Ellis on Guard: Halifax Launch!

Plans are coming together for the Halifax launch of Ellis on Guard, and I'm so excited to share that it will be on February 19, 2026, at Woozles Children's Bookstore in Halifax. I have a longstanding fondness for Woozles, starting in elementary school. We had a trivia contest via the announcements, and one of the questions was "Who illustrated Thomas's Snowsuit?" It turns out spelling counted, and no one knew how to spell Michael Martchenko — but my mom's a librarian, so I was all set. I got the answer, spelling and all, and won a gift certificate to Woozles.

About 10 years later, I got a job there, which was a dream. Since then, the store and its staff, including co-managers Lisa Doucet and Suzy MacLean has been a constant source of support and encouragement. My very favourite book launch was held there just a couple of years ago, when I launched When the Ocean Came to Town alongside Emma FitzGerald, the illustrator, and Jack Wong, who was also launching The Words We Share.

I can't wait to return to launch Ellis on Guard in such a warm, welcoming space. Vanessa Furlong, who happens to be my best friend as well as a counsellor and a performer, will be hosting, and Veronica Post, another dear friend and graphic novelist will be doing a live Q&A.

Plus... snacks!