How would you describe the flavour of your bookstagram account?

I’d say the flavour of my bookstagram is quite diverse. Lately, I’ve been really loving CanLit, indie books, short story collections, poetry, thrillers, and audiobooks, but I’m open to read from any genre. You’ll probably see some books on my page that you’ve never heard of before.

Can you list a few of your most recent favourite reads?

The Novelist by Jordan Castro - It’s such a funny novel! It made me laugh so much and the writing is so smart. I’ve already recommended it to my aunt and a friend too.

Nevada by Imogen Binnie - I listened to the audiobook read by the author and it was spectacular! I was captivated by the two main characters, Maria and James, and the fluid writing. I’m so glad this book got rereleased!

After Realism edited by André Forget - This is a fantastic Canadian short story anthology that features some of my fave authors. There was something special in each of these stories.

My Volcano by John Elizabeth Stintzi - My most anticipated book of 2022 did not disappoint. I loved the weirdness!

How much do awards/print reviews/goodreads reviews factor in when you’re deciding what to read or what not to read?

I try not to read any reviews before I read a book. I love going into a book without knowing anything about it. As for awards, I keep my eyes open for the Scotiabank Giller Prize, Writers’ Trust, and BC and Yukon Book Prizes longlists. I had a lot of fun last year reading the Giller shortlist, so I’m excited to see their list this year. I’m curious if any of the books I’ve read already will be on it. Whenever I pick my next book it’s first by mood then I factor in publication date if it’s an advance review copy and genre, since I try not to read the same genre back to back.

Describe your favourite reading scenario.

My favourite reading scenario right now in the summer would be going for a walk around my neighbourhood listening to an audiobook. Audiobooks are the best way for me to be outside and get some steps in. Otherwise, I like to get cozy on my couch with all my current reads within reach since I’m a multi reader. I’m currently reading five books. If I’m reading a physical book, then I prefer to read inside.

What got you into reading initially, and what does reading do for you now?

I’ve always loved reading since I was young. I would join my library’s summer reading club and my bookcase was filled with Babysitter’s Club and Sweet Valley High books. Now, reading is my main entertainment and I’ve made some great friends through my bookstagram account. My reading has also given me amazing opportunities like this Q&A, reading books before publication, and partnering with authors and publishers.

Do you have any opinions on independently published books?

I seek out indie books more now. I’ve discovered so many fantastic indie publishers since joining bookstagram and they’ve published some of my fave books. I actually just checked, and so far this year I’ve read 50% independently published books.

Who are some of your favourite bookstagrammers?

@bookalong - Kate is a Canadian bookstagrammer who’s a go to for CanLit, indies, and even kids books. I love her thoughtful reviews. We have a similar taste in books and have been doing monthly buddy reads since the beginning of this year. Our July buddy read is All the Things We Don’t Talk About by Amy Feltman.

@danythebookworm_ - Dany is another Canadian bookstagrammer and her page is lots of fun! She always posts the best reveals of her book boxes. If you’re looking for a romance or thriller she will have a good recommendation.

@oneillreads - Author Heather O’Neill and her daughter Arizona’s bookstagram is fabulous for CanLit and indie pubs too. They have featured a lot of books I’ve loved.

@trishtalksbooks - Trish is another local Vancouver bookstagrammer who also reviews on her blog. She’s been doing a lot of fun challenges this year like Tackle Your TBR and Author in Depth.

@laura_reads_ - I’m always curious to see what Laura is reading. She reads quite diversely too. I especially like to see her book club posts because they always have some delicious food to go along with their books.