A bookshop is more than .......

A bookshop is more than just a place to see and buy books.  It can be a wonderland of opportunity and challenge.

I've loved bookshops since I was a small child.   Opening the door and entering into a world where I could lose myself quite contentedly with Victorian and Edwardian story books as well as picture books, I found not only pleasurable, but a place where I could forget all the problems that children have - worrying about school exams - having had a disagreement with a teacher - not being able to comprehend certain subjects.  The bookshops were a world where I felt secure and comfortable.

And I learned the wonder of touching books with exquisite bindings, opening pages where the most beautiful illustrations leapt out at me, and transported me to imaginary and fantastic worlds.

In the years since (quite a few decades) my love of and for bookshops and books has constantly increased.

One of my early memories of visiting Rainy Day Books in The Basin, was to meet Meryll - so friendly and eager to help - her knowledge of books and authors is second to none.

I saw bookshelves crambed full of books by authors I knew by name, and others I'd never heard of - many of whom I have since been introduced to and who now sit in my vast list of favourite authors.  A large, wonderfully comfy sofa awaiting book-lovers to sit and relax and leaf through books before purchasing sits just inside the shop, and a relaxed and friendly atmosphere added to my experiences.

And I enjoy seeing Mums and/or Dads come into the shop with their children - who squeal with delight and make a beeline for the children's section.   Again bookshelves of brightly coloured books, in a small divided section with a coloured mat to sit on.   To see a child's face when he or she finds a book they like is well worth the visit.

Visitors to the Dandenongs who love books, can do no better than to make sure they include The Basin in their journeys.   The time spent at Rainy Day Books, meeting and talking with Meryll, and wandering around the bookstore choosing something special from the marvellous selection of books available, enhances any day.   You just never know what you'll find or discover.

....©2011 Rosemary