Jazz in the Lowcountry

Although I'm still searching for connections to and in the book community here in the lowcountry, I have found a vibrant and wonderful jazz community. Last Saturday, for the small coverage charge of $5, we were able to list to 2 sets by the Robert Lewis Trio: Robert Lewis, Frank Duvall ( both faculty members of the College of Charleston), and Stuart White. Much like "Indie" bookstores, the local jazz artists here have formed their own organization to connect and promote themselves: Jazz Artists of Charleston. All this great music....lucky me!

Color of Lightning

I admit it - I love good historical fiction. My latest read comes from Paulette Jiles, author of Enemy Women and Stormy Weather. Historical fiction, done well, gives life to a person or event forgotten in history. In the Color of Lightning, Jiles gives voice to Britt Johnson, a freed black man in Texas at the end of the Civil War. Settlers, looking for a new start, have moved in and encroached on Indian Territory. Jiles does a fine job of illustrating the clash of cultures and the resulting violence in this dark part of U.S. history.

Out of touch

People have often asked me over the last year what I miss most about book selling, and I have never quite known the answer….but, I know now. The answer came as I walked into my old store after a 6 months absence…..it was the tactile experience of books. After hellos to everyone, I found myself going from shelf to shelf picking up books, looking at inside flaps, and checking our the author photo. All the time spent on Books & Company’s website (www.booksco.com), indie Bound, Ipage, or Shelf Awareness just doesn’t take the place of having that book in your hands. I miss having the spontaneous and spirited conversations about books that you are so easily able to have in a community bookstore.