Acorn Bookshop - St. Paul, MN

Acorn Bookshop, St. Paul, MN

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Years ago when I began this project one of my earliest visits was to a wonderful indie in the Como Park neighborhood of St. Paul called Micawber’s.  It was one of the featured bookstores in My Bookstore that launched my journey.  Sadly, Micawber’s soon went out of business after my visit.  But from those ashes, a seed was planted, an acorn, which sprang from that loss to offer a new life and new bookstore.  That sapling is now Acorn Bookshop, located in the same space I initially visited years ago.  Owner Rachel O.’s dream was to own a bookstore and when walking by the building one day and noticing the for sale sign, the dream became a reality.  Way to go Rachel.

The interior of this bookstore combines gorgeous with cozy.  I don’t know if they were assisted by an interior design professional but it gives off that impression.  The store has been open for about 6 months and Kate, a bookseller and events coordinator, told me that things are going pretty good so far.  One of my favorite authors, William Kent Krueger, lives in this neighborhood and was just here for an event the previous day (dang, I just missed him).  The store offers all new books with a few used books accepted as donations only.  It’s possible that this portion of the business will grow in time.  Customers always have the option of ordering books online on the store’s website.  Sidelines include stickers, jewelry, candles, greeting cards, journals, and puzzles to name a few.  Some of these are created locally by talented artists.  I thought the children’s area was especially attractive and artfully created.  Kids will love visiting here.  

Like several new bookstores, many people probably don’t know about this one yet.  It makes a perfect neighborhood bookstore but you don’t have to live in the neighborhood to visit.  Heck, I don’t and if I can make the drive to visit here you can too.  Check out this new and rising star in the Twin Cities bookstore scene.  Congratulations to Rachel and her terrific team.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.  

JUST FINISHED:  Mrs. Mike, Benedict & Nancy Freedman.  Originally published in 1947, the story of 16- year-old Katherine living in Boston in the early 20th century.  Her mother sends her to live with an uncle in Alberta hoping that the dry cold air will cure her pleurisy.  Her life takes a turn when she meets Mike, a Canadian Mountie and when they marry they move to the extreme reaches of northwest Canada.  Adventures of weather, Indigenous Canadians, epidemics, crime, and survival are all present in this story that stands the test of time today.  

CURRENTLY READING:  Beloved, Toni Morrison.  

 

The exterior reminds me of a Swiss bungalow.  

A perfect outdoor setting to enjoy the leisure of a book.  

Step right in.  

View from the entrance and looking to the right.  

View from the entrance and looking to the left.  

One of my favorite authors lives near this bookstore and did an event just before my visit.  I strongly encourage you to check out a book by William Kent Krueger.  

Don't encourage me!

Table display of new releases.  

I love the name of this bookstore for reasons like this.  

See if you can help solve the community puzzle and add a few pieces, near the front entrance.  

This is directly to the right after entering.  

This beautiful antique displays various sidelines.  

I love books like the ones featured on this display.  I wish more people would read these.  

Overview of the children's area.  

This miniature fort/playhouse is in the children's area.  They are going to love this area.  

Another angle of the children's area.  

A cozy little nook for a couple of kids.  

Consider a free coffee while you browse.  

The store offers a few used books in addition to all the new ones.  

Beautifully arranged setting in the middle of the store.  

Go ahead, give it a shot and open a present to YOURSELF.  Many indies have a similar promotion, blind date with a book.  

Near the back of the store.  I've decided if I were a regular this comfy chair would be my spot.  

A very cool and curvy set of bookshelves.  Books are on both sides of this curve.  

 

Aromatic candles and sprays.  Treat all your senses.  

Be sure to vote.  I'll do so and plan to vote early, you should do the same.  

A few of the stickers available.  These are hot everywhere I go.  

Overview of the store.  

Great fun for kids at this bookstore.  

For $5, this unique vending machine will dispense bookish prizes.  

Unique greeting cards.  If you see it in a bookstore and like it, GET IT.  You're unlikely to find it anywhere else.  

Unique and creative jewelry created by a local artisan.  Holiday season is around the corner.  Just sayin'.  

With Kate, one of the fine booksellers you'll meet at Acorn Bookshop.  Thanks for a great visit.