Plumfield Books pairs books and bottles in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area
Local, independent bookstores have never been more important. With fair access to literature under political attack, bookstores are a bulwark against censorship and an asset to the communities they serve.
Each week we profile an independent bookstore, discovering what makes each one special and getting their expert book recommendations.
This week we have Plumfield Books in Ada, Michigan!
What’s your store’s story?
Plumfield is a small neighborhood bookstore bringing new books, gift items, local artists, and author voices to Ada in a small, cozy, bright, book-smelling package. We just celebrated our one year anniversary and look forward to many more years!
What makes your independent bookstore unique?
We are proud of our ever growing Spanish section to help support the Spanish Immersion programs in Southwest Michigan. And we have a blast pairing our curated wine selection with books we've read and enjoyed! We even have a Book + Bottle book club which continues to grow!
What's your favorite section in your store?
The children's section by far! Kids know exactly where to go. When they’re not looking for books or snuggled on the couch, they are coloring bookmarks or playing with our dollhouse. It's pure magic.
What book do you love to recommend to customers and why?
Currently, "The Labors of Hercules Beal." This is the perfect multi-generational book. It is heartbreaking, heartwarming and funny. And Gary D. Schmidt nailed the 12-year-old boy just perfectly.
What book do you think deserves more attention and why?
"The Light Pirate" by Lily Brooks-Dalton. A lot of people moan when they hear “post-climate change disaster,” but this book is so much more and the writing is so succinctly beautiful. It's one of those books that stays with you. Every person I have convinced to read it has come back and told me how beautiful it is.
What upcoming books or series are you most excited about?
The Empyrean series from Rebecca Yarros. I don't even read fantasy or even touch dragons...but I was riveted! And the action and drama was spot on for me. I hope the series continues on trajectory.
The first two books, "Fourth Wing" and "Iron Flame," are out now. The third book doesn't have a release date yet, but is tentatively set for this winter.
Why is shopping at local, independent bookstores important?
I love convincing people to try different genres. I love having conversations with grandparents, parents and kids. I love finding that next series for the person who has read it all. I love finding a book for the kiddo (or adult) who says "they just aren't big readers" only for them to come back and ask for more!
What are some of your store's events, programs, or partnerships you would like to share?
We have author events, book clubs, and wine tastings every month! Our newest book club, set to come out soon, will be a collaboration with a local brewery that is also women-owned and we will be focusing on women authors. We are also working on having local businesses, educators, community members come in and do Saturday Story Time.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Books and wine? Get both at Plumfield Books in Michigan