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The Green Dragon Bookshop, Ft. Dodge, IA
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If someone told me that a bookstore in little Ft. Dodge, IA, population approximately 24,000, would be a success I’d probably shake my head. If you continued to tell me that it wouldn't be a general bookstore but a niche store offering mostly sci-fi, fantasy, and horror, I’d probably say no way. If there ever were any doubters they’re gone now because owner CoriAnn T. has really worked to position The Green Dragon as a noteworthy business and bookstore. The store has been successful with the niche genres and is getting it all done in a space of only 300 square feet. Keep in mind though that Green Dragon can order any book you want from any genre. But with their niche genres they are now ready to enter the popular Halloween season which should bring a wave of seasonal business. Change that “no way” to yes way!
Unlike Powell’s in Portland, OR, you won’t need a map of the store when you visit here. What you see is what you get. It’s small but some customers prefer the description cozy and I couldn’t agree more. CoriAnn has done a great job with the small space offering a healthy inventory of new and used books shelved high around the store. Green Dragon also offers vintage and collectible books. The store no longer accepts used books from customers but will accept donated books if offered. In keeping with the store’s theme, the sidelines here are called trinkets. These include fantasy-themed candles, mini-posters, post cards, and of course stickers which are popular sellers. If you want to support the store but can’t visit in person, consider placing an order online. You can also order audio books online as well as store-themed t-shirts. Looking to join a book club? The store has several options. Thankfully, Green Dragon has a large core of loyal regulars who enjoy visiting and patronizing the store in person. Way to go, Ft. Dodge!
How lucky was I to see this store? Owner CoriAnn was absent today and closed the store to customers so she sent her mother to open the store just for my visit. Only at an independent bookstore! CoriAnn has big plans for this downtown bookstore and you would be wise to visit Green Dragon now and follow their remarkable and promising adventure into the future. Go to an indie and buy a book. Bonsoir.
CURRENTLY READING: Saving Emma, Allen Eskens.
JUST FINISHED: The River We Remember, William Kent Krueger. Story that takes place in Jewel, MN, 1958. Krueger totally nails small town life. The town drunk, the sheriff and his dog, the local diner, and the river. A person everyone hates is found dead in the river. Was it a murder? A suicide? Many people had reason to want Jimmy Quinn dead but old biases blind people to the truth. Absolutely love this author and this is his latest. Recommended.
RECENTLY PURCHASED: The Thursday Murder Club, Richard Osman.
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Green Dragon storefront.
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Right next door to the Green Dragon is a bakery. What luck! I call this a win-win!
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Full window display space.
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Looking into the store from the front entrance.
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Many indies do the "blind date with a book promotion." At Green Dragon, it's called Mystery Date With a Spooky Book. I love it!
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Attractive wall display just inside the entrance.
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Find this cart and stock up on sale books.
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If I were a regular, this would be my spot.
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Table display in the middle of the store.
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At The Green Dragon, the sidelines are called trinkets. CoriAnn has done a great job with the theme throughout the store.
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The stickers are big sellers.
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An active events calendar.
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Overview of the store looking toward the front entrance.
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A few of the vintage and collectible editions.
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Trapped in the depths of The Green Dragon lair, this is my only hope for escape.
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Perfect fit for the store theme.
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Spooky and fantasy-themed candles.
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Some of the bookmarks offered are created by talented local students. Impressive.
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| Crochet for beginners |
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Children's books found on these shelves along the front wall.
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With RueAnn, one of the fine booksellers at The Green Dragon. Thanks for a great visit.
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