When is a bookstore more than a bookstore? When a longstanding goal, a passion for literature, and the perfect curating team combine forces. Owner, Eileen Bobek had dreamed of opening a bookstore in Jacksonville. Three years ago, with community support, an ideal storefront and the perfect sales assistant in Marcella Bell, the dream came alive. Recently I visited Rebel Heart Books at 157 West California Street, where shelves hold life and characters, while Eileen, Marcella, and Marcella’s husband, Josh, encourage a love of reading and foster a strong sense of community.
With all the tooth-gnashing about struggling independent bookstores, I was curious about their success. I mean, small bookshops are dropping like flyleaves, are they not? “One of the coolest things is that independent bookstores are actually having a renaissance across the country,” Marcella assured me. “Communities are really responding to and returning to the bookstore, and we’re seeing that a lot.” Shoppers enjoy the (historic) brick and mortar experience—one that comes with personal recommendations and friendly interaction. Plus, it’s just plain cozy. Rebel Heart snugs inside one of Jacksonville’s fabulous historic buildings—the 1859 Martin & Zigler Blacksmith Shop—forging relationships, you might say.
Community is nurtured by clearing some space within their walls and hosting free gatherings. Every Thursday morning from 8:45-10:00am, there’s a Shut Up and Write!™ event. Not a critique group, but one that encourages writers of all genres to come together and accomplish something on the page. On first Thursday, Jeff Johnson and the Drink and Draw Social Club meet from 6:30-8:30pm. Non-alcoholic drinks are available. Monthly meeting of the Romance Rebels, a romance novel book club, happens first Monday evenings from 6:30-8:00pm. In fact, they have three popular book clubs. Rebel Heart is also fantastic about promoting local authors with book signings. Check their website and sign up for a monthly newsletter to stay informed.
Tourists and locals are drawn to the idea of a downtown bookstore. “The second year has really been all about this flourishing community. All the seeds we planted in the first year to grow community are all coming to fruition,” Marcella said.
As far as book suggestions, Eileen and Marcella know their stock. Here are a few titles for lazy summer afternoons: The Wrecking Crew, a non-fiction by Kent Hartman. The history behind Rock and Roll is explored focusing on the vital impact of studio musicians. Wolf Pack by American soccer star, Abby Wambach, inspires confidence, leadership and sisterhood. For novels, consider Trail of Lightning, a Native American inspired sci-fi/fantasy by Rebecca Roanhorse, or Sunburn, a mystery/thriller by Laura Lippman in the vein of Dashiell Hammett and Ray Chandler, but with a feminine lead. If you’re a graphic novels fan, Rebel Heart chose Paper Girls, a book about girls who deliver newspapers by Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang, artist.
“Be brave. Be true. Leave your mark.” This is Rebel Heart’s motto. Clearly they’re hitting the bullseye in Jacksonville.
Featured image is of Marcella Bell, Eileen Bobek, and Josh Bell.