Indie + Inspiration = Summer Adventure by Kathy Halsey

My favorite indie bookstore, Changing Hands, Tempe AZ, embarked on a new adventure last year that I have a small "hand" in. Changing Hands is so successful it decided to open a new store in downtown Phoenix after 40 years! Owner Gayle Shanks sent a blast to customers asking for suggestions for the downtown location. I took a chance and wrote back, suggesting a monthly event of book talks for parents/grandparents/other caregivers. To my surprise, she wrote back and connected me to her sister Vicki, another former educator. 

(Grandma Kathy & grandson Tobin)

Grandma's Club Perks

Together we created the Grandma's Club which had its inaugural debut last month with 20 adults and 5 little ones. Our goal - to share the newest/best in kid lit via themes. Vicki read stories with the children while I book talked with the adults. Finally, we joined groups for a craft tie-in. Families then explored the Grandma's Club book display and chatted with us. That day club members received 10% off anything in the store and throughout the month, all books on the Grandma's Club list are 10% off in store and online. 

My Perks as a Writer

Changing Hands is a phenomenal, vibrant literary community that hosts national and local writers, critique groups for writers, sign language classes, and more. By reaching out as a volunteer to share my kidlit/library/educator expertise, I found my way into the heart of an important Phoenix venue, and I'm adding value to my tribe. Changing Hands is generously "loaning" me the newest picture books through middle grade novels for my talks.  I am putting myself "out there" as a speaker and honing my ability to connect to audiences. AND, once I am published (positive thinking), I will be much better connected to those who promote writers where I live. I know it's a cliche, but this opportunity is a "win" for all.

Family-themed Book List

Since we began the club right before Father's Day, we decided to feature family-themed books, preK-middle grade. For July, animals rule the book list. I am also sharing online resources with the adults from ALA lists to the Grand Canyon Readers' awards. Vicki and I made sure the list was diverse and I promoted the We Need Diverse Books campaign. Some of the books from our list include:
1. How to Cheer Up Dad - Fred Koehler (featured read aloud and craft tie-in)
2. Isabella: Girl on the Go - Jennifer Fosberry
3. Sophie's Squash - Pat Zietlow Miller
4. Knock, Knock: My Dad's Dream for Me - Daniel Beaty
5. Better Nate Than Ever - Tim Federal
6. Kizzy Ann Stamps - Jeri Watts
7. Our entire list is here

I'M INTERESTED IN YOUR SUMMER ADVENTURES THAT INCLUDE WRITING.COMMENT & LET ME KNOW.   Get out there and go for the adventure this summer! You'll win big.