MUSKOKA’S MAIN STREET IN THE NEWS

ByLee Ann

The latest press coverage for Muskoka’s Main Street appeared in The Muskokan newspaper (September 21) and in The Weekender (September 28). These weeklies are widely distributed across Muskoka, providing great exposure for the book. Along with the feature article in the August issue of Muskoka Magazine, plenty of seasonal and permanent residents of the district have now been alerted to the book’s publication!

The goal for any publicity is to get a book into the hands of as many readers as possible. The challenge for any publisher or author is to identify who the readers are and get the word out to them. Local media is an exceptional method for this. I’m delighted with the support  and exposure that Main Street has received so far.

Connecting With Readers

ByLee Ann

There is nothing more gratifying to a writer than to talk directly to readers! Getting the chance to learn what different people think of the book, which sections they found most interesting, or what struck them when reading the story. In the past couple of weeks, a number of readers have contacted me by email and phone to let me know they’ve read the book and to tell me what they like about it.

Of course, this doesn’t always happen. Often as a writer, you do the work and then put it “out there”; the only indication that the book is being read is sales numbers – which are fine, but sterile compared to a lively discussion with a reader who didn’t know that Ontario was largely settled via colonization roads… or a descendant of one of the Muskoka Road surveyors who related some memories of his father, also a surveyor… or an archivist who wrote with great praise for the depth and accuracy of the research.

I’ve also enjoyed looking at the daily stats on the number of “hits” on the website, and what parts of it are being read. (Lots of clicks on ‘where to buy the book’ and also the dynamic map, very exciting!)

As time goes by, I’ll have opportunities through planned events to meet with more readers. Meanwhile, as a reader myself, I’ve resolved to contact more authors and let them know their books have not gone out into a void!

A “MAIN STREET” EVENT FOR MUSKOKA’S MAIN STREET

ByLee Ann

This Saturday, September 15, is the Shades of Autumn Antique, Classic and Custom Car Show in Huntsville. Main Street downtown – which is of course the Muskoka Colonization Road – will be closed off for the event. And Muskoka’s Main Street will be available for sale at the elegant Veranda Home and Garden Collection, 72 Main Street East, thanks to Elise Bélanger, the store’s owner.

What a great opportunity to wander along part of the Muskoka Road and see the kinds of verhicles used by earlier travellers!

And what a great example of a creative way Muskoka Books publisher Patrick Boyer is bringing the book to another set of readers. The very first “vintage” car to putter along Main Street is featured on the front cover: a 1905 two-cylinder, sixteen horse-power Rambler. According to the driver, Jack Milne, the car “created quite a show in Huntsville.”

WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE

ByLee Ann

I did not have time to reflect during Thursday’s book launch for Muskoka’s Main Street – I was too busy catching up with family, with old and new friends, and signing books. As I think about it now, I realize how very successful the book launch was. Measured in sales, of course. But much more importantly, as measured in people who support me.

The signing table

The crowd was never overwhelming and I had a chance to talk to everyone without feeling rushed. Christianne was there, a friend I have not seen for over two decades. Leslie and Arnold were there, friends I just met two months ago. Inbetween were friends from work, writer friends, “cousins”, neighbours. And still others who had already bought books but showed up anyway, to congratulate me again. 

I had phone calls and emails before and after the event, some sending regrets and warm wishes, asking where to buy the book, others giving glowing reviews for the book as well as the book design.

These are early days in terms of guaging the commercial success of Main Street, which is certainly an important measurement. In terms of people who support me and “show up”, though, the book is already a smash success. Thank you!

Post-launch dinner

MUSKOKA’S MAIN STREET REACHES PERTH ONTARIO!

ByLee Ann

I’m delighted to report that Muskoka’s Main Street is now available at The Book Nook and Other Treasures, 60 Gore Street East, Perth. In contrast to so many of Canada’s independents, which are closing their doors, The Book Nook is now in its sixth year of business and has recently expanded. This vibrant bookstore frequently hosts readings and book signings, promotes authors of all stripes and particularly local authors, and is staffed by knowledgable book lovers ever eager to introduce customers to new titles and genres.

The next time you travel to or through Perth, do stop in and browse both new and used titles – as well as the “other treasures” – in the fresh new location!

MAIN STREET IN THE BOOKSTORES

ByLee Ann

Muskoka’s Main Street is now available in stores throughout Muskoka and Parry Sound. You can find copies at these fine booksellers:

Bracebridge:

Scott’s of Muskoka, 30 Manitoba Street, 

Jason Dickson Books, 2nd floor, Old Clock Tower, 49 Manitoba Street

Gravenhurst:

The Gravenhurst Bookstore, 120 Muskoka Road South

The gift shop at “Grace & Speed” Muskoka Boat & Heritage Centre Museum, 275 Steamship Bay Road, Muskoka Wharf.

Huntsville:

Veranda, 72 Main Street East

So Many Books, So Little Time, 18 John Street

Artisans of Muskoka, 2-14 Main Street

Port Carling:

Muskoka Lakes Museum, 100 Joseph Street

Burk’s Falls:

The Wooden Roo, 311 Ontario Street