The Indie Bob Spot: Lion's Mouth Bookstore

Lion's Mouth Bookstore, Green Bay, WI

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Could there be a better recommendation for a bookstore than a beloved bookstore cat? This isn't just any cat either. Greta is a veteran bookstore cat but sadly she was laid off from her position at The Reader's Loft when owner Virginia retired and the store closed. Lion's Mouth Bookstore opened a month ago in downtown Green Bay without the services of a bookstore cat. Owner Amy M. knew Greta from her own bookstore days at The Reader's Loft so she brought her home to retire. Greta was withdrawn and changed. The retirement didn't work, she needed to be in a bookstore. So Amy brought her to Lion's Mouth and it was like a fish back to water. Simply, Greta needed a bookstore and she now lives 24/7 in her happy place. Oh, how many of us envy Greta's life?!

Yes, I've met Amy and Greta previously at Reader's Loft. Thankfully, Green Bay regained a wonderful bookstore when Amy decided to open Lion's Mouth. It's easy to see reminders of Reader's Loft throughout the store from the dark brown shelving brought over from Reader's Loft to the great books offered to the friendly bookseller cat, Greta. This new store though has a super location in downtown Green Bay on the ground level of a building with other businesses below the upper level apartment living. Colin, one of the store booksellers, told me this has been great for business and even helped with the founding of a new bookclub. And the nice thing here is many of the Reader's Loft customers have now come over to Lion's Mouth, including a bookclub.

Lion's Mouth offers new and used books along with a variety of sidelines including greeting cards, reusable straw kits, and skull sugar cubes (never seen these before!). For customers who bring in books for trade the store offers store credit.

Along my journey, rarely do I get to meet staffers or owners more than once. This was one of those unique opportunities where I enjoyed reacquainting myself with Amy and Greta (never have I met a bookstore cat twice). These two along with Colin were wonderful to visit with and find out about this beautiful new store.

If you want to place a sure bet on a bookstore, put your money on Lion's Mouth. An experienced and knowledgeable owner, along with a friendly bookseller, a personable cat, and a dynamite location means big things ahead for this new bookstore. Reader's Loft customers fret no more, this is your new go-to. Go to an indie and buy a book. Bonsoir.

CURRENTLY READING: In Zanesville, Jo Ann Beard.

RECENTLY PURCHASED: The Lager Queen Of Minnesota, J. Ryan Stradal.

Another exterior view.

View looking into the store from the front entrance. Notice my BFF Greta taking a break on the couch.

View looking to the right from the front entrance. Greta still in position.

View of the very cozy living room setting in the front of the store. Greta stirs slightly.

Looking to the left from the front entrance.

A few of the sidelines available at the checkout counter.

Greta on the move.

Attractive display near the front of the store.

You'll find most of the fiction along this wall on the right side of the store.

Serious book customers will enjoy this section.

If you look closely, you'll see the skull sugar cubes on the top and middle levels of this display.

Ok, now seriously, how can you not visit this store and meet this beauty? I've been to over 400 bookstores which means over 100 cats. It is next to impossible to get a good picture. I think this is probably my best cat picture to date along my journey. Of course, Greta and I go way back. Thanks Greta!