96 books, one very grateful bookseller
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Originally emailed October 20, 2026. This archived edition preserves the original newsletter wording. Events and time-sensitive announcements below reflect that date.
Dear Reader,
On Saturday, 96 books found new readers at Books, Blooms & Magic at Calgo Gardens.
Ninety-six! That deserves to be written out at least once.
There’s so much choosing, ordering, wrapping, and second-guessing before I bring the bookshop somewhere. I make predictions about which books you’ll pick. Sometimes I’m right. Sometimes the books I’m certain will go home with someone come right back home with me.
You keep me guessing. I like that about you.
This time, mystery beat romance by exactly ONE book. Nineteen mysteries to eighteen romances. As a mystery reader myself, I’m trying to remain professional about this.
I shared your favorites, a few surprises, and some thank-yous in Sunday’s Instagram carousel. If you were there, you might recognize the book you brought home. If you weren’t, it’s a little peek at what readers picked.
To everyone who stopped by, chose a book, or spent a few minutes talking books with us: thank you. And if this weekend brought you here for the first time, welcome! I’m Kimberly, the person choosing the books, writing the clue cards, and thinking perhaps a little too hard about every last detail. I’m so glad you’re here.
It takes more than one pair of hands to bring this little bookshop to life. So grateful for this crew. (Also, does anyone have a contact at the Hot Hands company? We're looking for sponsorship.)
And now, about actually reading those books…
I spend a lot of time choosing, ordering, and wrapping books. Making time to read one myself? Apparently, that requires a reminder.
This week on The Front Porch blog, I’m making room for a little autumn reading. Nothing ambitious. A cup of tea, twenty minutes, and a story I’m curious to start. Ideally while the tea is still hot.
If you brought a book home this weekend, maybe this is your reminder, too.
A Little Mystery, a Little Magic →
A gift that feels chosen, not checked off a list.
I’ve been working on something new, and I’m so excited to finally share it: custom curated gifts from Main Street Chapters!
Think employee appreciation, client thank-yous, bridal parties, and celebrations that call for something a little more personal.
We’ll start with our signature wrapped-book bundles, choosing books and thoughtful bookish extras around your recipients, occasion, and budget. One theme for the whole group? Different books for different reading tastes? That’s part of the fun.
I’m now welcoming inquiries for 2027 gifting. You don’t need every detail figured out. An estimated quantity, budget range, and delivery month are a wonderful place to start.
If you’re already thinking about next year, I’d love to help you make it thoughtful.
Let’s plan something thoughtful →
Just added: another stop for the bookshop!
A new event just landed on our calendar! This Saturday, I’m bringing the wrapped books and clue cards to the Fall Market at Horseshoe Lake Park in Roxbury Township.
Come find your next read, browse the makers and vendors, and make a fall afternoon of it with food trucks and music. Trick-or-treaters are welcome, too!
Saturday, October 24 · 11 AM–4 PM
Horseshoe Lake Recreation Complex · Roxbury Township, NJ
Free admission
The market is also collecting food donations for the Interfaith Food Pantry. If you’re able, bring something to drop off at the field entrance.
Whether you came home from Calgo with a wrapped book, are planning to visit this weekend, or are reading along from farther away, thank you for being part of this little bookshop’s story.
Now tell me: what are you reading? And if you’ve unwrapped one of our books lately, I’d love to hear what you found. Hit reply. I’m always up for book talk.
With gratitude (and hopefully warmer hands),
Kimberly