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Meet Nigel Beale of the Literary Tourist

Haven’t given up on the printed page in the era of digital media? For book lovers who also love travel, the Literary Tourist is a rare find.

The site, launched in 2011 by Nigel Beale, an Ottawa-based writer, broadcaster and admitted bibliophile, has a huge database of bookstores, literary events, and significant literary landmarks around the globe—everything from the Charles Dickens Museum in London to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter amusement park in Orlando. It even includes a few literary hotels. (Did you know there were literary hotels? We didn’t.) (more…)

Hot Entertainment: The Chuck Davis History of Metropolitan Vancouver

This coffee-table tome by renowned historian Chuck Davis is nearly 600 pages

“Fun, Fat & Full of Facts.” That’s how author Chuck Davis described The Chuck Davis History of Metropolitan Vancouver (Harbour Publishing, $49.95), which the beloved journalist and broadcaster spent more than two decades writing, right up until his death in 2010. Other writers, historians and friends then came together to finish the mammoth, almost-600-page volume, which is bursting with 125 years of history and countless archival photos. Arranged chronologically, the book covers everything from the great fire of 1886—which wiped out almost the entire city—to the Vancouver Canucks’ ill-fated Stanley Cup run of 2011. Find this one-of-a-kind souvenir at local bookstores.—Sheri Radford

Hot Shopping: Fun and Funky Holiday Gift Ideas

Now that we’ve officially hit December, the countdown is on. In just a few weeks, you’ll have tons of pretty presents under the tree. To make getting there a little easier, we’ve highlighted a few gift ideas that you can snag for someone on your list (including those out-of-towners), or use for inspiration. Happy hunting!

Black doesn't mean basic with this Empreinte bra.

Lingerie is a classic, and for good reason. Take the time to give your girl something she’ll love from Brachic (service is top-notch, so feel free to ask for help and suggestions). Along with higher-end brands like Empreinte (featured), Prima Donna, and Andres Sarda, this boutique has an extensive range of sizes (A to N with band sizes 28 to 46), as well as colours, materials, and fits. Thank us later. 433 Richmond Rd., 613-321-0401.

You Are Here: Old Strathcona

Image courtesy of Noel Zinger

With over 600 eclectic, independent and alternative shops and services to explore, it’s little wonder Old Strathcona is regarded as the place to experience Edmonton’s finest live theatre and music, boutique shopping, dining and nightlife. Read on for some of our top spots in this historical district and then visit www.oldstrathcona.ca for even more. (more…)

Hot Entertainment: Write On

David Sedaris photo by Robert Banks

His book titles alone tell you this is not your average essayist: Me Talk Pretty One Day. Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim. When You Are Engulfed in Flames. David Sedaris has made a career out of writing about his family, friends, boyfriend—and himself. His wry observations elicit chuckles and the odd guffaw as he analyzes everything from blind hunters to lancing a boil to guitar lessons taught by a midget. He brings his unique insights to The Centre (Nov. 5).—Sheri Radford

More information:

DAVID SEDARIS An evening of recollections and readings from the bestselling author and and regular National Public Radio contributor (Nov 5). 8 pm. $45-$57.50. The Centre in Vancouver for Performing Arts, 777 Homer St. Tickets 1-855-985-5000. Full wheelchair access

Hot Dining: Pints & Paperbacks

The New Oxford Public House. Photo by KK Law

Yaletown’s The New Oxford serves up beer with pub-style food, all under the watchful eye of Oscar Wilde. His portrait is just one of many nods to the famous university, with vintage touring bikes and shelves of classic novels adding to the ambience.—Jennifer Patterson

More information:

The New Oxford Public House, $-$$. L/D (daily). 1144 Homer St. 604-609-0901.

www.donellygroup.ca/oxford

Hot Shopping: Happy Father’s Day

This elegant watch from OMEGA makes a great gift for Dad

On Jun. 19 it’s all about Dad. Spoil him with a classic timepiece from OMEGA Boutique, such as the DeVille 41mm ($6,200, pictured). If an award-winning novel or photography book is more his speed, stop by Chapters. Help him channel his inner Wolfgang Puck with a cookbook from Barbara-Jo’s Books to Cooks.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Entertainment: Kids Market

Kids Market photo by KK Law

Adults love Granville Island for the Public Market’s fresh produce and meats, for the artists’ studios filled with quirky art, and for the restaurants and theatres. Kids, however, love Granville Island for the Kids Market, a two-story burst of colour and noise overflowing with toys, games, costumes, books, candy and clothes—everything a tiny tot could desire.—Sheri Radford

Hot Entertainment: Man With a Plan

VANOC CEO John Furlong's new tome

It’s been more than a year since we donned our red mittens and Canadiana gear for the 2010 Winter Games. Vancouver Olympic Committee CEO John Furlong reflects on all the highs and lows of that historic time in his memoir Patriot Hearts: Inside the Olympics That Changed a Country (Douglas & McIntyre, $32.95). At local bookstores. —Kristina Urquhart

Hot Entertainment: Love of the Game

The Vancouver Canucks Quizbook

True Vancouver Canucks fans test their hockey knowledge with a rousing round of trivia or a challenging crossword in The Vancouver Canucks Quizbook (Nightwood Editions, $8.95). Learn about the record-setting Sedin twins or local boy Trevor Linden. Make it a group game night and wave the white towel as teammates guess the most common last name in Canuck history, or take a shot at figuring out in which round of the 1989 draft picks Pavel Bure was chosen. Available at local bookstores.—Jennifer Patterson