a book store with exceptional warmth and charm
Kristina McMorris, author of Letters from Home and Bridge of Scarlet Leaves shares her love of Beach Books, in Seaside, Oregon:
When Karen Emmerling, the owner of Beach Books, invited me to participate in her monthly author luncheon, I didn’t hesitate in accepting. 
I’d already had the pleasure of visiting her lovely store during occasional trips with my family to the Oregon coast, where the shop sits right in the heart of downtown Seaside. Drifting in the salt air are the sweet scents of cinnamon-sugar elephant ears and the tinkling songs of a nearby carousel. All of this helps create the perfect backdrop for a book store with exceptional warmth and charm.
Upon entering, you’re sure to encounter one of two greeters: Oz, their 
popular feline mascot, or a personable staff member who is more than happy to share her passion for reading. Among the features I most appreciate about Beach Books are the handwritten detailed recommendations posted beside titles on every shelf. I have easily spent an hour at a time perusing those notes, not to mention the hours I’ve spent discussing them with the staff.
As for the author luncheon, I had even more fun that afternoon than I expected. With attendance being prepaid — and includes an author chat, catered lunch, and a signed book — the event attracts a regular group of customers who bear the familiarity of a devoted book club.
I loved visiting with the readers long after our lunch session, all of which was set in a light, airy space with a homey feel.
If you’re a long ways from the Oregon coast but would still like to support a fabulous indie store, I hope you’ll visit their website and purchase a title through Google eBooks™ (which can be viewed on almost every reading device). If you’re indeed close enough to visit Beach Books in person, please give Karen — and Oz — a huge hug for me! – Kristina
I do occasional posts highlighting independent booksellers, who are so important to helping new literary voices find their audiences; the independents–especially those in the bay area–were instrumental in helping me find mine. If you have a favorite bookstore, please email me and I’ll do my best to have it featured here.
