Blog
Category: Health & Wellness
26 New Rep Picks For Fall 2019
by Kayi
Animals & Nature + Art & Photography + Biography & Memoir + Board Books + Fiction + Mysteries and Thrillers + Science Fiction and Fantasy + Food & Drink + Graphica + Health & Wellness + Kids + Picture Books + Psychology & Self-Help + Sports + YA Fiction / October 22, 2019
Cozy up—because our fall titles are here to keep you in your reading nooks through this rainy season. If you’re overwhelmed by all the exciting releases hitting shelves over the next few months, take a look at our sales reps' favourites curated just for our booksellers and readers.
Books for Adults
(1) Rebel Writers
by Celia Brayfield
“Shelagh Delaney, and then Edna O’Brien, Lynne Reid Banks, Virginia Ironside, Charlotte Bingham, Margaret Forster and Nell Dunn. Writers who depicted the lives of women with openness and honesty, challenging traditional concepts of womanhood in the writing that came before them, and leaving their mark on all writing that came after them. This is their story told for the first time.”
—Morgen Young
(2) Tuesday Mooney Talks to Ghosts
by Kate Racculia
“October always brings me a desire to read slightly spookier (but not scary!) books, but that’s only one of the reasons I’m so excited to read this one! I’m a massive fan of Racculia’s last book, Bellweather Rhapsody, and her new novel sounds like it’ll bring plenty of the same elements: a misanthropic protagonist, a group of misfits, spooky moments, and a delicious mystery. (Bonus: can you guess which rep is also a big Bellweather Rhapsody fan?)”
—Dani Farmer
(3) Ballerina Project
by Dane Shitagi
“I grew up doing ballet so I immediately fell in love with this beautiful book that profiles ballerinas from around the world. This gorgeous coffee table book is perfect for ballerinas and non-ballerinas alike.”
—Jessica Price
(4) Gather
by David Robertson
“Gather ‘round! The follow-up to the bestselling Dirty Apron Cookbook is here! With a focus on family-oriented comfort food and inspired by a wide range of cuisines from all over the world, this cookbook is sure to have something for everyone.”
—Jenny Enriquez
(5) The Man That Got Away
by Lynne Truss
“A young man is found dead on Brighton Beach and Constable Twitten must find the murderer and convince his colleagues there’s an evil mastermind at hand. This is book #2 in the Constable Twitten Mystery series.”
—Laureen Cusack
(6) A Well-Behaved Woman
(new in trade paper)
by Therese Anne Fowler
“A Well-Behaved Woman is the story of Alva Vanderbilt, a fierce female power ahead of her time in the Gilded Age, New York. This was a ‘richly’ riveting read!”
—Laurie Martella
(7) Dog is Love
by Clive D.L. Wynne, PhD
“Did you know your oxytocin levels spike when you and your dog look into each other’s eyes? (That’s the love hormone!) Using science and original research, canine behaviorist Clive Wynne explains ways we can better reciprocate their affection so they understand our love.”
—Evette Sintichakis
(8) The Girl Who Reads on the Metro
by Christine Feret-Fleury
“A delayed coming-of-age story after my own heart! Juliette dreams away her morning commute by making up stories about the strangers reading across from her on the metro. One day she stumbles into a used bookshop and finds herself taking on the job of bringing used books out into the world and using her imagination to match books with readers. And all this in a dreamy Parisian setting.”
—Laura MacDonald
(9) Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now
(new in trade paper)
by Jaron Lanier
“I have always been a sceptic and this book confirms my doubts. Bottom line—social media platforms are commercial endeavours so must make a profit and therefore how much truth are you seeing and how secure can they be? The author, Jaron Lanier, believes social media to be an excellent form of global communication but it was set up too fast with no rules and all the power lies in the hands of the owners, NOT the users. Lanier’s message: get off these old platforms NOW and let the new, secure ones being created have room to bloom!”
—Karen Stacey
(10) Lost Connections
(new in trade paper)
by Johann Hari
“This book is a fascinating look at depression, and how we treat it as a society. Full of examples of how real people are dealing with their mental health, Hari had me examining the fabric of my own life. Lost Connections is thoroughly empathetic and readable.”
—Ali Hewitt
(11) The Ruin of Kings
(new in trade paper)
by Jenn Lyons
“In Ruin of Kings, we follow the adventures in a dual-timeline of the protagonist, Kihrin, through multiple perspectives as he tries to uncover the truth behind his parentage, heritage, and the threat against the world. Kihrin will have to uncover ancient secrets, fight demons, and find out what his friends, family, and acquaintances are hiding from him. In this high fantasy story filled with world building, Jenn Lyons begins a harrowing story of loss and the resilience required to survive in a world filled with lies.”
—Louis-Marc Simard
(12) Am I Overthinking This?
by Michelle Rial
“A hilarious and visual book that pokes fun at the mundane and seemingly enormous worries we all have.”
—Saffron Beckwith
(13) Conversations with RBG
by Jeffrey Rosen
“An inspiring and insightful look at the trailblazing life and career of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, one of only 4 women to ever be appointed to the Supreme Court of the United States.”
—Pavan Ranu
Books for Kids
(14) Most of the Better Natural Things in the World
by Dave Eggers, illustrated by Angel Chang
“Embark on an epic journey across a multitude of the world’s landscapes and solve the mystery of why a tiger is carrying a chair on her back in this gorgeously illustrated picture book by Dave Eggers and Angel Chang.”
—Jenny Enriquez
(15) Ordinary Mary's Positively Extraordinary Day
by Emily Pearson, illustrated by Fumi Kosaka
“This is a follow-up to a lovely book about the cumulative effects of kindness (that sold 7,000 copies in Canada!). With a message of how kindness can make a positive difference in people’s lives and charmingly diverse illustrations, this is a must-read for everyone!.”
—Ali Hewitt
(16) Dinosaur Yoga
by Mariam Gates, illustrated by Matthew Rivera
“This adorable picture book reminds us that anyone can do yoga, even dinosaurs!”
—Jessica Price
(17) The Sleeping Beauty
by Jennifer Adams, illustrated by Corey Egbert
“As an armchair ballet fan, do you know what’s even better than following ballerinas like Misty Copeland and Isabella Boylston on Instagram? Having a board book to share with the little people in my life that is beautifully illustrated as well as diverse. This book will look beautiful in any nursery (or on my own bookshelf!).”
—Dani Farmer
(18) This book just stole my cat!
by Richard Byrne
“When Ben’s cat disappears into the binding of the book, a search-and-rescue mission is set into motion. Hilariously funny with cute characters and bright, bold illustrations.”
—Laureen Cusack
(19) Happy Right Now
by Julie Berry, illustrated by Holly Hatam
“Happy Right Now is a delightfully colourful book, exploring a range of emotions, with the message of how to ‘be’ with those emotions.”
—Laurie Martella
(20) A to Z Menagerie
illustrated by Suzy Ultman
“A beautiful alphabet board book with die-cut letters and pull tabs, from the creator of the MASHA books. Think TouchThinkLearn, with Suzy Ultman’s style. Perfect for little hands.”
—Morgen Young
(21) Reading Beauty
by Deborah Underwood, illustrated by Meg Hunt
“I’m a total sucker for a fractured/retold/feminist fairy tale. Reading Beauty is about a young, black space heroine who creates her own happy ending through the power of reading. Also, there’s a puppy who fetches books, need I say more??”
—Laura MacDonald
(22) Trapeze
by Leigh Ansell
“This is a charming coming-of-age story about trapeze artist Corey who feels like a fish out of water when she is forced to stop traveling with the circus. She doesn’t know how to be a normal teenager because she grew up in the circus and never stayed in one place too long. Now she’s starting school and trying to fit in. Think Water for Elephants meets Rainbow Rowell.”
—Evette Sintichakis
(25) There Will Come a Darkness
by Katy Rose Pool
“Full of epic world building and an amazing cast of characters, this book delivers! Pull back the curtain and find out if the world will be saved or led to the end of its days.”
—Pavan Ranu
(24) Santa’s Cookie Is Missing!
illustrated by Anne Passchier
“An adorable and delicious book... also please don’t eat this book ;)”
—Saffron Beckwith
(25) Ruby Finds a Worry
by Tom Percival
“Anxiety in children is rising at alarming rates! In this beautifully illustrated picture book, Tom Percival writes a powerful book about the place worries take in our lives. As worries stay inside our head, they grow and grow until it’s all we can think about! The only way to get the worry smaller is very accessible: we can talk about them with friends and family. Just as with his previous book Perfectly Norman, the author delivers an important book explaining mental health concepts to young children.”
—Louis-Marc Simard
(26) AstroNuts Mission One: The Plant Planet
by Jon Scieszka, illustrated by Steven Weinberg
“Here he is again—Jon Scieszka, the dynamic and original author that brought you Stinky Cheese Man, Three Little Pigs, and more. In AstroNuts, he has created a groundbreaking, very cool new series for the 8-12 crowd with full colour, gatefolds, and how-to pages, illustrated by Steven Weinberg. Think Hitchiker’s Guide to the Galaxy for kids! This will be the first of 3 titles by this dynamic duo in this new ‘out of the world’ series.”
—Karen Stacey
28 New Rep Picks For Summer 2019
by Kayi
Animals & Nature + Art & Photography + Fiction + Mysteries and Thrillers + Science Fiction and Fantasy + Food & Drink + Graphica + Health & Wellness + History + Humour + Kids + Picture Books + Psychology & Self-Help + Spirituality + Travel + YA Fiction / July 03, 2019
It's summer, the season of sunscreen, sandals, and longer days—for reading! We have loads of fantastic new books here at Raincoast and our reps have selected their favourites that are coming out this season.
Books for Adults
(1) Honestly, We Meant Well
by Grant Ginder
“The dysfunctional Wright family is falling apart. Naturally, a month long trip together to Greece can’t possibly go wrong—right? This perfect summer read has everything you want: a Greek isle, a run-down hotel, and a cast of hilarious characters.”
—Evette Sinitichakis
(2) The Guest Book
by Sarah Blake
“Summer is the perfect time for falling in to a sweeping novel of one family’s history of love, mistakes, and betrayals. Sarah Blake takes this family story and looks at privilege, class and race in America. In her author note she references a quote from James Baldwin as an inspiration, 'People are trapped in history, and history is trapped in them.' The book is already being lauded by early readers as 'stunning,' 'remarkable' and 'a true gift to the reader.'”
—Judy Parker
(3) The Electric Hotel
by Dominic Smith
“A sweeping work of historical fiction that begins in the nascent days of cinema in Paris and ends a half- century later in Hollywood, The Electric Hotel tells the story of a French silent films pioneer and a film student who interviews him about a lost masterpiece. Moving between past and present, it documents the rise and fall of a prodigious film studio and one man’s doomed obsession. By the author of highly praised and bestselling novel, The Last Painting of Sara de Vos.”
—Lorna MacDonald
(4) Ruffage
by Abra Berens
“Who amongst us isn’t trying to eat more vegetables? This book has information on how to select, store, and cook with delicious vegetables. Each recipe has variations, and gorgeous photography, and I can’t wait to dig in!”
—Ali Hewitt
(5) The Flatshare
by Beth O’Leary
“What if your soulmate was your roommate? And what if you’ve never actually met? An adorable meet cute of a novel about two strangers-turned-roommates who live and work on opposite schedules, communicate solely through post-it notes, and fall in love.”
—Laura MacDonald
(6) Light From Other Stars
by Erika Swyler
“I loved Swyler’s first novel, The Book of Speculation, about the magic and hurt that are passed down through the generations of a family. Her newest book has that same magic and familial trauma, along with space exploration, time travel, and a young woman determined to find the limits of her own mind. It is too early to predict my favourite book of 2019?”
—Dani Farmer
(7) Healthy Habits Suck
by Dayna Lee-Baggley, PhD
“I like a book that calls it like it is: healthy habits do suck. Registered Clinical Psychologist from Nova Scotia, Dayna Lee-Baggley, PhD discusses the neuroscience behind our unhealthy cravings, and uses ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) to motivate more healthy habits and lifestyle.”
—Laurie Martella
(8) Literary Paris
by Nichole Robertson
“Paris and books... what’s better than that?!”
—Saffron Beckwith
(9) The Road to Grantchester
by James Runcie
“Here is the prequel to the fan-favourite mystery series and PBS TV drama. The story follows the life, loves and losses of young Sidney Chambers in postwar London.”
—Laureen Cusack
(10) Blood Relations
by Jonathan Moore
“This is noir fiction with the tone of Chandler, the cinematic style of Hitchcock, and definitely the feel of mid-20th-century noir books and films. Add the historic styling with the elegant and inventive futuristic storyline, and it equals an original suspense novel with an unsettling look at high society’s love affair with technology. Clever, moody, and unpredictable.”
—Karen Stacey
(11) Be, Awake, Create
by Rebekah Younger, MFA
“Combining mindfulness and creativity in a guided art journal that provides art therapy alongside mindfulness meditation techniques. It has been found that creativity can help develop resiliency, adaptability, compassion, and even leadership skills in life.”
—Morgen Young
(12) Ridgerunners
by Micky Neilson
“Ridgerunners is the beginning of a new science fiction space opera series written by the bestselling author Micky Neilson. In a solar system dominated by an oppressive regime, the Pack—a group of pirates, smugglers and outcasts—will stop at nothing to liberate their world. Neilson was one of the lead writers for Blizzard Entertainment, one of the most renowned video game studios.”
—Louis-Marc Simard
(13) Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel Quiz Book
by Lonely Planet
“With questions on everything from geography to culture to history to wildlife, this quiz book will provide hours of fun for the whole family.”
—Jessica Price
(14) An Illusion of Thieves
by Cate Glass
“Magic and thievery abound in this fantasy adventure that’s sure to be a hit with fans of hard-boiled fantasy and Leigh Bardugo!”
—Jenny Enriquez
Books for Kids
(15) Before They Were Authors: Famous Writers as Kids
by Elizabeth Haidle
“As a child, did you ever think about becoming an author? Many children interested in literature wonder who their favourite writers were as children. From C.S. Lewis to J.K. Rowling, Before They Were Authors is a beautiful graphic novel telling the stories of how our favourite authors were when they were children. This will be delightful for adults and children alike!”
— Louis-Marc Simard
(16) Extraordinary Birds
by Sandy Stark-Mcginnis
“December is an extraordinary character; I fell in love with her on the first page. This is an astonishing debut novel.”
—Saffron Beckwith
(17) Llama Destroys the World
by Jonathan Stutzman, illustrated by Heather Fox
“This hilarious picture book involves a cake-loving, dancing llama who accidentally destroys the world. What’s not to love?”
—Jenny Enriquez
(18) The Worst Book Ever
by Elise Gravel
“Try, the BEST book ever! Gravel’s silly, interactive, comic-style graphic novel is full of expression, cute illustrations, and hilarious commentary along the way. What makes it the ‘best’ book ever is that it engages kids, in a fun way, to think about storytelling, and what really makes for a good book.”
—Laurie Martella
(19) Sun
by Alison Oliver
“If the artwork isn’t enough to make you swoon, then the story will be. Sun is the story of a young boy, a magical encounter with a fox, and the discovery that both sports and creativity can make him happy.”
—Laura MacDonald
(20) Lottie & Walter
by Anna Walker
“Lottie goes to swimming lessons every week but she doesn’t swim. In fact she doesn’t even dip her toes in the water—because only she knows there’s a shark in the pool. With the help of her imaginary friend Walter the Walrus, Lottie finally takes the plunge. For anyone who has ever hesitated to jump, this heartwarming story by the author-illustrator of Florette—a New York Times 'Top 10 Picture Book of 2018'— will inspire and delight.”
—Lorna MacDonald
(21) Hats are Not for Cats!
by Jacqueline K. Rayner
“What is more adorable than cats in hats? A fun read aloud with a Dr. Seuss- like appeal for parents and kids alike.”
—Morgen Young
(22) My Name is Wakawakaloch!
by Chana Stiefel, illustrated by Mary Sullivan
“A book about how everyone mispronounces/spells your name?! Oh, I relate (how I longed to be a Jennifer!)! This is an adorable picture book about realizing that embracing your differences can be powerful.”
—Ali Hewitt
(23) The Little Book of Big What-Ifs
by Renata Liwska
“We all get stuck in the trap of “what-if” thinking sometimes—and so do little folks! This poignant and often funny book helps us all conquer our anxieties and fears, accompanied by gorgeous illustrations from the artist who did The Loud Book and The Quiet Book. What if you love this book? You will!”
—Dani Farmer
(24) Daddy-Sitting
by Eve Coy
“A little girl plays parent to her affectionate daddy in this appealing look at a father-daughter relationship.”
—Laureen Cusack
(25) I’m a Baked Potato!
by Elise Primavera, illustrated by Juana Medina
“This quirky, funny book about a dog who is adopted by a baked potato-lover will appeal to kids and parents alike.”
—Jessica Price
(26) Bob
by Wendy Mass and Rebecca Stead, illustrated by Nicholas Gannon
“I absolutely adored this book! It has the timeless appeal of the best of classic children’s literature. Bob and Livy will touch your heart as they discover the meaning of friendship, identity, and belonging. It received starred reviews across the board in hardcover and is perfectly timed to be a terrific summer read in paperback. I recommend reading it with your favourite child!”
—Judy Parker
(27) This Book of Mine
by Sarah Stewart, illustrated by David SMall
“Award-winning husband and wife team, Sarah Stewart and illustrator David Small, create another quiet, lovely storybook for children of all ages! This is their homage to the book and how a book can be your best friend. Great for all the bibliophiles in the family.”
—Karen Stacey
(28) Flight Risk
by Jennifer Fenn
“This is an incredible story of adventure and heist—especially since it’s based on a true story! There are many words used to describe teenager Robert Jackson Kelly—delinquent, criminal, hero—all because he successfully stole and crashed three airplanes—and still he was determined to, one day, land one. He ends up evading capture for years and so when everyone writes him off, he resolves to ultimately find redemption. You will definitely root for antihero Robert!”
—Evette Sinitichakis
28 New Rep Picks For Spring 2019
by Brooke
Animals & Nature + Biography & Memoir + Current Affairs + Fiction + Mysteries and Thrillers + Science Fiction and Fantasy + Food & Drink + Health & Wellness + History + Kids + Music + Parenting + Picture Books + Psychology & Self-Help + Travel + YA Fiction / February 21, 2019
Spring is coming right around the corner, and to celebrate the new season, here are some fantastic book recommendations from our sales reps! Happy reading!
Books for Adults
The Collected Schizophrenias
by Esmé Weijun Wang
"This book is a fascinating exploration of mental illness, from an author who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Wang’s essays are both touchingly personal and a journey through the history of mental illness and its diagnosis. Intimate, empathetic, and full of insight, this book is a must read!"
—Ali Hewitt
Women Rowing North
by Mary Pipher
"In Reviving Ophelia, Mary Pipher helped generations of girls and their parents navigate the choppy waters of adolescence. In Women Rowing North, she is examining the challenges and cultural issues women face as they age and offers a guide to wisdom, authenticity and bliss. There is a huge market of women looking for advice and support and Pipher is perfectly placed to offer it."
—Judy Parker
A Deadly Divide
by Ausma Zehanat Khan
"In this gripping new mystery, Detectives Khattak and Getty investigate a shooting at a mosque in Quebec City that looks like a hate crime."
—Laureen Cusack
The Little Island Bake Shop
by Jana Roerick
"I love Jana’s baking and am so happy to have her recipes!!!"
—Saffron Beckwith
Queen Bey
by Veronica Chambers
"In addition to being a record-breaking artist, Beyonce is a business woman, mother, daughter, sister, wife, black feminist and most importantly, one of the greatest stars of our time."
—Jessica Price
Rupture
by Ragnar Jonasson
"Fourth in Ragnar Jonasson’s Icelandic thriller series, starring detective Ari Thor. If you are fan of Nordic Noir, or not, read this dark atmospheric mystery, packed with fabulous scenery, quirky characters and a strong plot-driven story."
—Karen Stacey
Kid Gloves
by Lucy Knisley
"I really “relished” Lucy’s first book about her lifelong relationship with food and I can’t wait for her new graphic memoir about her difficulties conceiving and being pregnant. Lucy has been hyping this book’s “birth” with forty weeks of fun pregnancy facts on her Instagram, amidst (spoiler alert) photos of her super cute son!"
—Dani Farmer
She Explores
by Gale Straub
"In a time when people are choosing to spend money on travel and experiences over accumulating stuff, this book is perfect. Gorgeous travel photography with women’s personal stories of adventure and reflection—this book is the next best thing to actually spending time in the wild."
—Evette Sintichakis
Why You Like It
by Nolan Gasser
"This book explores the science and sociology behind why we fancy the sounds of our favourite musical artists. I love so many genres of music—what does that say about me?!"
—Laurie Martella
The Future Is Feminist
Edited by Mallory Farrugia
"Who run the world? FEMINISTS! A collection of brilliant essays by beloved feminist icons in one beautiful package. The perfect book for feminists of all ages."
—Laura MacDonald
Outrageous Acts and Everyday Rebellions
Third Edition
by Gloria Steinem, foreword by Emma Watson
"Gloria Steinem’s timeless collection of feminist essays is back in a third edition with a new foreword by Emma Watson and new preface by Gloria Steinem herself! A worthy and essential addition to any feminist collection."
—Jenny Enriquez
Upon A Burning Throne
by Ashok K. Banker
"Ashok K. Banker, while not as well known in the West, is the founder of Indian fantasy fiction, similar to what Tolkien was for European literature. He has written more than 52 books, and has gained international following. Upon a Burning Throne is his latest title, featuring diverse characters, relentless action and an ongoing mystery sure to please all fantasy readers!"
—Louis-Marc Simard
Freedom from Anxious Thoughts and Feelings
by Scott Symington, PhD
"Anxiety is the most common mental health issue in Canada today, so any and all help is necessary! In Freedom from Anxious Thoughts and Feelings, Scott Symington introduces an incredibly simple concept to help us all redirect our thoughts back to what is happening in the present moment and move away from a life where we are ruled by our worries. Because everybody needs help sometimes."
—Morgen Young
Books for Kids
Tiny T. Rex and the Impossible Hug
By Jonathan Stutzman, illustrated by Jay Fleck
"It’s tough to give your friends hugs when your arms are so small, but Tiny T. Rex must find a way! This adorable picture book is the start of a new series starring this lovable dinosaur. I dare you not to fall in love with the plucky and charming Tiny T. Rex. I DARE YOU."
—Jenny Enriquez
A Friend for Henry
by Jenn Bailey, illustrated by Mika Song
"A Friend for Henry is a beautifully illustrated picture book told from the point of view of a child on the autism spectrum. The author gives us insight into Henry’s perspective, modeled after one of her sons on the spectrum. The touching and positive story will touch everyone’s hearts, children and adults alike!"
—Louis-Marc Simard
Voices
by David Elliott
"An extraordinary retelling and exploration of how Joan of Arc changed the course of history! In this age of the Throne of Glass, Divergent and the Hunger Games series, what better time to reintroduce the original kick ass female heroine? A novel told in verse, Voices is also perfect for fans of The Song of Achilles and Circe. Sure to be a hit with readers of teen fiction as well as teachers and librarians."
— Morgen Young
Comics Will Break Your Heart
by Faith Erin Hicks
"A sweet, funny contemporary teen romance for the inner geek in all of us."
— Saffron Beckwith
Fox & Chick: The Quiet Boat Ride
by Sergio Ruzzier
"In the classic canon of buddy books, Fox and Chick set out on a boating adventure—one an enthusiastic sailor and the other a landlubber who hates to miss out on any adventure. Told in three parts this hybrid of an early reader and picture book, illustrated in a comic book style, will be a hit for emerging and reluctant readers alike."
—Lorna MacDonald
The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane
by Julia Nobel
"Emmy’s time at a prestigious boarding school uncovers a secret society that may have played a part in her father’s disappearance."
—Laureen Cusack
The Road Not Taken
by Robert Frost, illustrated by Vivian Mineker
"Robert Frost’s beloved poem is as thought-provoking and beautiful as ever in this picture book! The imaginative interpretation of the classic poem will speak to readers of all ages. This would make a great gift to anyone facing one of life’s many transitions."
—Evette Sintichakis
The Similars
by Rebecca Hanover
"Debut author Rebecca Hanover writes a real page-turner, sci-fi YA novel filled with tension and a thrilling story of six clones who enroll at a prestigious boarding school alongside their originals. Things can only get complicated."
—Laurie Martella
Games on the Go
by Lonely Planet
"Train, plane, boat, car, no matter how you are traveling, these games will keep boredom at bay. A must pack addition for any family trip, big or small!"
—Jessica Price
Fly Girls: Young Readers’ Edition
by Keith O’Brien
"20th century aviation history from the female pilots’ perspective. This is the story of the women pilots who joined the “boys” in the very popular sport of plane racing in the 1920s and ‘30s. A fascinating story of young women determined not to be denied their place in history. Just as Beryl Markham should be read by all young girls, so too should this book. For all those who loved Hidden Figures, here is a story of courageous liberated women ahead of their time."
—Karen Stacey
You Are New
by Lucy Knisley
"Being a new human is hard work! There are so many things to learn and taste and see. Then, just when you think you’ve got a handle on this “being” thing, you grow and there are a bunch of new things to learn! Good thing rhyming text and adorable illustrations from Lucy Knisley are here to provide a guide. Check out the page with the cat-hug… it’s my favourite."
—Dani Farmer
My Brother Otto
by Meg Raby, illustrated by Elisa Pallmer
"A little something for the siblings of the neurodiverse! As the younger sister of someone with developmental delays and disabilities, I would have LOVED a book like this when I was a kid—and I think my parents would have appreciated it too. My sibling does things their own way, maybe I understand them, maybe I don’t, but that’s okay! I love it!!"
—Laura MacDonald
The Little Guys
by Vera Brosgol
"Graphic novelist Vera Brosgol has written another subversively funny picture book. As a graphic novelist, her storytelling ability is stellar and her illustrations are perfectly matched to this story of the rampaging little guys. The message of uniting the community is subtle and doesn’t take away from the fun of the read aloud."
—Judy Parker
Brave Molly
by Brooke Boynton-Hughes
"In this panelled, wordless picture book, our heroine has to defeat the monsters of anxiety that follow her around. After trying to run from the shadowy monsters, Molly bravely confronts her anxiety and makes a friend, with the help of a good book. Author/illustrator Brooke Boynton-Hughes’ drawings do a wonderful job of capturing the fear of rejection, and the joy of a new friend we all feel."
—Ali Hewitt
New Releases: November 2014 Highlights
by Dan
Design & Typography + Fiction + Film + Health & Wellness + Travel / November 07, 2014
I refuse to discuss Christmas yet, so here are just some of the new (non-festive) books available this month from Raincoast Books!
FICTION
Cixin Liu
With the scope of Dune and the commercial action of Independence Day, this near-future trilogy is the first chance for English-speaking readers to experience this multiple-award-winning phenomenon from China's most beloved science fiction author.
Set against the backdrop of China's Cultural Revolution, a secret military project sends signals into space to establish contact with aliens. An alien civilization on the brink of destruction captures the signal and plans to invade Earth. Meanwhile, on Earth, different camps start forming, planning to either welcome the superior beings and help them take over a world seen as corrupt, or to fight against the invasion. The result is a science fiction masterpiece of enormous scope and vision.
Available November 11
New Releases: May 2014 Highlights
by Dan
Art & Photography + Current Affairs + Design & Typography + Fiction + Health & Wellness / April 14, 2014
May is a great month to be a reader—there are so many great books coming out! Here's a quick look at just a few some of our new titles releasing next month.
FICTION
Historical Fiction
Liz Trenow
Page-turning and heartbreaking, The Forgotten Seamstress weaves together past and present in an unforgettable journey.
Before World War I casts its shadow, Maria catches the eye of the Prince of Wales, a glamorous and intense gentleman. But her life takes a far darker turn, and soon all she has left is a fantastical story about her time at Buckingham Palace.
Decades later, Caroline Meadows discovers a beautiful quilt in her mother's attic. When she embarks on a quest to reveal its mystery, the puzzle that only seems to grow.
Available May 13
"this is a page-turner with eye-opening details about the conditions of mental hospitals in the 20th century, as well as the provenance of royal fabrics, the art of quilting, and the vagaries of modern interior design."—Publishers Weekly
"Trenow meticulously stitches each piece of this engrossing story into a unified—and heartwarming—whole."—Kirkus Reviews
Short Stories
Kseniya Melnik
A remote Siberian town with a darkly fascinating history teems with life in this luminous linked debut collection.
Weaving in and out of the last half of the twentieth century, Snow in May is an inventive, gorgeously rendered, and touching portrait of lives lived on the periphery where, despite their isolation-and perhaps because of it-the most seemingly insignificant moments can be beautiful, haunting, and effervescent.
Available May 13
"Achingly beautiful, this collection signals a writer to watch."—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
"Melnik tackles tragic subject matter while dramatizing daily struggles, giving equal weight to both. With dry humor and detailed description, Melnik creates a historically enlightening time capsule of an unfamiliar world."—Publishers Weekly
Literary Fiction
Edward St. Aubyn
Edward St. Aubyn’s Patrick Melrose novels were some of the most celebrated works of fiction of the past decade. Ecstatic praise came from a wide range of admirers, from literary superstars such as Zadie Smith, Francine Prose, Jeffrey Eugenides, and Michael Chabon to pop-culture icons such as Anthony Bourdain and January Jones. Now St. Aubyn returns with a hilariously smart send-up of a certain major British literary award.
Available May 20
Science Fiction
Jo Walton
The new novel from the author of the Hugo and Nebula Award–winning Among Others is a powerful tale of one woman with two lives.
It's 2015, and Patricia Cowan is very old. "Confused today," read the notes clipped to the end of her bed. She forgets things she should know. But she remembers things that don't seem possible.
Two lives, two worlds, two versions of modern history; each with their loves and losses, their sorrows and triumphs. Jo Walton's My Real Children is the tale of both of Patricia Cowan's lives… and of how every life means the entire world.
Available May 20
"My Real Children is the rarest sort of novel – one that transcends genre. It is a book that, one surmises, will be eagerly reread as the years pass."—Quill & Quire (starred review)
"a deeply poignant, richly imagined book about women’s lives in 20th- and 21st-century England, and, in a broader sense, about the lives of all those who are pushed to the margins of history: the disabled, the disenfranchised, the queer, the lower middle class."—Publishers Weekly
Literary Fiction
A Novel of Shakespeare's Dark Lady
Sally O'Reilly
A tale of sorcery and passion in seventeenth-century London—where witches haunt William Shakespeare and his Dark Lady, the playwrights’s muse and one true love.
In rich, vivid detail, Sally O’Reilly breathes life into England’s first female poet, a mysterious woman nearly forgotten by history. Full of passion and devilish schemes, Dark Aemilia is a tale worthy of the Bard.
Available May 27
"First-rate historical fiction: marvelously atmospheric and emotionally engaging."—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
"a lush what-if about the Dark Lady of Shakespeare’s sonnets that mesmerizes with its descriptions of the Bard’s London from 1592 to 1616, the year of his death."—Publishers Weekly
NONFICTION
Family & Relationships / Parenting
A Parent's Guide to Getting Your Kids to Cooperate Without Losing Your Cool
Rona Renner (foreword by Christine Carter)
Being a parent is hard work! And when your child refuses to do even the little things—like picking up their toys, taking a bath, or getting in the car to go to school—it's easy to become frustrated. But what if there was a gentle, effective way for you to improve your kid's behaviour without losing your cool or raising your voice? In Is That Me Yelling? leading authority on parenting, Rona Renner outlines effective communication strategies that focus on your child's unique temperament.
Available May 1
New Series from Laurence King
Art History
Catherine Ingram & illustrated by Andrew Rae
This book penetrates the surface and explores Andy Warhol's art from his beginnings as a commercial artist to his apotheosis as a society portrait painter. Vivid illustrations reveal Andy's worlds: his childhood in Pittsburgh, his chaotic Manhattan mansion, and the Silver Factory, where New York's bright new things hung out and had fun.
Catherine Ingram & illustrated by Andrew Rae
This is Dali tells the story of the artist's life and explores the meaning of his Surrealist paintings. It goes beyond his fine art practice and discusses his venture into the commercial world. Surrealism is revealed as a way of life. Fun, provoking, and endlessly frustrating, Dalí is brought under the spotlight.
Catherine Ingram & illustrated by Andrew Rae
Pollock's iconic paintings stretch out with the generosity and scale of America's Western landscape where the artist grew up. This book traces the artist's career and discusses how his loose, individual style was used as a political weapon in the Cold War, representing America as the free, democratic nation. Illustrations simplify the theory and reveal the hidden meaning behind the mesh of painted lines.
Available May 6
Art History
The Supermodel and the Brillo Box
Back Stories and Peculiar Economics from the World of Contemporary Art
Don Thompson
A look at the contemporary art market and the economics and psychology that first produced a market crash, and then two years later resulted in astronomical prices. The Supermodel and the Brillo Box looks at the increasing dominance of Christie’s, Sotheby’s, and a few über dealers; the hundreds of millions of new museums coming up in cities like Dubai, Abu Dabai, and Beijing; the growing importance of the digital art world; and the shrinking role of the mainstream gallery.
Available May 6
NEW IN PAPERBACK
Body, Mind & Spirit
Heal Your Body with Medicine, Affirmations, and Intuition
Louise Hay and Mona Lisa Schulz
Best-selling authors Louise L. Hay and Dr. Mona Lisa Schulz have teamed up for an exciting reexamination of the quintessential teachings from Heal Your Body.
All Is Well brings together Louise's proven affirmation system with Mona Lisa's knowledge of both medical science and the body's intuition to create an easy-to-follow guide for health and well-being. And, for the first time ever, they present scientific evidence showing the undeniable link between the mind and body that makes these healing methods work.
Available May 6
Comics & Graphic Novels / Nonfiction
Life and Legend
Box Brown
Andre Roussimoff is known as both the lovable giant in The Princess Bride and a heroic pro-wrestling figure.
Box Brown brings his great talents as a cartoonist and biographer to this phenomenal new graphic novel. Drawing from historical records about Andre's life as well as a wealth of anecdotes from his colleagues in the wrestling world, Brown has created in Andre the Giant, the first substantive biography of one of the twentieth century's most recognizable figures.
Available May 6
"A labor-of-love tribute, exquisitely rendered, to the larger-than-life wrestling giant."—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
"It’s the sort of book that I knocked out in one sitting, and it lived up to every hope I had for it. It’s not just one of my favorite graphic novels of the year, but it’s also one of my favorite comic biographies of all time."—Comics Alliance
Art / History
Chasing Fortune, Truth, and Faith in the New China
Evan Osnos
A vibrant, colorful, and revelatory inner history of China during a moment of profound transformation.
Writing with great narrative verve and a keen sense of irony, Evan Osnos, Beijing correspondent for The New Yorker, follows the moving stories of everyday people and reveals life in the new China to be a battleground between aspiration and authoritarianism, in which only one can prevail.
Available May 13
"Osnos combines scintillating reportage with an eye for telling ironies that illuminate broader trends; without downplaying the uniqueness of Chinese society, he makes its tensions feel achingly familiar for Western readers."—Publishers Weekly (starred review)
Family & Relationships / Parenting
This is Ridiculous This is Amazing
Parenthood in 71 Lists
Jason Good
Blogging sensation and family man Jason Good delivers a laugh-out-loud reminder that everything is easier and more fun when approached with a sense of humour—especially parenting. Sweet, sincere, and oh-so-true, this is the ideal gift for parents who could use a laugh. And isn't that every single one of us?
Available May 13
Design
A Critical Guide for Designers, Writers, Developers, and Students
Ellen Lupton and Maryland Institute College of Art
The long awaited follow-up to Thinking with Type is here! Type on Screen is the definitive guide to using classic typographic concepts of form and structure to make dynamic compositions for screen-based applications. An essential design tool for anyone seeking clear and focused guidance about typography for the digital age.
Available May 13
Take a look at a preview of next month's new releases for kids, middle grade, and teens.
New Year, New You
by Melissa
Health & Wellness / February 05, 2014
Well, the first month of the new year is officially over. If you’re like me, you had those great intentions to live a healthier lifestyle, but somehow they didn’t quite turn out. Maybe you hit the gym a couple of times—just nowhere near as often as you planned (or if you’re like me, you’re still trying to make yourself go to the gym for the first time this year). So you’re a tad bit delayed on your new self. But never fear! If your goal was to eat healthier and lose weight, the solution is at your fingertips. Dr. Ian K. Smith designed the diet book Super Shred for those of us looking to lose weight quickly, and more importantly, safely.
In just four weeks, if you have 20 pounds to lose, you can lose them. You can be bikini (or speedo!) ready for that Spring Break beach vacation you planned. Super Shred provides a concentrated diet plan that uses the principles of diet confusion, meal replacement, snacking and meal spacing to help you lose weight.
“It’s just another diet book,” you say? That’s not quite true. The author, Dr. Ian Smith, actually spends time with real dieters while researching his books, and designs his books to help dieters overcome the obstacles they usually face when using a diet plan.
If you aren’t looking to lose weight in such a short period of time, you can also try Dr. Ian’s 6-week cycle diet, Shred.
Dr. Ian will be in Toronto on February 13th. Be sure to watch him on the Social! He is sure to convince even the laziest most cynical of us that we can change ourselves and our lifestyles.
Christina Rasmussen, author of Second Firsts, in Vancouver February 11th!
by Melissa
Events + Health & Wellness + Psychology & Self-Help + Spirituality + Vancouver / January 31, 2014
Christina Rasmussen, author of Second Firsts will be in Vancouver speaking at Urban Campfire: Winter Edition on February 11, 2014. A crisis-intervention specialist, Christina knows first hand how consuming grief can be, and how to overcome it.
After studying to become a therapist and crisis intervention counselor - even doing her master's thesis on the stages of bereavement - Christina Rasmussen thought she understood grief. But it wasn't until losing her husband to cancer in her early 30s that she truly grasped the depths of sorrow and pain that accompany loss. Using the knowledge she gained while wading through her own grief and reading hundreds of neuroscience books, Rasmussen began to look at experiences in a new way. She realized that grief plunges you into a gap between worlds - the world before loss and the world after loss. She also realized how easy it is to become lost in this gap.
In Second Firsts, Rasmussen walks you through her Life Reentry process to help you break grief's spiral of pain, so you can stop simply surviving and begin to live again. She shows you that loss can actually be a powerful catalyst to creating a life that is in alignment with your true passions and values. The resilience, strength, and determination that have gotten you through this difficult time are the same characteristics that will help you craft your wonderful new life. Her method, which she has used successfully with thousands of clients, is based on the science of neuroplasticity and focuses on consciously releasing pain in ways that both honor suffering and rewire the brain to change your perception of the world and yourself. Using practical exercises and stories drawn from her own life and those of her clients, Rasmussen guides you through five stages of healing that help you open up to new possibilities. From acknowledging your fear, to recognizing where you stand now, to taking active steps toward a new life, Rasmussen helps you move past the pain and shows that it's never too late to step out of the gap and experience life again - as if for the first time.
Christina will be speaking about her experience and her book, Second Firsts. Tickets to the conference are available for purchase here: Urban Campfire
Best in New Health and Fitness Books
by Dan
Health & Wellness / February 11, 2013
Because it's never too late to have New Year's resolutions, we're featuring new and upcoming health and fitness titles in this week's Raincoast newsletter. New books include the New York Times and BookManager bestseller Shred: The Revolutionary Diet by Ian K. Smith M.D., Everyday Raw Detox by Matthew Kenney and Meredith Baird, and the WeightWatchers 50th Anniversary Cookbook.
Read this week's newsletter for more health and fitness releases.
Want stay up-to-date on all our new releases? Subscribe to all newsletters.
The Enlightened Cyclist Group Ride & Chapters Event April 12th
by Danielle
Events + Health & Wellness + Travel / March 21, 2012
Please join Bike Snob NYC (a.k.a. Eben Weiss) and the Bike Doctor for The Enlightened Cyclist Group Ride Thursday, April 12th, 2012 - Starting at Bike Doctor on Broadway at 6:15PM
The Ride:
We'll meet up at 137 W Broadway at Bike Doctor at 5:45 for a 45 minute ride starting at 6:15pm around town. Finish off at Chapters on Broadway/Granville for a chat with Eben at 7.
The Event:
7PM - Chapters - 2505 Granville Street
Bike Snob NYC (a.k.a. Eben Weiss) is the blogger behind the immensely popular cycling blog, bikesnobnyc.blogspot.com. Join us at Chapters as he signs his new book, The Enlightened Cyclist, and shares his humorous perspective on the joys, trials and triumphs of bike commuting.
Please contact Danielle Johnson, Publicist at Raincoast Books
604 448 7163 or email danielle [at] raincoast.com for more information.
See you there!
Mental Illness Awareness Week
by Siobhan
Health & Wellness + Psychology & Self-Help / October 07, 2011
It's Mental Illness Awareness Week, and I'd like to take this occasion to thank one of our publishers who works day-in and day-out to make a positive impact in this field: New Harbinger Publications.
For over 30 years, New Harbinger has been publishing books on all kinds of topics in psychology, health and personal growth. Whether the books are created for individuals to use on their own, for family members looking for guidance, or for professionals to use with clients, New Harbinger's books are written by experienced professionals and specialists, who can offer solid advice and coping stragegies.
Thanks, New Harbinger. You're making a difference.
You can find out more about New Harbinger, and download their latest catalogues, here.
If you're a mental health professional, sign up for New Harbinger's specialized eNewsletter or browse the resources on their website.