MADISON — From teaching literature to selling it, Robin Dauma is transitioning her love of novels to Madison’s newest locally owned bookstore Blue Apple Books.
As someone who has called the Huntsville area home for 29 years, and who has taught in the public school system for much of that time, Dauma said she is excited to open the doors on this new chapter in her literary life.
“Blue Apple Books is a metaphor for the unknown things we do in life even when we don’t know what the results are going to be,” she said.
And what better way to explore the unknown than within the pages of a book? The bookstore will feature a selection of nationally celebrated books, but will keep a focus on local and regional authors.
Blue Apple Books is set to host some of these authors for events, such as for the grand opening celebration during the last week of September— also known as Banned Books Week.
Children’s author Laura Carter — with her newest release “A Steminisit Force” — and Dauma’s previous student author Daniel Johnson — author of “The Tale of Little Leader Lou” — will be at the celebration to discuss their books and give a preview to the audience.
Blue Apple Books is the sister store to South and Pine in Historic Downtown Madison. South and Pine has become a community favorite for home decor, gifts and more. And Dauma plans to keep it that way. Customers can expect to continue to find unique candles and curated home goods in addition to the expanding book selection in the partnering Blue Apple Books.
It is not only local authors who will be highlighted at the stores, but local artists as well. One such artist is potter Melissa McDonald, who crafts unique pottery pieces that are sure to be that perfect accent piece you have been searching for.
As a retired teacher, Dauma has an appreciation for the hidden talent thriving in the Madison City School System — and she plans to celebrate this young talent. The joint stores will feature a student artist of the month from the art departments at Bob Jones High School and James Clemens High School.
Blue Apple Books aims to be involved in the community. Much like companies such as Toms or Bombas, that use proceeds to give back to a community cause, Dauma has set up a benefit corporation from the foundation of this new endeavor to directly give back to the local community.
There are still more surprises coming for the Madison community to enjoy at Blue Apple Books. One thing to keep your eye out for is a Blue Apple Books coffee shop to join the Historic Downtown Madison family.
Blue Apple Books’ grand opening week is Sept. 18-26.
With expanding shelves and continued development from Blue Apple Books, it is clear that the Madison community can look forward to turning the page on this exciting new chapter in Historic Downtown Madison.
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