Themed to the state of Alaska, our August 2024 Literary Road Trip box was created in collaboration with Homer Bookstore. Located on the Kenai penisula in Homer, Alaska, the bookstore has an interesting history.
The original owner, Woody Suttles started with a few rack of books in a sports store. In 1974, Suttles, along with partners Splinter and Kathy Smith, moved into a different building and opened a dedicated bookstore. Two years later, Suttles sold his share to the Smiths. At that time, Homer Bookstore was just named "The Bookstore."
Throughout the seventies, the store moved to several other locations. In 1978, The Bookstore was sold to bookseller Joy Post and her son, Lee. 1994, Joy's daughter Sue and Sue's close friend, Jenny, became partners in the business. Sue and Jenny had met during college, while both working at a Book Cache in Anchorage. Shortly after Jenny and Sue joined the team, the store was rebranded to Homer Bookstore. It is one of oldest, perhaps even the very oldest, continuously running bookstores in the state of Alaska!
Housed in a purple and teal house with an otter for a mascot, Homer Bookstore couldn't be more charming. They also have a fun stick person with a book sculpture on the front porch. Take a look at their website for a store tour!
Homer is home to many local authors and Homer Bookstore supports their efforts. Their website has a list of local writers and the store staff is happy to recommend their favorite local reads. When I called to arrange this collaboration, I was filled with their recommendations. It's always wonderful to talk to fellow book people. They also recommended the August box cards by local artist Valisa Higman, which are popular items in their store. If you're in the area, keep an eye on their website for author events.
We've included Homer Bookstore's store bookmark and otter logo sticker in the August box. The August box has just sold-out, but click here to see it, including the various card designs feom Valisa Higman. Make sure to join our Literary Road Trip Box subscription to reserve upcoming boxes before they sell out! Please support Homer Bookstore. If you don't live near Homer, you can still shop from their online store and visit their Instagram page.
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