Blog
Category: Science Fiction and Fantasy
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: August 2014 Highlights
by Dan
Business & Careers + Fiction + Mysteries and Thrillers + Science Fiction and Fantasy + Humour / July 28, 2014
Next month brings new books from Canadian authors Louise Penny and Guy Delisle, as well as international favourites Charles Cumming, Terry Goodkind, John Scalzi, and a certain Grumpy Cat. Here's our August preview of some of the big new books available from Raincoast:
FICTION
MYSTERY & THRILLERS
★ Indie Next List August 2014
Charles Cumming
A brilliant novel of MI6 and modern espionage by the New York Times bestselling author of A Foreign Country and The Trinity Six.
A top-ranking Iranian military official is blown up while trying to defect to the West. An investigative journalist is arrested and imprisoned for writing an article critical of the Turkish government. An Iranian nuclear scientist is assassinated on the streets of Tehran. These three incidents, seemingly unrelated, have one crucial link. Each of the three had been recently recruited by Western intelligence. Then MI6’s most senior agent in Turkey, dies in a puzzling plane crash. Fearing the worst, MI6 bypasses the usual protocol and brings disgraced agent Tom Kell in from the cold to investigate.
Available August 5
"It’s hard not to root for a character like Kell—deeply cynical but still very much an idealist—and the bombshell plot twists toward the novel’s conclusion will have spy fiction aficionados eagerly awaiting the next installment."—Publishers Weekly
★ Indie Next List September 2014
Louise Penny
The new Chief Inspector Gamache novel from the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller, How the Light Gets In.
Happily retired in the village of Three Pines, Armand Gamache, former Chief Inspector of Homicide, has found a peace he’d only imagined possible. But when his neighbour Clara Morrow tells him that Peter, her artist husband, has failed to come home, he gets up and joins her. Together with his former second-in-command, Jean-Guy Beauvoir, and Myrna Landers, they journey deeper and deeper into Québec. And deeper and deeper into the soul of Peter Morrow.
Available August 26
"The emotional depth accessed here is both a wonder and a joy to uncover"—Kirkus Reviews
Contemporary Fiction
★ Indie Next List August 2014
Martha Woodroof
Readers will adore this inspiring debut of a small-town college professor, a remarkable new woman at the bookshop, and the ten-year old son he never knew he had.
A heartwarming story with a charmingly imperfect cast of characters to cheer for, Small Blessings' wonderfully optimistic heart that reminds us that sometimes, when it feels like life has veered irrevocably off track, the track shifts in ways we never can have imagined.
Available August 12
FANTASY & SCIENCE FICTION
Terry Goodkind
From Terry Goodkind, author of the Sword of Truth series, comes a sweeping new novel of Richard Rahl, Kahlan Amnell, and their world.
From the far reaches of the D'Haran Empire, Bishop Hannis Arc and the ancient Emperor Sulachan lead a vast horde of Shun-Tuk and other depraved "half-people" into the Empire's heart, raising an army of the dead in order to threaten the world of the living. Meanwhile, far from home, Richard Rahl and Kahlan Amnell must defend themselves and their followers from a series of terrifying threats, despite a magical sickness that depletes their strength and which, if not cured, will take their lives… sooner rather than later.
Available August 5
From The Files of Boba Fett
Daniel Wallace, Ryder Windham and Jason Fry
Legendary bounty hunter Boba Fett bound together two volumes of great personal significance: an edition of The Bounty Hunter's Guild Handbook, and a recruiting booklet issued by Death Watch, a secretive splinter group of Mandalorians. Together, these volumes make up The Bounty Hunter Code, detailing the skills needed to make a living beyond galactic law as well as the little-known history, philosophy, and gear of Death Watch. With notes from the books' former owners, this collection serves as a crucial guide to the bounty hunter's essential tools and techniques.
Available August 19
John Scalzi
A blazingly inventive near-future thriller from the best-selling, Hugo Award-winning John Scalzi.
In the near-future, a highly contagious virus makes its way across the globe. For its unlucky victims—nearly five million people in the US alone—the disease causes 'Lock In': a state of being fully awake and aware, but unable to move or respond to stimulus.
A quarter of a century later, in a world shaped by what's now known as 'Haden's syndrome,' two FBI agents are assigned what appears to be a Haden-related murder, with a suspect who is an 'integrator'—someone who can let the locked in borrow their bodies for a time. Naming the murderer has never been more complicated.
Available August 26
"Hugo-winner Scalzi (Redshirts) successfully shifts away from space opera with this smart, thoughtful near-future thriller resonant with the themes of freedom, ethics, and corporate greed."—Publishers Weekly (starred review)
"This SF thriller provides yet more evidence that Scalzi (The Human Division, 2013, etc.) is a master at creating appealing commercial fiction."—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
NONFICTION
Humour
And Other Poems by Kittens
Francesco Marciuliano
Just when we all thought things couldn't get any cuter, from the author of the New York Times bestselling I Could Pee on This comes I Knead My Mommy, a book of confessional poems about the triumphs, trials, and daily discoveries of being a kitten. From climbing walls to claiming hearts, these little cats bare all in such instant classics as "And Then You Said 'No,'" "Ode to a Lizard I Didn't Know Is Also a Pet in This House," and "I Will Save You." With adorable photos of the poetic prodigies throughout, this volume gives readers a glimpse into their confused and curious feline minds as they encounter the world around them.
Available August 5
Observations from Grumpy Cat
Grumpy Cat
In a world filled with inspirational know-it-alls and quotable blowhards, only one figure is indifferent enough to tell the cranky truth: Grumpy Cat. Following the success of her New York Times bestselling debut, everyone's favorite disgruntled feline is back with this demotivational guide to everyday life, love, friendship, and more. Featuring many new photos of Grumpy Cat's famous frown and packed with uninspiring observations, The Grumpy Guide to Life will help anyone get in touch with their inner grouch.
Available August 5
Even More Bad Parenting Advice
Guy Delisle
Laugh-out-loud anecdotes from the front lines of parenting.
Ever wanted to know how to be awarded the Best Dad in the Whole World? Guy Delisle has all the answers for you in these lighthearted, entertaining tales of parental mishaps and practical jokes gone wrong. Whether he's helping remove a pesky, wobbly, but not quite loose tooth or trying to win at hide-and-seek, his antics will resonate with every parent who has wanted to give a sarcastic answer to a funny question from their kid.
Available August 26
PERSONAL FINANCE
A Winning Vision for Multigenerational Wealth
Emily Griffiths-Hamilton
A fresh and accessible guide to successful wealth transition—for many generations.
Why do 70% of wealth transition plans fail? This is the question that Emily Griffiths-Hamilton sets out to answer in Build Your Family Bank, a book that looks closely at the core causes of wealth erosion and failed transition plans and offers a set of strategies for building successful wealth transition plans that will benefit many generations.
Available August 15
SCIENCE
The Science of Why Jokes Make Us Laugh, Movies Make Us Cry, and Religion Makes Us Feel One with the Universe
Jim Davies
A sweeping look at the psychological and evolutionary reasons that everyone is drawn to religion, conspiracy theories, and the news.
Why do some things pass under the radar of our attention, but other things capture our interest? What makes a story, a movie, or a book riveting? The past 20 years have seen a remarkable flourishing of scientific research into exactly these kinds of questions. Professor Jim Davies' fascinating and highly accessible book, Riveted, reveals the evolutionary underpinnings of why we find things compelling, from art to religion and from sports to superstition.
Available August 5
Check out our August preview for kids, middle grade, and teens.
New Releases: June 2014 Highlights
by Dan
Biography & Memoir + Fiction + Science Fiction and Fantasy + Food & Drink + Parenting / May 21, 2014
Next month, bestselling Canadian author Chevy Stevens returns with her new novel That Night, and by Toronto-based novelist A. M. Dellamonica kicks off a new fantasy series with Child of a Hidden Sea. We also have a new books from John Waters, Uncle John's, and the San Francisco Writers' Grotto. Take a look at just a few some the new titles available from Raincoast in June:
FICTION
SCIENCE FICTION
Orson Scott Card & Aaron Johnston
The story of The First Formic War continues
Nearly 100 years before the events of Orson Scott Card's bestselling novel Ender's Game, Earth has been invaded. Politics and pride have slowed the response on Earth, and on corporate settlement Luna, power struggles seem more urgent than distant deaths. But there are a few men and women who see that if Earth doesn't wake up and pull together, the planet could be lost.
Available June 10
Chevy Stevens
A stunning breakout novel from the bestselling Canadian author of Still Missing.
Toni Murphy was eighteen when she and her boyfriend, Ryan, were wrongly convicted of the murder of her younger sister. Now she is thirty-four and back in her hometown, working every day to forge and adjust to a new life on the outside...
Available June 17
"As finely calculated in its escalating suspense as Stevens’ grueling debut"—Kirkus Reviews
"an exciting page-turner with an incisive twist."—Publishers Weekly
A. M. Dellamonica
A rousing tale of adventure and adversity, politics and personal trials, in the fascinating world of Stormwrack Archipelago.
One minute, twenty-four-year-old Sophie Hansa is in a San Francisco alley trying to save the life of the aunt she has never known. The next, she finds herself flung into the warm and salty waters of an unfamiliar world. Glowing moths fall to the waves around her, and the sleek bodies of unseen fish glide against her submerged ankles...
Available June 24
NONFICTION
FAMILY & RELATIONSHIPS / PARENTING
A Loving Approach to Setting Limits and Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child
Shauna Shapiro and Chris White
(foreword by Christine Carter)
Raising happy, compassionate, and responsible children requires both love and limits. In Mindful Discipline, internationally recognized mindfulness expert Shauna Shapiro and paediatrician Chris White weave together ancient wisdom and modern science to provide new perspectives on parenting and discipline.
Available June 1
HUMOUR / TRIVIA
Uncle John's Bathroom Reader Plunges into Canada (Illustrated Edition)
Bathroom Readers' Institute
Full of fascinating facts about the greatest country in the world, Uncle John's Bathroom Reader Plunges into Canada (Illustrated Edition) is packed with photographs and illustrations. Put away the hockey gear, grab a plate of Kraft dinner, and join us.
Whether you're a true Canuck or just always wanted to be one, this book is for you!
Available June 1
TRAVEL
John Waters Hitchhikes Across America
John Waters
A cross-country hitchhiking journey with America's most beloved weirdo.
John Waters is putting his life on the line. Armed with wit, a pencil-thin moustache, and a cardboard sign that reads "I'm Not Psycho," he hitch-hikes across America from Baltimore to San Francisco, braving lonely roads and treacherous drivers. But who should we be more worried about, the delicate film director with genteel manners or the unsuspecting travellers transporting the Pope of Trash?
Available June 3
"Presenting the best- and worst-case scenarios for modern hitchhiking as only Waters can, the narratives range from encounters with a pleasant group of marijuana smugglers and Edith Massey, to a harrowing imprisonment in Kansas and traumatic fan meeting. Waters devotees take note: this is required reading."—Publishers Weekly (starred review)
ETIQUETTE
Good Manners for People Who Sometimes Say F*ck
Amy Alkon
A smart, funny, in-your-face modern manners book on day-to-day behavior for regular people.
Many of us who are nice (but who also sometimes say "f*ck") are frequently at a loss when it comes to dealing effectively with the onslaught of rudeness we all encounter. To lead us out of the miasma of modern mannerlessness, science-based and bitingly funny syndicated advice columnist Amy Alkon rips the doily off the manners genre and gives us a new set of rules for our twenty-first century lives.
Available June 3
FOOD & DRINK
Elements of Cocktail Technique
Jeffrey Morgenthaler with Martha Holmberg
Written by renowned bartender and cocktail blogger Jeffrey Morgenthaler, The Bar Book is the only technique-driven cocktail handbook out there. This indispensable guide breaks down bartending into essential techniques, and then applies them to building the best drinks.
Available June 3
CREATIVE WRITING
712 More Things to Write About
San Francisco Writers' Grotto
Here are 712 more witty, outrageous, and thought-provoking writing prompts for fans of the super-popular 642 Things to Write About—all guaranteed to get the creative juices flowing: from listing childhood hiding places and describing the sensation of falling asleep to creating memorable characters, unusual fortune cookie messages, and mash-up movie plotlines.
Available June 6
Take a look at a preview of next month's new releases for kids, middle grade, and teens.
New Releases: March 2014 Highlights
by Dan
Biography & Memoir + Current Affairs + Fiction + Mysteries and Thrillers + Science Fiction and Fantasy + Humour / February 25, 2014
Oh my! There are so many brilliant books coming in out in March! Here's what's hot in fiction, nonfiction, and humour. Make sure you also take a look at our list of new releases for kids and young adults on our Kids & Teen Blog.
FICTION
LA Philip Marlowe Novel
Benjamin Black
Only Benjamin Black, a modern master of the genre, could write a new Philip Marlowe novel that has all the panache and charm of Raymond Chandler's originals while delivering a story that is as sharp and fresh as today's best crime fiction.
Available March 4
The Clifton Chronicles #4
Jeffrey Archer
Be Careful What You Wish For showcases Jeffrey Archer's storytelling talents as never before—when the Clifton and Barrington families march forward into the sixties, in this epic tale of love, revenge, ambition and betrayal.
Available March 11
Nickolas Butler
Welcome to Little Wing.
It's a place like hundreds of others, nothing special, really. But for four friends - all born and raised in this small Wisconsin town - it is home. And now they are men, coming into their own, or struggling to do so.
Shotgun Lovesongs is that rare work of fiction that evokes a specific time and place yet movingly describes the universal human condition.
Available March 11
Olen Steinhauer
Espionage master and New York Times bestseller Olen Steinhauer returns with a brilliant international thriller about the aftermath of a diplomat's assassination and his wife's relentless investigation.
Available March 18
Jane Green
From the New York Times bestselling author of such beloved novels as Another Piece of My Heart and Family Pictures comes an enthralling and emotional story about how much we really understand the temptations that can threaten even the most idyllic of relationships…
Available March 25
Karl Schroeder
When seventeen-year-old Toby McGonigal finds himself lost in space, separated from his family, he expects his next drift into cold sleep to be his last. After all, the planet he’s orbiting is frozen and sunless, and the cities are dead. But when Toby wakes again, he’s surprised to discover a thriving planet, a strange and prosperous galaxy, and something stranger still—that he’s been asleep for 14,000 years. Welcome to the Lockstep Empire, where civilization is kept alive by careful hibernation.
Available March 25
Paula Brackston
From Paula Brackston, the New York Times bestselling author of The Witch's Daughter and The Winter Witch, comes a magical tale that is as dark as it is enchanting. Set in high society Edwardian England, a young witch faces the choice between love and loyalty to her coven…
Available March 25
NONFICTION
New in Paperback!
An Inner History of the New America
George Packer
Available in paperback for the first time, The Unwinding is a critically acclaimed examination of a nation in crisis by one of the finest political journalists of our generation, George Packer.
Available March 4
How a Tiny Greek Island Stole My Heart
Jennifer Barclay
Finding happiness in spanakopita and the sea, set in a dreamy Mediterranean landscape.
Available March 4
Pictures from Her Life in the City
Edited by Bridget Watson Payne
As familiar as we are with images of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the charming former first lady, fewer know the dynamic woman who called New York City home. Shortly after JFK's assassination in 1964, Jackie moved to Manhattan and lived there for the next three decades. This intimate collection of photographs celebrates her life in the city as a mother, book editor, style icon, and most of all, a New Yorker.
Available March 11
Everything I Ever Needed to Know About _____* I Learned from Monty Python
*History, Art, Poetry, Communism, Philosophy, the Media, Birth, Death, Religion, Literature, Latin, Transvestites, Botany, the French, Class Systems, Mythology, Fish Slapping, and Many More!
Brian Cogan and Jeff Massey
A comprehensive and hilarious guide to understanding the many Monty Python jokes and allusions.
Available March 18
How About Never – Is Never Good For You?
My Life in Cartoons
Bob Mankoff
A memoir in cartoons by the long-time cartoon editor of The New Yorker Bob Mankoff.
Available March 25
HUMOUR
And Other Observations from Parenthood
Jeffrey Brown
The bestselling author of Darth Vader and Son and Vader's Little Princess brings his witty comic observations to terrestrial parenting in this perceptive book celebrating the more surreal moments of raising a child.
Available March 18
Even More of the Very Best Totally Wrong Test Answers
Richard Benson
From the same hilarious wellspring of failure as the bestselling F in Exams and F for Effort comes this all-new collection of inventively wrong-yet totally real-test responses by students who don't know the answer, but come up with something better instead.
Available March 18
My Favourite Books of 2013, Lynne Fahnestalk
by Dan
Fiction + Science Fiction and Fantasy / December 19, 2013
I was afraid Redshirts was going to be generic FanFic writing when I started reading, but it quickly proved to be much more. A really fun, tongue-in cheek send-up of all things Star Trek—with a little Galaxy Quest thrown in— it's a nice departure for a genre that often takes itself way too seriously. You don't have to be a fan of Star Trek to enjoy Redshirts, but it helps to be a fan of science fiction in general. I hope there is a sequel!
Doctor Sleep
I've been reading Stephen King for over 35 years and he still manages to pull a rabbit out of the hat. Doctor Sleep, sequel to The Shining, is no exception. If you have not read The Shining or seen the movie, King supplies just enough back story to convey the importance of the events happening now. The book takes place many years after the ghost infested Overlook Hotel was destroyed. But Dan Torrence, now a recovering alcoholic, is slowly drawn back to it by a young girl, Abra, who also posesses "the shining". She believes there is a sinister reason behind a number of missing children. Dan and Abra discover that even though the hotel is gone there remains an evil gathering of vampires who call themselves the True Knot and make their home base on the grounds where the Overlook Hotel used to stand. Disguised as vacationers roaming the highways in RVs they kidnap and prey on children who have "the shining". They call it "steam".
King's main strength is his character development and he doesn't disappoint in this story. The leader of the True Knot, Rose the Hat, is as creepy and as eccentric as any of his previous characters. He manages to bring Dan's struggle with alcohol into the mix without overshadowing Dan's quest. Nothing preachy here, Dan's just a guy doing the best he can. King's 13-year-old heroine, Abra, who is even stronger at "shining" than Dan (she predicted the 9/11 disaster from her crib) is a believable mix of edgy and nice. She bounces back and forth between psychic threat and just plain kid.
The book starts off slowly but manages to pick up speed as it rolls along. It's a nice creepy tale. It's Stephen King.
The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency Series
I first became aware of these marvelous characters through the HBO series and ran to find the books. The various stories are as much about the adventures and everyday lives of the different people as they are about solving mysteries. And "mystery" is a loose definition in some cases. The three main characters are, the deceptively named Mma Precious Ramotswe who is the first female private investigator in Botswana, her eager and capable assistant Mma Grace Makutsi, and Mr. J.L.B. Matekoni mechanic and eventual husband of Mma Precious Ramotswe. Charming, funny, heart breaking, insightful and sometimes alarming tales of rural life in modern day South Africa.
Lynne Fahnestalk, Inventory Coordinator
Robert Charles Wilson and Karl Schroeder in Conversation
by Dan
Events + Fiction + Science Fiction and Fantasy / August 15, 2013
Robert Charles Wilson (The Chronoliths, Darwinia, Spin, Vortex) and Karl Schroeder (the Virga series) will be in conversation at 5:30pm, Thursday August 22nd, at the Direct Energy Centre in Toronto as part of IFOA at the EX.
The two acclaimed Canadian authors will be discussing “Science and Fiction: The Craft of Creating Other Worlds” with moderator Bert Archer. More details and ticket information are available on the Authors at Harbourfront website.
Here Be Monsters!
by Dan
Fiction + Science Fiction and Fantasy / March 26, 2013
The #1 Bestselling Book in Canada
by Dan
Fiction + Science Fiction and Fantasy / January 21, 2013
"No e-books, no 'daily deals,' just old-fashioned fan demand: The 14th book in The Wheel of Time series is No. 1 — as a hardcover." — USA Today
A Memory of Light, the conclusion to Robert Jordan's acclaimed fantasy series 'The Wheel of Time', is the bestselling book in Canada and the United States this week!
#1 Globe & Mail Hardcover Fiction
#1 Toronto Star Bestsellers of the Week
#1 Winnipeg Free Press Bestsellers
#1 Vancouver Sun Bestsellers
#1 BNC Sales Data Top 100 Fiction
#1 BookManager Hardcover Fiction
#1 New York Times Combined Print & E-Books/Hardcover Fiction
#1 Publishers WeeklyHardcover Fiction
#1 USA Today Best-Selling Books
#1 Ingram Bestsellers
#1 ABA National Indie Bestsellers
Although Robert Jordan didn't live to see the completion of his beloved series, 'The Wheel of Time' was completed from the writer's own notes and partials by acclaimed fantasy author Brandon Sanderson, and edited by Jordan's wife Harriet McDougal.
Brandon will be in Vancouver and Toronto next month to sign copies of A Memory of Light and reflect on the end of Robert Jordan's epic series.
Brandon Sanderson Canadian Author Events:
February 14, 2013 at 7:00pm
Chapters - Metropolis
Metrotown
4700 Kingsway Burnaby, BC
February 15, 2013 at 7:00pm
Toronto Public Library - Lillian H. Smith Branch
239 College Street, Toronto, ON