Effective yesterday, Neil Novik retired as co-owner of the Odyssey Bookshop, South Hadley, Mass. He had held the position since coming to the bookstore in 1998. In an e-mail letter, Novik called the intervening years "among the most interesting and, at times, exciting, in my life. I will never forget the people I have met and friends I have made. Thank you."
Joan Grenier, who will continue as the sole owner and president, "has many ideas for the store's future," Novik wrote. "With your support, the store will continue to thrive as one of the leading independent bookstores in Massachusetts."
He also observed that while he is using the word retire, "I will still be in the store about one day a week (usually Mondays) through the spring and summer to help the new textbook manager prepare for the fall semester. I will also continue to host the Odyssey Crime Club reading group (second Monday of every month) at least until the end of 2012. So I hope to see many of you at some point. Again, thank you for your kindness and support."
