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f you were compiling a list of the greatest attractions, places and things to do in the Biggest Little City, what would you include? A few stand-byes come to mind: the Santa Crawl, the Zombie Crawl, the RWMA Wine Walk, eating at Lulou's, the buffet at Sterling's, skiing Mount Rose. But could you compile 100 essential things to do in Reno? Well, now you don't have to because talented writer Mikalee Byerman has done it for you in her new book streeting this month 100 Things To Do in Reno Before You Die. I caught up with the lovely editor and blogger to find out all about her labor of love and what exciting things made the cut.
I’m shouting! The book is pretty ideal for tourists, given there are many insider secrets that aren’t readily apparent on Yelp or in other tour books. But the best part is that it’s also great for locals. I can’t even tell you how many of the experiences I chose to include within the book that are things I had never done until writing it! So even I, a “so-called” Reno expert, found myself discovering cool new spots. I think many of us locals get into patterns and rhythms, and this book is a way to challenge ourselves to try things that may be just outside of our personal comfort zones.
Oliver X: I guess the obvious place to start is to ask you what inspired you to write the book? Is the book for locals, for tourists or both?
Oliver X: So many people have writing a book on their bucket lists. For those who may not be familiar with how a book is constructed, take us through your process and how you chose what to write about. How did you secure a publisher for the book?
This is my personal love letter to the place I call home. Sounds totally cheesy, I know — but I’ve lived here for all but four years of my life (I consider myself a grandfathered-in local), and it’s absolutely the only place in the world I would have chosen to raise my family. There are times I want to shout my love of Reno from the rooftops, and other times I’d rather keep it a well-guarded secret. I guess this is one of those times
This is truly one of those bizarre scenarios when the publisher found me, I didn’t pitch the publisher. Reedy Press, based out of St. Louis, looks for up-andcoming, cool spots for these books — and Reno was on their radar. Thanks to a certain awesome someone over at the Reno-Sparks Convention & Visitors Authority (ahem—Ben— ahem), I was referred, and the rest is history. I knew this book should reflect my voice but also