It’s time for The East’s annual Guide to East Coast Christmas Gift Giving – here to bring you those warm fuzzy feelings in those final desperate moments of your Christmas shopping. That special brand of magic is brought to you, not just the perfect assortment of gifts for the people in your life, but from the knowledge that you’ve done something to support a local artist, crafter, author, musician, artisanal cheese maker, or business. Buying local is the gift that gives twice.
We’ve compiled a few special items that have come our way from across Atlantic Canada. Hopefully this Gift Guide makes your last minute shopping a little less frazzled.
For The Bookworms
Small in the City
Written and illustrated by Halifax’s Sydney Smith, Small in the City depicts a child’s journey through city streets. Its beautiful and impactful art blends perfectly with the written narrative to tell the story and draw the reader in closely. Suitable for children ages 4+, this book is one that will be a bookshelf staple for many years to come.
Cost: $20
Where to buy: online at House of Anansi HERE
You Won’t Always Be This Sad
Long-time local favourite children’s author Sheree Fitch recently released a new book, but this one isn’t for the kids. You Won’t Always Be This Sad covers Fitch’s journey of grief in the year following her son’s passing. Her way of playing with words pulls readers into the emotions and, for those grieving themselves, provides comfort by letting them know they are not alone. Though it is not one of the happy-go-lucky tales we are used to seeing from Fitch, this book is a great read for those suffering emotional pain as well as those who are simply fans of Fitch’s writing.
Cost: $25
Where to buy: online on Amazon HERE
Halls of the Turnip King
This four-issue graphic novel series by Prince Edward Island illustrator Brenda Hickey tells of a prince’s journey to form a military alliance with a dwarven kingdom. Halls of the Turnip King books are a perfect gift for the fantasy lovers in your life.
Cost: $30
Where to buy: There was a kickstarter! You might have to wait!
Slow Seconds
Ronald Rees & Joshua Green explore the work of photographer George Taylor. Slow Seconds shows its audience what both the calmer and busier corners of New Brunswick looked like in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This book showcases the beauty of the land while also offering lessons in photographic and provincial history.
Cost: $35
Where to buy: online at Amazon HERE
There Be Pirates!: Swashbucklers & Rogues of the Atlantic
Educational and entertaining, Joann-Hamilton Barry’s book geared towards young readers covers what life was like for the real-life pirates who sailed around Atlantic Canada. The history may even appeal to adults, too! With colour illustrations and historical photographs, this book is sure to capture the attention of the young ones in your life.
Cost: $16
Where to buy: Online HERE
Rick & Morty vs. Dungeons and Dragons
Illustrated by Prince Edward Island’s Troy Little, this four-issue comic book series makes a perfect gift for any nerd. Whether they love Rick and Morty, Dungeons and Dragons or both, these books are a guaranteed hit. And since only the first book is currently available for purchase, the third, fourth and fifth would make great gifts for later occasions.
Cost: $26
Where to buy: Online HERE