The Wandering Jellyfish Bookshop - Niwot, CO

The Wandering Jellyfish Bookshop, Niwot, CO

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Readers, you know there are a few themes I mention over and over hoping to hammer them into the heads of the uninformed.  One of those themes is how you really can't have a bookstore experience buying a book online.  Let me tell you about The Wandering Jellyfish.  My experience was so good here I felt guilty that I didn't have to pay a cover charge.  We were all laughing so hard I don't know how I didn't pee my pants.  Carissa M. and Jerilyn P. are the enthusiastic and fun owners at this bookstore that has a focus on young readers, located perfectly in the historic downtown in the Niwot (pronounced NYE-watt) Tribune building.  Anyone in Niwot who hasn't discovered this gem yet needs to visit and see what all the fun's about.  

In their short 1 1/2 year existence, they are really establishing a innovative and unique model for other bookstores.  This perfectly charming indie is focused on children's books up through young adult offering all new books and various sidelines.  There was also a good assortment of adult books, but that's not the store focal point.  Sidelines include puzzles, scented puzzle erasers, book earrings made by Alison, the store manager, buttons, stickers, and my personal favorite, fart bombs (As Jerilyn said, anything poop related flies out of the store.  My 10-year old self is pleased).  The store also hosts a weekly story time, no surprise to me.  

Best of all, they have a great relationship with the local schools.  Even better, it was the schools who seeked them out.  Now they know the school librarians and are able to offer book fairs.  I wish EVERY indie were this fortunate.

Something else offered here that I haven't seen very often is bookstore memberships.  There are different levels of membership for an annual fee which allows members to enjoy different bookstore perks, gifts, and discounts.  Another great way to support your local business.

This is Arnold.  I don't think he's particularly cuddly. 

Sadly, The Wandering Jellyfish does not have a bookstore cat or dog.  But they have something I've never seen in over 500 bookstore visits.  It doesn't bite, make me sneeze, is very quiet, and probably somewhat shy.  Maybe when you visit this terrific bookstore, you too can meet Arnold the vacuum.  Enjoy Arnold, Squish the Jellyfish and the charismatic owners for a 5-star bookstore experience.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

JUST FINISHED:  Essex Dogs, Dan Jones.  Historical fiction at its finest.  Based on a portion of the 100-years war, this novel takes place in July 1346 with the English invasion and siege of France as they marched from the Normandy Beaches inland ending in Crécy.  The story focuses on the Essex Dogs, a rogue group of fighters alongside all the other soldiers.  Lots of gore, filthy language, and unimaginable hygiene of course.  This is the first book of a trilogy.  I really liked this one.  Recommended. 

CURRENTLY READING:  The Reckoning, John Grisham. 

RECENTLY PURCHASED: The Three Pigs, David Weisner.  Fart Bombs. 

This is the beautiful historical building that was once the home of the Niwot Tribune.  That sign remains but rest assured it is now the home of The Wandering Jellyfish. 

Display windows left of the entrance. 

I love all the display window space and the windows in the doors that allow an abundance of natural light into the store. 

View looking into the store from the front entrance.  Carissa was working on a mural in the back of the store and you can see that completed work when you visit. 

Wonderful wall of books on the left side of the store. 

Head to the right side of the store for middle grade books. 

Attractive table display in the front of the store.

Table display with adult interests. 

Behind the checkout counter and to the right for these offerings. 

If the book club is reading it you should check it out. 

If the wifi fails, this antique cash register will still work. 

I can find bargains in every bookstore I visit. 

Grab a comfy seat and sample a book. 

I love these bookstore earrings made by Alison who works right in the store. 

I couldn't figure out what these were and discovered these are the bookstore mascot, Squish the jellyfish. 

I always say if you see it in a bookstore and like it, get it.  You probably won't find Unicorn Donuts elsewhere. 

I see banned book displays in almost every bookstore. 

The creative mural Carissa was working on when I entered the store. 

Very talented work of a local artist. 

Jerilyn proudly holding the store mascot, Squish the Jellyfish. 

Overview of the store looking from the back toward the front entrance.  Alert readers will not only see Jerilyn and Carissa, but may recognize Michelle T., The Indie Bob Spot director of logistics. 

So many times I'm at a bookstore when the new books arrive!

The 10-year old me always celebrates this stuff.  

There is a fantastic coffee shop down the street, The Old Oak Coffeehouse.  Sip your coffee and enjoy a book provided by The Wandering Jellyfish. 

A rare in-action photo of Indie Bob at work with his new Jellyfish pen.

With Jerilyn in the middle and Carissa on the right, the two fine co-owners at The Wandering Jellyfish.  Thanks for a great visit.