book store

The Efficiency of a Group

Mark Koning

Author Organizations & Publishers

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Organizations are always good to belong to for a variety of reasons, such as: working with other like-minded individuals or peer work. It can be helpful to have others to brainstorm ideas with, get advice when facing confusion or a block, and to share opinions. A sense of belonging comes with attaching oneself to an organization.

I have been a writer for quite some time, but becoming part of the Writer’s Community of York Region as helped me gain a little more confidence in the craft I’ve chosen. I’d still be writing regardless, but becoming part of a bigger team has motivated me to become more involved in getting out and talking about my work.

We should all be our own selves as independent writers or artisans, but it is a nice feeling to know you belong to something on a larger scale. Being part of an organization or group can help you grow your work, gain ideas, and in many ways it gives what you do a little bit legitimacy.

At this year’s Bookshelf event, this category is honoured with the presence of:

  • Brain Lag Publishing, Sci-fi/Fantasy
  • DAOwen Publications
  • Dark Dragon Publishing
  • I C Publishing, Non-Fiction
  • ID Press
  • Infinite Pathways Press, Multi-Genre
  • Inspiritus Press
  • Mick’s Books, Speculative Fiction
  • Myth Hawker, Traveling Bookstore
  • Sisters in Crime; Bouchercon 2017
  • Studio Comix Press
  • The Ontario Poetry Society (TOPS)
  • Toronto Romance Writers (RWA Affiliated)
  • Vaughan Writers, Multi-Genre
  • Writers’ Community of York Region

We would also like to thank one of our generous sponsors:

Blue Heron Books Supports “The Bookshelf’s” Feature Authors

MJ Moores

Blue Heron BooksBlue Heron Books has graciously agreed to carry the books of our four featured authors at our book fair this year. They will be offering book signing space after each reading and are available throughout the day to purchase from and answer any questions you may have about special orders, new work, and available services.

Blue Heron Books is located in the quaint and picturesque village of Uxbridge, ON. Voted best independent bookseller of 2012 and 2014 by the Canada Libris Award; Blue Heron Books, in addition to carrying both current and classic titles, leads book clubs, art classes, writing workshops and author visits. They are pet-friendly and welcome furry customers with water and treats.

Blue Heron Books was honoured with the 2014 Libris Award for Canadian Bookseller of the Year.
Blue Heron Books was honoured with the 2014 Libris Award for Canadian Bookseller of the Year.

The store supports and promotes up-and-coming authors with book launches and book signing events. Open seven days a week, it is a special place for families with children and teens of all ages who seek an unpretentious, old-fashioned locale where owner, Shelley Macbeth (how could she not be a contributor the the literary world?), is honoured to share her love of words with the public.

Of particular interest is their Series of Fortunate (literary) Events held once a month, featuring established authors, and accompanied by brunch or dessert, depending on the time of day. It is certainly worth the drive to Uxbridge in order to experience first-hand this gem of a bookstore, so be sure to visit their website and discover your next favourite author.