Stygian Retailers
Looking to buy local? Visit these shops which currently stock Stygian publications!
If you are a shop owner or know of a shop that should stock Stygian, please take a look at our catalogue.
SHELF LIFE BOOKS, CALGARY
Shelf Life Books, founded in 2010 by friends William Lawrence and JoAnn McCaig, fills a unique niche in downtown Calgary. Will, a history enthusiast and seasoned retailer, and JoAnn, a writer and former English professor, recognized the need for an independent bookstore in the area.
Located in the historic Fourth Street building, once home to the Parkside Continental gay bar and behind Evelyn Grant’s sculpture, Counting Crows, Shelf Life Books became a landmark. The building further gained attention in 2019 with a mural by Kat and Derek Simmers as part of Calgary’s BUMP Festival.
Celebrating its tenth anniversary in October 2020, Shelf Life Books has been embraced by Calgary’s literary community. The store has hosted notable authors such as Will Ferguson, Rudy Wiebe, and Vivek Shraya. It is known for its vibrant community events and regular visits from local writers.
OWL'S NEST BOOKS, CALGARY
Owl’s Nest Books, established in 1975 by Evelyn de Mille and James A. Highborough-Ross, has changed hands several times. Initially managed by James, Evelyn became the sole owner. After her retirement, Michael Hare and Brenda Mackie moved the store to Britannia Shopping Plaza in 1996. Susan Hare joined when Brenda retired, and Michael and Susan began transitioning to retirement while mentoring the new owner. The store expanded in 2002 but downsized in 2019 due to rising costs. The new owner, with a background in literature, took over in 2021, alongside Judith, a veteran bookstore manager. They continue to serve Calgary’s book lovers.
RAVEN'S END BOOKS, WINNIPEG
Owning a bookstore had always been a retirement dream for Chelsea McKee-Trenchard After a professional upheaval, she pursued this dream more seriously, seeking a role that aligned with her passion for books and community. Initially considering a librarian career, she faced frustration with unanswered applications.
A conversation with her sister-in-law inspired Chelsea to open a horror-themed bookstore. Realizing she didn’t need to wait for retirement, she decided to act immediately. Although her sister-in-law chose not to join the venture, she has been supportive throughout.
Chelsea’s lifelong love for horror, from Fear Street to R.L. Stine, motivated her to create a bookstore that offers a diverse and extensive horror selection, filling a niche she found lacking in mainstream stores.