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SHANNON MCKECHNIE

launched Commonplace Books in Ingersoll, Ontario in October of 2025 with the goal of creating a welcoming space where people can browse, read, and connect. The focus is on thoughtful curation, friendly service, and fostering a culture of curiosity. The vision is to be a trusted, locally rooted bookstore that supports reading, learning, and meaningful connection among community members of all ages. Shannon has thrown herself into this endeavour wholeheartedly, and is hopeful and enthusiastic about the grassroots elements of independent publishing and bookstores. This is a broad-ranging and educational conversation for anyone in and around writing and books.

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EMILY DE ANGELIS

has spent many years developing her writing through independent study, workshops, conferences and courses.

An active member of the literary community, Emily has had poetry and short stories published in various anthologies. She has also won or placed in the top three of four short story contests.

Emily’s debut YA novel, The Stones of Burren Bay (Latitude 46 Publishing), was published in 2024. The magical realism story follows the protagonist Nori on her journey through grief and healing.

Her current YA project, For the Sake of Mercy, is also a magical realism story exploring forgiveness in the face of unspeakable tragedy.

DÉSIRÉE PENNER

is a prairie poet, painter, and social worker who is currently completing a master’s degree. She lives on a fourth generation family farm, outside of Winnipeg, Manitoba.

She's currently working on a manuscript of poetry Sand on the Staircase about the experiences of moving home, as well as a romance in verse written during her time at the Al + Eurithe Purdy Poetry Residency in Ontario.

CLAIRE ROSS DUNN

is the author of two traditionally-published novels. At Last Count is an award-winning story of birds, complicated families, and romance. 

Lost In France is launching on June 23rd, and is described as "Gilmore Girls goes to France." Claire talks about her experiences with writing for tv, film, and publishing, and shares some insights into her own marketing journey. Hint: ugh!

transcript

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I also acknowledge Indigenous, Black, people of colour, women, non-binary folks, and 2SLGBTQQAI+ people who have all been marginalized for centuries, and our collective responsibility to take action toward a world free from oppression, discrimination and racism.

ImpNet intends to keep trying to do better, and inspiring others to try too.

Taking one step away from being this kind of org, I donate 5% of all ImpNet income to payyourrent.ca, the Nii’kinaaganaa Foundation: Collecting rent and redistributing it to Indigenous People.

For an Indigenous Ally Kit, please visit the Resources page.

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