Congratulations to Books of Wonder, New York City, which, 40 years ago, opened its original "tiny hole-in-the-wall store down at 444 Hudson Street in Greenwich Village."
Now with stores on W. 18th St. and W. 84th St., Books of Wonder is celebrating its anniversary by offering the first 150 people who order $35 or more on its website a gift: one of 150 different small drawings, prints, and autograph remarks provided through the #KidLitArtSurprise campaign. These gifts were created by more than a dozen authors and artists, including Paul O. Zelinsky, Steve Light, Ruth Chan, Cornelia Funke, Caren Berger, Elisha Cooper, Il Sung Na and more.
In addition, over the next two weeks, anyone making a purchase of $35 or more in the stores can select one of 10 classic titles (while supplies last) as an anniversary gift.
"This is our way of showing in a small way our huge appreciation for your incredible support over the last 40 years," owner Peter Glassman wrote to customers. "We quite literally could not have done it without you! Over the past 40 years so many wonderful people have shared their talents with us on our sales floor and behind the scenes. They and all of us at Books of Wonder wish to thank you for allowing us to share the joy and beauty of children's books with you.
"And, for those of you who are wondering how to best share and celebrate this special anniversary with us, the answer is simple--buy books for the readers you love! Or buy them a gift card! There's no better way to celebrate what Books of Wonder is all about than by sharing great books with those you love! Flowers fade, champagne's bubbles bust, but a great book stays with us forever and every purchase you make helps us continue to do what we love most--sharing the magic of books with others."