'Booksellers Are Heroes for Their Communities'

"I grew up mostly an only child, so I spent a lot of time reading in my room, then imagining stories of my own. Which is to say, books have always felt like some of the very best, most satisfying company.

"These days, living in the D.C. area, my local indies have become a refuge from the uncertainty and heartache swirling around this city. Even as our local economy bears the brunt of a government shutdown and massive government layoffs, when I visit Wonderland Books or Politics and Prose, they're almost always bustling with customers. I think that's because they supply more than books--they provide community and escape. More than ever, I believe booksellers are heroes for their communities."