Last Friday I gave a reading of my new book, Jamie’s Muse, at Garrison & Garrison Books, here in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Considered by many to be a “hidden treasure trove,” “a gem of a bookstore,” and “the best little bookshop in town,” Garrison & Garrison is tucked into a charming archade called the Plaza Artesanal Bicentenario on Hidalgo (#26) in the heart of Centro:
This little gem of a bookstore holds the proud distinction of being open for business – selling new and used books in English, Spanish, and many other languages – since 2008. At a time when book-reading and book-buying (especially from brick-and-mortar bookstores) are declining, this is quite a feat.
As one reviewer put it, “You don’t see many bookstores like this anymore. It feels steeped in history. So it was a treat to find it tucked away in an artisan market in Centro.”
Since the interior of the cozy bookstore is too small to accommodate readings – especially readings that are well attended, as mine was, I’m happy to report – the owner, Michelle Garrison, sets up chairs in the bright and colorful courtyard:
I read three selections from Jamie’s Muse and summarized most of the rest of the story, then took questions. One of the many questions I received was, “Do you plan to write another book?” My quick answer was, “No. … But ask me again in two years.”
Garrison & Garrison Books’ motto is “Resist ignorance. Read a book.” If I still embroidered, I’d make a sampler of it.
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(Jamie’s Muse is now available at Garrison & Garrison Books, as well as from Amazon.com and directly from its publisher Nighthawk Press. It is also available now as an eBook, and it will soon be available in the San Miguel Biblioteca gift shop. For more information, please visit: www.bonnieleeblack.com .)
It was a pleasure to be able to attend. A fascinating story!
Thanks so much, Kim. I’m so glad you could be there — and thank you for all of your help.
Enjoyed event Bonnie and nice to finally visit this little bookstore I have heard mentioned often.
Thanks, Lyn! It was great to see you and Lee there. Thanks for coming.
So glad it went well. I’ll go by Garrisons and pick up a copy next week. So proud of you!
Kate
Thanks, Kate! You’re such a pal! — xx
Always love when you post pictures, and what a beautiful venue to be able to introduce your latest book. Sending love your way, on this rainy Sunday afternoon. Arti
Thank you, Arti dear. Yes, I was hoping that the photos would allow all WOW readers to feel as if they were here. Sending love back to you from sunny San Miguel.
Hola from the USA! So glad your book reading went well. Sorry I was out of town for it…but I am you big cheerleader and will attend the next one!
Hola, Cheerleader! Wish you could have been here for the G&G event, but there’ll be another in April at the Lit. Sala. Hope you’re having a fun time with your family.
Congratulations, Bonnie! Looks like a healthy turnout in lovely surroundings. Brava!
Thank you, Barb dear. Yes, it was a good turnout. I was very grateful. — xx
Congratulations, Bonnie! I look forward to reading the book.
Much love/Sara Jean
Thank you, Sara Jean! I hope you’re doing well. — xx
Dear Bon,
What a beautiful store. How wonderful to have a local bookstore at which to give a reading.
I do hope you will be writing another book. Jamie’s Muse was such a fantastic read because, like all your books, it was written from love. Inspiration may be just around the corner!
Love,
Paul
Well, we’ll see about that next book, Paul dear. As I said to the person who asked me at the recent reading, “Ask me in two years.” — xx