Jen Bird And Athena Books: Fostering Community Through Literature

The Bookshop Podcast

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Ever wondered how someone can transition from lawyering to managing an independent bookstore? Meet Jen Bird, the co-founder of Athena Books located in Old Greenwich, Connecticut. As a former lawyer, her unique journey to entrepreneurship promises not only to inspire but also to challenge your perception about career change. She shares how her passion for reading, primarily to her children, became the foundation for this incredible venture, with the bookstore's name and its meaning being an interesting twist to their story.
Athena Books isn't just a bookshop, it is a collaborative, women-focused space with a mission to advance reading culture and community engagement. Jen takes us through her strategic approach to book curation targeted at her community's needs and the pivotal role of organizations like the American Booksellers Association in her success story. Hear from her perspective the evolution of bookselling, the importance of creating an accessible and inclusive environment, and how Athena Books is navigating this dynamic industry.
Step into the world of Athena Books, a haven for diverse age groups and book genres. Find out what book genres are making the rounds in Old Greenwich and get a scoop on the attractions around for the perfect bookish getaway. If you're passionate about independent bookstores, community building, or you're just in for a good story, this episode is your ticket!
Athena Books

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Demon Copperhead, Barbara Kingsolver

Tom Lake, Ann Patchett

Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon, Michael Lewis

What You Are Looking For Is In The Library, Michiko Aoyama

The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder, David Grann

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1. Jen Bird And Athena Books: Fostering Community Through Literature (00:00:00)

2. From Lawyer to Entrepreneur (00:00:10)

3. Creating a Collaborative, Women-Focused Bookstore (00:09:04)

4. Books and Attractions in Bookstore (00:12:01)

5. Athena Books and Bookshop Podcast Introduction (00:22:57)