This is a celebration of independent bookstores and local authors! It is followed by a few recipes for delicious, sweet treats to be enjoyed while reading by the fire. As life-long, passionate readers, we are thrilled to celebrate the local, independent bookshops of our region. They provide an incredible resource to inspire our reading choices, a caring and knowledgeable staff, are easily accessible and provide a welcoming centre for our neighbourhoods and communities. We are happy to have met so many amazing bookstore owners and appreciate the welcoming way they answered our questions and provided wonderful, interesting recommendations. Although we miss our quiet weekend afternoons spent scanning the shelves of our favourite bookshops for new, exciting worlds, we are very impressed at how these stores have continued to meet our reading wishes. Bookmarked: Curiosity House Books & Gallery-Creemore www.curiosityhousebooks.com Footnotes: This delightful bookshop is located in the heart of beautiful Creemore. Owner Rita Barone responded to our questions, providing excellent book recommendations. In addition to a well curated book shop, Rina also has a small press focusing on non-fiction and children’s books. Her engaging website is very informative including book reviews, inspiring journal entries, curated lists of new releases and current best sellers, as well as news about virtual author events. We look forward to someday visiting, in store, to browse at leisure. Bookmarked: Georgian Bay Books - Midland www.georgianbaybooks.ca Footnotes: Located on Midland’s main street, this inviting bookshop is owned by Sarah Kenney and Sandy Dunsford, who were extremely friendly and helpful when fielding our questions. They provided excellent service, were very knowledgeable about authors from our region and made great recommendations. Their bookshop also features local art and gifts. Bookmarked: Manticore Books - Orillia www.manticorebooks.ca Footnotes: This lovely bookshop is located close to the Mariposa Market on the main street. Their website is regularly updated offering lists of new and notable books in every genre. Virtual bookshelves enable one to explore their many book offerings. This community-minded bookshop offers information about virtual literary events and great book reviews. Bookmarked: Jessica’s, New Books, Art & Gifts - Thornbury www.jessica@rogers.com Footnotes: Jessica’s is a wonderful community-focussed, family-owned bookshop, situated beside Good Grief Coffee, in the heart of downtown Thornbury. They offer an excellent selection of best sellers, classics, new arrivals, children’s titles and educational toys. Jessica’s also features artworks by regional artists. Bookmarked: Ginger Press - Owen Sound www.gingerpress.com Footnotes: This local bookshop and publishing house is found in Owen Sound’s downtown and is a nurturing centre for Owen Sound’s thriving literary and artistic community. The bookshop features a wide range of cookbooks, fiction, poetry, nature guides as well as other genres. The focus of this bookshop is on all aspects of life in the Grey-Bruce community, concentrating on local authors and artists. Bookmarked: The Reading Room Bookstore - Penetanguishene (705) 549-8574 or on Facebook Footnotes: This much-loved bookstore is located at the bottom of the hill on Penetanguishene’s main street. It has been in business for over 29 years and boasts a large selection of both new and used books of all genres. This includes French and English children’s books and local history titles. Owner Debby Levy is extremely helpful and dedicated to her loyal clientele. Bookmarked: Parry Sound Books - Parry Sound www.parrysoundbooks.com Footnotes: Parry Sound Books has been part of the community for over 30 years and comes highly recommended by all who have entered its doors. At the time of this post, they are preparing for their return to the Beatty Building in downtown Parry Sound. Their amazing website is very current and provides detailed, well written book reviews by owner Charlotte Stein, new book recommendations, booklists, and interesting literary news. They are great supporters of local authors and literary events. Bookmarked: Reader’s Haven Book Store - Tobermory www.contact@readershaven.ca Footnotes: This seasonal bookshop, also has a year-round online shopping website which offers an extensive number of books in all genres. As well as books, they offer magazines, puzzles, games and some Bruce Trail themed merchandise. Bookmarked: Read It Again-New and Used Books Collingwood www.readitagain.ca Footnotes: Located on Collingwood’s historic main street, this bookstore has both new and used books and prides itself on its excellent service. In addition to their book selections, they also have a wide range of collector’s comics, movies, music and toys. Over the past year, we have all tried to entertain ourselves at home. We’ve attempted various baking challenges, learned new games, developed our “Zoom” skills and spent time exploring what Georgian Bay has to offer, outdoors. One of the greatest joys that we have experienced has been discovering amazingly talented local authors and a wealth of books written about, or taking place, in our region. Here follows, a selection of literary offerings that we learned about and we have only just scratched the surface of what is out there. Learning intriguing facts about the authors, their writing process and what inspires them, was equally interesting. Again, we thank the local independent bookshop owners for their support and suggestions, in aiding us in assembling this list. You will find, below, a variety of book genres and styles to explore. Non-Fiction Pawprints on the Heart: Animal Stories from Grey-Bruce, collected by: Debbie Boyd; The Ginger Press, Owen Sound. GB Connection: A selection of animal stories sourced from animal lovers of the Grey-Bruce region. Turning the page… A series of heart-warming stories that celebrate the love and shared experiences between humans and animals. Proceeds from the sale of this book support the Farley Foundation www.farleyfoundation.org. Shaped by The West Wind-Nature and History in Georgian Bay, by: Claire Elizabeth Campbell GB Connection: An examination of the east shore of Georgian Bay and its 30,000 Island regions. Turning the page… A fascinating study of the forces that created this diverse geographical region, its’ environment, history and culture. Shark Assault, author: Peter Jennings & Nicole Moore GB Connection: Nicole Moore is a nurse and resides in Orangeville. Peter Jennings, an author of several books, has lived in Muskoka and now resides in Midland. Turning the page… This story of survival is based on nurse Nicole Moore’s shark attack at a Mexican resort, and the loss of an arm and leg. Nicole remains an advocate for saving sharks from hunters. She is also an inspiration to those who have suffered similar tragedies. True Confessions From the Ninth Concession, author: Dan Needles GB Connection: This distinguished and celebrated Canadian author lives and writes about life in a small town in rural Georgian Bay. Turning the page… True Confessions is an engaging, collection of humorous and insightful essays chronicling the author’s life on Larkspur Farm. Black Eyed Peas & Races: A Love Story of Memories and Recipes of the Emancipation Picnic, collected by: Bonita Johnson DeMatteis, The Ginger Press, Owen Sound. GB Connection: This book is a collection of memoires, photos and recipes of the Emancipation Picnic, which has taken place in Owen Sound since 1862. The author is from Owen Sound. Turning the page… This important collection of memories chronicles the importance of the Owen Sound area as the northern terminus of the Underground Railroad, Black history on the Bruce Peninsula and celebrates the annual Emancipation Picnic, held in Owen Sound. Georgian Bay-Discovering a Unique North American Ecosystem, Edited by Nick Eyles GB Connection: An in-depth study of the Georgian Bay regions Turning the page… This beautifully photographed and detailed work is an account of the creation of the Georgian Bay region, its’ history, ecology, geology and ecosystems. Born in Huronia: Recollections of a Kid from Penetanguishene, author: Robert Popple (memoir) GB Connection: The author of these detailed recollections, grew up in Penetanguishene and the subject matter deals with life in this nurturing and beautiful community. Turning the pages… Robert Popple, writes of his life from the 1940’s, growing up in a small Georgian Bay community and his later life experiences and accomplishments. Bush Runner, Author: Mark Bourrie GB Connection: This amazingly accomplished, author, lecturer, historian and lawyer, grew up in the Georgian Bay region. Turning the page…This national bestseller, chronicles the adventurous life of Pierre-Esprit Radisson through extensive research, including Radisson’s own accounts of his travels. Fiction Empire of Wild, author: Cherie Dimaline GB Connection: The author of this national bestseller as well as the multi-awarding winning novel “The Marrow Thieves”, grew up in the Metis community near Penetanguishene. She is a Metis writer and activist from the Georgian Bay Metis Nation. The story takes place in the small towns surrounding Georgian Bay. Turning the page… This riveting tale is inspired by the Metis legend of the werewolf-like Rougarou and follows Joan, the protagonist, who is searching for her missing husband. Just Like Family, author: Kate Hilton GB Connection: Many scenes of this fictional novel take place at a cottage on the East shore of Georgian Bay. Turning the page …This novel is about the importance of relationships as experienced by the main character, Avery Graham, who juggles the demands of her life. Many will relate to the wonderful cottage experiences described in these pages. Moon of the Crusted Snow, author: Waubgeshig Rice GB Connection: Waubgeshig Rice is an award winning, Anishinaabe journalist and author who is from the Wasauksing First Nation located on Parry Island, near Parry Sound. Turning the page… This gripping story follows a northern community as it deals with the challenges of a post-apocalyptic world. We were excited to learn that this book will be followed by a sequel in the near future. The Western Light, author: Susan Swan GB Connection: The author, Susan Swan was born in Midland and this novel takes place on the shoreline of Georgian Bay during the 1950’s. Turning the page… This prequel to Swan’s award winning “The Wives of Bath”, explores the relationship between a young girl, her father and an ex-convict pro hockey player. Summer Gone, author: David Macfarlane GB Connection: This nominated and award-winning novel is, in part, set in “cottage country”. Turning the page… This novel follows the emotional journey of Bane Newling who, as a young boy, was profoundly affected by a summer camp experience that he revisits throughout his life. This “perfect” summer shapes the relationship with his father and with those he loves. Moments in Time, author: Melanie Franner GB Connection: Melanie Franner, lives in Barrie and has written for numerous magazines. Turning the page… Her first novel details the journey of grief and loss of a spouse. Historical Fiction: The Water of Life, author: Daniel Marchildon GB Connection: Daniel Marchildon is a French-speaking, award winning, Canadian author, born and raised in Penetanguishene. This book is set primarily on the eastern shores of Georgian Bay. Turning the page… This intriguing novel blends the history of single malt whisky production with a woman’s dream, to create a whisky distillery on the rocky shores of Georgian Bay. Into the Blue-Family Secrets and the Search for a Great Lakes Shipwreck, author: Andrea Curtis GB Connection: Andrea Curtis is an award-winning journalist and author of both fiction and nonfiction books. She spent every summer of her life on the waters of Georgian Bay and was inspired by her family history in the area. Turning the page… Into The Blue is based on family narratives, archival research and fiction. She writes a very intimate story of her Grandmother Eleanor’s life and uncovers the tragedies and the promises of life in Wiarton, Ontario, during the turn of the century. Much of her grandmother’s life is forever altered by the tragedy of the 1906 wreck of the SS J.H. Jones, which claimed the lives of all on board, including Eleanor’s father, Captain Jim Crawford. Tom Thomson’s Last Bonfire, author: Geoff Taylor GB Connection: The setting of this story is Canoe Lake, in Algonquin Park, site of the mysterious death of Tom Thompson. Turning the page… This fictionalized account of the death of Tom Thompson takes place over a twenty-four-hour period and examines his life, inspirations and the beauty of Algonquin Park using historical references. The Seven Keys of Hildegard of Mercy and Death, author: David Dupuis GB Connection: Author and history enthusiast David Dupuis has published numerous historical fiction and non-fiction books, as well as a number of hockey biographies. Because of his passion for local history, he has written about the history of Penetanguishene and area. Turning the page… In “The Seven Keys of Hildegard of Mercy and of Death”, German Nun Hildegard of Bingen, in 1167 AD, prophesises the seven keys of the end of times. This historical fiction confronts many world events throughout the 20th century and calls into question underlying truths surrounding the church and the world. The London Restoration, author: Rachel McMillan GB Connection: This very prolific writer, grew up in Orillia, Ontario. Turning the page… This best-selling novel follows the relationship of Diana Foyle and Brent Somerville, as secrets are revealed during the uncertain times of post-World War II, London. Mystery Bay of Blood, author: A.M. Potter GB Connection: Much of this murder mystery takes place in Wiarton and the Bruce Peninsula region. Turning the page… This “North Noir” mystery follows Detective Eva Naslund’s attempts to solve the murder of a world renown painter. Trail of the Griffon (historical mystery), author: Richard J. Thomas; The Ginger Press, Owen Sound GB Connection: Richard J. Thomas is a local author who lives in Owen Sound and writes non-fiction historical and fictional mysteries that are set in the Georgian Bay region. He also generously donates time, and his expertise, to raising money for the Adult Learning Centre of Owen Sound and the North Grey Union Library. Turning the page… This book traces the adventures of H.G. “Harry” Tucker, on his quest to discover the resting place of the Griffon, a ship that was first launched on the Great Lakes in 1679. Horseshoe to Gumshoe, author: Richard J. Thomas; The Ginger Press, Owen Sound. GB Connection: This 1920’s period detective series takes place in Owen Sound, Wiarton and area. Turning the page… This compilation of three detective novels, follows the exploits of detective D.B. Murphy. The Best Laid Plans-21 Stories of Mystery and Suspense, Edited by: Judy Penz Sheluk GB Connection: Judy divides her time between Alliston and Goulais River, Ontario and is a member of the South Simcoe Arts Council. She is the author of two mystery series. Turning the page… “The Best Laid Plans” is a multi-authored mystery anthology edited by Judy Penz Sheluk. Judy is the author of the story “Plan D”. Susan Daly’s story entitled “Spirit River Dam”, is a mystery surrounding the authenticity of a Tom Tomson painting. Young Adult / YA Big Water, author: Andrea Curtis GB Connection: The author grew up in Barrie, Ontario, has written many novels covering a range of genres, as well as for publications. She has won numerous awards for her writing. This story takes place on the waters of Georgian Bay. Turning the pages… The book, “Big Water”, is a fictionalized account of the soul survivors of the Great Lakes vessel, S.S. Asia which sailed from Owen Sound, as told through the eyes of seventeen-year-old Christina McBurney. The Marrow Thieves, author: Cherie Dimaline GB Connection: The author of this multi-award winning novel, as well as national bestselling novel “Empire of Wild”, grew up in the Metis community near Penetanguishene. She is a Metis writer and activist from the Georgian Bay Metis Nation. Turning the page… ”The Marrow Thieves” is a ‘coming-to’ story set in futuristic Canada. Inspired by historical events, global warming and Metis legends, this dark and powerful tale follows 16 year-old Frenchie and his blended family-unit on this wild adventure of survival. Picture books-Children’s Literature A Bird Chronicle, author: Rina Barone, illustrator: Ruth Ann Pearce; Published by Curiosity House Books. GB Connection: This book is published in Creemore, Ontario by Curiosity House Press. Both writer and illustrator are from the region. Turning the page… This is a visually appealing and original variation on an alphabet book, that introduces the reader to a variety of birds. It’s whimsical poems and delightful, colourful illustrations reveal information about the birds, their unique characteristics and habitats. Charles, author: S.E. Humes, Illustrator: Jessica Bromley Bartram GB Connection: Much of the illustrator’s inspiration has come from summers spent on an island south of Parry Sound. Turning the page… The story of Charles begins when a young girl finds an abandoned baby crow. She creates, for him, a nurturing and loving home, and so begins a lifelong friendship. Go Home Bay, author: Susan Vande Griek, Illustrator: Pascal Milelli GB Connection: Set on an island on Go Home Bay, Georgian Bay. Illustrations inspired by the natural beauty of the region. Turning the page… This engaging story is based on the meeting of a 10-year-old girl and Tom Thomson, in 1914, who spends time at her family cottage and teaches her to paint. La Longue Histoire de La Petite Vache author: Daniel Marchildon, Illustrator: Caroline Merola GB Connection: This engaging, delightful and informative children’s book begins in 17th century Huronia and is written by the long-time resident of southern Georgian Bay. Turning the page… The book follows the historic journey of the first cows brought to Canada that later became the Canadienne breed which is the oldest breed of dairy cow in North America. Cookbooks The Great Shellfish Cookbook and The Great Lobster Cookbook, author/chef: Matt Dean Pettit GB Connection: The author grew up in Midland, on the shores of Georgian Bay. Turning the page… These books speak to the wealth of Matt’s many and varied culinary experiences here and abroad. His books are truly amazing resources for anyone interested in the preparation and enjoyment of seafood, with his many inspiring classic and novel recipes. Come to Our Table-Southern Georgian Bay Community Cookbook GB Connection: A celebration of the farmers, food producers, culinary community and artists of Southern Georgian Bay. Turning the page… “Come to Our Table” is a wonderful collection of recipes that truly follow the farm to table philosophy. The reflections, photographs of food, landscapes and works of art invite you to visit the region. Meet Libby, the free one-tap reading app from your library. With Libby, you can borrow free ebooks and digital audiobooks from your library. All you need is a library card. You can explore your library's collection and borrow titles or place holds instantly. (download from app store) It’s always nice to treat oneself to something delicious while enjoying a new book on a cold winter’s day. We would like to offer you a few recipes to prepare and share while celebrating our regions rich literary landscape. Fireside Chocolate Squares These fudgy, brownie-like dark chocolate squares were inspired by the classic 7-layer bar and “Nordy” bar. They may be topped with a variety of garnishes including melted flavoured chocolates, sugar work or sponge toffee pieces. Approx. 20 bars ½ cup butter 300 grams dark chocolate-70% cocao or pure semi-sweet chocolate chips ½ cup Williams Farm Granulated Maple Sugar 3 eggs beaten 1 cup almond flour ¾ cup all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt ½-1 teaspoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground ginger 2 teaspoons vanilla 225 grams white chocolate chips 1 cup toasted, chopped walnuts ½ cup toasted, lightly chopped pumpkin seeds 1 cup Muskoka Lakes Dried Cranberries To decorate: Melted Georgian Chocolate Co. chocolate (your choice of flavour) or chocolate dipped walnuts or hazelnuts. 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and line a square pan (23x23 cm) with parchment paper. 2. Place the butter, dark chocolate and granulated maple sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a medium-low heat and gently stir the mixture, until melted and thoroughly mixed. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely 3. While the mixture cools, place the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and ginger in a bowl. Stir until evenly combined. 4. Once the chocolate mixture has cooled down, add the beaten eggs and stir until combined. 5. Add the vanilla and flour mixture. Gently combine until flour is completely integrated. 6. Finally, add the chopped toasted walnuts, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries and white chocolate chips. Stir until evenly mixed. 7. Spoon the batter into the square pan and using an offset spatula, spread the batter evenly. 8. Bake for 20-30 minutes. Cool completely before cutting and decorate Ginger Cookies
1 cup unsalted butter ⅓ cup granulated sugar ½ cup brown sugar 2 ¼ cups all purpose flour ¼ teaspoon each of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and allspice ½ teaspoon salt 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda ½ to 2 tablespoons ginger powder depending on how strong you like the ginger flavour (or 1to 2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger) 1 egg + 1 yolk ¼ cup molasses Turbinato or coarse sugar for coating Candied ginger (optional) Instructions 1. In a large bowl cream together the butter and two types of sugar. In a separate medium sized bowl whisk together the dry ingredients including the flour, salt, soda and dry spices until well combined. 2. In a separate bowl whisk the eggs until light and fluffy. Add the molasses (and fresh ginger if you are using it) and whisk until well incorporated. 3. Add the egg ingredients to the butter and sugar and whisk until well combined. 4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet. 5. For extra large cookies, form approximately 2 tablespoons of dough into a 2 inch ball. Sprinkle the top with coarse sugar. 6. Place the dough balls on a parchment lined cookie sheet. Use a smooth spatula to gently press the ball down to 21/2 inches in diameter. 7. Cookies should be placed at least 2 inches apart as they will expand when baked. 8. Place the cookies in a preheated 350 degree oven. 9. Bake for 14 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
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