Wonderland Books will open in October at 7920 Norfolk Ave. in Bethesda, Md. Co-owners Amy Joyce and Gayle Weiswasser noted that the new bookstore "will be a destination for its readers to meet, explore, discuss and discover books and build community with authors and other book lovers."
Occupying more than 2,000 square feet of space, Wonderland Books will carry a wide range of books across genres, as well as a curated selection of cards and gifts. The store will host author readings and other events that bring readers together.
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| Amy Joyce and Gayle Weiswasser | |
Joyce and Weiswasser are longtime area friends and book lovers who are realizing their dream of opening an independent bookstore. Joyce is a journalist, editor and writer who spent 28 years at the Washington Post, most recently as editor of On Parenting. Weiswasser is a former lawyer and corporate communications executive, who has published a book review blog since 2006 and co-hosted a podcast about books and reading for eight years.
"Every community needs a bookstore--an inspiring space for readers, writers and thinkers, especially now. I am overjoyed to be able to create this here," said Joyce, who has spent much of her life getting purposefully lost in bookstores. "I especially can't wait to welcome children and teens who so desperately need a place to find books that will speak to them, expand their worlds and spur their imaginations. We promise to be this haven for them, like bookstores always were for me."
Weiswasser noted: "Having free access to a range of viewpoints and voices has never been more important than it is right now. Opening a bookstore is one of the best ways to ensure that we continue to live in a society that safeguards free expression and the thoughtful exchange of ideas. We are very excited to bring Wonderland Books to this dynamic, enthusiastic community of readers."
Wonderland Books has launched an Indiegogo campaign to help support the opening of the store, which requires a renovation of the existing space.