Sheila Koffman wasn’t always a bookseller. In her previous incarnation she had a stable government job. “It was a steady paycheque; running a bookstore might not pay as well, but this is much more exciting,” says Sheila who opened her Roncesvalles bookshop in 1987. When you think of the famous names that have come through her store — David Suzuki, Stephen Lewis, Judy Rebick — book selling is downright thrilling.
Another Story Bookshop doesn’t just sell paperbacks and host launches, the shop also provides books for publishing industry events, including Suzuki’s public lectures and the unveiling of Naomi Klein’s latest tome. “I’m really lucky. I go to all these amazing events as part of my work. I get to meet authors and talk to them.”
After over 25 years in business, Sheila has also attracted the admiration of local authors and publishers herself; the Canadian Booksellers Association has twice nominated Another Story for Book Seller of the Year.
This independent shop in Roncesvalles attracts customers both young and old with its broad selection of books with a focus on themes of social justice, equity and global diversity. The progressive bookseller stocks politically charged titles from big name activists like Naomi Klein and David Suzuki as well as lesser-known radical reads. Educators receive an in-store discount as do book clubs and other groups who order titles in bulk.