WAIM #043 - A Novel Concept

Christine Peffer and Elise Jujuga began passively discussing the idea of opening a bookshop during the early months of the pandemic. With idle time and a series of virtual hiking and book clubs they both belonged to, the pair began to think more seriously about the possibility of a real bookshop endeavor. 

Then, the MSU Surplus Store announced they were selling off a literal ton of books for a very small amount of cash. Elise and Christine swooped in and bought the books for a song and then were left with figuring out what the hell to do with them all. 

Fast forward more than two years and A Novel Concept is thriving as a physical bookshop in Lansing’s downtown neighborhood. Elise and Christine talk me through what it was like to get going and the different stages of growth and progress they’ve already achieved. We also spend some time talking about Dear Ollie, a stationery shop that shares space with A Novel Concept that is owned and run by local artist Sara Pulver. 

Christine and Elise have created a much needed community space in their shop, and are also giving back to the Lansing area with public events, readings, and book clubs all coordinated and directed by the ladies in the store. 

For those not in the mid-Michigan region, we talk about the realities of owning a local shop and ways for customers around the country to support their favorite stores even when buying online. It’s a fun and fascinating conversation with a pair of terrific people helping to shape our community and its culture one book at a time. 

Cheers,

Matty C