Everyone knows how much I love to read. But I do more than just read when I grab a book. I set the ATMOSPHERE for reading. Sometimes I light candles or use my Himalayan Salt/Rock Lamp. Sometimes I grab a cup of java or wine. I might even have cookies or a burger and fries. I have even used sounds to set the atmosphere. My favorite is rain. I like to read on a rainy day and sometimes it's just not raining outside. And I always have a comfy place to sit!!! 
So...believe it or not, I also like a certain atmosphere when I shop for a book as well. When I was "new" to my reading addiction, I would always go to B & N to get new books. I loved that they served Starbucks coffee and had lots of books. But as I became a more mature reader and my reading addiction became very deep and mystical, I sought other avenues to fill my need.  
One lovely, readable day, I came across Novel. Novel is a bookstore located near Perkins and Poplar. It's amazing!!!!! They have every book that B & N has, PAGE for PAGE. But that's not what makes them so amazing. 

#1 - Full size kid service station WITH a train table next to a youthful nook.
#2 - Local and National Writers are ALWAYS there!!!!! You definitely should check out their calendar.
#3 - A multi-purpose room!! Yes, I may probably have my birthday party there and invite Charlaine Harris. (You never know.)
#4 - A FULL SERVICE RESTAURANT. Yep, you read right!!!! Libro is an upscale restaurant located right inside of Novel. I love their burgers and mushroom & ravioli. But you gotta try their Shrimp and Grits available for Sunday Brunch. The kids love their paninis, fruit/honey/yogurt, and even their PB&Js are gourmet!
#5 - A FULL SERVICE BAR. They can make any and every drink. The house red wine does the trick too. (Wink wink)
#6 - KIDS EAT FREE ON THURSDAYS. Need I say more!!!! It's not any of that "Kids each free with the purchase of whatever" deals either. On Thursdays, a KID eats FREE...PERIOD.
#7  Comfiest chairs and coolest nicnacs. Plus, plus....they sale local teas, cookies and commodities too!

Novel has the best atmosphere for reading and relaxing. They have the kind of atmosphere that pairs well with my addiction. I think I will go there tomorrow......

When you know better, you do better.
Now you know Novel, you should do Novel.

If you are looking for some unique pieces of art and gift items. You MUST go to B. Collective. This cute little shop on Main contains amazing pieces of art and various crafts all made from LOCAL ARTISTS!!!! 
First, you are welcomed as if you are a long lost friend they haven't seen since elementary school. Then you are allowed to wander, look, and smell anything and everything. That shea body butter goodness made by Olivia and Ruby is sooooooo silky and smells soooooo good. The Memphis scent is to die for yall. So good, just so good. 
They had dinosaur tails, dresses, purses, beer mugs, jewelry, so much art work, teas, candles, wood work and much, much more. 
There was this one painting that screamed BLACK GIRL MAGIC. But I won't show it here, you need to see it for yourself. 
If you know of any local artist who would like to have an avenue in which to sale their goods, they gotta contact B. Collective!!!!
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​Oh, btw, I will be buying some "Remorse Tea" when I go back!!!!!! #nomohangovers