The Indie Bob Spot: Second Star To The Right

Second Star To The Right, Denver, CO

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Readers, the one thing we all know is none of us can pick our parents. If I were to compare this to bookstores, they don't get to pick their "parents" either. But if ever there were two "parents" that are a perfect fit for a children's bookstore, it's Marc and Dea L. at Second Star To The Right in Denver. Just imagine taking an elementary school teacher and a 3rd grade teacher and putting them in charge of a children's bookstore and that's what you've got here. This husband and wife team retired from teaching and then put their skills to good use by starting what is now an award-winning Denver bookstore. And from everything I could observe, the accolades are well-deserved.

This store is located on the very busy Tennyson St. area surrounded by multiple businesses up and down. It took me awhile to get into the store though because of everything to see on the outside before entering. Lots of displays, signs, flowers and nature, and an attractive front porch. The perfect set-up for entering a large, historic house absolutely bursting with books and toys. The store has multiple rooms all on one-level offering mostly new books and some used covering all children age ranges. And of course lots of toys. I don't know how kids don't just go crazy when they come here (Buffy, a staffer and book buyer confirmed to me that indeed they do). If the kids aren't overwhelmed enough, there is a daily story time and on Wednesdays there are two. On the day of my visit, this was being held outside in a perfect back yard setting.

Owners Marc and Dea, along with Buffy are the rock stars here along with the rest of the staff. The store has been so successful that they've outgrown their 700 square foot space. Because of this they're looking to move sometime after the holidays. Bad news for the devoted customers in their neighborhood but good news for all the new customers who will discover this store and also good news to be able to expand their space and offer more inventory. As Marc told me, he thought that he and Dea had a good handle on children's lit but their opening 3 1/2 years ago came with an explosion of children's publications that continue to this day.

In addition to these wonderful people and their terrific store, the other reason to visit is to see Chewbacca, the dog bookseller. This guy has the perfect personality for a children's bookstore and his calm and docile demeanor has even helped children who have a fear of dogs. Basically, they have everything covered at this winning children's bookstore. Pay them a visit you won't regret. Go to an indie and buy a book. Bonsoir.

CURRENTLY READING: Forsaken, Ross Howell, Jr.

RECENTLY PURCHASED: Wolf Hollow, Lauren Wolk. Where The Watermelons Grow, Cindy Baldwin.

The sidewalk sign will tell you a little about the store and a few of the events.

A proud award-winning indie.

One of the displays in the front yard.

Patio and sitting space in front of the store.

You don't see this sign at many indies.

My pictures really don't capture the beauty in front of the store.

Every single indie.

This is the front porch just before entering the store.

View looking into the front room of the store from the entrance.

The store is artistically decorated throughout.

A great customer service.

Table display in the front room.

I'm a sucker for 4-legged booksellers. I usually take 20 or so pictures of these guys but restrain myself to not post more than one or two!

Chewbacca has helped some children overcome their fear of dogs and his personality is perfect for this.

Children's bookstores are a multiple stimulant on children's senses! They also have birds.

One of the two rooms off the front room.

An overview of the front room.

A great place to sit AND you might get a chance to pet Chewbacca while you sample a book.

Harry Potter is huge here and they have a great display.

Of course.

Overview of the middle readers room.

This is another room just off the front room. This store has multiple rooms. Wander at will!

A comfy closet to chill out with a book.

Yes, water fountains!

Mr. UPS brings in a fresh shipment of books.

Regular customers should always take a look at the events calendar right behind the check-out counter.

View looking into the back yard and their great space for story time.

This former garage out back is now the Rumpus Room. Available to rent for parties, classes, and just about anything your creativity will allow. It also is the indoor site for story time if the weather is bad outside.