By Derek Johnson
Special to the Alpine Mountaineer
Paper & Clay, Crestline’s new bookstore, has launched “Kids’ Storytime,” a weekly event designed to bring families together for fun and imagination. Every Saturday at 11 a.m., kids can relax on plush blue cushions and listen as volunteer parents bring stories to life.
The kids’ section is whimsical and cozy.
The first event in this series started on Saturday, Dec. 28. Parent Allie Danzey read two books to the attending kids – The Book with No Words by B.J. Novak, and Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin. Afterward, many of the kids enjoyed browsing the book selection and enjoying free hot chocolate provided by the store.
Paper & Clay is a recent addition to the mountain, opening on Nov. 16 at 23872 Lake Drive, right next door to the outdoors outfitter shop, Fort Gregory. “As far as I know, we are the only full-time new bookstore open on the mountain, possibly including Big Bear,” said owner Rachel Brown.
Brown has successfully curated a cozy atmosphere in the bookstore, which is sprinkled with whimsical décor. Many decorative items were created by Brown herself – from a hand painted floating mushroom shelf on the wall, to a miniature diorama depicting a scene from Carrie on a bookshelf in the horror section. A table containing beautiful mugs and other ceramic items for sale also shows off Brown’s artistic talent. “These are all handmade by me as well,” she added.
Paper & Clay constantly offers coffee, tea, hot chocolate and cider for visitors, and Brown assured us, “You don’t have to buy anything, it’s always free.”
The store can get any book that is currently in print, typically within a week of ordering, so don’t be discouraged if they don’t have your preferred selection in stock.
“I really like the kids’ section here – I’m glad we have this store here in Crestline,” said one parent.
Paper & Clay is open from noon to 6 p.m. every Thursday through Sunday.
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