Light

These days, it’s still quite dark when I leave the house in the morning. I hate it. I hate the weird time that can’t decide what it is. Dusk or dawn? Day? Night? Who knows! (My body and brain certainly don’t.)

Despite the wildfires in August, I miss summer. I always miss it, but the longing has become more urgent in recent years. There was a time when I actually preferred spring or autumn, but now I can’t seem to let the sun go. The past few months have passed by in a wet, dim blur.

But one thing I like about doing these newsletters is that they give me an account — important reminders — of the warm, cozy spots of light I’ve experienced over the previous month. Something to keep me going, even (especially?) through a dark time. An author gratitude journal. It’s easy to forget the little things, but when you compile them, they sure are bright.

How do you remind yourself of the light around you?

Escape to Paris

I’m calling my first author reading a success! Thanks again to Vancouver Island Regional Library Sidney/North Saanich branch for hosting me on November 25; and to everyone who attended, asked questions, and listened to me talk about my favourite things: history, archives, and Paris. I’m hoping to get the opportunity to do more of these types of events in future. 🙌

If you’re a card holder in this system, there are several copies available to sign out.

Side note:

What does one offer as a snack for a France-themed author talk? St. Michel, of course! (Can you spot the biscuits in the photos?)

Qu’offre-t-on comme collation pour une présentation d’auteur sur le thème de la France ? St. Michel, bien sûr !

Corben Takes Flight

December 3rd was for the birds — and that was a wonderful thing! Archivists Who Write member Emily Lonie’s book launch for Corben and the Crow Commute took place at the Stanley Park Nature House. (Another opportunity for our group to reunite!) Pick up your copy from the Stanley Park Ecology Society, or request it from your favourite retailer.

More Library Love

There are two new libraries to add to the list of those showing Provenance Unknown some love. Print copies are on the way to Penticton Public Library and Edmonton Public Library, but you can place your holds now. (Just click on the links.)

I’m still looking for cardholders in the Okanagan Regional Library system to request it. You can suggest a title online — it’s quick and easy! (And if you have any questions, let me know.)

More Reviews

New reviews up on Amazon! Each one means, and helps, a lot. 🙏

Post your own, long or short, here.

Vintage Style

You know I love any opportunity to dress up, costume or otherwise, so for a recent Christmas party across the pond in Vancouver, I decided to go full-out vintage. (It wasn’t a costume- or themed party but I didn’t care. I don’t get out often, so I’m going to take full advantage of the occasion. I need this!)

For the record, my tendency to look to the past for inspiration was part of me long before I became an archivist. The profession probably does help it along, though.

Buenos días

Just when I thought travel had slowed down for Provenance Unknown (remember how it was gallivanting all over Portugal, Spain, and Wales?), I received these photos from México. I’ve gotta say, I love how the cover’s colour scheme fits in so seamlessly in the taco restaurant. ¡Muy bien! Is this considered French-Mexican fusion cuisine?

Not-So-Vague Publishing Post

Just under the wire for inclusion in this newsletter (and before the holidays), I can now officially announce that my second book, A Year of Summer, has found a home with Okanagan Publishing House! I’m so, so thrilled to be able to call myself a two-time published author.

A huge thank you to Church & State Wines for helping me celebrate the contract signing. I couldn’t think of a better place to help me make the connection between Victoria (where I live now) and my roots in the South Okanagan, the heart of the book’s setting. It’s perfect that Church & State has a location here in the Victoria area and in Oliver, British Columbia. I followed up the signing with a celebratory wine tasting — obviously! The staff was fantastic, and I can’t wait to visit again.

The book was inspired by the memorable year I spent as the Youth Ambassador for the small desert town of Osoyoos, British Columbia when I was sixteen, and the wacky things that happened on my travels.

In A Year of Summer, Julia Summers, an aspiring travel writer with social anxiety, reluctantly takes a temporary job in her hometown in British Columbia’s southern interior. But when the position turns out to be more than advertised — thrusting her into the festival and fair circuit, not to mention the paths of a handsome prince and suspicious stranger — she must decide whether to head for the hills or stick it out in the struggling desert village she’d left in the rear view. Better buckle up — it’s going to be a bumpy ride.

Release date to be announced!

Les Bouquinistes

The Parisian ABCs, by Emily Gaudichon

This tongue-in-cheek book celebrates what it means to be Parisian and is sure to be a hit with Francophiles worldwide. A unique international take on what it means to be Parisian by Australian writer Emily and Belgian illustrator Sarah who have both lived in Paris for many years with their families and created this beautiful, fun book to embrace the best (and most clichéd) aspects of French culture. With witty one liners and engaging illustrations, it appeals to children and adults alike.

As always, thanks for reading. Merci! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.

Sonia