Great Places in Whistler for Families Who Love to Read
Now that the weather is cooling off for Fall, it’s a perfect time for families to explore good books, book venues, and even some Whistler-themed kids’ literature. While Whistler is definitely the place to be for sports and high-octane activities, little readers will find much to enjoy, too.
Armchair Books – A Thriving Independent Bookstore with Great Kids Books
A fantastic bookstore which has been serving locals and visitors alike for many years, Armchair Books in Whistler Village is the perfect place to pick up great children’s literature. From kid’s fiction to fun gift ideas, this store is sure to have something to appeal to all ages.
Kids Can Take Home Some Whistler for the Bookshelf
For young kids who love Whistler and the mountains, you will want to pick up a copy of the book Mountain Machines by local author Sara Leach. Kids will be greatly entertained by the counting-themed prose, and the illustrations of colourful snow groomers, bull wheels, snow guns, ski-dos, gondolas, and chairlifts. This unique Whistler favourite can be ordered through the author’s website, at Armchair Books, and at the Whistler Museum. The Museum also stocks Wally Learns to Ski by Whistler local author Kelsey Bareham - a fantastic book to inspire your kids to hit the slopes.
A Writing Opportunity for Youth at the Whistler Writers’ Festival
The Whistler Writers’ Festival has been inspiring readers and writers for nearly two decades. While many of the events are geared to adults, there is often an event or two at the festival to attract younger writers. Check out the Festival webpage for this year’s event lineup. The 2017 Festival will feature a writing workshop for those 18 and younger by workshop facilitator and author Susan Nielson. Nielson has won a Governor General’s Literary Award, and was a screenwriter for Canada’s award winning youth TV show Degrassi Junior High. As a successful author of several Young Adult novels, Nielson can show budding writers the ins and outs of publishing and character development.
The Library is Always a Good Place for Kids
The Whistler Public Library has come a long way from its humble beginnings in 1986 in the basement of the municipal hall, and later, in an old trailer. Now housed in an award-winning LEED building, the Whistler Public Library is known affectionately as the “locals’ living room”. This is a wonderful place to take your kids on a rainy day, or when some kids feel like taking it easy and curling up with a good book. Let’s face it, that is what many parents feel like doing too. The Whistler Public Library has dedicated Youth Librarians, and thousands of books, kids’ magazines, and games to enjoy. There are oversized armchairs for comfortable reading, and stuffed toys to curl up with. The library also holds craft events on select days of the month for the whole family in the dedicated kids’ activity room.
Grab a book and wait for the snow to fly!
Photo Credit: Justa Jeskova
