Obviously, the editors here love print: publishing is both how we earn our living and is our reason for living. So it’s nice to know we’re not alone in our passion for the printed word. Cool indie bookstores abound around these parts, staffed by book nerds who are happy to point you toward your next great read. 

Upstart and Crow’s pick: Bread and Milk by Karolina Ramqvist, translated by Saskia Vogel, Coach House Books (2025)

“We love translated works; this devourable and beautifully honest memoir by Swedish writer Karolina Ramqvist is about being a woman who’s consumed with food. While  delivered in fragments, this memoir  is so firmly glued together it feels effortless to read.” 1387 Railspur Alley, upstartandcrow.com

Nooroongji Books’ pick: Black Futures, edited by Jenna Wortham and Kimberly Drew,  Penguin Random House (2021)

“‘Black Futures’ as a term invites a reframing and reimagining of Black history, power and possibilities. This title highlights a dazzling array of emerging and established Black artists and cultural producers, but also ties in with Women’s History Month, as contributions by Black women to culture and progress are so often undersung. We can imagine the love and dedication editors Jenna Wortham and Kimberly Drew poured into creating this gorgeous and important book.” 6–1666 Johnston St., nooroongji.ca

Cross and Crows’ pick: Private Rites by Julia Armfield, Flatiron Books (2024)

“This novel richly updates King Lear, bringing together three estranged queer sisters to untangle their shared history after the death of their tyrannical father. The late Carmichael embodies patriarchy in multiple curious ways and still looms over the climate-wrecked world he helped build. His daughters have to figure out how to live in spite of him. Atmospheric, involving, thoughtful, well-crafted.”  2836 Commercial Dr., crossandcrows.com