On September 27th we turned 4! I was surprised by Amy with this wonderful blog. Thank you! Take a read and then come and visit. - Michael
Bookshops are important. There are so many reasons we flock to them - for food, discussions, music, events (or maybe even buying yet another book!) To celebrate The Big Comfy Bookshop's fourth birthday this week, I wanted to gather some thoughts from my friends. (Friends I never would have met, if it weren’t for The Big Comfy Bookshop.)
“I've met some of my closest friends through events at the BCB. It's more than a bookshop - it's a whole community of like-minded bibliophiles, with the most lovely and helpful staff and DELICIOUS cake. It's kind of a home away from home.” - Maz, MindYourMarbles
Giving Poetry a Platform
Other than in front of your mirror at home, where else can you perform your poetry in comfort? Fire and Dust poetry evening, run by Raef Boylan at BCB, is the perfect place to express yourself.
“Our Fire & Dust poets love sharing their work surrounded by books; the shop is like a little world of dreams and potential, stacked on shelves. (Plus coffee, booze and cake – everything a writer needs, under one roof!)” - Raef, Here Comes Everyone Magazine
For those of the Nerdy Persuasion
I absolutely love attending the nerdy events at the Big Comfy Bookshop, particularly the Geek Quiz. It’s also home to the Retro Games nights run by Geek.Zone - another group which has a place to run events thanks to the shop.
"The bookshop is so accepting of all the interests our members at Geek.Zone have. We love coming here as we know we can be ourselves." - Hannah, Geek.Zone
Crafting HeadQuarters Whether it’s the Knit-In-Sit-In, the Papercraft club or painting sessions - the Big Comfy Bookshop is an endlessly creative space, perfect for those who just want to relax or attend a creative event.
For the Bookishly inclined
Other than the walls being absolutely crammed with interesting and wonderful books you can buy, you can also meet with other book-lovers and discuss them in the monthly book-club.
"The Big Comfy Bookshop is a great place to drink tea and discuss books. Unlike High Street bookshops, The Big Comfy Bookshop feels homely and welcoming.” - Richard Coles
Let’s Make Some Music
Every Friday, the Big Comfy Bookshop hosts artists from all over the UK, to play in their Comfy & Acoustic shows. The bookshop at night, all lit up with small lamps means it really is the cosiest place outside of your home - but this place has live music!
Literary Dissection and Discussion
Without The Big Comfy Bookshop, I never would have been able to set up my Harry Potter Discussion Group - a place that has not only given me new friends, but also the confidence to say “Look! I’m accomplishing an awesome thing!”.
“The Big Comfy Bookshop stands out in Coventry as a venue for the arts. Without it I could never have run the Tolkien Group. Like Elrond's house it’s perfect for reading, discussions or just enjoying a quiet cup of tea.” Dom, Rangers of Mordor Minor
It’s Even a Pretty Cool Place to Work
Whether you’re writing your debut novel, or working behind the counter - it’s got the perfect atmosphere for working through the day.
“I have been working at The Big Comfy Bookshop for 14 months, to me the shop means freedom and creativity! I have been given the chance to be as creative as possible (something that is very hard to find in a job). It has also given me the chance to meet some of the most inspiring people I have ever met. Them; like the shop, are always full of wisdom, creativity and inspiration.” - Eve, The Big Comfy Bookshop
The Big Comfy Bookshop has been a consistent refuge from my hectic life, complete with a cup of tea and full of books that have the potential to be mine. It really makes me proud to say that I am a friend of Michael’s and to be a member of the BCB community. I want to see it thrive and grow, as for all the reasons we have listed above... this bookshop is important