Turning Page Bookshop

Black-Owned by Char Adams

, ,
Black-Owned by Char Adams
buy this book

Buy from your local indie.
Get the audiobook

As an avid book lover, there’s nothing more fulfilling than witnessing the celebration of black bookstores through the lens of two incredible books. In a world where challenges abound, these books serve as a beacon of hope and a testament to the resilience and creativity thriving within the black bookstore community. Black bookstores have long stood as pillars of culture and education, providing a space where black voices and stories can be celebrated, shared, and cherished. They are more than just places to purchase books; they are community hubs that foster connection, understanding, and empowerment. The book, Black-Owned: The Revolutionary Life of the Black Bookstore, not only delves into the intricacies of running a black bookstore but also explores the vibrant narratives and rich experiences within these spaces. They offer a deep dive into the triumphs and trials that bookstore owners face, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the dedication and passion involved. Why do these books and bookstores matter? They highlight the cultural importance of black bookstores, showcasing their role in preserving and promoting black literature and thought. Readers will gain valuable insights into the business side of running a bookstore, including the unique challenges and opportunities faced by black bookstore owners. The stories within these pages are filled with inspiration, illustrating the power of perseverance and the impact of community support. In these challenging times, supporting black authors and black bookstores is more crucial than ever. By purchasing this book, you not only enrich your own understanding and appreciation of black culture but also contribute to the sustainability and growth of these vital community institutions. I am one of the bookstores in this book, and it was an honor to talk to Char Adams about my own struggle running a bookstore and working a full-time job. This book is a celebration of love, resilience, and the enduring spirit of black bookstores. They are a dream realized for anyone passionate about literature and the preservation of black narratives. I encourage you to support this author and her work, as she offers a window into the world of black bookstores—arguably the best in the world.

Black-Owned by Char Adams, (List Price: $32, Tiny Reparations Books, 9780593474235, November 2025)

Reviewed by VaLinda Payne-Miller, Turning Page Bookshop in CHARLESTON, South Carolina

Black-Owned by Char Adams Read More »

The Book of I by David Greig

, , , , , , , , , ,
The Book of I by David Greig
buy this book

Buy from your local indie.

The Viking Age, a period marked by Norsemen raids and trade, serves as the backdrop for a compelling narrative of survival, faith, and redemption. Three distinct characters emerge from the shadows of this tumultuous era, each bearing their own burdens and stories. Brother Martin, a young monk, is one of the few survivors of a brutal massacre at a monastery. This experience challenges his faith and spirituality, and as you read it, you will witness his internal struggles with faith and spirituality. Una, a beekeeper, gets the opportunity to escape her brute of a husband due to the raid, and after years of enduring brutality, she is determined to find a new path. It’s not easy, but a better life is ahead. Then there is Griuir, who was a Norse raider left for dead. He struggles with guilt over his participation in the violent raid, the Viking legacy, and he looks to reconcile his violent actions with a desire for atonement. With the emotional journey through the beautiful landscapes of Scotland, the author does an exceptional job of writing about these characters’ personal growth and redemption. I did some additional research on the Viking age to understand more, and it did not disappoint me. It reminds me of other books I have read on enduring the power of redemption and the capacity for all of us to change. Beautiful!!!.

The Book of I by David Greig, (List Price: $24, Europa Editions, 9798889661276, September 2025)

Reviewed by Valinda Payne-Miller, Turning Page Bookshop in Charleston, South Carolina

The Book of I by David Greig Read More »

The Trouble with Heroes by Kate Messner

, ,
The Trouble with Heroes by Kate Messner
buy this book

Buy from your local indie.
Get the audiobook

In The Trouble with Heroes, we meet Finn, a seventh grader whose world revolves around baking. Finn’s passion for the kitchen is his escape, his joy, and his identity. Yet, he feels overshadowed by the towering legacy of his father, a firefighter who became a local hero after saving lives on 9/11. His father’s bravery and selflessness are celebrated by the community, leaving Finn feeling inadequate and wondering why his own talents go unnoticed. Struggling with these emotions, Finn makes a regrettable choice in a moment of misguided anger and confusion. He vandalizes an old lady’s headstone, only to discover it belongs to one of the pioneering women who conquered all the Adirondack High Peaks. Instead of pressing charges, the woman’s daughter offers Finn a chance at redemption. She proposes a deal: Finn must climb all 46 peaks over the summer, accompanied by her loyal dog. Completing this challenging journey will absolve him of his mistake. This quest becomes more than just a physical challenge for Finn. As he scales each peak, he learns about the remarkable woman whose grave he defaced, deepening his understanding of courage and perseverance. The journey also becomes a path of self-discovery, where Finn grapples with his faith, confronts his feelings of inadequacy, and ultimately finds his own identity outside of his father’s shadow. The Trouble with Heroes is a powerful and uplifting tale, perfect for today’s teenagers who are navigating a world filled with drama and the pressures of social media. The book encourages readers to find their own “peak” to climb, to learn more about themselves, their families, and their friends. It is a heartfelt recommendation for all teens seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of their place in the world.

The Trouble with Heroes by Kate Messner, (List Price: $17.99, Bloomsbury Children’s Books, 9781547616398, April 2025)

Reviewed by VaLinda Payne-Miller, Turning Page Bookshop in Goose Creek, South Carolina

The Trouble with Heroes by Kate Messner Read More »

All the Blues in the Sky by Renée Watson

, , , , ,
All the Blues in the Sky by Renée Watson
buy this book

Buy from your local indie.
Get the audiobook

Turning thirteen is a milestone filled with exciting possibilities: movies, treats, all-night giggles, and the promise of teenage adventures. For Sage, however, this time is overshadowed by the profound loss of her best friend. The friend who knew all her secrets, shared dreams for the future, and was an irreplaceable part of her life is now gone, leaving Sage to navigate a complex web of emotions. Grief is a deeply personal journey, and for a young teen like Sage, it can be especially confusing and overwhelming. How do you acknowledge Your Feelings? Everyone processes loss differently. She seeks counseling groups, a safe space to share feelings and hear from others who have experienced similar losses. Creating a Memory Box of her and her best friend. Grieving the loss of a best friend is an incredibly challenging experience, especially for someone as young as Sage. However, by acknowledging her feelings, seeking support, practicing self-care, and finding ways to memorialize her friend, Sage can navigate her grief while continuing to grow and learn. Remember, grief is not about forgetting the loved one but learning to live with the loss in a way that honors their memory while moving forward with life.

All the Blues in the Sky by Renée Watson, (List Price: $17.99, Bloomsbury Children’s Books, 9781547605897, February 2025)

Reviewed by VaLinda Payne-Miller, Turning Page Bookshop in Goose Greek, South Carolina

All the Blues in the Sky by Renée Watson Read More »

Scroll to Top