Monstera’s Books - Overland Park, KS

Monstera's Books, Overland Park, KS

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To all my readers who are plant lovers, I have found your Xanadu.  And for my same book and plant enthusiasts, there are a few other bookstores out there that have the same business model.  But admittedly, this is rare.  I’m continually amazed at the new things I learn on this incredible journey,  For Monstera’s Books, owner Kate W. found that indoor plants became part of her home Covid project.  She knew when the store opened 7 months ago that plants would be a part of it.  So at this indie, they curate and care for books AND plants and fortunately they have Hannah on staff as the plant expert.  Well done, Monstera’s.

Kate decided she had had enough of selling software and cybersecurity and embarked on an adventure of bookstore ownership, an adventure that has been very successful.  Monstera’s offers new and used books in a beautiful one-level setting.  The store only takes used books as donations abut Kate and her husband keep their eyes open for estate sales that might have books of interest for the store.  They offer new and used plants (seriously, I half-kidding asked if they take used plants and they said YES but keep them in the back and don’t let them leave the store unless they’re sure they’re free of pests).  I thought the assortment of sidelines were outstanding including greeting cards, puzzles, buttons, journals, and stickers to name a few.  I also thought the store merch offered was excellent including t-shirts, sweatshirts, and more all uniquely created by Kate's husband thanks to his talents in graphic design.  Monstera’s enjoys a terrific location in downtown Overland Park.  This ideal location attracts lots of foot traffic twice a week from the nearby farmer’s market. 

This is another bookstore name that leaves me curious how it came about.  It might be obvious to my plant experts (there’s your clue) but not to me.  The store is named after the Monstera plant, a large, leafy-green indoor plant (think Little Shop Of Horrors, the musical).  It sits on the left side of the store next to the large window soaking up all the natural light.

The staff here is simply outstanding.  Hannah, Wesley, and Laramie are wonderful.  My kindred book-spirit Mary wasn’t here but she sold me some books with the help of Kate.

If you’re in the Overland Park area of Kansas City, pay this gem a visit.  I didn’t think bookstores could be any cooler but the plants take it to a whole new level of zen.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

JUST FINISHED:  Ragged Company, Richard Wagamese.  I love this author but I found this story about four homeless people who escape the cold by going to movies slow and repetitive.  Just couldn't get into it.  I highly recommend Indian Horse by this author. 

CURRENTLY READING:  A Fever In The Heartland, Timothy Egan. 

RECENTLY PURCHASED:  What The Chicken Knows, Sy Montgomery.  The Heart’s Invisible Furies, John Boyne.  North Woods, Daniel Mason.  

 

Side of the building.  Behind these windows is the Monstera plant. 

Beautiful storefront. 

On nice days, you can start browsing before you go in. 

Buy local, shop local, keep it in your community. 

View looking into the store from the front entrance.  I like the checkers!

View looking to the left from the front entrance.  Plants! 

View looking to the right from the front entrance. 

A better view of the table display of plants in the front of the store. 

Display of popular releases. 

Head over to the right side of the store and browse these shelves, guarded by the plants above. 

Beautiful seating area in the middle of the store. 

At the check-out counter you'll find numerous sidelines for your impulse buys. 

The stickers are hot and these are just a few. 

The morning sunlight on the left side of the store is glorious.  Next to this chair is the Monstera plant.  Have a seat and enjoy the light. 

More sidelines near the checkout counter. 

Table display of new releases inside the front entrance. 

Right side of the store after you enter. 

View looking into the children's area. 

A book for a child or a senior citizen??  Asking for a friend. 

I love this mural in the children's area. 

Overview of the store looking from the back toward the front entrance. 

If you're low on dough, find this basket of bargains. 

 I don't think I've seen this sign in any bookstore. 

With Kate, the fine owner at Monstera's Books.  Thanks for a great visit.