Sampling Author Events at Local Bookstore

I’m enjoying reading more for pleasure in retirement. My Kindle told me I read 59 books in 2025. That’s pretty good. I’m a follower of Blue House Books (BHB) and have always been curious about their community events. I’m not a bibliophile though and have been intimidated in general by book clubs, author events, book signings, and the like. But I read 59 books. That must give me a free pass to something, right?

So I jumped out of my comfort zone and asked a friend to join me for an author event at BHB. We studied their event calendar and had plenty of options to choose from - an afternoon tea, silent reading time, book clubs, used book swap, and more. I almost cheated and signed us up for the bookmark maker workshop. But no, a real book event is what I need to do. 

My friend Penny and I agreed on the author event with Kenosha’s Mark Nepper. He’s written his first book, “Glory Days in the Rearview.” Turns out Penny went to Tremper High School with him. Even better, we’ll have something to talk about. This event was easy, no registration or sign up, books would be available for purchase and signing by the author at the event. It’s a drop-in style program so you can go anytime and stay as long you want. Penny and I both prepped a little by reading his promotional materials for the book on the BHB website. 

Our visit was delightful! There was no line. The event space at BHB was lovely, warm, and inviting. We simply greeted Mark (yes, we’re on a first name basis with an author now) and the conversation flowed. Kenosha news, Tremper highlights, how he got the idea for this book, what inspires him (the movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” provided the launch pad for this book), is there another book coming (yes!), and other random topics just came up. He seemed as interested in who might be reading his book as we were in meeting him. You can tell he’s a creative type as he has also taken up watercolor painting in his retirement, a relatable and noble goal. Light refreshments were available and the staff were welcoming and helpful. I can do this book event thing. 

Samantha Jacquest, BHB founder and owner, is working hard to expand their community event offerings. They are geared toward a wide variety of interests and ages. Some are more interactive than others so you can pick and choose accordingly. There is definitely a special literary community growing around this independent bookstore, one that is inclusive of all levels of interest, expertise, and experience. Samantha is an outstanding Kenosha community philanthropist, actively supporting many great causes in our hometown. 

New at BHB is a membership program. For a monthly or annual fee you can reap all kinds of great benefits (special invitations, discounts, free books, merchandise, and more). This is a great way to nourish your inner bibliophile and support our local independent bookstore. 

Stop in at Blue House Books and browse, shop, chat, and be sure to try one of their special events. I guarantee you’ll go back for more. I may not be a bibliophile but I’m welcome at BHB! Kenosha is a great place to live, work, and retire! 

Blue House Books

5915 6th Avenue A

Kenosha, WI 53140

(262) 612-5525

blue-house-books.com

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Upcoming Events At Blue House Books