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

BOOK LAUNCH!

ByLee Ann

Please save the date! The Ottawa book launch for Muskoka’s Main Street takes place Thursday, September 6, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Bistro Fifty-Four at Amberwood, 54 Springbrook Drive, Stittsville. Snacks and cash bar will be available, and you can also call to reserve a table for dinner, outside on the patio or inside overlooking the golf course and marsh.

I’ll be there with a glass of wine in one hand and a pen in the other to sign books! Hope you can join me in the celebration.

NEW BOOK, NEW LOOK!

ByLee Ann

Welcome to my new website! Take a look around and please let me know what you think of the new site – all the latest on my books, events and workshops.

My blog is here too, continuing the conversation started when Muskoka’s Main Street was “A Work in Progress.” The book is now available and you’ll find all the latest news about that here as well. Be sure to have a look at the two dynamic maps of the road on the site – they’re unique, fun,and informative.

Welcome to new readers, and hello again to my faithful “Work in Progress” subscribers.

The adventure continues!