Sunday, December 31, 2017

Announcing the Picture Book Club! A special BOTM club from you, from us, to kids you love!

We've been wanting to offer this to you for a long time, and 2018 is finally time for the plans to come to life!

From My Shelf can now help you send a special picture book to children in your life, with three different package deals.

Each package includes a paperback storybook, cover price normally $7-9, plus first class shipping to a special kid whom you want to encourage to become a reading ninja! Send love and literacy around the block or across the miles with these great selections.

Quarterly package: One book shipped every three months = 4 books a year for $40. Most likely selections include: Snowflake Bentley [Martin]; The Tiny Seed [Carle]; Tractor Mac: You're a Winner! [Steers]; and The Fox Went Out on a Chilly Night [Spier].

Alternating month package: One book shipped every other month = 6 books for $50. Most likely we will use the selections above, with any of the following as possible additions/substitutions: Blueberry Girl [Gaiman]; Apple-Picking Time [Slawson]; In November [Rylant]; The Legend of the Poinsettia [de Paola].

Monthly package: One book shipped every month = 12 books for $100. Possible selections include any from the smaller packages, plus these great books: Valentine Bears [Bunting/Wells]; A Tale for Easter [Tudor]; The Boy Who Didn't Believe in Spring [Clifton]; Canoe Days [Paulsen]; Pumpkin Soup [Cooper].

If we know enough in advance, we can substitute another one of our choices, if the child you're buying for already owns one of these books. We can work with you to tailor-fit some of these packages!

Payment by credit card can be made through the bookstore. You may also mail us a check. You can break the 6-month or 12-month packages into 2 smaller payments, if you like. Payment must be received by the 1st of a month for that month's book to ship by the 15th of the month.

Let's send these kids some great books!!! We can also include a personal note from you. :)

Friday, December 29, 2017

Thank You, James Patterson!


On Monday, Dec. 18, bestselling author James Patterson announced the names of more than 300 independent booksellers receiving grants totaling $350,000, up $100,000 over previous years, as part of his Holiday Bookstore Bonus Program.

Patterson has had many generous philanthropy programs supporting community literacy. During the past five years, he has offered grants to libraries, schools, independent bookstores, and individual booksellers.

Patterson partnered with the American Booksellers Association to distribute the funds, which were awarded to individual booksellers in amounts ranging from $750 to $1,250. The full list of the recipients is at BookWeb.org/bonus. Among them are Kris Dickinson and Kasey Cox Coolidge both of From My Shelf Books & Gifts at 7 East Avenue in Wellsboro.

The grant application asked one question: “Why does this bookseller deserve a holiday bonus?” Patterson personally selected winners from bookstores all across the country, and many of the recipients are from areas hard hit by natural disasters, including Blue Willow Bookshop in Houston, Copperfield’s in Napa, and various stores in Florida. Nominated booksellers were praised for their perseverance in the face of these hardships, as well as for their contagious enthusiasm, skilled hand-selling, innovation, and, most importantly, dedication to books and reading.

“I was thrilled to increase the donation amount of this year’s bonuses given the overwhelming response we’ve had to past campaigns,” said Patterson. “This holiday season, in particular, underscored how deserving these booksellers are — many of the recipients came from stores that dealt with major damage from hurricanes and wildfires, in addition to the challenges they faced in an ever-changing retail environment. These bonuses are my humble acknowledgment of their commitment to putting books into the hands of readers, and I hope these grants make a positive difference in their lives.”

American Booksellers Association CEO Oren Teicher said, “With this expansion of his Holiday Bookstore Bonus Program, James Patterson continues to demonstrate his extraordinary commitment to literacy and independent booksellers. In a year that has proved so challenging to many booksellers because of natural disasters, we are even more grateful. Thanks to his ongoing generosity, over twice as many independent booksellers who are working so hard to serve their communities by connecting authors and readers of all ages will receive well-earned bonuses.”

In 2016, Patterson donated $250,000 in holiday bonuses to 149 independent bookstore employees across the country; in 2015, he donated $250,000 in holiday bonuses to 87 bookstore employees. In 2014, he awarded $1 million in grants to 178 independent bookstores that were recognized for doing an outstanding job of fostering a love of reading in young children. Over the past decade, Patterson has given away over a million books to students and visited hundreds of schools to advocate for youth literacy."


Kris Dickinson (left) and Kasey Cox Coolidge hold a copy of the letter signed by James Patterson and Oren Teicher that each one received along with a check. "It's very clear that you have gone above-and-beyond in your work as a bookseller. We hope that this check will allow you to continue doing good work in your store and in your community," the letter reads

Saturday, December 23, 2017

Skye's Big Adventure



It was a cold winter day. Skye drew a smiley face on the frost coating the window. She drew two triangles for ears, and added lines for whiskers. Now it looked just like a kitty. Skye loved cats. When she grew up to be president, she'd make sure all the kitties and puppies had nice warm homes.

Skye smiled. Big, puffy flakes of snow were falling from the sky. Maybe Daddy would help her build a snowman when he got home, and then they could come inside and drink hot cocoa to get warm, and maybe have hot dogs for supper. Sky loved hot dogs.

Mommy called from the kitchen, "Skye, would you like to go outside, and help me build a snowman?"

"Mommy, can we make snow cat with a big, fluffy tail, and a pink nose?" asked Skye.

"Whatever will we make the snow cat's nose from?" asked Mommy.

"We can use the kitty's pink mouse toy. It's for a kitty to play with, and it'd make a nice soft nose for the snow cat," said Skye.
"Get your coat on, and your boots, and we'll build a snow cat and surprise your daddy when he comes home," said Mommy.

Skye rushed to get her winter jacket and her boots. Mommy helped her with her boots. She could do it by herself. She was a big girl now, but she had to pull really hard to get the left one on, and a little extra pull was helpful.

"Don't forget your hat, Skye. It's cold out," said Mommy.

"Can the snow cat have a hat? I don't want the snow cat to be cold," said Skye.

"We'll see, Skye. Let's build the snow cat, and make his fluffy tail, and little kitty ears, and put on his pink nose, before we worry about the hat. Put your hat on, and your gloves. We don't want your ears to freeze and fall off," said Mommy.

"Don't be silly, Mommy. If my ears fell off, I couldn't hear you, or the car when Daddy comes home," laughed Skye.

Mommy and Skye went out in the bright winter day. They grabbed handfuls of cold snow and packed them into little balls. They put the balls together into a pile, and slowly built a white snow cat with a fluffy tail, and triangle ears. Sky put the pink fluffy mouse in the middle of the snow cat's face right where a nose is suppose to go.

"The snow cat has a nose, but he doesn't have whiskers to twitch," said Skye.

"We could use some drinking straws to make whiskers, and when the wind blows, his whiskers would twitch, just like a real kitty," said Skye.

"That's a great idea," said Mommy. "You're such a smart, creative girl for thinking of that."

Skye and Mommy put whiskers on the snow cat, and Mommy used two blue marbles for eyes. "I usually used rocks when I was growing up," said Mommy, "but those were just snowmen, and not snow kitties. A snow kitty should have something special."

The winter sky had begun to darken, and an icy wind ruffled the hair that had escaped her hat. "Will Daddy be home soon?" asked Skye.
"He should be home any minute," said Mommy.

Just then, the headlights of Daddy's car came up the driveway, and Skye jumped for joy, "I can't wait to show Daddy the snowcat we built."

Daddy got out of his car, and Skye ran and threw her arms around him. "Daddy, come see the snowcat Mommy and I built!" yelled Skye.
"My big girl Skye, building snow cats. I only built snowman when I was your age," said Daddy. "That's a great snowcat, but won't his ears get cold and fall off?" asked Daddy as he pulled Skye's hat down over her ears.

"Oh no! We can't have snow cat's ears fall off," said Skye.

"I know what to do," said Daddy. Daddy pulled the hat off his head and put it on the snowcat's head, "Now snowcat's ears won't get cold and fall off, but mine might. Let's go inside and have some hot cocoa."

Skye gave a big jump and started running to the house. Mommy and Daddy came too, and they all went inside to get warm and have hot cocoa...


Wednesday, December 13, 2017

FROM MY SHELF BOOKS & GIFTS PRESS RELEASE


Carr Hardware is the winner of the 2017 Independent Small Business of the Year Award organized by Independent We Stand, the national small business movement. The announcement was made Wednesday, Dec. 13.

From My Shelf Books & Gifts at 7 East Avenue in Wellsboro is one of this year's top 25 semifinalists. "We made the top 25 in 2013,” said Kevin Coolidge, owner of the bookstore. "In 2015 and 2016 we made it to the top 25 and the top 10 and didn’t win," he said.


"My wife, Kasey and I are so appreciative for all of the people who helped us be in the top 25 by voting online. We might not have won the grand prize, but we didn't open From My Shelf to win prizes but because we love books," said Kevin. He opened the bookstore 11½ years ago in July 2006. Kasey has served as manager since then.


"Our customers have helped us get this far and that's a good feeling," Kevin said. "We are continuing to do what we do best…books, from maintaining a wide variety of genres to matching people to the right books and special ordering."

The Wellsboro store is open every day, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

The bookstore’s booth in Mansfield is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day.

For more information about From My Shelf Books & Gifts call 570-724-5793 or 570-662-1224.

Thursday, December 7, 2017

The Totally Ninja Raccoons Are Going For Number One



You may have already read that From My Shelf Books & Gifts has advanced to round two of the Indie Awards sponsored by independentwestand.org. Only twenty five businesses made the cut, and we couldn't have done it without your votes. Thank you so much!

The Totally Ninja Raccoons were nominated on their own, didn't make it to round two. The raccoons, however, are on the store's entry, and still consider themselves in the contest.

Voting to advance us to round three is happening now!. You can vote once a day per IP address, that means some of you can vote from home, from work, Or when you are drinking your latte in the coffee shop. Voting continues until December 11th. Then the top ten businesses will proceed to Round 3, where a panel of judges will choose the winner.

Your vote can make that happen for From My Shelf Books. You can go to our Facebook page where we will have a link pinned to the top to make voting easier. If you haven't already liked our Facebook page, please do. We have lots of great cartoons, word play, and geek culture.

If you don't do the Facebook thing, you can still vote by visiting www.IndieBizAward.com and entering From My Shelf Books & Gifts in Wellsboro Pennsylvania.

Thanks so much for helping us get this far.

The Staff at From My Shelf Books & Gifts, and the Totally Ninja Raccoons.


JUST CLICK ON THE RACCOONS TO BE TAKEN TO THE WEBSITE TO VOTE!

Friday, December 1, 2017

We Made the Top Twenty Five!!!



You may have already read that From My Shelf Books & Gifts has advanced to round two of the Indie Awards sponsored by independentwestand.org. Only twenty five businesses made the cut, and we couldn't have done it without your votes. Thank you so much!

Voting to advance us to round three is happening now!. You can vote once a day per IP address, that means some of you can vote from home, from work, Or when you are drinking your latte in the coffee shop. Voting continues until December 11th. Then the top ten businesses will proceed to Round 3, where a panel of judges will choose the winner.

Your vote can make that happen for From My Shelf Books. You can go to our Facebook page where we will have a link pinned to the top to make voting easier. If you haven't already liked our Facebook page, please do. We have lots of great cartoons, word play, and geek culture.

If you don't do the Facebook thing, you can still vote by visiting www.IndieBizAward.com and entering From My Shelf Books & Gifts in Wellsboro Pennsylvania.

Thanks so much for helping us get this far.

The Staff at From My Shelf Books & Gifts


CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO BE TAKEN TO THE WEBSITE TO VOTE
SKETCH BY BOB ECKSTEIN AUTHOR OF Footnotes from the World's Greatest Bookstores

Tuesday, November 28, 2017

Thriving Outside the Big Box



From My Shelf Books & Gifts named Quarter-finalist for Indie Award
Support From My Shelf Books & Gifts of Wellsboro Pennsylvania in national award by voting today

The national small business movement, Independent We Stand, announced the quarter-finalists, including From My Books & Gifts of Wellsboro Pennsylvania, of the 2017 Independent We Stand Independent Small Business of the Year or Indie Award.

From My Shelf Books & Gifts is located in beautiful, small-town Wellsboro, PA, right in the historic district. We're proud to be a customer-centered, independently-owned bookstore. Our knowledgeable staff and eclectic, ever-changing inventory has garnered us praise from big-city visitors and fellow small-town dwellers alike.


Store manager Kasey Coolidge said "Year-round, we welcome in-store shoppers to browse the more than 40,000 new and gently used books that we have in stock at any given time. In addition, we regularly help our customers with special orders of both new and out-of-print books, sharing our expertise and excellent track record for locating just the book you’re looking for."

“This year’s quarter-finalists represent a variety of independent businesses across the country, who are making an impact on their local economies,” said Bill Brunelle, co-founder of Independent We Stand. “This award is our way of recognizing their outstanding efforts in their respective communities.”

Voting is now underway at www.IndieBizAward.com through Dec. 11. Voters may visit the website to cast one vote each day.


The winner of the Indie will be announced Dec. 13.

For more information on From My Shelf Books & Gifts visit wellsborobookstore.com
For more information on the “Indie” or to vote, visit www.IndieBizAward.com.


About Independent We Stand

Independent We Stand is a movement of independent business owners across the country to inform their communities about the importance of “Buying Local” and how these efforts bolster their local economy. This movement supports all local and national causes committed to boosting local economic development projects. The Independent We Stand movement is co-sponsored by STIHL Inc. and FCA US LLC. Associate sponsors include PPG Pittsburgh Paints, Do it Best Corp. and Tire Pros.


JUST CLICK ON THIS IMAGE TO BE TAKEN TO THE WEBSITE AREA TO VOTE FOR FROM MY SHELF BOOKS & GIFTS!!!

Monday, November 27, 2017

Once Upon a Time...



Once upon a time both Kevin and Kasey left their small, home town of Wellsboro. As fate would have it, they each moved back to Wellsboro and met while doing a local play festival. When Kevin and Kasey started dating, they found out they had both been selling books part-time. Joining inventories, they sold books from their tiny apartment, before taking the leap into retail, giving Tioga County the first bookstore of its kind, with new and used books, across a wide spectrum of genres and prices.

Kasey Getting Ready to Talk About the Latest Great Read

Kevin Thinking About the Next Totally Ninja Raccoon story!



From My Shelf Books & Gifts is located in beautiful, small-town Wellsboro, PA, in the historic district, just a block from the famous Wellsboro Diner. The bookstore is a customer-centered, independently-owned bookstore. The knowledgeable staff and eclectic inventory has garnered praise from big-city visitors and fellow small-town dwellers.




From My Shelf Books is just a block from the Wellsboro Diner!!



After seeing Jen and her son at least twice a week as customers, we finally just offered Jen a job. She accepted, and we've been a bookstore family ever since. Over the years, we've had great part-time help from many people, including book people during college breaks, and while job-hunting for more full-time work. We've learned something from each and every one, and have been glad to have this "extended family".

Jen with the famous Hobo the Cat, Our First Bookstore Cat

From My Shelf officially opened its doors for business in July of 2006 with only about 3,000 books on the shelves, mostly used, but with dreams of filling the 800 square feet, top to bottom, with books. From My Shelf Books & Gifts is now bursting with books, puzzles, cards, games, audio books, book-related gifts, friends, and general good cheer.

The bookstore is still clean and well-organized, and has more space and light in its new space. We continue to look for opportunities to grow, to serve our community, and to encourage each person to find the right book.

Each month, we sponsor a number of free, fun, family-centered gatherings such as author events, game nights, book club, writers’ group, book release parties, poetry nights, and more. Let us be your book matchmakers!


We're in a contest. You Can Vote For Us Until 12/11/17! Just Click on This Image!

Saturday, November 25, 2017

Small Business Saturday



It's small business Saturday and authors are small businesses too. I have written eight books for children, and one adult age novella. It's a great time to support a writer. If none of my books appeal to you, it is the holiday season and would make great gifts. From My Shelf Books & Gifts is hosting an angel tree for those children who need a blessing in their stocking this Christmas. You can help.

Friday, November 24, 2017

From My Shelf Books is Named Quarterfinalist for Indie Award Support From My Shelf Books of Wellsboro in national award by voting now through Dec. 11, 2017



Wellsboro, Pennsylvania – From My Shelf Books and Gifts at 7 East Avenue in Wellsboro is one of the quarterfinalists of the 2017 Independent Small Business of the Year or Indie Award organized by Independent We Stand, the national small business movement.

“From My Shelf Books & Gifts has advanced to Round 2 of the Indie Award sponsored by Independent We Stand,” said owner Kevin Coolidge. “Only 25 businesses made the cut from the initial nominees. We couldn’t have done it without votes from the people who support us,” he said.

In Round 2, 10 semifinalists will be chosen from the 25 quarterfinalists. Voting for the top 10 began Monday, Nov. 20 and continues through Monday, Dec. 11 at www.IndieBizAward.com. Voters may visit the website to cast one vote each day.

“People can vote once a day per IP address, that means some of you can vote from home, from work or when you are drinking your latte in the coffee shop,” Coolidge explained.

“The top 10 vote getting businesses will proceed to Round 3, where a panel of judges will choose the winner who will be announced on Wednesday, Dec. 13,” said Coolidge.

“Our supporters can help us be one of the 10 semifinalists. Go to our bookstore Facebook page where we have a link pinned to the top to make voting easier,” Coolidge said. “Those who don't do Facebook can still vote by visiting www.IndieBizAward.com and entering From My Shelf Books & Gifts in Wellsboro Pennsylvania.”

The Wellsboro bookstore celebrated its 11th anniversary this July. Available to children and adults are a wide variety of hardcover, softcover and audio non-fiction and fiction books of all genres, educational materials for families, including homeschoolers; craft and activity kits, puzzles and games; thank you notes and greeting cards; and novelty gift items for book lovers from T-shirts to book bags.

From My Shelf Books hosts book signings for local and regional authors of newly released books; the Where’s Waldo Scavenger Hunt each July; craft and activity kit nights; book and writers’ clubs for children and adults that meet regularly; and special workshops on writing and self-publishing.

Manager Kasey Cox willingly provides helpful tips about books to purchase as gifts for children and adults or tracks down a book she thinks a customer will enjoy.

Independent We Stand is a movement of independent business owners across the country to inform their communities about the importance of “Buying Local” and how these efforts bolster their local economy.

For more information about From My Shelf Books & Gifts, on the "Indie" or voting, call 570-724-5793.


CLICK ON THE STORE PHOTO TO BE TAKEN DIRECTLY TO THE PROFILE OF THE STORE TO VOTE

Wednesday, November 22, 2017

We Made the Top Twenty Five!!!



You may have already read that From My Shelf Books & Gifts has advanced to round two of the Indie Awards sponsored by independentwestand.org. Only twenty five businesses made the cut, and we couldn't have done it without your votes. Thank you so much!

Voting to advance us to round three is happening now!. You can vote once a day per IP address, that means some of you can vote from home, from work, Or when you are drinking your latte in the coffee shop. Voting continues until December 11th. Then the top ten businesses will proceed to Round 3, where a panel of judges will choose the winner.

Your vote can make that happen for From My Shelf Books. You can go to our Facebook page where we will have a link pinned to the top to make voting easier. If you haven't already liked our Facebook page, please do. We have lots of great cartoons, word play, and geek culture.

If you don't do the Facebook thing, you can still vote by visiting www.IndieBizAward.com and entering From My Shelf Books & Gifts in Wellsboro Pennsylvania.

Thanks so much for helping us get this far.

The Staff at From My Shelf Books & Gifts

You Can Be An Angel



You can be an Angel this holiday season. This year, the Northern Helping Hands serving Bradford & Tioga counties has set up an Angel Tree at From My Shelf Books with book-related requests. Shop here, pick a tag , and leave the gift here. It's never been easier to build community literacy. We'll help you find just the right book at whatever dollar amount you'd like to spend. Please Hurry all gifts must be purchased by December 8th. From My Shelf Books, build community one book at a time...with your help


Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Huck & Finn Bookstore Cats Going For Number One!



You may have already read that our bookstore From My Shelf Books & Gifts has been nominated for the Indie Awards sponsored by independentwestand.org. Only ten businesses will make the next round and we can't do it without your votes.

Voting to advance us, Huck & Finn, to round three is ongoing now! You can vote once a day per IP address, that means some of you can vote from home, from work, AND when you are buying cat treats. Voting continues until December 11th. Then the top ten businesses will proceed to Round 3. Those businesses should have cats. You cat make that happen.



Your votes helped get us to the top ten last year, but we lost to a bigger business who didn't have a cat, or even a dog.

Your vote can make that happen for From My Shelf Books. You can go to our Facebook page where we will have a link pinned to the top to make voting easier. If you haven't already liked our Facebook page, please do. We have lots of great cartoons, word play, and geek culture.

If you don't do the Facebook thing, you can still vote by visiting www.IndieBizAward.com

Thanks so much for helping us get this far.

Huck & Finn, Bookstore Cats at From My Shelf Books & Gifts


CLICK HERE HUMAN TO VOTE FOR HUCK & FINN!!!

The Helping Hands Tree at From My Shelf Books



This year, the "Northern Helping Hands", serving Bradford & Tioga Counties, have set up a small 'Angel Tree' here at From My Shelf Books with specific book-related requests!!

For example, "A 9 yr old boy would like a book about space for Christmas." We can help you find just the right book about space for this boy, at whatever dollar amount you'd like to spend.

Pick up a tag here, shop here, leave the gift here. It's never been easier to give to community literacy and support the Angel Tree this holiday season! Please hurry! All gifts must be purchased by December 8th this year!

Monday, November 20, 2017

We Made the Top Twenty Five!!!



You may have already read that From My Shelf Books & Gifts has advanced to round two of the Indie Awards sponsored by independentwestand.org. Only twenty five businesses made the cut, and we couldn't have done it without your votes. Thank you so much!

Voting to advance us to round three starts today. You can vote once a day per IP address, that means some of you can vote from home, from work, Or when you are drinking your latte in the coffee shop. Voting continues until December 11th. Then the top ten businesses will proceed to Round 3, where a panel of judges will choose the winner.

Your vote can make that happen for From My Shelf Books. You can go to our Facebook page where we will have a link pinned to the top to make voting easier. If you haven't already liked our Facebook page, please do. We have lots of great cartoons, word play, and geek culture.

If you don't do the Facebook thing, you can still vote by visiting www.IndieBizAward.com and entering From My Shelf Books & Gifts in Wellsboro Pennsylvania.

Thanks so much for helping us get this far.

The Staff at From My Shelf Books & Gifts


JUST CLICK ON THE PHOTO TO BE TAKEN TO THE SITE TO VOTE!

FROM MY SHELF BOOKS & GIFTS IS IN THE TOP 25


From My Shelf Books & Gifts at 7 East Avenue in Wellsboro is among the Top 25 small businesses vying for the 2017 Indie Small Business Award. The announcement was made just before Round 2 voting began on Monday, Nov. 20 by Independent We Stand, the national small business movement that is sponsoring the contest. Round 1 voting ended on Nov. 12.

Unfortunately, the "Totally Ninja Raccoons," a children's book series for young, reluctant readers authored by Kevin Coolidge who owns the bookstore did not make the cut.

Voting in the second round will end on Monday, Dec. 11.

"Only the top 10 businesses chosen in Round 2 will be in the running for the Indie Award grand prize," said Coolidge. "We won't be among the semi-finalists without the public's continued support," he added. People can vote once a day per computer IP address between now and Dec. 11 for the bookstore. Those who use multiple computers can vote from home, from work and even their local coffee shop every day.

The grand prizewinner of this year’s Indie Small Business Award will be chosen by a panel of judges from the top 10 semi-finalists and announced on Dec. 13.

The overall winner will receive an enhanced prize package valued at $50,000, including $5,000 in cash, a comprehensive marketing makeover and $1,000 for a local organization that supports small businesses.

"If From My Shelf Books & Gifts wins, we have selected the Wellsboro Area Chamber of Commerce to receive the $1,000 as the organization that helps small businesses in the community. That $1,000 is part of the award package," said Coolidge.

To make voting easier, a link to voting is pinned to the top of From My Shelf's Facebook page. Those who don't do Facebook, can still vote for the bookstore by visiting www.IndieBizAward.com.

JUST CLICK ON THE PHOTO TO BE TAKEN TO THE SITE TO VOTE!

Saturday, November 18, 2017

Be An Angel This Holiday Season



This year, the "Northern Helping Hands", serving Bradford & Tioga Counties, have set up a small 'Angel Tree' here at From My Shelf Books with specific book-related requests!!

For example, "A 9 yr old boy would like a book about space for Christmas." We can help you find just the right book about space for this boy, at whatever dollar amount you'd like to spend.

Pick up a tag here, shop here, leave the gift here. It's never been easier to give to community literacy and support the Angel Tree this holiday season! Please hurry! All gifts must be purchased by December 8th this year!




Tuesday, October 31, 2017

Naughty or Nice?


Have you been naughty or nice in 2017? I think we all know the answer to that question. Face it. The fat man in red is NOT bringing you any thing this Christmas season. You might as well makes nice with the competition, Krampus. You can meet him at From My Shelf Books & Gifts December 8th 2016 from 5PM to 7PM

Krampus is visiting From My Shelf Books after his European tour. He'll be staying at Wellsboro's Penn Wells Hotel . He's gracious enough to stop by the bookstore, sign a few autographs, talk about his role in The Catmas Caper, and do some photo ops for those that are naughty or nice.

Krampus is shown along with Bill Colson holding bookstore cat, Finn

Who is Krampus you say? Saint Nicholas may reward the nice children with gifts, but it is Krampus, a creature from Germanic folklore, that punishes the naughty ones. It is said that if you are particularly naughty, he throws you in his sack and carries you to his lair.

Krampus is celebrated on Krampusnact, which takes place December 5th, the eve of Saint Nicholas Day. In Austria, celebrants masquerade as hairy devils and dance, drink, and run through the streets through the streets terrifying children and adults.

In modern times, Saint Nicholas has upgraded his image. He’s dropped the bishop garb and added a red suit. He’s traded his horse and staff for a sleigh and reindeer, moved the date to Christmas Eve, and got rid of the competition. He’s banished Krampus and stolen his magic. Santa thought he could punish the naughty, but children have lost all fear of Santa and his lumps of coal.

It’s time for Krampus to take back what is his, to take back Yuletide. You can be part of the movement at From My Shelf Books December 8 from 5PM to 7PM. Be there, or Krampus will visit you at a time rather less convenient for you..

Krampus in the children's book "The Totally Ninja Raccoons and the Catmas Caper"

Saturday, October 28, 2017

The Totally Ninja Raccoons Are Going to Galeton Pennsylvania


On Saturday, November 4th from 1PM to 3PM the Galeton Public Library will be hosting local author Kevin Coolidge. It is free and open to the public.

Author Kevin Coolidge will be signing his children's series "The Totally Ninja Raccoons" for children. The book is written for youngsters and enjoyed by people of all ages.

Last year, Kevin Coolidge published the first two books in his new series, “Totally Ninja Raccoons” set in Wellsboro and Tioga County. "The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet Bigfoot" is the first book in his series about the three raccoon brothers who become ninjas. “The series is for the 7-10-year-old reluctant reader who loves action, adventure and creatures whose existence has yet to be proven, like Bigfoot,” said Coolidge.

In "The Totally Ninja Raccoons meet Bigfoot," the raccoons discover they are not meant to be ordinary bandits, but rather have the potential to be something extraordinary--ninjas. They begin their ninja training and meet their first potential employer--Gypsy the Cat.

Gypsy sends the raccoons on their first mission, to capture the elusive Bigfoot. They quickly find out that things aren't what they seem. Bigfoot isn't the monstrous beast, he's been portrayed to be; Gypsy isn't a benign employer; and cats want to take over the world. And the raccoons learn that sometimes you have to choose your own path if you want to choose your destination.

"The Totally Ninja Raccoons" is a new children's series for second to fourth graders. It is specifically for reluctant readers. "Seven books have been published in the series with more to come," Coolidge said.

In the second book, the raccoons meet the “Weird & Wacky Werewolf." In the third, they learn "The Secret of the Canyon" and in the fourth, meet "The Thunderbird," In the fifth book "Catmas Caper" the raccoons have to save Christmas, and in the sixth book, the Ninja Raccoons learn the secret of Nessmuk Lake.

Kevin will have his seventh fun book in the series, "The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet the Little Green Men. This book is set at Cherry Spring State Park in Potter County!

In his ninja raccoon series, Coolidge has included the bookstore’s newest cats - brothers Huck and Finn. These cats receive daily doses of love from the many children and adults who visit the bookstore he co-owns at 7 East Avenue in Wellsboro.



Friday, October 27, 2017

The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet the Little Green Men Is Here


Kevin Coolidge of Wellsboro has just released "The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet the Little Green Men,” the seventh book in his Totally Ninja Raccoon series. It is set at Cherry Springs State Park in Potter County, Pa.

The first six books in Coolidge’s series are set in Wellsboro and Tioga County, Pa. The first, “The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet Bigfoot,” released on Dec. 11, 2015, is about the three raccoon brothers who become ninjas. “The series is for the 7 to 10-year-old reluctant reader who loves action, adventure and creatures whose existence has yet to be proven, like Bigfoot,” said Coolidge.

In his second book, the raccoons meet the “Weird & Wacky Werewolf;” in the third, they learn “The Secret of the Canyon,” in the fourth, meet “The Thunderbird,” in the fifth are involved in “The Catmas Caper” and in the sixth, learn the “Secret of Nessmuk Lake." The second and fifth books were released between March 1 and Oct. 26, 2016, the six on May 2 and the seventh on November 13th, 2017.

In each book, the ninja raccoons learn important life lessons. In the first book, the raccoons discover they are not meant to be ordinary bandits, but rather have the potential to be something extraordinary--ninjas. They begin their ninja training and meet their first potential employer--Gypsy the Cat.

In Coolidge’s latest book, the raccoon brothers continue their ninja training, learn the power of forgiveness, and meet creatures from out of this world, aliens. The Cat Board plots against the raccoons as they explore the park. Will the cats trash the raccoons? Will the little green men find the perfect pet? Will Rascal make French toast?


During the day, Coolidge can be found at From My Shelf Books & Gifts, an independent bookstore he runs with his wife, several helpful employees, and two friendly black and white cats, Huck and Finn. He is there after hours, too, writing books. He is working on his eighth Totally Ninja Raccoons book now.

For more information about this series, call the bookstore at 570-724-5793.

Monday, October 23, 2017

Book Giveaway For "The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet the Little Green Men"



You can win a signed book of the 7th fun adventure of The Totally Ninja Raccoons, The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet the Little Green Men.

In The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet the Little Green Men, the Ninja Raccoons continue their ninja training, learn the power of forgiveness, and meet creatures from out of this world, aliens!

The Cat Board plots against the Ninja Raccoons as the Raccoons explore Cherry Springs State Park. Will the Cat Board trash the Raccoons? Will the Little Green Men find the perfect pet? Will Rascal make French Toast?

There are more things in heaven and earth than these three brothers ever dreamed. Cats are trying to take over the world; monsters are real; and Chinese food really will make you hungry soon after you eat it. It's up to the Ninja Raccoons to do something about it.



Goodreads Book Giveaway


The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet the Little Green Men by Kevin Coolidge

The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet the Little Green Men

by Kevin Coolidge


Giveaway ends October 31, 2017.

See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.



Enter Giveaway

Sunday, October 22, 2017

From My Shelf Books Has Been Nominated!



From My Shelf Books & Gifts and Kevin Coolidge's Totally Ninja Raccoons have both been nominated for the Indie Small Business Award sponsored by independentwestand.org. "Only 25 businesses will make it to the next round. We can't do it without the public's support," said Kevin Coolidge, owner of the bookstore at 7 East Avenue in Wellsboro and author of the “Totally Ninja Raccoons,” a children's series he wrote specifically for young reluctant readers.

"People can vote once a day per IP address between now and Sunday, Nov. 12 for either my bookstore or my book series. That means those who use multiple computers can vote from home, from work and even their local coffee shop every day. The 25 getting the most votes will proceed to Round 2, which starts on Nov. 20 and ends on Dec. 11.

The top 10 selected will be in the running for the Indie Award grand prize. The overall winner will be announced on Dec. 13 and receive an enhanced prize package valued at $50,000, including $5,000 in cash, a comprehensive marketing makeover and $1,000 for a local organization that supports small businesses. "If From My Shelf Books & Gifts wins, we have selected the Wellsboro Area Chamber of Commerce as the organization that helps small businesses in the community.

The chamber will receive $1,000, which is part of the award package. If Totally Ninja Raccoons wins, the Knoxville Public Library will receive the $1,000 for being totally awesome in supporting my new book series," said Coolidge. To make voting easier, a link to voting is pinned to the top of From My Shelf's Facebook page and to the top of the Totally Ninja Raccoons’ Facebook page. Those who don't do Facebook, can still vote for either the raccoons or the bookstore by visiting www.IndieBizAward.com.



The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet the Little Green Men


In The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet the Little Green Men, the Ninja Raccoons continue their ninja training, learn the power of forgiveness, and meet creatures from out of this world, aliens!

The Cat Board plots against the Ninja Raccoons as the Raccoons explore Cherry Springs State Park. Will the Cat Board trash the Raccoons? Will the Little Green Men find the perfect pet? Will Rascal make French Toast?

There are more things in heaven and earth than these three brothers ever dreamed. Cats are trying to take over the world; monsters are real; and Chinese food really will make you hungry soon after you eat it. It's up to the Ninja Raccoons to do something about it.

Thursday, October 19, 2017

Story of Your Life At Wellsboro's Bookfest


Writer creates the “Story of Your Life” on the spot at upcoming event at “Wellsboro Bookfest 2017,” Wellsboro, PA.

In a unique twist on street artist character-sketching, Declan Synott, a poet and writer will write “the story of your life” in 100 words or less in an “on the spot” special appearance, Saturday, October 21, from 95 to 3 p.m. at “Wellsboro Bookfest 2017, Wellsboro, PA., aka Kevin Clark, is a retired professor of English and creative writing, most recently from Elmira College and has published poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction in a variety of journals and anthologies.

“What I will attempt to do,” he said, “is provide a snapshot of one’s life based on a brief interview and other observations and perceptions.” Synott will use his favorite 1929 Remington manual typewriter to create “on the spot” vignettes, poems, or living eulogies for the curious or the impressionable. “Andy Warhol famously said we will each have 15 minutes of fame, yet these creations (suitable for framing and signed by the author) may be treasured keepsakes for years or you can crumble them up and dispose of them properly.”

Synott adds, “There’s a suggested donation of $5 per life story; $10 if you’d like a happy ending.”

Originally from Pittsburgh, Declan Synott now calls Wellsboro home and has a B.A. in Communication from Slippery Rock University, a Masters in English Literature from Bucknell University, and an M.F.A. in creative writing.

Monday, October 16, 2017

My First Shapes with Frank Lloyd Wright (Board Books)


Frank Lloyd Wright used basic geometric shapes as the foundation for his modern architecture. Learn your basic shapes alongside this famous architect with My First Shapes with Frank Lloyd Wright Board Book from Mudpuppy. Each chapter tab focuses on one of three basics shapes: circle, square, or triangle.
- Size: 6.25 x 7.

Saturday, October 14, 2017

9TH ANNUAL WELLSBORO BOOKFEST!



WELLSBORO—The Ninth Annual Wellsboro BookFest, will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21 at the Deane Center at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro. Spearheading the event are Tammy Knowlton, Wellsboro Area High School librarian and Kasey Cox Coolidge, manager of From My Shelf Books & Gifts.

Attending BookFest will be 20 visiting authors. The author portion of the event is free and open to the public.

“This year's used book sale promises to be our best, with the widest selection of genres and the greatest number of books from which to choose," said Knowlton. The used book sale has a $5 entry fee for people ages 10 and older. To reduce the fee to zero, attendees can get signatures from five visiting authors: $1 will be taken off the entry fee for each author's signature up to $5 total.

Bags and author signature sheets will be provided.

All books at the used book sale will be $5 a bag. The sale is being held to raise money to support the Wellsboro Area School District's four public school libraries. All money from the sale will be given to the libraries to purchase new and used books.

Local and regional authors attending this year's BookFest will have copies of their books for sale and be available to talk to anyone interested in learning more about the writing and publishing process. They represent a variety of genres and publishing venues. Among them are writers of Christian and children's books, local history, poetry and mysteries.

"Our authors are coming from as far away as River Edge, New Jersey and Philadelphia," said Coolidge. "We also have locals from Tioga County, Pa."

The focus of BookFest is to encourage community interest in literacy, reading and writing.

Those who have books they would like to donate to the sale are asked to drop them off at the high school or at From My Shelf Books during school and bookstore hours between now and Monday, Oct. 16. Magazines, encyclopedias or Time Life book sets will not be accepted.

For information about the used book sale, call the bookstore at 570-724-5793 or visit Wellsboro BookFest's Facebook page


Friday, October 13, 2017

Good Night, Steelers



Good Night, Steelers follows in the long tradition of 'good night' stories loved by children everywhere. The bedtime story takes children through the day of the big game good morning Pittsburgh as everyone wakes up in anticipation, good afternoon Steelers fans as everyone heads to Heinz Field, good evening Steelers as the teams take the field and game begins, and of course good night everyone as we say good night to Heinz Field, the players and young fans 'dreaming of their NFL debut.' Adorable illustrations and accurate drawings of Heinz Field and the Steelers only found in Good Night, Steelers. A touchdown for every young Steelers fan. Officially licensed by the NFL.

Bookstore Cats



Bookstore cats are an international phenomenon, and here is a collection as entertaining and as adorable as the cats who festoon book lovers' havens. This wonderful investigation has turned up the curious cats running bookshops worldwide, and documents the unique personalities of each. A sure-to-engage gift book for the cat lover, the book lover, the shopper, and the curious alike.

Reading an article about cats who live in bookstores inspired author Brandon Schultz to further investigate the lives of bookstore cats. Cats have strong personalities that enchant and engage, and it turns out there are many of them living in every reader's favorite environment: the bookstore. With personalities and histories as varied as the books they tend, each cat has a story worth telling.

Collected here are their tales, along with enchanting photos of the feline employees in their shops. Most bookstore cats are famous in their local communities, many have been featured and profiled in entertainment outlets, and some even have their own books and social media accounts.

Now, for the first time, some of the world's most beloved bookstore cats are collected together in one adorable directory, making the perfect gift for cat lovers, book lovers, shoppers, and the generally curious worldwide. Aside from keeping a bookseller free of mice, these noble creatures become part of the fabric of their environment and, while they chase away the mice, they lure in the world's cat-loving readers.

Brandon Schultz loves cats, bookstores, and especially bookstores run by cats. Among other things he is a book publisher, travel writer, and ice cream enthusiast. This is his fourth book, and he lives in Brooklyn, New York, with a cat named Lucy, who has previously authored her own book.

Thursday, October 12, 2017

Independent We Stand



From My Shelf Books & Gifts and Kevin Coolidge's Totally Ninja Raccoons have both been nominated for the Indie Small Business Award sponsored by independentwestand.org. "Only 25 businesses will make it to the next round. We can't do it without the public's support," said Kevin Coolidge, owner of the bookstore at 7 East Avenue in Wellsboro and author of the “Totally Ninja Raccoons,” a children's series he wrote specifically for young reluctant readers.

"People can vote once a day per IP address between now and Sunday, Nov. 12 for either my bookstore or my book series. That means those who use multiple computers can vote from home, from work and even their local coffee shop every day. The 25 getting the most votes will proceed to Round 2, which starts on Nov. 20 and ends on Dec. 11.

The top 10 selected will be in the running for the Indie Award grand prize. The overall winner will be announced on Dec. 13 and receive an enhanced prize package valued at $50,000, including $5,000 in cash, a comprehensive marketing makeover and $1,000 for a local organization that supports small businesses. "If From My Shelf Books & Gifts wins, we have selected the Wellsboro Area Chamber of Commerce as the organization that helps small businesses in the community.

The chamber will receive $1,000, which is part of the award package. If Totally Ninja Raccoons wins, the Knoxville Public Library will receive the $1,000 for being totally awesome in supporting my new book series," said Coolidge. To make voting easier, a link to voting is pinned to the top of From My Shelf's Facebook page and to the top of the Totally Ninja Raccoons’ Facebook page. Those who don't do Facebook, can still vote for either the raccoons or the bookstore by visiting www.IndieBizAward.com.



Tuesday, October 10, 2017

H.P. Lovecraft's the Call of Cthulhu for Beginning Readers



The most merciful thing in the world, I believe is humanity's failure to fully conceive the cosmical horrors we've yet to reveal, and which up until now I have tried to conceal. The iconic H.P. Lovecraft 1928 story, The Call of Cthulhu, is now a children's book.

Seamlessly and gracefully told in anapestic tetrameter by "genius poet-artist" RJ Ivankovic. The late Professor Angell's research has been discovered by his grand-nephew, Francis Wayland Thurston. Francis delves into the papers and discovers a bas-relief depicting an odd creature with an octopoid head, spurring him to read on.

He learns of the raid led by Inspector Legrasse and the voyage of the Vigilant, captained by Gustaf Johansen. This glorious full color 102-page adaptation of the H.P. Lovecraft story was written and illustrated by R.J. Ivankovic.

Monday, October 9, 2017

Bigfoot in Pennsylvania: A History of Wild-Men, Gorillas, and Other Hairy Monsters in the Keystone State


Timothy Renner is an illustrator, author, and folk musician living in Pennsylvania. His illustrations have appeared in the pages of various books, magazines, fanzines and comics as well as on many record and CD covers. Since 1995, Timothy has been making music both solo and with his band, Stone Breath. Stone Breath has released over a dozen albums. Timothy's first book, "Beyond the Seventh Gate" was published in 2016. Timothy is the co-host of "Strange Familiars," a podcast concerning the paranormal, weird history, folklore and the occult. He makes regular appearances on the paranormal radio show, "Where Did the Road Go?," and has appeared as a guest on many other podcasts and radio programs, including "Coast to Coast AM."

Cherry Springs State Park


Cherry Springs State Park is located in Potter County Pennsylvania. It is named for a large stand of Black Cherry Trees in the park. The park is popular with stargazers and astronomers due to it's exceptionally dark skies. It is one of the best places in the eastern United States for watching stars.

Cherry Springs State Park was named Pennsylvania's first dark sky park in 2000. The park hosts several several star parties a year. There are regular stargazing and educational programs for the public at the park.

Cherry Springs also offers has trails for hiking, biking and snowmobiling, and offers camping and picinic facilities. The surrounding state forest are home to a variety of plants and animals. Contact the State Park office for facility seasons and hours. Phone: 814-435-1037




Thursday, October 5, 2017

The Totally Ninja Raccoons Have Been Nominated!



The Totally Ninja Raccoons have been nominated for the Indie Awards sponsored by independentwestand.org. Only twenty five businesses will make the next round and they can't do it without your votes. The Totally Ninja Raccoons is a children's series specifically geared towards reluctant readers.

Voting to advance The Totally Ninja Raccoons to round two starts now! You can vote once a day per IP address, that means some of you can vote from home, from work, AND when you are drinking your latte in the coffee shop. Voting continues until November 13th. Then the top twenty five businesses will proceed to Round 2.

This year, the Indie Award winner will receive an enhanced prize package valued at $50,000, including $5,000 cash, a comprehensive marketing makeover and $1,000 for a local small business group. The Ninja Raccoons will give the $1,000 to the Knoxville Public Library for being totally awesome when they win. Those raccoons are confident.

Your vote can make that happen for The Totally Ninja Raccoons. You can go to their Facebook page where there's a link pinned to the top to make voting easier.

If you don't do the Facebook thing, you can still vote by visiting www.IndieBizAward.com


JUST CLICK ON THE PHOTO TO BE TAKEN DIRECTLY TO THE PAGE TO VOTE FOR THE TOTALLY NINJA RACCOONS!!!

From My Shelf Books & Gifts Has Been Nominated!



You may have already read that From My Shelf Books & Gifts has been nominated for the Indie Awards sponsored by independentwestand.org. Only twenty five businesses will make the next round and we can't do it without your votes.

Voting to advance us to round two starts now! You can vote once a day per IP address, that means some of you can vote from home, from work, AND when you are drinking your latte in the coffee shop. Voting continues until November 12th. Then the top twenty five businesses will proceed to Round 2.

This year, the Indie Award winner will receive an enhanced prize package valued at $50,000, including $5,000 cash, a comprehensive marketing makeover and $1,000 for a local small business group. From My Shelf Books & Gifts will give the $1,000 to the Wellsboro Area Chamber of Commerce if we win!

Your vote can make that happen for From My Shelf Books. You can go to our Facebook page where we will have a link pinned to the top to make voting easier. If you haven't already liked our Facebook page, please do. We have lots of great cartoons, word play, and geek culture.

If you don't do the Facebook thing, you can still vote by visiting www.IndieBizAward.com

Thanks so much for helping us get this far.

The Staff at From My Shelf Books & Gifts

JUST CLICK ON THE PHOTO TO BE TAKEN DIRECTLY TO THE PAGE TO VOTE FOR FROM MY SHELF BOOKS & GIFTS

Monday, October 2, 2017

October Happenings At From My Shelf Books & Gifts


It's fall at From My Shelf Books & Gifts. Fall into a great book! We'll help you find the perfect book for birthdays, Halloween, and yourself. From My Shelf Books has mystery, horror, romance, and fun. It's an experience.

October 6, 7, 8, and 9, Columbus Day weekend, From My Shelf Books is having a huge membership sale. Membership is usually $25 a year, but this weekend, it's only $5! Membership gives you discounts off books, games & gifts.

This Columbus Day weekend, we are also selling "The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet Bigfoot" for just $5. It's the first in the Totally Ninja Raccoon Ninja series, and it will turn your child into a reading ninja!

You can get the story of your life October 6. Local writer Declan Synott will create the “Story of Your Life” on the spot at “From My Shelf Books and Gifts,” Wellsboro, PA.

In a unique twist on street artist character-sketching, Declan Synott, a poet and writer will write “the story of your life” in 100 words or less in an “on the spot” special appearance, Friday, October 6, from 5 to 8 p.m. at “From My Shelf Books and Gifts, 7 East Avenue, Wellsboro, PA, as part of Downtown Wellsboro’s First Friday Celebration. Synott, aka Kevin Clark, is a retired professor of English and creative writing, most recently from Elmira College and has published poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction in a variety of journals and anthologies.

“What I will attempt to do,” he said, “is provide a snapshot of one’s life based on a brief interview and other observations and perceptions.” Synott will use his favorite 1929 Remington manual typewriter to create “on the spot” vignettes, poems, or living eulogies for the curious or the impressionable. “Andy Warhol famously said we will each have 15 minutes of fame, yet these creations (suitable for framing and signed by the author) may be treasured keepsakes for years or you can crumble them up and dispose of them properly.”

Synott adds, “There’s a suggested donation of $5 per life story; $10 if you’d like a happy ending.”
Originally from Pittsburgh, Declan Synott now calls Wellsboro home and has a B.A. in Communication from Slippery Rock University, a Masters in English Literature from Bucknell University, and an M.F.A. in creative writing.

October 21st is Wellsboro Bookfest is a huge used booksale and local/regional author event benefiting the Wellsboro Schools. The best combination of a used library-style book sale and a book festival celebrating local & regional authors! All in gorgeous historic Wellsboro, PA, during flaming foliage season!

From My Shelf Books is home to the Totally Ninja Raccoons, the award winning children's series that will turn your child into a reading ninja. It's all at From My Shelf Books on East Ave Wellsboro, your hometown bookstore.

The Story of Your Life



Writer creates the “Story of Your Life” on the spot at upcoming event at “From My Shelf Books and Gifts,” Wellsboro, PA.

In a unique twist on street artist character-sketching, Declan Synott, a poet and writer will write “the story of your life” in 100 words or less in an “on the spot” special appearance, Friday, October 6, from 5 to 8 p.m. at “From My Shelf Books and Gifts, 7 East Avenue, Wellsboro, PA, as part of Downtown Wellsboro’s First Friday Celebration. Synott, aka Kevin Clark, is a retired professor of English and creative writing, most recently from Elmira College and has published poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction in a variety of journals and anthologies.

“What I will attempt to do,” he said, “is provide a snapshot of one’s life based on a brief interview and other observations and perceptions.” Synott will use his favorite 1929 Remington manual typewriter to create “on the spot” vignettes, poems, or living eulogies for the curious or the impressionable. “Andy Warhol famously said we will each have 15 minutes of fame, yet these creations (suitable for framing and signed by the author) may be treasured keepsakes for years or you can crumble them up and dispose of them properly.”

Synott adds, “There’s a suggested donation of $5 per life story; $10 if you’d like a happy ending.”

Originally from Pittsburgh, Declan Synott now calls Wellsboro home and has a B.A. in Communication from Slippery Rock University, a Masters in English Literature from Bucknell University, and an M.F.A. in creative writing.

Tuesday, September 5, 2017

The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet the Little Green Men



The next fun Totally Ninja Raccoon book is available for pre-order now at From My Shelf Books & Gifts!


In The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet the Little Green Men, the Ninja Raccoons continue their ninja training, learn the power of forgiveness, and meet creatures from out of this world, aliens!

The Cat Board plots against the Ninja Raccoons as the Raccoons explore Cherry Springs State Park. Will the Cat Board trash the Raccoons? Will the Little Green Men find the perfect pet? Will Rascal make French Toast?

There are more things in heaven and earth than these three brothers ever dreamed. Cats are trying to take over the world; monsters are real; and Chinese food really will make you hungry soon after you eat it. It's up to the Ninja Raccoons to do something about it.


Friday, September 1, 2017

From My Shelf Books Hours Labor Day Weekend



From My Shelf Books & Gifts Hours of Operation Labor Day Weekend 2017

Friday, September 1, 2017 9AM to 7PM

Saturday, September 2, 2017 9AM to 7PM

Sunday, September 3, 2017 11AM to 4PM

Monday, September 4, 2017 9AM to 6PM

Thursday, August 31, 2017

50% OFF STARTS TODAY!!!

From My Shelf Books & Gifts 50% off end of Summer sale starts September 1st! All Labor Day weekend, September 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th. We've never held a 50% off sale if you aren't a member! That's right, you DON"T have to be a member to take part of this sale. Some limitations apply, our local author section is really only to support authors, and we don't actually make money on it.

You can save everyday with a membership. Memberships are just $25. Membership gives you discount on books, gifts & games, and is good for 12 straight months, every day of the year. You can join during this period, but why wait?

We are also showcasing our new expansion. We now have over over 1,500 square feet of books, gifts & games for you to browse. There's even more geeky goodness than before with great Star Wars gift items, our zombie section of gifts, Doctor Who, cool mugs, and even more books and games than ever before!

We are also celebrating Kevin's latest book, The Totally Ninja Raccoons and the Secret of Nessmuk Lake. Has your child tried this award winning series? With six books to choose from. The child in your life is sure to find one they enjoy. These books all take place right here in Tioga County, and children are loving them.

It's all at

From My Shelf Books & Gifts, your hometown bookstore
7 East Ave, Wellsboro PA
(570)724-5793
www.wellsborobookstore.com

CLICK ON MEMBESHIP ONLY FOR A LIST OF MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS!

Wednesday, August 30, 2017

The Totally Ninja Raccoons in Lewisburg Pennsylvania



On Friday, September 22 from 6PM to 9PM the Barnes & Noble at Bucknell University will be hosting local author Kevin Coolidge. It is free and open to the public.

Author Kevin Coolidge will be signing his children's series "The Totally Ninja Raccoons" for children. The book is written for youngsters and enjoyed by people of all ages.

Last year, Kevin Coolidge published the first two books in his new series, “Totally Ninja Raccoons” set in Wellsboro and Tioga County Pennsylvania. "The Totally Ninja Raccoons Meet Bigfoot" is the first book in his series about the three raccoon brothers who become ninjas. “The series is for the 7-10-year-old reluctant reader who loves action, adventure and creatures whose existence has yet to be proven, like Bigfoot,” said Coolidge.

In "The Totally Ninja Raccoons meet Bigfoot," the raccoons discover they are not meant to be ordinary bandits, but rather have the potential to be something extraordinary--ninjas. They begin their ninja training and meet their first potential employer--Gypsy the Cat.

Gypsy sends the raccoons on their first mission, to capture the elusive Bigfoot. They quickly find out that things aren't what they seem. Bigfoot isn't the monstrous beast, he's been portrayed to be; Gypsy isn't a benign employer; and cats want to take over the world. And the raccoons learn that sometimes you have to choose your own path if you want to choose your destination.

"The Totally Ninja Raccoons" is a new children's series for second to fourth graders. It is specifically for reluctant readers. "Six books have been published in the series with more to come," Coolidge said.

In the second book, the raccoons meet the “Weird & Wacky Werewolf." In the third, they learn "The Secret of the Canyon" and in the fourth, meet "The Thunderbird," In the fifth book "Catmas Caper" the raccoons have to save Christmas, and in the latest book, the Ninja Raccoons learn the secret of Nessmuk Lake. The latest book is due out in mid-October and will take place at Cherry Springs State Park.

In his ninja raccoon series, Coolidge has included the bookstore’s newest cats - brothers Huck and Finn. These cats receive daily doses of love from the many children and adults who visit the bookstore he co-owns at 7 East Avenue in Wellsboro.

Friday, August 18, 2017

Book Giveaway for Operation Ragnarok



Win an autographed copy of Operation Ragnarok by author Kevin Coolidge



“We are all just killing time, until time eventually kills us. We go through life knowing death is waiting, but not knowing what comes next. I don't have to wonder anymore, because I died.”

Operation Ragnarok is a fantastical adventure with comedic elements about a group of gamers going through a mid-life crisis, instead of the little red corvette, they decide to steal a Viking longship from a museum and release an ancient evil. It's a story of friendship, sacrifice, and unleashing Hel on Earth...

Operation Ragnarok, think Night at the Museum meets The Big Bang Theory with a touch of Stand by Me vibe. Great for those who love mythology, gaming, and geek culture, but not needed to enjoy this fast-paced tale. If you've ever rolled the dice, you need this book.

Operation Ragnarok is available for just $7.99 in print version from www.wellsborobookstore.com, or wherever books are sold, as well as an ebook on Kindle, Nook, Kobo, or Apple products

Want to unleash Hel on Hollywood? Check out the Valhalla Project of Facebook

Advance Praise for Operation Ragnarok

Operation Ragnarok is a fast-paced, irreverent nerdfest with laugh out loud dialogue, like Big Bang Theory on steroids. Suspend your disbelief and enjoy! --Dana Fredsti, author of the Ashley Parker Plague Town series

"Hoist your geek flag with Operation Ragnarok, And remember to always bring your claymore with you when robbing a museum or trying to save the world!" --Patrick Thomas, author of the Murphy's Lore series and the Dear Cthulhu advice columns and books

"Let's face it; there's a little hell raising Norseman in all of us. So top off your drinking horn, shoulder your trusty Claymore, and board your very own Viking longship. Kevin J. Coolidge's "Operation Ragnarok" is about to set sail. Who says geeks and gamers can't save the world?" -- Max Hawthorne , author of the bestselling Kronos Rising series.

If you're a fan of Norse mythology, pop culture, action and humor this is the book for you! Operation Ragnarok is a wild romp of a read. --V.L. Locey, romance author and mythology aficionado

"A Dungeons and Dragons adventure comes alive with good friends and a hero who loves books!" -Ann Myers, mystery author of Bread of the Dead.




Goodreads Book Giveaway


Operation Ragnarok by Kevin Coolidge

Operation Ragnarok

by Kevin Coolidge


Giveaway ends September 01, 2017.

See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.



Enter Giveaway