A little bookshop with some huge ideas and even bigger dreams!
Today, we’ll be taking a look at an exciting Australian bookstore, The First Chapter Book Shop, Adelaide’s Favourite Indie book shop! And their upcoming leap of faith from being an online-only bookshop into a brick-and-mortar location in Adelaide.
We couldn’t think of a better way to introduce The First Chapter Book Shop than by interviewing the owner of TFC, Jess.
Interview with the owner of TFC, Jess
Welcome, Jess. Could you introduce yourself and tell our readers what inspired you to start The First Chapter Book Shop?
Hi, I’m Jess, the owner of TFC! It all started in 2021 when I found myself at this cute country town bookshop while on holiday with my family. I turned to my husband and said, “I want one of these.” From there, the idea formed, the business name was chosen, and it started our ‘First Chapter!’
What led you to transition from an online bookstore to a physical bookstore?
From the start, opening a physical shop was always the goal. We have another business we were looking for a new premises for and thought we could do 2 in 1! In July this year, we found somewhere for our other business, and now we’ve built a bookshop inside! We’re so excited to finish the build and move in!
How have you found the weird and wonderful world of writers and authors?
Every single author I have spoken to and/or worked with has been absolutely amazing. I have seen nothing but support and adoration from authors, which is absolutely fantastic. This is why I like to give it back! There are some beautiful people with beautiful stories to share, and I’m glad I can be a part of that.
Are you an author yourself, or have you ever had any inspiration to be an author?
I am not. Although I would love to, with the businesses, a 7-year-old, a 6-year-old, and a 4-month-old baby, it doesn’t leave me with much time to explore this option. Maybe one day I will be able to give it a go, but for now, I’m happy celebrating my beautiful author friends!
What are some of the different things The First Chapter Book Shop does to support Australian authors?
We currently host a book box called “Aussie Author Of The Month” or AATOM. We choose 1 Australian author and open pre-orders for 2 weeks for signed and personalised copies along with bookish goodies. This has been a smashing success with the Australian community, and I love the amount of support we get!
Can you name your top three favorite authors?
No. 😂 that’s like asking me to choose my favourite child.
Some of my favourites are Kate Stewart, Odette Stone, Lucia Franco, Mariana Zapata, Siobhan Davis, Samantha Christy, Jewel E Ann, QB Tyler, Krystal Veitch, Layla Pine, JA Low, Marley Valentine, Penelope Douglas, JT Geissinger, TL Swan, Meagan Brandy, Bindi Kennedy, Luci Fer, Jennifer Hartmann, Stephanie Archer… I honestly could go on and on.
What’s next for you as a business owner?
Next is the shop opening on January 13th, 2024, and the changes that brings to the bookshop!
After that, doing what I can to celebrate new and old indie authors worldwide.
Doing what I can to promote Australian Indie authors wherever I can.
I also hope to make more market appearances Across South Australia and hopefully a few book signings and author events around the country!
Thanks, Jess. The next time I’m in Adelaide, I’ll pop into the shop and check it out for myself!
The First Chapter Book Shop | Official Opening
TFC will be opening in Edinburgh, SA, 5111, on January 13th between 10 AM and 4 PM. So, if you’re an avid reader who enjoys supporting Australian authors, be sure to pop in and meet some local Australian authors and writers for yourself between 10 AM and 4 PM, January 13th, 2024.
If you would like more information about the grand opening of TFC, check out their Facebook Page here.
There are going to be some fantastic local Australian authors present at the bookshop opening doing book signings, including Luci Fer, Bindi Kennedy, Krystal Veitch, Sharon Woods, Louise Holland, Lorelei Johnson, Hailey Jade, Layla Pine, JL Skye, and Helen Walton.
Contacting & Connecting with The First Chapter Book Shop
Connecting with The First Chapter Book Shop is easy! You can visit their website here or follow them on social media, including Instagram and TikTok.
Introducing The First Chapter Book Shop – Conclusion
If you live in Adelaide, then be sure to drop in at the grand opening of The First Chapter Book Shop on Saturday, January 13th, 2024. There’s going to be some local Australian authors present doing book signings, including Luci Fer, Bindi Kennedy, Krystal Veitch, Sharon Woods, Louise Holland, Lorelei Johnson, Hailey Jade, Layla Pine, JL Skye, and Helen Walton.
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