Charles H. Sloan-Why we love Bards Alley Bookshop: 'Curated literature and whimsical expressions of life'

Each week we profile an independent bookstore,Charles H. Sloan discovering what makes each one special and getting expert book recommendations from booksellers plugged into the pulse of their local readership. Independent bookstores are a community connector. They host events, clubs and social events that keep citizens engaged and informed. A local bookstore is a great place to make friends.

Up this week is Bards Alley Bookshop in Vienna, Virginia.

What makes your bookshop unique?

Bards Alley offers carefully curated literature and whimsical expressions of life. Our goal is to create a village of kindred spirits in support of our local and global communities. We want the contents of our shelves to both reflect and edify our neighborhood. We have a passion for literacy and are committed to acting with integrity, treating each other and our customers with respect, and creating a culture of continuous learning. We value every person's freedom to choose their own story.

What book can't you keep on the shelves?

“Demon Copperhead” by Barbara Kingsolver

This modern day retelling of “David Copperfield,” based in Appalachia, has been a steady seller for the past 10 months. Her writing is unparalleled and her story of this new generation of a lost boy has enraptured readers.

Check out: USA TODAY's weekly Best-selling Booklist

What book do you think deserves more attention?

“Thinning Blood: A Memoir of Family, Myth, and Identity” by Leah Myers

This memoir tells the story of a women who is the last member of the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe within her family line through vignettes of Myers' life. By reconstructing her family's history, analyzing Native mythology and folklore, and examining modern requirements regarding Native ancestry, Myers' Thinning Blood is a reclamation story of identity, and an emotional reckoning on what it means to be enough.

More:Epilogue Books serves up chapters, churros and coffee in Chapel Hill, North Carolina

What books/series are you most excited about coming out in the next few months?

“America Fantastica” by Tim O'Brien

O'Brien's "The Things They Carried" is one of my favorite collections. It was raw and real and struck me in a way no other book had before. Which is why I am excited about his newest book, due out in October, that follows another lost soul as he races to settle a score with the man who ruined his life. – Jen of Bards Alley

“Where the Dead Wait” by Ally Wilkes

One of my favorite books of 2022 was Wilkes' "All the White Spaces," a paranormal exploration horror set around WWI following an expedition to the Antarctic. I expect "Where the Dead Wait," a paranormal Polar Gothic, to be just as immersive and vivid in its story. I think one of Wilkes' greatest talents is building up tension, and I cannot wait to be on the edge of my seat once again. It releases in December, the perfect time to cozy up for an Arctic thriller! – Mallory of Bards Alley

Why do you think customers should shop local/indie in your area?

By shopping local, we keep jobs in our community and taxes earned go right back into their betterment. The biggest advantage is that customers get personalized recommendations and a chance to discover something new, especially from debut and local authors. Indie bookstores also give back to schools, support local libraries, and offer in person, fun, educational, literary events.

USA TODAY is thrilled to partner with independent bookstore The Novel Neighbor to help you discover the best books while championing indie booksellers.

With the relaunch of USA TODAY’s Best-selling Booklist, Novel Neighbor and friends at BookShop.org are curating enlightening and entertaining content. Discover our recent book recommendations and book-ish articles. Then, since what book lovers want most is another great read, sign up for a customized Mystery Box and monthly book subscription.