This June, I really feel, is a month bursting with openness. Lately the chronic pluvial deluge usually attributed to April has been making itself known, and I’ve been remarking that it appears as if the heavens have opened. We’re seeing more floral blooms as summer flowers open to the sun. And I’ve been leaving windows open to get some fresh air circulating in the house.

“It would appear the heavens have opened,” is a line that I have been known to say creepily, quoting from one of my favourite silly movies. (Any guesses as to what that movie is?)

But of course the openness of June goes beyond the meteorological. I’ve been opening boxes, because there’s always something you need when you live in a tiny old house, whether it be more bookshelves or a new printer or charming bistro set for the porch. I’ve been opening my home to friends and family—and there’s nothing quite like summer houseguests when it comes to creating wonderful memories. I’ve also been opening my mind to new authors and new books as I take the opportunity to read through submissions for future seasons.

Perhaps most exciting to me is the open door we’ll be having at the Porcupine’s Quill this weekend, with Doors Open Erin on the way. The PQL team will be there on June 8, open to meeting new friends and old and showing everyone around the shop.

And when I get home, I have the sneaking suspicion I’ll find a new book to crack open and fall into—something just for me, just for fun.

What’ll it be?

I dunno yet. But I’m open.

What’s happening this month…

At PQL.

This month we’re pleased to be back at work on a new book of short stories by first-time author Daniel Bryant. His collection of linked stories, Rerouted, is quite the wild ride, featuring dark humour and enough otherworldly hijinks to cause the characters’ best laid plans to go awry. Look for Rerouted in the coming weeks!

Also happening at PQL this month—we’re taking part in Doors Open Erin on June 8^th, meaning that one and all are invited to come by the shop between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to see where the magic happens. We’re looking forward to your visit!

In Toronto.

Fans of Leon Rooke’s writing and visual art might be interested to stop in at yumart. The Toronto gallery will be exhibiting some of Leon’s paintings and sculptures, and will also have copies of his latest novel, The House on Major Street, available for purchase as well. The exhibition is on now, and runs until June 22.

In the world.

Did you know that June 10 is Ballpoint Pen Day? If you have a ballpoint pen hanging around, congratulations! You’re already qualified to observe this holiday.

June 18 is International Sushi Day. This announcement counts as a serious invitation to all my friends to come with me to get sushi. Guys. Seriously. Let’s get sushi.

June 21 is Take a Road Trip Day, which sounds like a great idea as long as the weather is good. If it’s raining cats and dogs, I reserve the right to switch this to a day of my choosing.

From the porcupette’s corner…

Sharpen your pencils, folks. It’s editing time!

I’ve got four (count ’em, four) books in various stages of editing on the go right now. I’m really excited to see what the first round of edits came to in two upcoming fall books, but then, I’m equally excited to start something new and tackle the first read for a couple of books next spring.

On the other hand, my excitement is slightly dulled by trepidation. Where’s a porcupette to find the time?

Good thing I like to read, eh?

Wish me luck!

Hope you enjoyed this month’s check-in. Looking forward to seeing a few friendly faces at Doors Open. Otherwise, catch you here on the interwebs!