In Canada, what makes a bookshop spooky? It goes beyond just horror literature. Rare and vintage books with a mysterious past, as well as shops featuring spell-casting and divination tomes, contribute to the eerie ambiance. Each of the following independent bookstores in Canada offers a unique space for community gatherings, where readers engage with writers, stories are developed, local authors showcase their work, and both literal and figurative tea is shared.
Nocturne Books in Calgary, founded by Scott Ross-Molyneux and Alliye Iriye, caters to horror enthusiasts. The store’s collection, curated by Iriye’s love for the macabre, includes titles like “Tender Is the Flesh” by Agustina Bazterrica. The shop actively supports local talent, such as Calgary-based author Craig DiLouie, who had a serendipitous encounter with his own book at Nocturne. The bookstore hosts author events and plans to launch horror and thriller book clubs.
Raven’s End Books in Winnipeg, run by Chelsea McKee-Trenchard, focuses on niche horror genres like body horror and queer storytelling. The store emphasizes lesser-known authors and hosts various events, including craft nights and book clubs. McKee-Trenchard recommends titles like “Apparitions” by Adam Pottle and “Bad Cree” by Jessica Johns.
Mystic Wisdom Tea and Bookshop in London, Ont., run by Charles and Carolyn Innis, offers a mix of witchcraft, divination books, and community events. The pair’s spooky reading picks include classics like Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” and Stephen King’s “Carrie.” The shop aims to create a welcoming space for all visitors.
Little Ghosts Books in Toronto, established in 2022, serves as a hub for horror enthusiasts and local writers. Co-owner Chris Krawczyk organizes events like the Work in Progress Night, where writers share and discuss their unfinished works. The bookstore also hosts the annual Little Ghosts Festival, showcasing various vendors and authors.
The Haunted Bookshop in Sidney, B.C., known for its collection of old and unusual books, has been a local fixture since 1947. Owner William “Bill” Matthews specializes in science fiction, fantasy, and early supernatural fiction. The store stands out as one of the few remaining businesses from Sidney’s “Booktown” era.
The Monkey’s Paw in Toronto, a rare-book shop, is curated by owner Stephen Fowler, who appreciates the history and mystery behind old books. The shop’s unique features include the Biblio-Mat, a vending machine dispensing vintage books randomly. Fowler’s fascination with the unknown and unexpected elements in books attracts those who appreciate the shop’s enigmatic atmosphere.