On Saturday 27th April, I joined several local authors to present and read from our books at The Sherwood Park Bookworm. This store is a treasure trove of books, readers and authors rolled into one, with friendly and knowledgeable staff. I am honoured to have all of my books stocked there, and have enjoyed time among the numerous shelves as reader and writer.
As readers, we are drawn to stories, but can also admit to favored authors and genres. Finding a new author’s work is the ultimate high. We consume each book with passion and escapism. This is where a local bookstore comes into its own. The staff, using their expertise, will find many similar authors and genres to expand your TBR pile.
Have you discovered a ‘new’ author recently?
As you can clearly tell I was in my happy place and thrilled to share a chapter from The Commodore’s Gift. Connecting with new readers and networking with other writers is always a joy.
I was very happy to be asked by my local bookstore, The Sherwood Park Bookworm to be included in this fun event. Copies of all my books can be found in the store, but of course the main five for this specific event were – The Twesome Loop (reincarnation/romance), The Commodore’s Gift (steampunk/romance), Life in Slake Patch (speculative fiction) and the two Rython novellas – The Rython Kingdom & Rython Legacy (medieval set fantasy/romance)
As we all know it is so important to support and buy local. Chain stores use their buying power to cut prices, but it is the personal touch and knowing you are helping an entrepreneur that is so important.
It is my pleasure to promote this bookstore and interview it’s owner, Leanne. She is very knowledgeable and will find ‘that’ book for you! I will be at the store this coming Saturday 30th April (1:30 – 2:30 pm) for Independent Bookstore Day. Come and say “Hello” to me & Leanne.
What made you buy a bricks & mortar bookstore?
1. I grew up loving to read, and of course don’t we all want to be our own boss. So when I discovered that the owners of The Bookworm were going to close the store I decided I would buy it and hopefully save it for other bibliophiles to enjoy.
Has the store always been in its current location?
2. The Sherwood Park Bookworm, formally The Bookworm is currently in its fourth location. The store has now been in business for about 34 years and I am the fourth owner. The previous locations were on Athabaskan Ave. and I moved the store to Wye Rd, three and a half years ago. I love our new spot.
Do you have a special place to read?
3. I love to read, and don’t really have a favourite genre. Owning a bookstore means I need to step out of my comfort zone and read a broader book genre. But, when I want something easy it is usually romantic suspense or cozy mysteries. I don’t really have a favourite spot to read, but I do have two very comfy chairs at the store that get the warm bright sun in the afternoons. And sometimes I can sit for a bit and enjoy some reading time.
Which book began your reading journey as a child?
5. My book journey began so long ago I don’t really remember which book would have started it all. But I do remember devouring Little House on the Prairie. As well as the Trixie Beldon and The Bobbsey Twin series.
What are your plans for the future of the store?
6. I don’t know what the future of the store will be. I am always looking at ways to help it grow. I recently hired a very talented and ambitious lady to help me with all things technology related. So we have created a new website with and E- Commerce store. And she has really stepped up my social media presence.
We are also looking at creating a Bibliophile Boutique! Which will feature locally sourced book lover gifts.
What is your view of print versus digital books?
7. The age old argument of print vs. digital books is an interesting one. Both versions or reading each have a special place or purpose. Traveling with a device definitely has advantages, you can take many more books with you. So it saves space, and weighs far less. But, you are at the mercy of technology. Will it run out of battery, what do I do with it at the beach. Will it work, or leave you stranded without something to read. On the other hand a great print book is always there for you, but you may only be able to pack 3-4 or more, if you put some in your spouses suit case…
Printed books though are here to stay. People like the feel and texture. Some say they like the smell of ink and paper. Publishers have also reported an increase in sale of printed materials. Though I don’t know the exact reasons why, perhaps people thought digital books should cost substantially less. But, are disappointed that many cost the same as a printed book.
Regardless The SHPK Bookworm is thriving, despite the two year pandemic and digital devices.
What makes the Sherwood Park Bookworm unique?
8. The Sherwood Park Bookworm is a local gem. We have an amazing selection of paperback fiction in all of the genres. Many of them older or out of print. But that doesn’t affect the quality. We try very hard to have only the best condition of books available. And best of all if you aren’t a book hoarder, we offer you credit for the books you bring in to exchange for your next enjoyable reads.
We also carry a small assortment of local authors that may, or may not, be available in larger bookstores. We offer book signings as well as book launches.
Can you tell us about the Independent Bookstore event?
9. Canadian Independent Bookstore Day, is an annual day celebrating readers, writers, illustrators, publishers as well as other industry supporters to celebrate Indie Bookstores. Check out CIBA books.ca for even more details. The SHPK Bookworm has been participating in CIBD for at least the last five years. It is a great day to be an indie bookstore, and I look forward to planning this event every year. And each year gets better and better.
How can book lovers find you?
10. Book lovers can find us on most social media.
Facebook and Instagram @parkbookworm The Sherwood Park Bookworm
Is there a message you would like to relay about the store?
11. The Bookworm is a wonderful place to visit, the selection is great, and the company is inviting. Great conversations happen between strangers drawn together by their love of books. We even host a monthly Book Club and everyone is welcome.
Mandy Eve-Barnett's Blog for Readers & Writers 