Bob Manson, a retired teacher from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has visited over 600 bookstores across 49 states, Canada, and Mexico over the past decade. Inspired by the book “My Bookstore: Writers Celebrate Their Favorite Places to Browse, Read and Shop” by Ronald Rice, Manson set out to visit all 93 bookstores mentioned in the book. He blogs about his experiences at each store and makes an effort to understand their unique place in their communities. Manson has made friends in almost every bookstore he’s visited and appreciates the welcoming and diverse environments they offer.
Manson’s travels have allowed him to experience the different atmospheres of bookstores across the country, from the Midwest to the East Coast to the South. He notes differences in hospitality and initial perceptions in various regions but finds that people in all the bookstores he visits are friendly and open. Manson also highlights the importance of supporting small businesses, especially after natural disasters like Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.
Through his travels, Manson has encountered a variety of bookstore types, from niche shops focusing on specific genres to those emphasizing different voices and perspectives. Despite differences, Manson appreciates the welcoming nature of bookstore owners and staff, forming connections with them during his visits. He continues to explore new bookstores and share his experiences to promote the joy of reading and the importance of independent bookstores in communities.
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