Having been recently released from the clutch of Borders, my freedom has opened up such that I have been able to make new friends. While I worked as a manager at Borders, I of course shopped there out of loyalty, contributing to its bottom line. Now that my loyalties are not tied there, I have discovered the delightful and super-friendly Blue Marble children's bookstore in Fort Thomas, Kentucky (within 10 minutes of downtown Cincinnati). From my first visit to the store, I found staff members ready to recommend books and invite me to upcoming signings and events. The Blue Marble is not only an "indie" bookstore, with all the good things common to them, but it is even a star within the indie class.
In early April I attended a discussion and signing with illustrator Will Hillenbrand, celebrating the publication of his 49th and 50th picture books, One Fine Trade by Bobbi Miller, and Louie, which Hillenbrand both illustrated and wrote. I not only listened rapturously during his wonderful presentation and got books signed, but I was introduced to him. This was a top-notch experience.
I have also attended a Bookaholics Night, held in the Blue Marble's Great Green Room (fashioned after the room in Goodnight Moon). It was simply a chance for Blue Marble staff, educators, librarians, and child. lit. fans to talk about what we've been reading lately. I look forward to the next meeting on Tuesday, May 12, the last one before summer hiatus.
Visit their website, www.bluemarblebooks.com, and sign up for their email newsletter. The unofficial holiday Buy Indie Day was yesterday (May 1), but I think we should all re-celebrate as often as our wallets allow.
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