Dyson carefully underlined in a book. “Sweet relationships are dead.”
But now Lillian herself is dead. Found among the bleeding hearts and lilacs of Clara Morrow’s garden in Three Pines, shattering the celebrations of Clara’s solo show at the famed Musée in Montreal. Chief Inspector Gamache, the head of homicide at the Sûreté du Québec, is called to the tiny Quebec village and there he finds the art world gathered, and with it a world of shading and nuance, a world of shadow and light.  Where nothing is as it seems.  Behind every smile there lurks a sneer. Inside every sweet relationship there hides a broken heart.  And even when facts are slowly exposed, it is no longer clear to Gamache and his team if what they’ve found is the truth, or simply a trick of the light.

Treasured Classics by Michael Hague $21.99 HC
Release Date: September 21, 2011

Acclaimed illustrator Michael Hague brings his hallmark artistry to 15 classic stories that have delighted children for generations. From “Cinderella” and “Sleeping Beauty” to “The Gingerbread Man” and “The Three Billy Goats Gruff,” each story is lush with detail and loaded with magic. A wealth of fable and fantasy, truly to be treasured.

Michael Hague has illustrated more than 20 children’s classics. He is also the artist for several popular books written by his wife, Kathleen.

Quips, Quotes & Trivia

“The great book for you is the book that has the most to say to you at the moment when you are reading. I do not mean the book that is most instructive, but the book that feeds your spirit. And that depends on your age, your experience, your psychological and spiritual need.”

~ Robertson Davies

AUGUST BOOKMARKS

Let’s get lazy…

A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken.

~ James Dent, Sportswriter

They don’t call these the “lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer” for nothing.  During this hottest month of the year, people like to kick back and enjoy some down time.  It may be hot outside, but we can all take a break and chill out in the shade or by the pool with a good book.
August is sure to be a hot month at Curiosity House.  We will be welcoming a former Canadian diplomat and award-winning writer for an author event and we will be participating in our second Gallery Crawl of the summer.  Most important, we will be taking a peek at the new titles which are due to be released this fall and placing orders for a variety of books which are sure to satsify the diverse needs of our customers and friends.
The staff and partners at Curiosity House may be working hard this month, but there is no reason why you can’t take it easy and have some fun.  Why not cast those chores aside until the cooler weather?  Take a new trail guide with you on your hike, or pick up a preserving book and think about learning how to make jam.  Spend some time relaxing with the latest biography or with a compelling new novel.  Slow down and get lazy.  You’ll have more fun than you could ever imagine…

Miriam Vince, Editor

CBC Bookstore Contest

CBC is running a  contest to decide the best local independent bookstore in Canada. If you have nominated Curiosity House, we would like to express our heartfelt appreciation for your vote of confidence.  If you would like to nominate your favourite store, please click HERE. Contest deadline is midnight on Monday, August 8th.  The winning store will be announced on Thursday, August 11th.

What’s On in August

Friday Night Art Crawls!
After last year’s successful initiative, Curiosity House Books & Gallery, Maplestone Gallery, Moyaboya and Mad and Noisy Gallery will be holding special Friday night previews of their new shows, on the first Friday of every month from 6:00 – 9:00 pm.

Friday August 5th, 6:00 to 9:00pm

Friday Night Gallery Crawl ~ Creemore Inspired

Curiosity House Books & Gallery, Maplestone Gallery, Moyaboya and the Mad and Noisy Gallery present our new art exhibits for August with a special apres art menu at Chez Michel (reservations suggested.)  A wonderful way to spend a Friday evening.

Saturday, August 6th, 2:00 to 4:00 pm

Artist’s Opening Reception

In The Gallery:

Janice Mason Steeves  - New Works…

Painting in oil and wax on panel, Janice Mason Steeves, an award winning artist from the Guelph area,  has found a new voice in her recent abstract works.  Using only colour and markmaking, she has explored the memories and feelings of childhood and has created a show which is vibrant and expressive.
Janice graduated from the Ontario College of Art and Design  with an Honours Diploma in Drawing and Painting. She exhibits her work annually in solo and group exhibitions and is represented by galleries in Canada and the United States. Her work is included in numerous corporate and public collections both in Canada and internationally, including among others, The Government of Ontario Art Collection; The Schulich School of Business, York University, Toronto, ON; CIBC World Markets, London, UK; First Gulf; Intrawest Corporation and the Senvest Collection, Montreal.
Please join us at the opening reception and take an opportunity to meet this talented artist.

Saturday, August 6th, 10 am to Noon at the Creemore Farmers’ Market  AND 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at  Curiosity House Books

Author Event - Terence Keenleyside

Roaming the Big Land:  Flavours of Canada is a celebration of Canada from coast to coast to coast.   His  tales are touching, amusing and insightful investigations of the Canadian identity and each chapter is highlighted with the addition of an original Canadian recipe.

A former Canadian diplomat and award-winning writer, author Terence Keenleyside will be signing copies of his entertaining new book at the Creemore Farmers’ Market from 10:00 am to noon and at Curiosity House from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.  Please join us.

Saturday, August 13th, 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, share the love of reading and complete a small craft activity.

What’s New With The Book Club?

August 3rd, 2011    2:00 to 3:00 pm

On the first Wednesday of August, our Book Club will meet between 2:00 and 3:00 pm for a roundtable discussion of our favourite books.  Our July meeting was lively and informative and we were all happy to give and receive each other’s reading recommendations.

Our list of selections for the Fall is:

September

Island Beneath the Sea (Isabel Allende)

October
The Tiger (John Vaillant)

November
To the End of the Land  (David Grossman)

December
On Winter (Adam Gopnik)

Curiosity House Knitting Group

Our Knitting Group meets every Wednesday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.

The sun may be shining and the weather may be warm, but we will continue to work on projects throughout July and August.  Please call us at 705-466-3400 or email us for more information.

What’s On In the Gallery?

Sept 2 – Sept 30

Marlene Bulas
Opening Reception – Saturday, September 3

Oct 1 – Nov 4

Diane Hasley
Opening Reception – Saturday, October 1

Staff Picks For August

Reviews by the staff of Curiosity House

As a change of pace, each of us has written a short review of a book that we would highly recommend to friends and customers. We are sure that there will be something in this which will pique your interest…

The Long Goodbye by   Megan O’Rourke ($32.50, HC)

Reviewed by Catherine Randall

The Long Goodbye, by Brooklyn poet Meghan O’Rouke, was a book I found hard to put down.  Stunned by her sense of overwhelming grief at her mother’s untimely death from cancer, O’Rouke delves into literature and psychology to try to understand her emotions and to document the year of her emotional life following the loss of her mother.  Her writing is exquisite; I found myself re-reading passages marveling at her impressive use of language.  Quotes from Eliot, E.B. White and other writers are also used to convey the human struggle with grief.  As well as being a study of emotions following a loved one’s death it is also a celebration of her mother’s life and a tribute to her father and brothers and to their happy childhood.  I highly recommend it.

The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted:  And Other Small Acts of Liberation by Elizabeth Berg  ($17.00 PB)

Reviewed by Miriam Vince

This was my first time reading anything by Elizabeth Berg, an author who is able to identify important challenges facing people in their middle age.  With stories which are warm and engaging, Berg delivers very important messages about the dynamics of relationships and human frailty.
All of the stories deal with challenge and change, insecurity and support. Elizabeth Berg is an author who explores important and “day-in-the-life-of”  themes that effect women in particular. The stories are often not emotionally taxing,  however she delivers important questions that encourage the reader to ask whether they are  living the life they hoped to live, in the way that they anticipated.
Reading this book encouraged me to order and read two others by this author.  She understands human relationships and the issues which challenge all of us.

French Lessons by Ellen Sussman  ($17.00 PB)

Reviewed by Deirdre Pringle

This book was a perfect summer read at the cottage – light, easy to get into and charming.

I especially enjoyed that the story itself was inspired by a real life experience of the author’s. She was invited to teach at A Writer’s Workshop in Paris. Since her wedding anniversary was approaching, she invited her husband to join her in the City of Light. To occupy him while she taught, she arranged for him to spend a week with a private French tutor – who just happened to be a beautiful, French woman.
The book takes place in one day and is actually 3 short stories involving 3 of the private tutors, whose own lives are intertwined with each other.
The descriptions are detailed and the characters are delightful. Each story takes place in a different neighbourhood of Paris and the tutors and their students walk the streets, taking in the sights, smells – and the tastes too. I could almost taste the croissants and savour the wine.
No summer read would be complete without a little romance and some steamy bits and this book doesn’t disappoint. Let it take you away to Paris for a day!

The Trade by Fred Stenson  ($19.95 PB)

Reviewed by Caitlin Sumner

I am currently in the midst of Fred Stenson’s The Trade.  It is the intriguing story of the expansion of the Hudson Bay Company into Blackfoot territory due to over-hunting closer to the basin’s home.  This novel is swimming with themes of true honour, adventure, drive, and aboriginal rights.  For those who enjoy Rudy Wiebe and Guy Vanderhaeghe, this is a definite must read. The Trade was a Giller Prize finalist and the winner of several literary awards.  I can’t wait to pick it up again.

Books into movies and plays…

(by Miriam Vince)

There is nothing that kids and young adults like more than seeing their favourite book released in  a cinematic or theatrical format.
Over the past year, we have seen movie renditons of  Cressida Cowell’s story of the hilarious adventures of hapless Viking, Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, in How To Train Your Dragon and within the past few weeks we’ve had an opportunity to see the final installment of the J.K. Rowling saga about magic, wizardry and the power of loyalty and friendship, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows:  Part 2.
A young adult book which took the leap to the big screen and then to DVD over the past year is a suspense-filled fantasy action novel by author Pittacus Lore (a pseudonym for James Frey), I Am Number Four.   This book details the exploits of a super-powered being from another world who is running from bountyhunters and trying to uncover the secrets of his heritage.
Over the next few months the most hotly awaited book-to-movie release is expected to be The Hunger Games, due for release in 2012.  The runaway bestseller by Suzanne Collins, delivers equal parts suspense and philosophy, adventure and romance, in a stunning novel which is set in a future with unsettling parallels to our present.  This dystopian fantasy presents a picture of a not-too-distant future, where North American society has collapsed and the participants in brutal “sport” must balance their competing needs for survival and humanity, life and love.
Another book which has received theatrical treatment this year is Edith Nesbit’s The Railway Children, which is currently playing at the Roundhouse Theatre, in Toronto.  The story of three children who, after the imprisonment of their father, move from London to the English countryside and occupy themselves making new friends, preventing accidents on the railway, and learning about their own resourcefulness.
Finally, sometimes we see books whose release follows the movie.  For younger children, particularly new readers, following up a trip to the movies with a book about the movie is a wonderful way to encourage reading.  This summer, one of the favourite books for ‘tweens aged 7 to 10, is Judy Moody and the Not Bummer Summer.  Based on a screenplay by Megan McDonald, author of the popular Judy Moody series, this hilarious book details the exploits of the famous pre-teen heroine, as she and her little brother work really hard to overcome the boredom which afflicts most young people during the hot summer days.
Children and young adults love going to the movies and theatre.  If they’re going to see a movie, why not encourage them to read the book as well?  Lets show them that both forms of entertainment can be exciting and entertaining.

Haven’t read them yet, but we’ve heard these books will be great…

This month’s book preview comes from the catalogues of  Harper Collins.
One book is a riveting piece of fiction set in Bangladesh and the other is a wonderful preserving book which we will be featuring at an author event in September.  Both have received considerable buzz and we are really looking forward to having them in the store.

Preserving:  A Resource Cookbook For Home Canning and Preserving (by Pat Crocker)
Publication date August 5, 2011
(Hardcover $ 29.99)
Author Signing September 3, 2011
Creemore Farmers’ Market

In the new economic climate, many people will return to simpler, more affordable home cooking; it’s a trend that has come around again and again. Home canning and preserving is a time-honoured practice that many people will be trying for the first time in the months to come, preserving both for the pleasure of it, and for its inherent economy. With the plethora of farmers’ markets, too, home cooks will have a bonanza of produce to buy inexpensively, and they will want to know precisely what to do with it. Pat Crocker’s
Preserving: A Resource Cookbook for Home Canning and Freezing, has all the information anyone needs to get started, and to keep going!

This cookbook is practical, focusing on simple but effective concepts. It will follow the seasons, providing easy-to-follow, accurate and thorough information on preserving everything from asparagus to winter squashes. Canning, jamming and freezing techniques will be covered, from the most basic hot-packed fruit recipes to gorgeous, internationally flavoured chutneys and relishes. Providing both safe and detailed instructions, as well as step-by-step photography and over 200 recipes, this cookbook will be the new home-preserving bible.

The Good Muslim (by Tahmima Anam)
Publication Date August 2, 2011
(Hardcover, $28.99)

“Delicate, heart-wrenching and poetic, this is a novel of great poise and power.” —Tash Aw, author of  The Harmony Silk Factory

From prizewinning Bangladeshi novelist Tahmima Anam comes her deeply moving second novel about the rise of Islamic radicalism in Bangladesh, seen through the intimate lens of a family.

Pankaj Mishra praised A Golden Age, Tahmima Anam’s debut novel, as a “startlingly accomplished and gripping novel that describes not only the tumult of a great historical event . . . but also the small but heroic struggles of individuals living in the shadow of revolution and war.” In her new novel, The Good Muslim, Anam again deftly weaves the personal and the political, evoking with great skill and urgency the lasting ravages of war and the competing loyalties of love and belief.
In the dying days of a brutal civil war, Sohail Haque stumbles upon an abandoned building. Inside he finds a young woman whose story will haunt him for a lifetime to come. . . . Almost a decade later, Sohail’s sister, Maya, returns home after a long absence to find her beloved brother transformed. While Maya has stuck to her revolutionary ideals, Sohail has shunned his old life to become a charismatic religious leader. And when Sohail decides to send his son to a madrasa, the conflict between brother and sister comes to a devastating climax. Set in Bangladesh at a time when religious fundamentalism is on the rise, The Good Muslim is an epic story about faith, family, and the long shadow of war.

Quips, Quotes & Trivia

Let the sunshine in…

    Keep your face always toward the sunshine – and shadows will fall behind you.
                               ~Walt Whitman

     This is it!  The sun is shining, air is warm, the gardens are in bloom.  It’s time to slow down for a while and spend some time enjoying everything that life has to offer.  Hanging out in the backyard or sitting on the dock at the cottage is a great way to spend a summer day and books are a wonderful addition to that relaxing mix.  
     Whether you escape to a wonderful exciting new place with a travel adventure, read about the lives of fascinating people, or lose yourself in a suspense-filled novel, time spent reading is sure to be the most peaceful and rewarding time of your day.
   At Curiosity House, we have a wide selection of books which are current and captivating, informative and intriguing, and we’ll work hard to find just the right selection for your needs.  So, before you spend some time relaxing in the sun, drop by and see us at the store.  We are looking forward to seeing you…

                         Miriam Vince, Editor

What’s On in July

Friday July 1st
Friday Night Gallery Crawl

Back By PopularDemand ~ Creemore Inspired ~ Friday Night Art Crawls!

     Curiosity House Books & Gallery, Maplestone Gallery, Moyaboya and the Mad and Noisy Gallery present our new art exhibits for August with a special apres art menu at Chez Michel (reservations suggested.)  A wonderful way to spend a Friday evening.

Saturday, July 2nd

2:00 to 4:00 pm                   

Artist’s Opening Reception

 In The Gallery: 

Sandy Spencer presents  
Here, there and everywhere…
   
         Sandy’s works in oil on canvas are luminous and reflect the beauty that she finds in the world which surrounds her.  In her new show - Here, there and everywhere…,  Sandy presents us with new offerings which are sure to delight.  Please join us at the opening reception and take an opportunity to meet this talented artist.
 

Saturday, July 9th                              

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, share the love of reading and complete a small craft activity.

Saturday, July 23rd 

10:00 am to Noon

Author Event - Kathleen Mundy

     Reading Between the Wines is a memoir of a traveling book club.   When they founded the Giller Girls Book Club in 2001, authors Kathleen Mundy, Perry Jongsma and Pat Maaten believed that their goal was to have regular meetings with other women to discuss books, and to provide members an opportunity to take time for themselves and to enjoy the company and conversations of others without the intrusion of work, family or outside responsibilities.  New friendships and interests prompted the club to move in a new direction and add travel to the mix.  No longer was the club  just about the books or their opinions of the books; it was the great time members experienced together.
       Author Kathleen Mundy will be at the store to share her book club experiences, provide inspiration and sign copies of her delightful book.  Please join us.

What’s New With The Book Club?

July 6th, 2:00 to 3:00 pm
 

     During July and August, our Book Club will meet between 2:00 and 3:00 pm on the first Wednesday of each month, for a roundtable discussion of our favourite books.
Our list of selections for the Fall is: 
September
Island Beneath the Sea  (Isabel Allende)

October
The Tiger  (John Vaillant)

November
To the End of the Land   (David Grossman)

December
On Winter   (Adam Gopnik)

Curiosity House Knitting Group 

Every Wednesday, 2:00 to 4:00 pm

      Our Knitting Group meets every Wednesday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm. The sun may be shining and the weather may be warm, but we will continue to work on projects throughout July and August.  Please call us at 705-466-3400 or email us for more information.  

What’s On In the Gallery?
 

 August 5 – Sept 1
Janice Mason Steeves
Opening Reception – Saturday August 6

Sept 2 – Sept 30
Marlene Bulas
Opening Reception – Saturday September 3

Oct 1 – Nov 4

Diane Hasley
Opening Reception – Saturday October 1

What I’m Going to Read on Vacation 
Review by Catherine Randall)

     I am getting ready to go on a 2 week vacation and the stack of books I want to read (and think I might have time to read) is mounting.  After the successful evening with Terry Fallis sponsored by the Clearview Library last week, the top book on my pile is now The High Road.  This is the sequel to the award winning, highly entertaining Best Laid Plans and it seems a nice way to start a relaxing holiday.
     Next I think I will delve into  Curiosity,  by Joan Thomas which I chose after hearing the author interviewed.  This is a novel based on a true character and is the story of Mary Anning who lived in Dorset, England and discovered the intact skeleton of a prehistoric creature when she was only 12 and some 40 years before Darwin published his book on evolution.  Digging for and selling “curiosities” becomes her living and is the basis for the rhyme “She sells sea shells by the sea shore”.  This is a love story and also an exploration of the science and history of the time. 
     22 Britannia Road, by Amanda Hodgkinson, is “one of the most searing debuts to come along in years” according to the blurb on the Advanced Reader’s copy and is being compared to one of my favourite books Suite Francaise.  Set in Poland during WW II and then in England after the war it promises to be a “powerful story of primal maternal love, overcoming hardship …that will pierce your heart”! 
      Potsdam Station, by David Downing, author of Zoo Station, is a thriller set in Berlin in April 1945.  A British journalist, his girlfriend and son, struggle to
survive while the 3rd Reich collapses around them. 
     I am looking forward to my non-fiction pick The Tiger, by John Vaillant, the GG award winner for The Golden Spruce.   I have only heard raves about this book and can`t wait to meet the tiger and the Siberian villagers.
     Many of the popular hardcover books from last fall are just out in paper, like  Room, by Emma Donoghue,  so come on in and pick up some summer reads.                                    

Kids love adventure…
(by Miriam Vince)

     Summer is a wonderful time for kids to experience new adventures. Two of the books I am reviewing will encourage kids to go outside and explore and the others will allow them to experience adventure by using their imagination.
     Going camping for the first time?  The Pocket Guide to Camping   (Paperback, $11.99) should be required reading for all of the kids and adults on your expedition. Authors Linda and Katherine White teach all the camping basics, from setting up a tent to hiking a trail, cooking over the campfire, camping skills and first aid.  With great recipes to make, activities, campfire songs and stories for kids, this  guide is a wonderful way for novice campers to move from planning a trip to embarking on the adventure and ultimately, arriving home safely.  This book is full of valuable information and fun ideas.
     Survivor Kid:  A Practical Guide to Wilderness Survival (Paperback, $13.95) is filled with basic wilderness know-how along with simple instructions and diagrams that will reassure and empower young adventurers.  Author Denise Long is a search-and-rescue professional and the aim of her handy guide is to teach young people how to survive if they find themselves lost or facing danger in the wild.  Using fun projects, this book teaches such skills as building a shelter, starting a fire with a reflective surface, and finding food and water along with basic compass skills.  Making a strong argument for avoiding dangerous situations, this handbook equips children with practical tools for overcoming difficult or frightening wilderness experiences.  If you camp with kids aged 9 and over, this book is a must have.
     For  kids who might not feel comfy making their own adventures but have a passion for learning from the adventures of others, we have What It’s Like to Climb Mount Everest, Blast Off into Space, Survive a Tornado, and Other Extraordinary Stories            
(Paperback, $11.95).  To write this fascinating book, author Jeff Belanger interviewed twelve ordinary people who just happened to do extraordinary things. From surviving a tornado to sailing through a hurricane at sea, to blasting off into space, the exploits featured in this book are sure to inform inquisitive kids and satisfy their need for excitement and fast-paced adventure.
     From the National Geographic Kids  series,  How to Survive Anything:  Shark Attack, Lightning, Embarrassing Parents, Pop Quizzes and Other Perilous Situations   (Paperback, $14.95), Rachel Bucholz gives an edgy, hilarious take on surviving the difficult moments in life. Whether it is avoiding a crocodile attack or a poisonous snake, or recovering from a socially embarrassing situation, this book combines expertise on nature and adventure, while providing advice on how to conquer any obstacle, whether life-threatening or socially devastating.  The emphasis in this book is on  the fun-and-learning approach for which  National  Geographic Kids books are well known.  With amusing illustrations and a snappy, but authoritative format, this book is sure to appeal to young teens.     
     Whether your kids are thinking of heading out for some real-life adventure or they just want to spend some time reading about the exciting lives of others, we have lots of books at the store to satisfy their need for excitement.  We look forward to seeing you soon! 

Haven’t read them yet, but we’ve heard these books will be great…

This month’s book preview comes from the catalogues of Scholastic Canada.  
One book is the final installment of a blockbuster series and the other is a long-awaited beginning to an exciting new series.  Both have received considerable buzz and we are really looking forward to having them in the store. 

Forever  (by Maggie Stiefvater)

Publication Date July 12, 2011
(Hardcover, $17.99)

The thrilling conclusion to Maggie Stiefvater’s bestselling Wolves of Mercy Falls trilogy.

Publishers’ Weekly described the first book in this series, Shiver, as ”A lyrical tale of alienated werewolves and first love… Stiefvater skillfully increases the tension throughout; her take on werewolves is interesting and original while her characters are refreshingly willing to use their brains to deal with the challenges they face.”  In describing the second book of this series,  Linger, Kirkus Reviews raved  ”This sequel’s poetic prose skillfully captures the four teens’ longings for love, forgetting, remembering, righting wrongs and life itself. The riveting ending will leave readers panting for the next sequel.”

 In Maggie Stiefvater’s  Shiver, Grace and Sam found each other.  In  Linger, they fought to be together. Now, in Forever, the stakes are even higher than before. Wolves are being hunted. Lives are being threatened. And love is harder and harder to hold on to as death comes closing in.

The 39 Clues: Cahills vs.Vespers Book One: The Medusa Plot
(by Gordon Korman)

Publication date August 30, 2011
(Hardcover $14.99)

An explosive new series from the bestselling 39 Clues franchise — the adventure is just beginning! After the mysterious Vespers kidnap a number of Cahills, they order Amy and Dan to steal a priceless painting in exchange for the hostages. The siblings then rush to Italy where they arrange a heist that rivals the most famous art thefts in history. There’s just one problem—the painting they steal is a fake. With the clock ticking, Amy and Dan have to track down the real painting before one of the Cahill hostages is lost forever.

Quips, Quotes & Trivia

“The greatest gift is a passion for reading.  It is cheap, it consoles, it distracts, it excites, it gives you knowledge of the world and experience of a wide kind.  It is a moral illumination”
 
Elizabeth Hardwick
(1916 – 2007)
American literary critic, novelist and short story writer 

JUNE BOOKMARKS

Busy times and quiet times…

    Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass on a summer day listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is hardly a waste of time. 
                       ~ John Lubbock
                          (Author, Prehistoric Times)

    Wow! What a difference a month makes. Remember how quiet life seemed in May?  The village was sleepy, the weather was chilly and it felt like the warm and active days of Summer might never come.  Suddenly, June is here and weekends mean a trip into town to visit the Farmers’ Market and the bookstore.   After that there may be time for some gardening and tennis, or maybe a hike.  Finally, there might be a chance to sit back in one of the Muskoka chairs and read a book.  
     At Curiosity House, we have some great events planned for weekends in June.  We will welcome three well-known Canadian authors – Terry Fallis, Terry Boyle and award-winning cookbook author, Trish Magwood, who returns for a second author signing, after her well-received visit to the Creemore Farmers’ Market in May.  In the gallery, we are presenting Helter Skelter, a show of exciting works by local artist Bobbie Fogel.  
     We have been planning all winter for these summer months and we are pleased to be one of the stops on your shopping itinerary.  We have new fiction and non-fiction titles arriving daily and we would be happy to make a suggestion.  Enjoy all of the busy, warm-weather activities that June has to offer, but set aside some time to catch up on your leisure time reading. It will be the most satisfying pursuit of your day.

What’s On in June

MAY BOOKMARKS

Creemore is coming back to life…

“What potent blood hath modest May.”
~ Ralph W. Emerson

There is nothing like a couple of weeks of warm weather to bring a garden back to life.  After Winter’s harshness, the heat and light of Spring sunshine and the nourishing touch of Spring rain re-energize the landscape.
These  warm-weather days inject some new life into the village as well. Gardens are being raked in anticipation of new planting projects and lawn chairs have been sanded and painted, ready to be placed in that favourite spot in the shady part of the garden.  Hiking dates are being made, while cyclists are zipping up and down Mill Street.  Everyone is looking forward to the opening of the Creemore Farmers’ Market, the unofficial beginning of the high season in Creemore.  Slowly, the town is shifting into high gear…
At Curiosity House, we are excited to see the beginning of May.  We have been working very hard, reviewing publishers’ catalogues and selecting the best titles in fiction and non-fiction. Whether it is great new Canadian literature, biography, history, sports or current events, it doesn’t matter if you are a kid or an adult, we are sure to have something to capture your imagination.
Why not drop by the store to check out the great new books we have for Spring and Summer?  Come and see what we have to offer.  We are sure that you will find some wonderful new offerings to engage and entertain you….

Welcome back!

Miriam Vince, Editor

What’s On in May

Saturday, May 7^th, 2:00 to 4:00 pm

Artist’s Opening Reception

In The Gallery:

Sheila Jack presents “Artscapes”

Sheila Jack paints landscapes, still life pictures and some abstracts, using acrylics on canvas and wood.   A long time resident of Bruce County, she has won many awards at juried art shows. Please join us at our opening reception, where you will have an opportunity to meet this talented artist and enjoy some refreshments.

Saturday, May 21^st, 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, share the love of reading and complete a small craft activity with a “growing” theme.

What’s New With The Book Club?

May 4, 2011, 2:00 to 3:00 pm

In May, we will be discussing Helen Simonson’s delightfully funny novel,

Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand. We hope you will join us.  Our June book Club selection will be  Allan Carey’s Lakelands. During July and August, we will meet between 2:00 and 3:00 pm on the first Wednesday of each month, for a roundtable discussion of our favourite books.

Curiosity House Knitting Group

Every Wednesday, 2:00 to 4:00 pm

Our Knitting Group meets every Wednesday fro2:00 to 4:00 pm.
We gather around the table to work on our latest projects, inspire, support and help one another. We have a growing selection of books which are great choices for knitters of every skill level.  For more information, please call us at 705-466-3400.

What’s On In the Gallery?

June 4 – June 30

Bobbie Fogel
Opening Reception – Saturday June 4

July 1 – August 4
Sandy Spencer
Opening Reception – Saturday July 2

August 5 – Sept 1
Janice Mason Steeves
Opening Reception – Saturday August 6

Sept 2 – Sept 30
Marlene Bulas
Opening Reception – Saturday September 3

Save the date!

When?
Thursday June 23, 7:00 pm

Where?
Council Chambers, Clearview Township Administration Building
217 Gideon St. Stayner, ON

Author Event
Terry Fallis

The Clearview Public Library is hosting a book talk with Canadian writer Terry Fallis, author of this year’s CBC Canada Reads winner, The Best Laid Plans and his brilliantly funny sequel, The High Road.  Curiosity House will have books available for sale and for signing by the author at this event. For more information contact the Clearview Public Library, 705-428-3595 or Curiosity House Books, 705-466-3400

Get gardening…

Review by Catherine Randall)

If you only buy one gardening book this summer make it Get Growing: An Everyday Guide to High-impact, Low-fuss Gardens by Frankie Flowers (aka Frank Ferragine) TP, $26.99, HarperCollins.   This is a beautiful book full of information on garden design, both formal and informal.  It provides vegetable, plant, shrub and tree suggestions, including some of Frankie’s favorites. A well known gardening expert, Flowers gives the reader lots of “how to” information from planting to pest and disease control, pruning and maintenance.  I don’t think there is anything you want or need to know that he has not covered in the book.  The book is organized by seasons, making it very easy to use and the many colour photographs, by Shannon J. Ross, are absolutely stunning.  This book is a must for every gardener!
How To Grow Food by Richard Gianfrancesco, HC, $29.95 is a step-by-step guide to growing all kinds of fruits, vegetables, herbs and more.  Chapters group the same types of produce together for example, LEAFY CROPS or SOFT FRUITS.  Within each chapter there are double page spreads given to each plant with wonderful illustrations and information on where to grow, types, diseases and pests, and a calendar.  Some plants are awarded a STAR PLANT logo for being exceptional.  The last part of the book goes into composting, containers and other general topics as well as a concluding chapter with recipes for jams, jellies, chutneys and more.  This is a book that is very easy to use and seems to cover everything you would want to know…the 2nd book you must have!
A new book for all who enjoy visiting gardens is the lovely Armchair Book of Gardens, a Miscellany by Jane Billinghurst, HC, $35.00.  We vicariously visit famous gardens, imaginary gardens, ancient gardens, historical gardens and gardens described in letters and poems.  Beautiful colour drawings, paintings and prints compliment the text on every page.  This a book to pick up, read a bit and then dream a bit.
Enjoy the arrival of spring and the awakening of the gardens around us.

Making Community Connections

(by Miriam Vince)

Normally, I would be writing a column about new books or great suggestions for kids and young adults…

However, this month I am taking an opportunity to let our friends and customers know that Curiosity House Bookstore & Gallery has been named as a Community Partner to the Nottawasaga and Creemore Public School (NCPS).  On Tuesday, May 10, the Simcoe County District Board of Education will recognize our contributions towards the success and well-being of students, through supportive, encouraging and educational experiences.  The Simcoe County Board recognizes that cooperative and collaborative community partnerships are part of the foundation of a strong, vibrant and sustainable publicly funded education system.
Curiosity House encourages experiential learning through school trips and other educational opportunities. We regularly assist with the school’s materials acquisitions, particularly related to the Ontario Library Association’s Forest of Reading program.  This annual initiative takes place from February to April, in all Ontario elementary schools, and highlights kids’ choices for the best in Canadian juvenile literature.

Of note this year, was an in-school event which Curiosity House organized with Hugh Brewster, a nationally acclaimed children’s author.  Hugh made a fascinating audio-visual presentation to a crowd of 150 children and adults, in support his new book, Prisoner of Dieppe.  All who attended found the event to be informative and entertaining and it is hoped that this was the first of many such co-operative undertakings.
At Curiosity House, we believe that strong community partnerships are essential to the success of any business.

Haven’t read them yet, but we’ve heard these books will be great…

This month marks the debut of a new column for the Curiosity House Newsletter.  In this section, we will be featuring some of the top picks that have been recommended by our publishing partners.  Our aim is to provide the reader with advance notice of great new titles which have already received considerable buzz.  These books are not yet available, but should be published within a month to six weeks.  Our first two reviews come from our partners at RandomHouse of Canada.

The Forgotten Waltz is a memory of desire: a recollection of the bewildering speed of attraction, the irreparable slip into longing, that reads with breathtaking immediacy. In Terenure, a pleasant suburb of Dublin, in the winter of 2009, it has snowed. A woman recalls the trail of lust and happenstance that brought her to fall for “the love of her life.” As the city outside comes to a halt, she remembers the days of their affair in one hotel room or another: long afternoons madeblank by bliss and denial. Now, as the silent streets and the stillness and vertigo of the falling snow make the day luminous and full of possibility, she awaits the arrival on her doorstep of his fragile, twelve-year-old daughter, Evie. In The Forgotten Waltz, Enright is at the height of her powers. This is Anne Enright’s tour de force, a novel of intelligence, passion, and real distinction.

Publication Date May 31, 2011.  (Hardcover, $29.99)

Searing, brilliant, and tension-filled, this is a foreboding tale about truth, lies and justice — quintessential David Adams Richards. When a terrible accident unsettles the peace in a small, tight-knit community, who will pay the price? Incidents in the Life of Markus Paul tells an intricate story about the miscarriage of justice in the case of one man’s death in a shipping yard in New Brunswick in 1985. The novel is a meticulous study of the vario

us half truths, political machinations and outright lies that lead to the unfair incrimination of one man, Roger Savage, in the death of Hector Penniac, a promising young Micmac man from a local First Nations reserve.

Publication date May 10, 2011. (Paperback, $21.00)

Quips, Quotes & Trivia

“Books can be dangerous.  The best ones should be labeled “This could change your life.”

~ Helen Exley, Inspirational Writer