Here’s another lovely essay that was submitted as part of the giveaway/contest from HarperPerennial! Meaghan Walsh, blogging eponymously, calls herself a “writer. photographer. critic. grammarian. aspiring woman of letters.” Other than driving through Savannah on our way to Hilton Head, I haven’t spent any time in Savannah (which, I’ll admit, I grew intrigued with, after reading Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil); Meaghan’s essay about The Book Lady rekindles a desire to slow down, browse, and enjoy all the city has to offer.
I love to frequent a little, independent, used bookstore called The Book Lady, on Liberty Street in Savannah. It is
nestled a couple of steps down from the street level, in the lower level of an historic old home in downtown Savannah. Brick walls, stuffed leather chairs, fireplaces and floor-to-ceiling shelves, filled with interesting titles. Her desk is always covered with stacks of invoices, orders, and other books she is considering. She handwrites all of her receipts on a small pad. And there is nothing that can stump her encyclopedic knowledge. But the store has one more secret – a garden out back. A tiny spot of green, overflowing with flowers – a quiet place to shuffle through your latest find.
If Meaghan’s keen observations and the photo of that welcoming door aren’t enough, here’s another teaser, from The Book Lady’s Bookstore Facebook page: “Located in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, the shop currently has 25K books in over 40 genres, both gently used and new. Check our calendar for current events and book club schedules. Free wifi, cafe and knowledgeable (opinionated!) staff.”
Have you visited The Book Lady Bookstore, or spent much time in Savannah? Have you ever visited a city IRL after visiting it in a book?
I visited the Book Lady earlier this year and thought it was one of the best bookstores in the area. It’s really, really nice- a cozy little shop with great books and an adorable, tiny cafe. I missed the garden though-boo!
I’ve been to that store and believe me, it is wonderful – it’s the type of place you can browse in for a long time.
It sounds so cozy what with the fireplace and the garden. My mother lives close to this area, so I might have to stop by and check it out next time I go to visit her.
This sounds like a lovely store. I’ll definitely visit if I ever make it to Savannah.
WOW! I’ve been in there a few times and even found a few great books for our bedside tables, but I never knew about the garden out back. I need to get into town today and check it out. Thanks for sharing!
Tami
That sounds like a lovely bookstore. I’m reading Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil right now, and it’s really making me want to go to Savannah.
Isn’t is funny how I visit Savannah so often, and somehow I’ve missed this little gem! I’ll be back in Savannah in February and will definitely stop in.
Love your description of The BookLady’s store in Savannah. I’ve never been there. Never been to Savannah. Have been dying to go after a few friends told me about the Historic district, etc. I like mysteries that are set in Savannah.
Marie – it does sound like a gem. And, missing the garden means you may be back!
Kathy – browsing … hmm, I’ll have to go without kids.
zibilee – oh, that would be fun! Do let me know if you get to the Book Lady Bookstore
iubookgirl – we’re creating a map of fab bookstores with this series. Lots of places I wish to visit!
Tami – thanks for putting in another vote from a local
Kim – isn’t that a great book?! The city seems full of history (and mystery!)
Beth – I hope you do get to visit … and CONGRATS on the paperback release of CEECEE!
Tea – yes, many thanks to Meaghan for sharing her visit to the Book Lady Bookstore with us.
I loved Savannah! (And this bookstore.) You must visit someday!
Love the milk cartons of goblins. Too cute.
I’m going to Savannah in a few weeks – I’m definitely stopping in at The Book Lady. Wonder if she’ll have events when I’m there?