With the brilliant pink exterior, it’s hard to miss Curiosity House Books in downtown Creemore.
More importantly, you would be making a big mistake if you did pass it by. Inside you will find a warm and inviting atmosphere and a beautifully curated selection of new releases that would rival any urban literary bookstore. The store calls itself a “small shop full of big ideas” and you couldn’t say it more succinctly or accurately.
Kate and Joel Simpson recently took ownership of this Creemore institution just over a year ago on the non-negotiable understanding that three long time staff members remain. The store is now in its 32nd year, 10 years at the present location across from the Creemore Brewery.
Joel and Kate continually found themselves drawn to the town of Creemore and specifically to the store, so when the opportunity to buy it came up, they realized this is not only where they want to be, but where they were meant to be.
The shelves are full of new releases covering all subject areas but with a decidedly strong selection of fiction and non-fiction narrative titles. They have added a children’s and young adult section to offer a complete selection for all ages.
There are feature tables throughout the store and they have had some fun renaming a few sections. “Crime and Thrillers” now live in the section entitled “Murder and Mayhem”.
In addition to in-store events, they have also partnered with the Creemore Brewery to host “Book and Beer” events with authors and artists. It is an opportunity to enjoy a reading from the author and then an interactive Q&A. Of course, you can enjoy a beverage and take home a signed book.
As Kate and Joel reinvigorate the events, you can expect much more to come in terms of membership privileges, newsletter announcements and improved website functionality which they are excited to add to the stores offerings.
If you are lucky, Flora the bookstore dog may greet you in store. If you are more fortunate you will have the time to speak with the staff on their best reads of the year. It is a wide-ranging list from bookseller favourite, Ann Patchett, to some outstanding small press Canadian published fiction. It will also include some thought-provoking books on technology and where we might be headed in the future.
Like any great bookstore, it is a place to explore your passions and discover
new ones.
Curiosity House is a Creemore institution for good reason and if you haven’t visited in awhile, it’s time to get back there to find your next new read and maybe uncover a new passion.
The only question that remains is whether the store will remain pink.
Written by Carey Low
Photos by Ashley Winters
