A Not-So-Ordinary Book Discussion
BY TIFFANY KILLOREN
A TOUR OF THE BOOK AISLES For those who lose themselves in books, a bookstore can be like a black hole that sucks away hours of your day when you think only minutes have passed. Kansas City is full of amazing book nooks and shops that offer a perfect little getaway. The following have made it onto my initial tour list, but there are so many more to explore.
Parkville Coffeehouse (Main Street, Parkville, MO)
The upstairs of the Parkville Coffeehouse is like walking back in time to the days when lamps were made from amazing colored glass and flowered couches were the focal point of living rooms. It’s one of my favorite place s — m a n y words written while I’ve been lost in thought at one of the tables surrounded by original artwork hung on stone walls. Nestled in one Photo Credit: Parkville Coffeehouse corner is a display devoted to local authors where you can purchase their books and help make a writer’s day. Oh, and try the quiche! White Light Bookstore (39th Street, Kansas City, MO) You’re not going to find the latest New York Times
bestseller here, but it’s still one of my favorite little shops. I first visited this bookshop looking for crystals to give as gifts to friends. It has an entrance tucked away on the street and a steep staircase that feels like it’s leading somewhere special. If you’re a believer in love and light, the power of crystals, and a New Age wellness approach, grab a coffee and lose yourself in this charming little store.
Rainy Day Books (53rd Street, Fairway, KS) Oh,
how I love a rainy day. Rainy Day Books is more than a bookstore, it’s a beloved institution. A little gem not far from the Country Club Plaza, the shop itself is cozy and one-of-a-kind. And, in addition to a great selection of books, readers in Kansas City constantly check the events Photo Credit: Rainy Day Books calendar for updates on who will be featured in upcoming author events, ranging in genre and intended audience to provide a little something for everyone. Here and There (and Everywhere) “Here and there”
references a book buying approach rather than the name of a bookstore, but the name would be cute for one of those, too. Honestly, books can be expensive, so get creative when filling those shelves. Half Price Books has multiple locations and is a great place to pick up a few reads for less. Also, don’t underestimate your local thrift store. One of my favorites— Hillcrest Thrift Store—is located in the Northland and has an impressive supply of books, many of which go on sale for even further discounts. Photo Credit: Hillcrest Thrift Store
Tiffany Killorenis a local author and lover of the written word. Her novel, GOOD WILL, was released in 2020 and she is always thinking of new stories to tell. Follow her at @readandthreads on Instagram for book and life musings as she tries to balance career, family and her passion for writing one step - or word - at a time. PHOTO BY MOLLY KUPLEN
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SIMPLYkc MAGAZINE
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NOVEMBER 2022
