Mini pop-up kid’s bookstores: here’s an idea! As you may know, I write children’s books. For me, it’s a concrete way of trying to close the equity divide. Reading, vocabulary, a love of words, creativity and imagination are key to educational success. I’ve puzzled over how to get books into the hands of kids that need them most. I do readings in all sorts of venues but that doesn’t give kids books to take (except in exceptional situations where organizations/schools have placed large orders). I’ve been reflecting on offering books in unusual, unexpected settings like doctors’ offices. Physicians could give them to patients free or subsidize their purchase. Pediatricians, OBs. I also think bodegas are options—at counters like candy, gum or magazines in supermarkets. See photo below of the “mini pop-up kid bookstore” I created for a small market in DC. If it works there, I’ll expand to other bodegas. I supply the stand/books (books are reasonably priced to vendor) and they can sell them at wholesale, retail or give them away. Perhaps the effort could be underwritten by some organizations, communities, merchants or churches. Look at the image, share ideas and reactions and if you want a “mini pop-up bookstore” in your office, let me know. I can make that happen! …see more