Today we’d like to introduce you to WOODS PRAEL.
Hi WOODS, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Gunzil and Bowser Children’s Bookstore stems from a long relationship with children’s literature, growing up surrounded by the great illustrated texts of the 30’s to the 60’s. My father, whose unpublished book is the store’s namesake was an artist, and former bookstore manager, so a wide varity of titles found their way onto our bookshelves. After a long career as an English teacher, it struck me strangely how few of my students had a similar exposure, how much they had missed out, and how many parents and grandparents would love to re-experience the emotional bond they had with a favorite, but forgotten book. Located in a former church rectory, the store is a home in both design and purpose.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Located in a rural community that hadn’t been able to support a bookstore of any kind for over a decade, this was always a risky venture when your competition is Amazon and Walmart. The one thing neither could replicate was the joy of perusing a variety of beautifully illustrated kid’s books, and tapping into long buried emotions, stemming from the forgotten voices of the family member who originally read a particular book to you. Knowing that bookstores are almost exclusively found in metropolitan areas, suburbia or vacation spots, the challenge was obvious from the start. Another obstacle that almost ended it all was having a series ofstrokes about two years ago, that almost shuttered my doors.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Over 25 years in secondary education, has allowed me to effect change in my community like nothing else. Because I tended to work well with a large variety of students, including the at risk population, I was given chances to create audience specific classes designed around the learner instead of always fitting the square peg into the round hole.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I love working with and within the community, sponsoring book signings, school book fairs, read alouds and other child focused events. I have frequently joined forces with my neighbor, Moonlit Petrichor (soaps, candles, coffee, tea, and jewlery), for events and promotions. I recently sponsored a “Books That Made Us” social media campaign where community members came in for a photo with a book from their youth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/people/Gunzil-Bowser-Childrens-Bookstore/100089016575154/
- Instagram: @gunzilandbowserbooks
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Gunzil-Bowser-Childrens-Bookstore/100089016575154/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GunilandBowserChildrensBooks
