An adored, independent institution off S. Armenia, Inkwood Books is an epicenter for “local love.” The precious bungalow boasts a selection of new books from every literary genre, even carrying some releases for Kobo eBooks and eReaders. Renowed in the community for its very personal, warm service, Inkwood has played host to a bevy celebrity/author signings, including (the occasionally abrasive) Chelsea Handler and (the always luminous) Amanda Palmer.
The store also has a wonderfully stocked section of young adult/children’s literature. Inkwood also routinely hosts storytime and kid/teen book clubs. That dedication to inciting a love of reading among youth will be amplified through May 10, as Inkwood participates in Children’s Book Week.
Mon., May 4
Author Tommy Greenwald cornered the market on young, reluctant readers, with his Charlie Joe Jackson series. Greenwald will be at Inkwood on Monday at 6:30 p.m. to kick off Children’s Book Week and to celebrate his newest release, Katie Friedman Gives Up Texting (And Live to Tell About It!) – proof that Greenwald can reach even the most technologically-minded group of reluctant young readers.
Tues., May 5
To the utmost delight of all young (and older) local Star Wars fans, the “Revenge of the Fifth” storytime/party will include readings related to the sci-fi cornerstone. To appease any hungry tummies, Star Wars inspired snacks will be served, including Jar Jar Links in a Blanket and Hans Rolos.
There will also be book giveaways and a Star Wars Lego competitions, during which the winning models will receive prizes. The event will take place from 5-7 p.m.
Wed., May 6
As Inkwood Books has fostered a nourishing relationship with Sulphur Spring Elementary, 15% of total sales generated by the store on May 6 will be donated to developing the school’s media center, with the goal of spreading literacy and an appreciation for reading in the community.
Fri., May 8
An unlikely union, “Four Men and a Kid’s Book: When Happy Hour and Storytime Collide” will entertain the little ones while allowing adults to peruse the store equipped with a glass of wine. The special storytime (from 6-7 p.m.) will be guided by an endlessly witty and bright group of men, including Tampa writers Jeff Klinkenberg and Fred Koehler, travel guru David Hurst and master barista Ty Beddingfield (aka Ty Ty Coffee Guy), who will read from their favorite children’s books.
Sat., May 9
Pinkie McCloud, the fictional character in Eileen Goldenberg’s Pinkie McCould and How She Saved Ballooze, rescues her town from a horrible, hurricane-esque storm, despite being relentlessly made fun of for the tiny pink wings that sprout out of her head. Goldenberg, who wrote and illustrated the picture book, will read and sign copies at 4 p.m.
Inkwood Books is located at 216 S. Armenia Ave., Tampa, inkwoodbooks.com.
