Weird Girls Tour Stop: Paris, Ontario (May 9, 2026)
About the Event
Emma McKenna and Jaclyn Desforges are bringing the Weird Girls Book Tour to Riverside Bookshelf in Paris, ON. Come celebrate the launch of Gold Star (Book*hug, 2026) by Emma McKenna and Weird Babies (The Porcupine's Quill, 2026) by Jaclyn Desforges. Expect readings from both books, a Q&A, and time to hang out.
This event is free and open to all.
When and Where
Date: Friday, May 9, 2026 Time: 7:00 – 9:00 PM
Venue: Riverside Bookshelf
Address: 32 Dundas St. W, Paris, ON
About the Venue
Riverside Bookshelf is a neighbourhood bookstore located by the Grand River in Paris, Ontario. From owner Alison Fishburn:
"Our passion is to inspire a lifelong love of reading and learning through literature…. Our brick and mortar shop, located by the Grand River in Paris, Ontario, is a destination for literature newbies and enthusiasts alike."
There's also a vending machine full of stickers and other bookish goodies, because Riverside is that kind of place.
Accessibility
We encourage masks and ask everyone to please come scent-free. Seating is available — the bookshelves transform into seats! There is an accessible washroom on site with a change table, but there is a step at the entrance of the store.
If there's anything we can do to support your access, please let us know.
The Books
Gold Star by Emma McKenna (Book*hug Press, 2026) — poetry collection.
Weird Babies by Jaclyn Desforges (The Porcupine's Quill, 2026) — short story collection.
Books will be available for purchase at the event.
More Tour Stops
This is one stop on the Weird Girls Book Tour, a Southwestern Ontario tour celebrating Gold Star and Weird Babies. Find the full tour schedule at jaclyn.ink/wgbt.
