An Embarrassment of Reading Riches

On the eve of Allison’s Pre-K graduation a couple of weeks ago (I was proud, she was adorable, I cried, slow with pictures as usual), I took the girls to Famous Anthony’s, a local restaurant chain, for dinner beforehand.  Although we like this great, family friendly chain, we don’t normally eat at this particular location.  Even still, I never noticed until that night that there is an indepdendent book store next door.  I just had to stop in.

embarrassmentofrichesPrinter’s Ink is an interesting place to say the least.  The owner (I presume) stands behind the counter with Chaucer, the cockatiel on his shoulder all day long (again, presumed).  I had wanted a new copy of The Uncommon Reader since the dog-ears on the second-hand copy I had nearly drove me whacky.  He didn’t have a copy on hand, so I ordered one.  He gives a 20% discount on all orders, so why not?  I then bought sticker books for the girls and a copy of The Best Teacher Ever by Mercer Mayer.  We love those Little Critter books and it made a nice gift for Ally’s Pre-K teacher.   Then, after my failed attempt to compulsively buy a book a week ago Friday, I called him and ordered a copy of 84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff as well.

Today, I took the girls with me to pick my books up.  The girls each picked out a book as well.  I’ve wanted 84, Charing Cross Road every since I read about it on The Bluestocking Society.  We’ll, I started it at lunch and I’ve finished already.  It was fabulous.  Not only have a found a great indi, non-pretencious bookstore in Roanoke, I have read my second incredible book in almost as many days.  This week there has definitely been an embarrassment of reading riches!

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June 13, 2009 | Filed Under Books 

Comments

10 Responses to “An Embarrassment of Reading Riches”

  1. Nymeth
    Posted: Jun 13th, 2009 at 5:46 pm
    1

    Ooo, 84, Charing Cross Road! I’ve been meaning to get that. I look forward to your review. And hooray for finding cool bookstores!

    Reply to this comment.
  2. rhapsodyinbooks
    Posted: Jun 13th, 2009 at 5:49 pm
    2

    Sounds like a great way to spend the day!

    Reply to this comment.
  3. Meghan
    Posted: Jun 13th, 2009 at 6:44 pm
    3

    How awesome! I too really want 84, Charing Cross Road. Someday I will own all the books I want, honestly. =)

    Reply to this comment.
  4. Kathy
    Posted: Jun 13th, 2009 at 6:45 pm
    4

    I’m so glad you found a great indie bookstore near you. I’ve been wanting to get my hands on 84, Charing Cross Road, too – it sounds wonderful.

    Reply to this comment.
  5. WordLily
    Posted: Jun 13th, 2009 at 6:59 pm
    5

    Just add my name to the list: I want to own/read 84, Charing Cross Road, too!

    Reply to this comment.
  6. Literate Housewife
    Posted: Jun 13th, 2009 at 7:37 pm
    6

    All of you go out and buy or borrow a copy of 84, Charing Cross Road. It’s such a quick read. Don’t wait for my review by all means. LOL! You won’t regret it.

    Meghan, your task will be to go to 84 Charing Cross Road and tell us all about it, even though the bookstore is now closed.

    There is another indi bookstore in Roanoke, but it is extremely uppity and full of itself – or at least it feels that way to me. This store is down to earth and comfortable. The man’s toupee says it all – book nerd central. I’m home! :P

    Reply to this comment.
  7. Ti
    Posted: Jun 13th, 2009 at 11:14 pm
    7

    Sounds like you found a real gem. Enjoy your riches!

    Reply to this comment.
  8. heidenkind
    Posted: Jun 14th, 2009 at 3:05 am
    8

    Sounds like a great week!

    Reply to this comment.
  9. Sandy
    Posted: Jun 14th, 2009 at 7:11 am
    9

    Isn’t is like a wonderful little bonus when you find stores like this? I found one a couple of weeks ago tucked away in a little courtyard, and it sold rare books, first editions, signed copies, etc. My family was with me so I couldn’t stay, but I am so going back there when I am alone! Charing Cross is one that I know I must read, and I love it when I can read one in a day!

    Reply to this comment.
  10. Molly
    Posted: Jun 14th, 2009 at 10:29 am
    10

    Well, if you would like to order another great book, then try The Duchess of Bloomsbury Street, also by Helene Hanff. I do believe I enjoyed this book even better than 84 Charing Cross Road.

    Molly’s last blog post..TSS – Preview of Posts to Come (Part 1)

    Reply to this comment.
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