The Bookshop Chronicles: Recent Episodes

Brandi Morpurgo

If you love books, and are even a little curious about what it‘s like to run a Bookshop during a pandemic and be part of a thriving literary community, this is the podcast for you!

This was a fun one!

Forgive us the wild peals of laughter and background noises as we recorded this podcast episode at my kitchen table after a leisurely brunch. Rachel Bergeron and Justine Mah spearheaded The Black Bookshelf Project, a collaborative initiative that provides BIPOC books for kids on a black bookshelf with coloring sheets, additional resources, and Indigenous affirmation cards for children to enjoy. Rachel and Justine do not hold back on why these stories are important, and why they believe these bookshelves will open conversations and generate an appreciation for perspectives and experiences from other cultures and experiences. These shelves are important, and we are proud to have one in each of our bookstores for our community to enjoy.

Starting in June 2023, will be raising funds to put a TBBP shelf in a school in both Edmonton and Beaumont. If you'd like to support our efforts, please visit our website for more details.

If you would like to know more about The Black Bookshelf Project, please go to their website, and follow them on Instagram.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Our bookstore offers audiobooks that you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful store in High Street, and if you are in the community of Beaumont, come and see us on Main St. as the only bookshop in town! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

I have received so many questions, and I thought of a fun way to answer some of them. I'm calling it a Five, 5 and 5: 5 books that changed me, 5 small biz bits, and 5 random things about me. Hope they are fun and insightful!

5 Books:

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

Don't Keep Your Day Job by Cathy Heller

The Bible

5 Small Biz Bits:

Social Media Face
Vote with your dollars
It's hard but it's worth it and it's hard
passion costs $$
copycats weren't cool in school and not in biz either

5 things about me:

smile
sunshine
heights
cheesecake
bull

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Our bookstore offers audiobooks that you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful store in High Street, and if you are in the community of Beaumont, come and see us on Main St as the only bookshop in town! Location and hours available on our website. For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Hello, Friend. Would you believe that at the end of last month I achieved my goal of getting 4 days off IN A ROW?? Don't go into business for yourself if you want to have oodles of spare time.

So, after a spell away from the microphone I am here to present a smattering of some of the books I have read since we last talked. Some great, some blah, and I am here to share the truth about them all. A bookstore owner who doesn't read a wide range of titles can't be trusted to make solid book recommendations, so I will keep reading outside my comfort zone and being wooed by compelling backlist titles and sparkly new releases so I can share them with you!

Books Discussed:

Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes

Pretty Things by Janelle Brown

Forever... by Judy Blume

We Spread by Iain Reid

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration Into the Wonder of Consciousness by Sy Montgomery

The Change by Kirsten Miller

The Family Game by Catherine Steadman

Night Road by Kristin Hannah

Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

Near the Bone by Christina Henry

I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

The Opposite of Butterfly Hunting by Evanna Lynch

Our bookstore offers audiobooks that you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful store in High Street, and if you are in the community of Beaumont, come and see us on Main St as the only bookshop in town! Location and hours available on our website. For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

One of our most popular Guests from the past year was Elise Eichmuller (Episode 44), a court reporter by day and an active bookstagrammer and reader in her spare time. She may read dark & twisty tales, but she is just the most sunshiney and giggly soul. To know Elise is to love her. She is instrumental in keeping the #yegbookstagrammer group together and intentionally creates friendships in the bookish social media world. She has created a brilliant balance - enjoy this episode and by all means, go to her Instagram and FOLLOW her!

*heads up, we don't censor one another in this convo, so little ears may not want to listen in

Books we discussed:

The Bad Seed (1954) by William March

We Need To Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver

The Wanderers by Chuck Wendig

Brother by Ania Ahlborn

Seed by Ania Ahlborn

The Troop by Nick Cutter

Precious Cargo by Craig Davidson

The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline

The Deep by Nick Cutter

Still Life by Louise Penny

Ghost Summer Stories by Tananarive Due

Bad People by Craig Wallwork

Someone to Watch Over Me - Yrsa Sigurðardóttir

I Remember You - Yrsa Sigurðardóttir

Let Me In - John Ajvide Lindqvist

Eeny Meeny by M. J. Arlidge

The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson

Before He Knew Her by Peter Swanson

Eight Perfect Murders by Peter Swanson

Karen Slaughter Grand County Series

Pretty Girls by Karen Slaughter

The Inconvenient Indian by Thomas King

Indians on Vacation by Thomas King

Our bookstore offers audiobooks that you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful store in High Street, and if you are in the community of Beaumont, come and see us on Main St as the only bookshop in town! Location and hours available on our website. For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

The world of Daisy Chain Book Co. has grown by about 1600 square feet.

We opened our second indie bookstore in Beaumont, Alberta in July, 2022 and I am still in an exhausted state of disbelief. Don't let them tell you it's impossible, put your big girl panties on and show 'em how it's done.

In this mini episode, I am giving you a wave from underneath the pile of chaos and a shout-out of gratitude for our incredible bookish community.

Get out there and let your badassery shine. And have a Merry Christmas too.

Our bookstore offers audiobooks that you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful store in High Street, and if you are in the community of Beaumont, we welcome you to visit us on Main St! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

When you are starting out in business, there are SO many hurdles, questions, and fears. Today, I am answering three questions I get asked regularly.

How do I know if being in a Market is the best way to start my business?
What is the difference between a Hobby and a Business?
How do I know where to start when it comes to social media/branding and content creation?

I certainly do not have it all figured out and I mess up nearly every day, so please know that I am right in it with you, figuring it out as I go. I have, however, overcome a lot of objections, and risen to the top in areas I knew nothing about initially. Being your own Boss means you own 100% of the mistakes, and there is always so much to learn! I'm happy to share some of what I've learned with you. Please send me any questions or areas you'd like me to discuss in future Business Bar episodes. I hope this episode helps!

Our bookstore offers audiobooks that you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful store in High Street, and if you are in the community of Beaumont, we are opening a second store to serve your reading needs in July 2022! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

So much going on around here! Please enjoy this list of titles that I have read recently - many of them I have liked, even LOVED, and some I did not enjoy at all. Sigh. Thus is the reading life, right?

Books Discussed:

The End of Men by Christina Sweeney-Baird

Evidence of the Affair by Taylor Jenkins Reid

A Rip Through Time by Kelley Armstrong

I'm Thinking of Ending Things by Iain Reid

Book Lovers by Emily Henry

Call Me By Your Name by Andre Aciman

The Broken Girls by Simone St. James

The Sun Down Motel by Simone St. James

Notes on Your Sudden Disappearance by Alison Espach

After I Do by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Quit Like a Woman by Holly Whitaker

The School For Good Mothers by Jessamine Chan

Thank you to Edmonton radio stations Cruz fm and Play 107 for the clip!

Our bookstore offers audiobooks that you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

When we started with the booktruck and then opened a brick & mortar bookstore, we hoped that we would build a community of readers. Actually, I was a little obsessed with the idea. Imagine my delight when Haylee Freake discovered our store and decided this was IT for her. She has been in our Book Club from day one, and she is also an active member of Write Night, our creative night for budding authors. Haylee dives into reading with the passion that must make her Newfoundland parents proud, since they surrounded her with books and the encouragement to read her whole life. Haylee doesn't want to know much about a book before she chooses it, she prefers to go in blind and be surprised - this trick has been very fruitful for her reading life.If you are curious about just how fantastic and well-read our community at DCBC is, take a listen to this convo with Haylee!

Books/Authors we discussed:

Throne of Glass by Sarah J. MaasFinlay Donovan is Killing It by Elle Cosimano

Sarah Dessen

John Green

A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas

The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin

Fredrik Backman

The Maid by Nita Prose

The Jane Austen Society by Natalie Jenner

The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah

My Oxford Year by Julia Whelan

Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling

Far From Home by Nellie Armstrong

Percy Jackson Series by Rick Riordan

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard

Kiera Cass

Taylor Jenkins Reid

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

From Blood and Ash by Jennifer Armentrout

The Bromance Book Club by Lyssa Kay Adams

Our bookstore offers audiobooks that you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

When you get a chance to speak with someone who is passionate about the process of writing a book and getting it into the hands of readers, you pay attention. When that same person also boldly shares her well-crafted book reviews on her very own YouTube channel, you pay extra close attention. So, basically, this episode is one you don't want to miss. Stella Telleria is a Local Author of the book Across the Wire. Her second book will be out shortly. She is actively dedicated to good books, both the reading and writing of them and if you're like me, you will want to up your reading game after hearing this discussion. This was a fun and informative conversation and I can't wait for you to listen in!

Find the link to her YouTube channel and more HERE!

Books We Discussed:

Nineteen Eighty-Four by George Orwell

Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy

Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Writing website: Critique Circle

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

It's already the middle of February and I have read 13 books for the year, so I thought I'd break them down for you and help you add a couple more to your TBR. Happy Reading!

Books Discussed:

The Nix by Nathan Hill

Know My Name by Chanel Miller

The Summer Sail by Wendy Francis

The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams

Sometimes I Lie by Alice Feeney

Maybe in Another Life by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The City Baker's Guide to Country Living by Louise Miller

The Kind Worth Killing by Peter Swanson

Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston

101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think by Brianna Wiest

One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Empire Falls by Richard Russo

The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Reading may be an isolated activity, but like so many of us, we long for friendships with people that share our love of books and stories. Where do we find them? Kim Tanner is a teacher, and a dedicated reader who was determined to establish her own reading community of Kindred Spirits through #bookstagram. Kim has been a member of our Petal Club community and established a strong connection to our readers. Her desire to read widely and have solid friendships is something she has in common with SO many of us - I hope you enjoy her story and feel inspired to reach out, be your authentic self and find your people.

Today's episode is brought to you by the 2022 DCBC Reading Challenge - get out of your reading funk and join us as we cross new categories off the list and discover new writers and titles. Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co to receive your free PDF and get reading!

Books Discussed:

Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt

The Guernsey and Literary Peel Pie Society by Ann Shaffer & Annie Barrows

The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes

The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart

Greenglass House by Kate Milford

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Pull of the Stars by Emma Donoghue

A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

We have some of the best Readers ever in our little Daisy Chain Book Co. community. Beth Harding is one of them. Beth is a testament to perseverance, grit, and passion. She and I first met when she visited the booktruck at the beginning of my travels, and we hung out, chatting and exchanging stories of service and inspiration cementing us as Kindred Spirits. Beth works as a communication manager for a non-profit, is one of our Petal Club's original members, and she is dedicated to service in parenting, business, and she's one of the all-time best huggers. She reads historical fiction for fun and non-fiction books about awareness and leadership that are actionable.

So, whether you want to discuss who would sit at your imaginary ideal dinner table, or you want to talk about pursuing passions, or you want to eavesdrop on two giggly middle-aged women fangirling for an hour... feast your ears, Friends. This is the episode for you.

Today's episode is brought to you by the 2022 DCBC Reading Challenge - get out of your reading funk and join us as we cross new categories off the list and discover new writers and titles. Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co to receive your free PDF and get reading!

Books Discussed:

The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah

The Girl in His Shadow by Audrey Blake

Kate Morton titles

Elizabeth Hay titles

Tennessee Williams titles

My Policeman by Bethany Roberts

Circe by Madeline Miller

The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

Water For Chocolate by Laura Esquivel

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Earlier this year, I introduced you to Melissa Ahmed. Your response to that conversation was outstanding. It was the most shared and downloaded episode of our podcast EVER, and I received the most DMs about it. Melissa's ability to say what's on her mind and on her heart in a bold, refreshing "I don't care" attitude is what we need.

Once again, please listen to this episode and then SHARE IT. This conversation with Melissa Ahmed is too good not to share. She is an avid reader, a Muslim mother of 2 young girls, a Homeschooling teacher, and advocate for social justice, a feminist who seeks to intelligently raise the bar for women, and speaks boldly about what matters most. Melissa and I talk about the challenge to find a Bosom Friend when you are older, the reality of being understood and valued for what makes us different. She believes strongly, loves fiercely and fights daily. I am sure you will love her almost as much as I do.

Today's episode is brought to you by the 2022 DCBC Reading Challenge - get out of your reading funk and join us as we cross new categories off the list and discover new writers and titles. Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co to receive your free PDF and get reading!

Books Discussed:

For the Love by Jen Hatmaker

Blubber by Judy Blume

That Was Then, This is Now by S.E. Hinton

Homecoming by Cynthia Voigt

Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

P.S. I Love You by Cecelia Ahern

Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid

Cruel Prince by Holly Black

The Bookshop of the Brokenhearted by Robert Hillman

The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters

The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters

Will by Will Smith

Call of the Wild and Free by Ainsley Arment

Gwendy's Button Box by Richard Chizmar

The Twenty One Rules of Love by Matthew Dicks

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

At Daisy Chain Book Co., we are led by creativity, passion and curiosity. That means finding new ways to serve our reading community as we tell our own story in the marketplace. For a firstborn like myself, that means doing what no one else is doing because copying others is just not how we roll. It is not boastful or cocky to recognize areas of achievement and pat yourself on the back. I can say these things confidently because I did not do any of it alone. I have the most incredible team and the dedicated support of our online community that has cheered for us every step of the way. Thank you so much!

So, here are some ways we have led the way:

1st booktruck in the province
1st bookstore in YEG to partner with Libro.fm for audiobooks
1st bookshop podcast in YEG
1st bookstore in YEG to reach 10k followers on Instagram
1st bookstore in YEG to launch a monthly book subscription - The Petal Club
1st bookstore in YEG to get on TikTok (for better or worse)
created the "Booktruck Quote of the Day" - which became "Bookshop Quote of the Day" for social media

AND NOW...

we are the 1st bookish community in YEG to launch our own book awards - The Daisy Chain Book Awards!! Stay tuned to our social media for updates and chances to VOTE!
In January 2022 we are launching the DCBC Reading Challenge - you can vote from anywhere in the world for 12 fun categories that we will announce on social media and our website. Join us and vote for the Winners! #DCBCReadingChallenge

The booktruck was on the road for 2 years and the bookstore has only been open for 1 year. Don't let anyone tell you it can't be done! To read our Core Values, go HERE.

Our bookstore offers audiobooks that you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music was created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

I think I need to take a sec and brag a little on our incredible community at Daisy Chain Book Co. We are so fortunate to have gathered some of the most stimulating and diverse readers in the area. They encourage me to read outside my comfort zone, they remind me why it is so special to be a Reader, and they excite me with moments of togetherness that have been so vital during a time when the world has gotten more used to staying apart.

In the bookstore, we run Book Clubs that meet in person. The chance for humans to sit together and find commonalities while they discuss the complex story ideas in a fictional novel is a precious thing. One of the Readers who has become a valued member of our Book Club is Karen Irwin. Karen is a teacher who is fiercely dedicated to the literacy of students. She has also been a determined role model for reading to her kids, and her High School aged daughter is also a member of Book Cub on a different night! When Karen talks about books, I pay attention. I hope her suggestions of titles and passion for books inspire you.

Books Discussed:

The Weird Sisters

The Secret Garden

The Island of Sea Women

The Mountain Story

The Girls

This Little Light

The Spirits Up

The Space Between Us

The World That We Found

The Egypt Game

Black Dog, Dream Dog

Where the Red Fern Grows

Our bookstore offers audiobooks that you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music was created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

One of our mantras at Daisy Chain Book Co. is "Creating a Community of Readers". I am passionate about humans connecting over books, stories, and our diverse experience with both. In today's episode, I am pleased to share a special person in our DCBC community with you. Rachelle Lee is an Electrical Engineering student and a reader of all things Fantasy and Imagination. She reads broadly, she loves movies, and she truly appreciates a fun story in any format. We have loved having her be a part of our Book Club which she calls her "favorite day of the month", and she has recently joined The Petal Club, our monthly book subscription. Rachelle's feelings about the books she reads are so contagious, and I have written down new titles she speaks about every single month!

The "Murder Van" meme I mentioned can be found here.

This episode has been brought to you by Book Clubs. Wherever you are, find other people who want to discuss books and feed your bookish delights. Reading may be a solitary activity, but discussing them is not - find your bookish community!

Books Discussed:

Harry Potter Series

The House in the Cerulean Sea

The Passengers

The One

Library of the Unwritten

Sharp Objects

I'll Be Gone in the Dark

The Push

The Invisible Life of Addie La Rue

Percy Jackson series

The Extraordinaries

The School For Good & Evil Series

Wish You Were Here

Podcasts Discussed:

My Favorite Murder Podcast

Our bookstore offers audiobooks that you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music was created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Books are great. Of course they are. But the business side of running a bookshop has been a wild ride, and like all businesses, we have been impacted by a pandemic in ways we couldn't have imagined.

In 2019 I was a Guest on a podcast called "Keeping Shop: A Brick and Mortar Podcast" hosted by Rachel Wentworth. We had such a fun conversation, and I decided it was time to rekindle this connection. During what Rachel calls "the before time", we talked about customer connections and serving your people well. Now that we are in a pandemic, our conversation is still about our customers, but also about how to adjust your business model to serve your people well when the world is wonkypants. Rachel and her business partner, Meredith, have adopted new ideas, re-prioritized and took some risks that are still centred on the same "why the heck not?" POV.

I hope this convo inspires you and encourages you to SUPPORT LOCAL because these small businesses are the core of a thriving community - support them to keep them.

Today's episode has been brought to you by FORTY WINKS. If you are in the Cambridge, Massachusetts area, shop for intimate wear at Forty Winks. "if you have boobs you want to put in something safe and cozy, visit Forty Winks!" (not endorsed by Forty Winks, just shared because I want to support them)

Books Discussed:

Disappearing Earth

Circe

Daisy Jones and the Six

Podcasts Discussed:

Retail For the Rest of Us

Being Boss

Here Lies Me

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Well, hello again! It's been a crazy month at the bookstore, but I am back again for another installment of "What Has Brandi Been Reading?". I read 11 books in October and I am here to break them all down for you, the hits and the misses. If you'd like to find my up-to-date reviews on the books as I go, please become a Friend on Goodreads!

Today's episode is brought to you by THE PETAL CLUB, a monthly book subscription through Daisy Chain Book Co. - a surprise book wrapped and delivered to you each month with a local small business bonus thrown in? Yes, please! Go to Daisy Chain Book Co. to sign up!

Books Discussed:

A Spindle Splintered by Alix E. Harrow

Flower Crowns & Fearsome Things by Amanda Lovelace

When Sparks Fly by Helena Hunting

The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller

The Last Days of John Lennon by James Patterson

The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakley

Under the Whispering Door by TJ Klune

Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney

The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Bronte

The Paying Guests by Sarah Waters

The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Here's what I want you to do. You trust me, right? I'm not going to ask to to dance in the street singing New Kids in The Block in your underwear, come on.

I want you to listen to this episode and then SHARE IT. This conversation with Melissa Ahmed is too good not to share. She is an avid reader, mother of 2 young girls, a Homeschooling teacher, and advocate for social justice, a feminist who seeks to intelligently raise the bar for women, and a Muslim. She was homeless for a period of time in her young life, and she has always turned to books as her safe place, her refuge and ally against a hard world. Melissa and I have become friends at the bookstore and I cannot imagine the space without her. She believes strongly, loves fiercely and fights daily. I am so grateful for you, Melissa. Thank you for sharing some of your story with me and for being my Friend. xo

Books Discussed:

Starlight Tour: The Last Lonely Night of Neil Stonechild by Susanne Reber

That Was Then, This is Now by S.E. Hinton

No Promises in the Wind by Irene Hunt

Highway of Tears: A True Story of Racism, Indifference and the Pursuit of Justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls by Jessica Diarmid

Five Little Indians by Michelle Good

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Daisy Chain Book Co. has had so many firsts.

Like looking back through our bookshop baby book in which we record milestones and firsts, here is one I am super proud of: in Edmonton, we were the first bookstore that partnered with Libro.fm as an audiobook provider for our Readers. From Day One I have been amazed at how this company supports independent bookstores and provides outstanding customer service, all the while making it possible for us to fit books into our very active lives.

Today it's my pleasure to share a conversation with Jenna Clark, a software developer with Libro.fm and avid audiobook listener. This was a fun convo, and if it doesn't make you want to sign up with Libro.fm and/or SWITCH from an ama*on's Audible subscription, then I don't know what will!

Books discussed:

The Final Girl Support Group

The Rural Diaries

Between Two Kingdoms

Finlay Donovan is Killing It

Fight Night

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

It's time to talk books, no bookstore or booktruck business, let's just chat about what I've been reading lately, shall we?

Books Discussed:

The Shadow Sister

The Plot

The Dutch Wife

All The Beautiful Lies

84, Charing Cross Rd.

Her Every Fear

Before She Knew Him

The Girl in His Shadow

The Girl With a Clock For a Heart

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Last week we were having some tech challenges, but this week we are BACK!

And what a conversation to come back with - to hear Gail Sidonie Sobat speak about her passion for young writers and reading books in a wide range of literary titles is to be inspired, encouraged and (be warned) the urge to pump your arm in the air may occur. I hear ya. Gail is celebrating YouthWrite's 25th year of preparing young aspiring writers to creatively launch their imaginations in a wild assortment of ways. I would have LOVED this as a teen, and I'm so excited to support them and shout them out to you all!

Find out all about YouthWrite here:

Website

Instagram

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

As promised, this episode will not feature bookshop business, booktruck details, the entrepreneur life or any other non-bookish content you can often find on this podcast.

Today, we are only talking about books. I am sharing books I've read recently, and discuss how my reading experience is changing for this particular Summer season.

Get your note-taking, TBR-adding self ready, let's talk some books (and there are more

in my next "nothin; but the books" episode, so stay tuned)!

Books Discussed:

Eight Perfect Murders

Every Vow You Break

Beach Read

Madam

The Soulmate Equation

Mirrorland

Malibu Rising

The Pearl

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Sometimes a book makes me hungry. Sometimes a Guest reminds me what I love about local business communities. And sometimes both of those happen at once! Today I enjoy sharing a conversation with you that I had with Peter Keith. Peter is a Red Seal Chef, an entrepreneur, a foodie, and an avid reader, so you KNOW we had lots to discuss. If you are in the Edmonton area, you absolutely MUST check out Meuwly's to satisfy your taste buds AND Support Local.

Meuwly's is also on Instagram & Facebook

The 124th Market Community is also worth looking into... trust me.

And let's not forget about The Public

Books Discussed:

The Dutch Wife

The Dorito Effect

The Hundred Foot Journey

Under the Tuscan Sun

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Running a bookstore means I have to wear many hats. Most people think it's all relaxing, bookish delights in the bookstore biz, and whereas that is true sometimes, there is a crazy amount of work behind the scenes to make it all flow smoothly. One of the things we rely on is getting new books from publishers that we can count on. Ordering new books for customers seems like a no-brainer, but not all book distributors or publishers are created equal, my Friend. It can sometimes be a tedious and exhausting chase for a title or a delivery ETA that is acceptable to our customers.

That is why I am so grateful to have found Jessica Price at Ampersand Inc., one of the companies that provide books and puzzles that make our readers happy. I can always count on them, and knowing that they share a close business relationship with our favorite (and incredibly reliable) book distributor, Raincoast Books, means I have even more reason to appreciate them. What does a Sales Rep do? What makes her job especially grand? Listen here to find out!

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's talk books, podcasting & the indie bookshop biz! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Ok, who is a fan of thriller reads? Maybe horror reads? Possibly a serial killer book or two? You are not alone! The pandemic may be making the world extra uncertain, but the growth of true crime and thriller/horror reads has proven that we like a little thrill in our reading lives. Elise Eichmuller is a dedicate reader, and as you will discover in this conversation, she is wildly passionate about surrounding herself with as many bookish pleasures as possible. She is such a delight, and we are grateful to have her be a part of our community of readers at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Here is a list of the books discussed:

Jigsaw Man

Bunny

J.D. Barker's Four Monkeys Trilogy

My Sister, the Serial Killer

The Deep

The Bright Lands

The Chestnut Man

The Son

Lars Kepler's Joona Linna Series

The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo

Karen Slaughter - The Grand County Series

The Relatives

A Darker Shade of Magic

What Alice Forgot

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's talk books, podcasting & the indie bookshop biz! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Young Readers Will Change the World.

At DCBC, that is our mantra for what motivates us to provide the best selection and experience to enhance the reading life of a young reader. In today's episode, I am speaking with Tara Foxcroft and Suzy Peacocke from Bluefish Learning a passion project that aims at selecting books that will inspire readers from all levels to dive deeper into reading. Tara is a Literacy Teacher and Suzy is a retired Teacher, and both share a love of what is possible if children get hooked by reading.

We have also just launched our "World Changers Literary Society", an opportunity for kids to read more and feel that their reading is not only valuable to them and their parental units, but for each book they read and tell us about, a book will be donated to a child in Foster Care here in Edmonton. Kids helping kids read. What is better than that? Get more info about the World Changers Literary Society HERE.

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's talk books, podcasting & the indie bookshop biz! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

If you are tuning into this podcast, books are obviously important to you. Maybe they are your respite, your Happy Place, your imagination inspiration... so I am sure that this episode will resonate with you.

The world continues to be a place loaded with frustration, uncertainty, fear and the newsfeed reads like something out of a wonky dystopian novel. I want this podcast to be a space where you can relax, add to your TBR and maybe smile a little. You will always hear about what I am FOR and not what I am against because there is already enough negativity and bashing out there. I am for Readers, their community of imagination addicts and the books they love. It's that simple. Thank you for choosing to spend time wth me today!

Books Discussed:

The Soul of a Woman

Crossing to Safety

The Girl in His Shadow

The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake

Disgrace

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's talk books, podcasting & the indie bookshop biz! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

After spending just a little bit of time in the company of Jaima Fixsen and Regina Sirois, you will feel motivated to call your BFF and gush on each other for a while. Not only are they two individual, talented authors in their own right, but as a writing duo, they become the irrefutable pen name, Audrey Blake, and they have co-authored their debut title, The Girl in His Shadow. This historical work of fiction focuses on a young woman named Nora and her passion to study medicine in 1840's London, when women were not permitted to pursue such professions. It is a fresh, innovative story and I could not be more pleased to put it on my shelves in the bookshop.

Books we discussed:

Dancing to the Precipice: Lucie de la Tour du Pin and the French Revolution

A Company of Swans

Broken Horses

Crossing to Safety

Women Don't Owe You Pretty

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's talk books, podcasting & the indie bookshop biz! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Why didn't I post this episode on Monday? Because running a bookshop is a lot of work, and this girl doesn't have a producer or editor - I am doing all this podcast stuff myself. And I know you're the graceful sort who is not hemmed in by legalistic rules and dates, so I appreciate you.

Today we are talking about Non Fiction, Canadian Non Fiction more specifically, and our Guest is someone who is so excited about the books she's been reading that you will undoubtedly hear that in her words. Mel MacGregor is a frequent Guest in the bookshop and has very definite opinions about the books she prefers - have a listen and see if you and Mel are Book Twins. I know that for NF readers, there is a great deal of enthusiasm about discovering inspiring new titles, so get ready because Mel mentions quite a few you'll want to get your hands (or ears) on.

This is our 40th episode, and I cannot believe it. We are now being listened to in 10 countries consistently, and every DM, email or review we get means so much. Thank you for tuning in, telling others about this podcast, and for adding some WOW to our bookish community!

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's talk books, podcasting & the indie bookshop biz! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Today is a first for this podcaster - I get to talk with 2 Guests at the same time! It was an absolute delight to talk with Sarah Chan & Jhenifer Pabillano about their new anthology, Midlife.

If we are fortunate enough to reach middle age then we also know it comes with as many victories as challenges, especially during a pandemic when so many things are escalated. This book is a collection of essays, and just about as local as you can get - ya gotta love when literary talent is grown on your own home soil.

More about Midlife on their website, social media and their very own YouTube channel!

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's talk books, podcasting & the indie bookshop biz! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

It's been awhile since we have discussed the business side of bookshop life, and since I have received a significant number of requests for more info about the booktruck and WHY I switched to a brick & mortar business instead of a mobile bookshop, this is the episode for answering ALL the questions!

I also discuss the books I'm currently reading because, well, I can't NOT talk about books.

Books discussed:

Not My Father's Son by Alan Cumming

Emily of New Moon by L.M. Montgomery

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo

The Haunted Bookshop by Christopher Morely

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's talk books, podcasting & the indie bookshop biz! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

How do you determine if your reading is valuable?

How do you get more out of what you are already reading?

How do you choose books that make you a better human?

Today's chapter is all about you and your reading life, and how to make it the best it can be!

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Let's talk books, podcasting & the indie bookshop biz! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

For me, it's all about Community. While we read it is a private thing between you and the book, but once you close that book, you NEED PEOPLE. Especially when the world is struggling with so many social challenges at one time, we need to find a way to connect with other humans. We are pack animals, even if we often prefer to hide out in our caves alone to recharge. Today I am thrilled to share a conversation I had with Jennifer McKinlay, a fellow booklover in Aberdeen, Scotland. A little distance, and maybe a slight time difference didn't interfere with us having a fun chat about books. Listen in, and maybe you will feel as I do that Aberdeen is a MUST on your travel bucket list.

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store. Choose to support indie bookstores with your audiobooks - it MATTERS.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Let's talk! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Hey, You!

The reading life is a beautiful, solitary, peaceful thing, is it not? However, many of us encounter dilemmas that cause a tiny bit of stress or uncertainty - you are not alone! We touch on a few of those today because I am about keeping it real, we don't paint life with a rainbow sparkly brush here. We know there are bumps in the road. Sit next to me, Friend. Let's chat.

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Let's talk! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Let's get social - follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Our bookstore has been open for 5 months now, and I cannot believe it. I've been caught up in this glorious whirlwind and have met the most wonderful people! Today I am sharing a conversation I had with Scott Messenger, author of Tapping the West, a book about the craft beer industry right here in Alberta. Since it has been on our shelves, Scott's book has resonated with our readers in such a huge way that I just knew he was someone you would want to hear more from on this podcast. As a parent, an author, and someone with a day job, Scott shares his process for managing his time and the value in persevering in the publishing business when you have something great to share with readers.

As well, I offer a little encouragement for those of you stuck in the reading rut of SHOULDS. Let it go, Friend!

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Let's talk! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

When you meet a Kindred Spirit in the mobile retail space, it is a very special feeling. We are kind of a niche community. When I was still operating the booktruck, I connected with Latanya from Bronx Bound Books who desired to bring books to the people of the Bronx - a city with only ONE brick & mortar bookstore, can you believe it? Latanya saw a need and did what any entrepreneur with grit & hootspa does - she did all the work to see her vision become a reality. I could not be more excited for her and for the Bronx to experience her bookbus.

I also discuss an update of our Buddy Read, The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton. Join in on the discussion - get a copy at your local fave indie bookstore and tell us your thoughts as you go!

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Let's talk! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

There has been so much going on in our little world of bookish delights, one of which is the Polar Vortex that has taken over our city. While we are all trying to manage the -36 degree temps, it seems like a good time to talk books, whaddya say?

As well, I go a little deeper into the question about what happened to the booktruck and what the transition from bookshop on wheels to bookshop with an address has been like. This is something that will come up in future episodes as well as I continue to answer the questions that come in each week about this from around the globe. Y'all are very interested!

Books Discussed:

Pretty Girls

Circe

The Island of Sea Women

The Four Winds

All the Devils Are Here (Inspector Gamache #16)

Finders Keepers (Bill Hodges #2)

Memoirs and Misinformation

Wolfpack

The Jane Austen Society

Oona Out of Order

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Let's talk! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

As always, I am so thrilled to have you along on this crazy book adventure! The idea of starting a booktruck was wild enough, but then to leave that to switch to a brick & mortar bookshop - WTH? In this episode, I touch on that transition and will continue to bring up different parts of that decision in future episodes.

Let's talk books. I have been reading a lot since we last talked, and I can't wait to share some of the titles with you!

Fierce, Free and Full of Fire

Willa's Grove

The Exiles

Dark Matter

The Song of Achilles

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue

Anxious People

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Let's talk! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Hello again!!

We may have a new name, a new pic and a new focus, but our love for reading, sharing a good story and talking about the business of books has not changed. We have traded in our license plate for an address and now run a bookshop in the incredible High Street community in Edmonton. More on that little change in upcoming episodes...

Today I am psyched to share my conversation with Rick MacDonnell, a virtuoso in the booktube world and a genuinely nice guy who just loves books. He has a vibrant youtube channel to discuss book reviews, and he is excellent at diving into titles you may not have heard about.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Let's talk! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

If you are in the Edmonton area, come and see our beautiful new store! For updates on all the bookish events at the bookstore, and an online database of our marvelous books visit Daisy Chain Book Co.

Hey, YOU! Today I am back with another bookish episode, and it's ALL about the books! No Business talk this time. I have been getting so many email & DM questions about the right book for the right mood, how to work through your To Be Read pile and so many more... today I am tackling a few of your questions and then sharing what books I have been reading lately. Keep in mind that I am not only going to share books with you that I want you to buy - my goal is to provide honest opinions about the books I've read, not sugar-coat them to make you spend your money. As a bookseller, I have to be honest or my opinions aren't worth trusting, right? Get out your pen and paper so you can write some of these titles down!

Books I Have Read Recently:

The Forgetting Time

The Almost Sisters

Mr. Mercedes

The Return (Released on Sept 29, 2020)

The History of Bees

The Dilemma

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Let's talk! Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our marvelous books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

OK, so I missed posting an episode last week.

I know you can forgive me because well, life happens. As posts about my bookshop on wheels are being shared widely on social media, there has been a significant increase in the number of requests I receive about duplicating my business idea. So, as much as I feel like it is similar to the last episode's rant about Copycats and pursuing a unique and personal business model, this is clearly what y'all are wanting to hear so I will respond accordingly.

Here are answers to the top questions I have been asked recently about booktruck life and the business of running a mobile retail company. I want to hear what you think so please leave comments, questions, and feedback so I can help you in your pursuit of the ideal business idea. I am by NO means an expert in this field, just someone who is figuring it out as I stumble along and I'm happy to share my journey with you.

Next week we'll talk about books, I promise!!

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our marvelous books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

As much as I love talking about the books, there is so much behind-the-scenes about the business of bookselling that I want to talk about today. I get so many emails and in-person questions about booktruck life, and there are a ridiculous amount of uninformed opinions or assumptions about what I do, so I thought I would tackle a few of them here. Last episode, I ranted. This time - I do so again. Straight talk, unedited, from me to you.

I discuss the valuable impact of the right photos and being vulnerable in social media, the realities of the Cost of Doing Business (CDB), my intense dislike for Copycats and focusing on WHO you are serving in your business.

So many people are just too nice to be honest about this stuff, or they don't know how to answer the questions, but you know by now that with me you will get the truth as I see it every time. Enjoy!

Keeping Shop Podcast: The Impact of Powerful Customer Experience

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our marvelous books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

So, if you know me at all, you know that sometimes I go off on a topic, unhinged and passionate... I did that today. I have some very strong opinions about body image and the language we use to talk about how we look or how we think someone else SHOULD look. Daisy Chain Book Co. was featured in a very fun video created by the talented Brandon Mattice and as I watched myself in this video, I had some thoughts. Since we're friends, I thought I'd share them with you here.

Awhile ago, I recorded a fun Rapid Fire 30 with Carrie Thunder, a neighbor, fellow Book Club member and friend. She is an inspired Reader and I couldn't wait to share her with you! You're welcome.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our marvelous books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

I am so incredibly blessed to have discovered such inspirational and dynamic women entrepreneurs on my Booktruck journey. One of this women is Colleen Heidecker, of Colleen's Chocolates. If you have been around Edmonton for the last couple of years and discovered her amazing chocolate delights at any of the locations lucky enough to sell them, then you KNOW. She is not just a chocolate master - there is far more to this sweet lady than just chocolate. In today's episode, Colleen shares with us her fascination for all things food, the sustainability and wonder of organic, homegrown tastes from all around the world. She is also a huge reader, so you know we talked books - get a pen and paper and write down the titles from her Rapid Fire 30!

AND, in this episode, I announce some pretty big news for Daisy Chain Book Co. I am over the moon, but you can find out more on my social media and website... and sign up for our emails to get all the deets on upcoming info you don't want to miss!

Find out more about Colleen on Instagram, Facebook and her website!

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our marvelous books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Hey there!

I find that this COVID time for me is all about lists: the lists of things I want to get done, the lists of things I have to get done and the list of things I have not finished... I'll give you one second to guess which one of these lists I have excelled at. Uh-huh. There are days I am successful and many that I am not. I know I am not alone in this, and let's face it - I can't blame all of this on CV19. This is just my life.

Today I am sharing the list of books I stopped reading for whatever reason, the couple books I have read recently that hit the mark and a few things I have noticed about Booktruck Life lately. There is so much going on that I have NOT said, and I will touch on those things in future chapters but like all books, this one is told one chapter at a time and it is a beautiful thing to keep this audio chronicle of my journey as a booktruck owner and Reader.

Books Discussed:

The World According to Garp

The Bear and the Nightingale

The Beautiful and Damned

The Invisible Man

Prodigal Summer

The Great Alone

The Nickel Boys

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Our bookstore offers audiobooks which you can listen to on your iPhone, Android device, or PC. These audiobooks are available through our partner, Libro.fm, and all sales support our store.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our marvelous books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Where to begin? First of all, let me just say that the Booktruck world right now is SUPER crazy. There is so much going on and plates are spinning all over the place! Amidst all that is happening, and other things I cannot share with you just yet (wink-wink), it is so nice to take a deep breath and spend time here with you on the podcast for a brief moment because I love this podcast community and it is one of my fave things to prepare and record these chapters of this Booktruck story for you.

Today I am beyond thrilled to share with you a conversation I had with Kelly Buckley, a reader I met while delivering books and we just began talking and talking and I knew right away I had made a friend. Isn't it wonderful when that happens? So, naturally, I wanted to share her with you because I don't believe in keeping beautiful and inspiring things all to myself... Kelly is a Social Worker, a Reader, a Traveler and so much MORE! Enjoy her Reader Rapid Fire 30.

In this chapter, I mention that I want to include audio clips from YOU in an upcoming episode about Literary Comfort Food - share with me one or two of your most comforting titles in a brief audio clip recorded on your phone and email it to brandi@daisychainbook.co or record an audio text message and text it to 780-977-4210 because I would love to share you and your bibliotherapy suggestions with everyone.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Friends, it's raining here. Raining HARD. All I want to do is hunker down with a good book and a hot cup of tea! On days like this I am grateful for the comforts of home, and editing this podcast was such a fun process to do while I listen to my girls laughing and reach down to scratch Mr. Benson as he lays at my feet. Today I am sharing with you a convo I had with Kerri Brigden, a young woman I have known for awhile and had the pleasure of watching her grow into a stellar woman, wife and mother. She is incredibly talented musically as well, and it was the most natural decision in the world to approach Kerri and ask her to create a song for this podcast. Many have asked me about who the voice is behind the song, so here she is! Enjoy my discussion with Kerri.

And today in The Business Bar I am talking about what it means to pivot as a mobile retail business in a world that demands something different than you had intended. Be ready to try new things, people! Your audience demands it.

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Today's episode is a mixture of silly and motivational.

Last week, I introduced you to the segment of the podcast I am calling the Reader Rapid-Fire 30. 30 questions about your fave books, details about your reading life and a sneak peek into the fabulousness of people I meet on my booktruck journey. Today I am sharing the raw, unedited piece that my daughters and I recorded about MY Rapid-Fire 30. There are some giggles, some accents and maybe one or two whoops moments. I hope you enjoy it!

The motivational part is entirely due to my Guest, Janelle Dudzic, a local entrepreneur, photographer, urban beekeeper and education enthusiast. Her talent for visual storytelling is evident if you check out her wedding photographs online, and we talk about how her desire for photography was born and how she is incorporating it into her other shared interests. Janelle is proof that you can be good at so many things, so you don't have to only do one thing. She wears many creative hats and at such a young age, she inspires others to chase their dreams and be constantly striving to learn more along the way. I also admire how honest Janelle is about her reading life and yes, even admitting that Harry Potter is used to put her to sleep at night... enjoy our convo!

Connect with Janelle on Instagram, Facebook and her website: Janelle Dudzic Photography

Books discussed:

You are a Badass

Harry Potter

Why Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?

Never Split the Difference

Emotional Intelligence

Cell

The Stand

Master of the Game

Swimming Lessons

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Apparently, as the pace of life has become very different lately, so is my podcast scheduling! After a couple weeks away, it is so good to talk with you again.

Today it is my profound pleasure to introduce you to Hannah Morpurgo. She is an avid booklover, a dedicated English Major training to become a High School music teacher, a young woman likely to say the funniest thing at the drop of a hat and my firstborn daughter. As the newest member of the Daisy Chain Book Co. team, Hannah is doing everything from inventory management, bookselling and now being a podcast Guest. I am beyond thrilled to share her with you!

We are starting something new, I'm calling it the Reader Rapid-Fire 30. 30 questions I came up with about your reading life, books that have made an impact on you and quirky details about your habits, bookshelves and favourites. Each Guest will be asked the same 30 questions, and it's just a fun and casual way to get to know each other and dive into what we are really curious about: their bookish picks. So today, we are kicking it off with Hannah's Rapid-Fire 30.

Enjoy!

Books mentioned:

All Adults Here

The One

We Need to Talk About Kevin

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Hey, Friend!

I missed you. The last couple of weeks have been a whirlwind of activity at Daisy Chain Book Co., and I am finally able to sit down, record, edit and post this episode because y'all have kept me super busy with orders and deliveries. I have had a unique perspective of my business lately, sitting in the driver's seat of the booktruck, going to your homes and placing bags of books on your porches... I have visited parts of my one city that I have never seen before, and I have delighted at the activities of people in communities that were once to busy to connect.

COVID has made things very hard for so many, but there are also moments of beauty and community that didn't occur before. I wanted to share with you the stories I listen to while I drive, and the changes of booktruck life in an online world.

Books mentioned:

The Book of Longings

Girling Up: How to Be Strong, Smart and Spectacular

Miss You

Mom + Me + Mom

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Online calendar of (hopefully) upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Hey, You!

Today I got to spend time with Alex Pankratz-Brown, a local creative wonder who dabbles professionally in digital storytelling and in this episode she shares honestly about recovering from difficulty and the struggles with resuming the passion for reading she once had in her youth. The reading life changes as you go through different seasons of life and we had a lot of laughs as we talk about the hidden pressures of an unread stack of books, the magic of Harry Potter and I reveal that once a Social Worker, always a Social Worker.

You can find Alex and her design brilliance on IG, FB & online!

Books discussed:

Dare to Lead

Mind Over Mood

The Film Wizardry of Fantastic Beasts

Harry Potter

Tuesdays With Morrie

The Sun & Her Flowers

The Giving Tree

Friendship

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Online calendar of (hopefully) upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

So, Friend, how are YOU coping with self-isolation, homeschooling your kiddos and managing to keep yourself entertained when the world is a mix of Little House on the Prairie and The Walking Dead? There is a mess of stuff you could stream and feel your brain cells atrophy... or you can find new and exciting things to read! In the upcoming episodes, I am going to focus on making book suggestions with different themes to stimulate your reading life during this pandemic.

For today, I am excited for you to hear my discussion with Jenn Oleksyn, co-owner of Caffiend, a local coffee shop in my neighborhood. Jenn is such an exciting person, you cannot help but feel energized and encouraged just talking with her. I have no doubt you will feel that as you listen to us talk about the realities of being your own boss, finding the right book for the season of life you are in, and how to contribute to a thriving community as a business owner.

Look for Jenn on Facebook and Instagram

Books discussed:

Dare to Lead

Mask of Masculinity

School of Greatness

Caffeinated

You're a Badass at Making Money

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Want to tell me about what you're reading? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Online calendar of (hopefully) upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Well, Friend is this a season for reading, or WHAT?? With all of this self-isolation, I am hearing from many of you that you are reading more books right now than ever before. So am I!

In today's chapter of The Booktruck Chronicles, I am presenting you with a conversation I recorded back in February before we knew this COVID crisis was going to become such a foundational change in how we live our everyday lives. It was a pleasure to talk with Melanie Moore, owner and operator of Cincy Book Bus, a mobile bookstore in Cincinnati, Ohio. Melanie is a big dreamer and a woman of wild imagination and a deep appreciation for good books. She supports local schools with the profits from her booktruck by supplying their libraries with new books. She is amazing! Find Melanie's Cincy Book Bus on Instagram & Facebook.

In this chapter, I talk about our interest in working with foster programs to provide books for children in care - once COVID is in our rearview mirror, we look forward to pursuing partnerships with agencies in Edmonton who facilitate care and placements for foster kids of all ages.

There is no Business Bar today because frankly, the whole chapter is focused on the business side of booktruck life...

Stay home, Friend.

Read a book.

Enjoy your people.

Books discussed:

Parnassus on Wheels

The Purple Cow

The Way Past Winter

The Reader on the 6.27

84 Charing Cross Road

The Shadow of the Wind

The Thirteenth Tale

Memoirs of a Geisha

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Online calendar of (hopefully) upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

When times are difficult, it's important to fill your ears with things that are inspiring. This chapter of the podcast was recorded a little while ago before COVID-19 took over our news feed and social potential. And yet, I am amazed at how relevant this conversation is when we are all needing a reminder about hope TODAY.

Darla Woodley is a local children's book author who has a story of inspiration and tenacity I am sure you will enjoy. She wrote Red Socks Go With Anything, an award-winning book that started a movement called #redsocksforasher, to help a young boy raise money for a Children's Hospital and is on the cusp of self-publishing her second book. Darla is such a beautiful person with a simple desire to motivate people and build a community of kids who can do whatever they believe is possible.

In The Business Bar, I am sharing a recent blog post, about the value of bookstores which is especially important to remember now when so many indie bookstores are struggling with closures and not knowing their future. PLEASE reach out and support your favorite indie bookstore now - they need you if they are going to survive this pandemic.

Books discussed:

The Woman in Cabin 10

The Death of Mrs. Westaway

The Lying Game

Stephen King: On Writing

The Woman in the Window

Gone Girl

Dead Kid Detective

The Day the Crayons Quit

Pajama Time

The Turn of the Key

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Online calendar of (hopefully) upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Hey, Friend - you're back!

One thing I know is true about Readers and that they love thinking about, talking about and planning what they will be reading next. This podcast is for YOU! I have stockpiled some Fiction titles that I'd love to share with you and I would love to hear your thoughts on them as well! Send me a msg, let's have a convo.

In The Business Bar, I am daring to discuss a topic that may be touchy for some, because it pushes some buttons and maybe delicately steps on some toes. You know I'm OK with that if it moves my business further ahead and paves the way for mobile retail to have an easier go of it after me.

Books Discussed:

American Dirt

I'll Be Your Blue Sky

Magic For Liars

Still Life

The Passengers

My Oxford Year

Harmony

Don't Keep Your Day Job (podcast)

Don't Keep Your Day Job

Oprah's Book Club

Want to be a Guest on my Podcast? Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Podcast theme music created and performed by the incredible Kerri Bridgen.

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Sometimes books speak to what is on everyone's mind, and even though the books in this episode are not intended to inflame any fear or concern about the global concern for health and safety that we are all experiencing right now, it is a reminder that books that were written a while ago can be just as relevant to us today.

In today's episode, I am speaking to Charlene Tamura who has a list of books for your TBR list that has a tender yet familiar theme of sickness, science fiction, time travel and "what-if" Fiction that you will want to add to your own reading list. Charlene is a local business owner who has found a solution to deal with your unwanted items and share them with others who can use them. Through She Sells Your Stuff, she is answering the environmental need for reducing, recycling, and re-using rather than just buying new all the time. Her list of suggested books was especially fun for me because I haven't read any of them!

In The Business Bar, I am talking about online shopping. Warning: I speak at a pretty rapid pace through this segment, I was getting very excited and just kept going - no editing required! And just think, I did all this only on only one shot of coffee (can you imagine me with TWO?? Yikes!). I hope you can keep up ;-)

Books & Links Discussed:

The Masked City

The Cozy Minimalist

Station Eleven

Blindness

The Years of Rice and Salt

Daughter of Family G: A Memoir of Cancer Genes, Love & Fate

The Little Book

The Book of M

Time & Again

The Rise and Fall of D.O.D.O

The Chronicles of St. Mary's series

Look for Charlene on Facebook and Instagram !

Thank you to Kerri Brigden for creating our theme songs! Kerri's talent paired with her beautiful heart are exactly the tone I wanted you to hear at the beginning of each episode. I hope you enjoy them. Thank you, Kerri!!

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Books have the beautiful talent of reaching beyond the pages and creating stories, characters, and images that we want to talk about. In this second part of my face to face discussion with Julie parr, we talk about the power of Book Clubs to expand your perspectives on reading through discussion and community. Anyone who has been in a Book Club knows the value of this - if everyone reads the book! Julie and I talk more about books she insists I must read and the word "herpes" is used for the first time in a bookish convo on a podcast, I'm sure of it.

In The Business Bar, I am talking about being adaptable and flexible if the goal is to grow in your reach and relevancy. I talk about it in more detail as it pertains to the booktruck in a recent blog post, "Making Cuts" on The Booktruck Chick blog.

Books Discussed:

Fleishman's in Trouble

Nancy Drew

Grapes of Wrath

Pillars of the Earth

A Fine Balance

Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook

Entreleadership

Business Boutique

Influence: the Psychology of Persuasion

The Happiness of Pursuit

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Sometimes I just want to go back to my younger self and enjoy the carefree drama of being a preteen. Sometimes. Then I shake my head and remember that I can read the books I enjoyed and leave it at that. Who wants to go back to acne, braces, awkward encounters with boys and the questionable fashion choices...? In this episode of The Booktruck Chronicles, I am talking about some of the most memorable books I read in my younger Brandi years.

In The Business Bar, I am addressing a question that often surprises me about the cost of being at events and markets. Supporting Local businesses wherever you are is so important, and in a world of mega-companies, big box stores and anonymous online corporations it's more relevant than ever to vote with your dollars and support local small entrepreneurs.

Books discussed:

No Promises in The Wind

Flowers For Algernon

I Am David

Where the Red Fern Grows

Sweet Valley High

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Sitting down with one of your best girlfriends and hitting "Record" means anything can happen - and nothing could be more true about my time with Julie Parr. Julie is one of my dearest friends, and she is as full of wisdom and inspiration as she is likely to say something that will make me snort with laughter. Today's interview is exactly what I hoped for - challenging and entertaining. We have always had books in common and today we touch on the value of reading a book that pushes the line and opens our perspective on the world. How ready are YOU to read something challenging, step out of your comfort zone and dare to think differently about what you believe to be true? Books are a fabulous conduit for evolving as a Reader, and I am eager to hear YOUR thoughts on our conversation.

This was my first face to face interview, and I had the microphone setting flipped in the wrong direction (oops), so please forgive me for the imbalanced sound. I will endeavor to make the next in-person interview better, I promise!

Books we discussed:

The Family Nobody Wanted

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

The Hiding Place

The Grapes of Wrath

Beartown

Us Against You

Britt-Marie Was Here

My Grandmother Sends Her Regards & Apologises

Pillars of the Earth

Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy

Becoming a Better Man

The Man They Wanted Me to Be: Toxic Masculinity and a Crisis of Our Own Making

Final Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, Vol 1

Links:

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

Goodreads

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Every now and then you meet a fellow professional who understands the quirky, hard to explain nature of your business. From very early on in my booktruck journey, I met one such business owner: Hilary Atleo, owner of Iron Dog Books in British Columbia. Iron Dogs was the second bookshop on wheels in Canada, and I had the pleasure of meeting her and seeing how her business operated in real life. Today I am chatting with Hilary about why she does this crazy job, how it has changed since she began and why she chose to pursue an "immobile" bookshop at the end of last year. If you are considering a mobile business of your own, get out your paper and pen, make notes as you listen and compile your list of questions for mobile business owners in your town.

Find Iron Dog Books:

2671 East Hastings St, Vancouver, British Columbia V5K 1Z5

www.irondogbooks.com

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter

Books/Links we Discussed:

Refill Road - Vancouver

Commodore's Boats

Year of Living Biblically

The Ten Thousand Doors of January

Plum Rains

The Yarn Whisperer

The Weather Detective

The Salt Path

Follow Daisy Chain Book Co. on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

If you have been paying attention (and because you are incredibly wise and attentive, I am sure you have been...), you will notice that this is the 5th Guest Interview whose name starts with the "k" sound. This was unintentional, but sometimes ya just gotta go with it, ya know?

Today's bookish discussion is with Cari Letourneau, a Mom, Wife, Teacher, and Wellness Coach who is wildly passionate about health in mind and body. She is absolutely contagious with her energy and focus and I dare you not to try and make healthier decisions after you listen to this discussion! She has some book suggestions that, if applied, can change the trajectory of your life. Reader, it's not just about what you eat, how you move, what you believe or what you read - it's a combination of all of it!

In the Business Bar, I'm talking about building in disciplines... because this booktruck life is not just about books, it's also a business and I love sharing my journey with you so we can all thrive.

Here is where you can find Cari:

Mind & Body Balance

Facebook, Instagram

Books we discussed:

The Miracle Morning

The 5 Second Rule

Amelia Bedelia

Rising Strong

Grit

Atomic Habits

Girl, Wash Your Face

Hope Unfolding

Love Unending

Podcasts we discussed:

Brendan Burchard

Ed Mylett

Follow me on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Hey, Friend!

When it comes to considering which books will make it onto the shelves of the booktruck, I always take into consideration what YOU are asking for more of, what is trending in backlist titles and how I can advance your reading life. Today, I am opening up the dialogue about a genre that many readers are incredibly dedicated to, and I am hopefully shedding some critical light on it: Are Self Help books helping us or keeping us stuck? I would love to hear your thoughts about it, so please email me anytime to have a deeper conversation - brandi@daisychainbook.co

Do you have any favorite SH books, ones that have stepped in when you most needed a kick in the pants or a dose of inspiration? Tell me! I'd love to know which ones you think are worth the read while others missed the mark.

If there is one you are trying to find, remember you can find all the SH titles that we offer at Daisy Chain Book Co. on our website.

And today in The Business Bar, I am answering one of YOUR questions! Thanks to Jessica K. who sent me a DM about the intention of starting a business such as a bookshop on wheels, I mean, who DOES this, am I right? I appreciate your question, Jessica - hope the answer inspires you.

Follow me on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all our books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Hello Friend!!

It is very rare in my business that I find someone who "gets it". Last year another booktruck emerged on the scene, in Delaware, USA! I was thrilled to connect with Kate Keeper, the owner/operator of GoGo Books, a nomadic storybook shop on wheels. She does it on her terms, in her own time and she is discovering that running a booktruck is not like any other job out there. So, have fun listening in on our discussion about the highs and lows of booktruck life, and why we wouldn't choose to do anything else.

Connect with Kate!

GoGo Booktruck

GoGo on Instagram, Facebook & Twitter

Follow me on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all the books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

Hey, Friends!!

Bringing Daisy the Booktruck to communities introduces me to the coolest people. Today I will be chatting with Katelin Hamil, a dedicated mom, wife, Reader, and neighbor from a nearby community that I met last year. We couldn't wait to talk about our favorite and least favorite book-to-movie adaptations, so get your TBR list out and start making notes - Katelin has a fantastic reading life and you'll want to make some of the titles we discussed your new favorites.

In the Business Bar I'll be tackling a peculiar and yet common statement I hear in the booktruck. It's time to celebrate the innovative ideas that actually make it into the world...

Books we discussed:

The Compound Effect

Miracle Morning

The Red Scrolls of Magic

A Discovery of Witches

Mildred's Resistance

Alice in Wonderland

Girl, Wash Your Face

Girl, Stop Apologizing

The Yes Brain

The Whole Brain Child

The Iron King

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire

Lord of the Rings: Return of the King

The Hobbit

The Princess Bride

As You Wish

(audio version)

Beautiful Creatures

Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children

Percy Jackson series

City of Bones

The Selection

Follow me on all Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest & The Booktruck Chick BLOG!

Email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Online calendar of upcoming booktruck events and an online database of all the books at Daisy Chain Book Co.

How's that for a LOT of links?? ;-)

Hey, YOU! So glad you're back!

Today's Book Talk convo is with Cari Frame, a certified Life Coach who is determined to empower people to live their best life. She is also a book editor and the winner of the Brenda Strathern Writing Prize at WordFest this past November. Cari has been a voracious reader all her life and will share some of the books that have had a memorable impact on her life. She keeps so many plates spinning, and she continues to inspire me. In addition to all of this, she is also my sister and I am thrilled to share this conversation with you.

Books we discussed:

Roots

Flowers in the Attic

Dear Sugar

Memory Wall

Brokeback Mountain

Woman Talking

Cujo

The Thorn Birds

Connect with Cari!!

www.cariframe.com

Facebook

Instagram

Want to find out more about the Booktruck journey?

brandi@daisychainbook.co

https://daisychainbook.co

BLOG

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter

I’m so glad you’re back!! Today’s chapter has our first Book Talk Interview, with Kara Annett. We chat about books we have loved, people who have impacted our reading lives and how some books leave a lasting impact. She is fresh, intelligent and we had a wonderful chat. In upcoming chapters I’ll be having more engaging discussions with readers that I am sure you would want to sit and share a drink with. Readers are incredible!

The Business Bar focus today is on branding. What the heck is it? Why are we hearing so much about it? And how will you know if you are branding your business properly? I will hopefully give you some insight and help you take steps to get your message understood and memorable. If not, at least we can have a touch of fun. ;-)

Links to what we discussed:

The Great Gatsby

The Art of Racing in the Rain

Outlander

From Here to Eternity: Searching the World to Find the Good Death

Ask a Mortician (youtube)

Stiff

Rilla of Ingleside

Kilmeny of the Orchard

Podcasts discussed:

Online Marketing Made Easy with Amy Porterfield

Building a Story Brand

You can find me on all the socials, just type in Daisy Chain Book Co and let's connect!

My Blog - The Booktruck Chick

Thanks for being here, it means so much that you would choose to spend your precious listening time with me. See you next week!

Welcome back, Reader!

Today I am sharing some of my most enjoyable reads from 2019 and answering a very common question about Booktruck Life. Thanks for listening!

Reach out to me anytime at Daisy Chain Book Co. on all the socials, and email me at brandi@daisychainbook.co

Daisy Jones and The Six

Shanghai Girls

Parnassus on Wheels

The Bookish Life of Nina Hill

Dolores Claiborne

Kane and Abel

Don't Keep Your Day Job

Thank you for listening to today's chapter!

Books we discussed:

Purple Cow by Seth Godin

Start With Why by Simon Sinek

You can find all the books in our booktruck at Daisy Chain Book Co.