Meet the Book Seller - Gwen - Communications Maven & Data Whisperer
Describe what you do at RD books in 6 words.
Email fairy, video editor, lifetime bookseller.
What was the last book you read that you loved?
Jade City by Fonda Lee
What was a book you read on a recommendation from someone else that you wouldn’t have picked up otherwise?
Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead
Favorite reading spot?
Curled up on the couch with my cat Bones.
Book you re-read every year?
Squire by Tamora Pierce
Favorite part about working at the store?
I love the people that I get to work with. They are all such creative and wonderful colleagues. When I get to work in person, we have such a blast. Even working remotely is fun, rewarding, and a constant challenge.
Do you have any good author stories?
I have many, but I’ll tell one of my favorites. When I was younger, I would go with my parents to the tradeshow every year. There are events where you can meet authors and get signed copies of their books. At one of these events, Allie Brosh - author of Hyperbole and a Half - was signing. She asked everyone in line what they wanted her to draw in the book. She intended it to be one of her original characters, but I asked her to draw me a narwhal instead. She obliged my twelve year old self, and I proceeded to ask every author in the room to draw me a narwhal instead of signing their book. So, still, on one of my bookshelves I have a collection of about 20 books all signed with narwhals.
How did you come to Rediscovered Books?
My parents opened the store when I was 8 years old. It’s a family business, and I was working behind the counter from the very beginning. I’ve grown up around the store. It is completely intertwined with my life.
What is something unique to you that you would like people to know?
When I’m not working in books, I’m making music. I’m an opera singer by training, and I’m currently auditioning for masters programs in voice.
What are four all time favorite books for you?
I’ll Give You The Sun by Jandy Nelson
Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler
The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green
The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson