The start of something good
Maybe not exactly a "new you," but if you're resolving to just be good to yourself or to better your life in some way, we're up for ushering in this new year with open arms — and arms filled with books! And, as many of you are new to the shop (and may not have even had the pleasure of browsing our shelves in person), we'd like to re-introduce ourselves.

— the River Bend booksellers
A Fresh Focus on You
A fresh start, write a novel, learn to relax, start yoga, try meditation, breathe, focus or just keep going... Here are some titles geared toward helping you make the most of this new year.
Community
Book Bundles Benefit Read to Grow
Thanks to our reading community who took part in our Book Bundles program last year, we were able to donate more than 1,000 books this past fall to Read to Grow. Even with pandemic restrictions and school closings, they were still able to distribute books to 11 different community organizations including OPMAD, A. l. Prince Technical High School, Hartford Health Care: Institute of Living, Sheldon Oak Communities, Wheeler Clinic/ Healthy Steps, Catholic Charities, Southside Family Center, Squire Village (A Rose Community), Killingly Family Resource Center, East Hartford Middle School, and IRIS in New Haven.
Events
River Bend is proud to host local author Sam Taylor for the launch of her debut novel We Are the Fire.  

Join Sam in conversation with Joanna Ruth Meyer on Tuesday, February 16 at 7:00pm ET.
We're lining up great authors like Alan Gratz (Refugee & Ban This Book) & Lauren Tarshis (the I Survived series) for upcoming virtual school visits.

Sign up here to reach out and get your school involved!
Did you know River Bend has a Fantasy Book Club?
This group is for fans of stories set beyond reality.

Upcoming Fantasy Book Club selections include:
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River Bend member+avid reader Kara moderates the discussion Friday evenings via Zoom.
Meet Our Booksellers
River Bend Bookseller: Megan A.—

Employee #1

(+ Bookseller Emeritus - while away at college)
• Last book you read: Dune by Frank Herbert

Dune is a highly imaginative & thought-provoking sci-fi whose world-building is of epic proportions. It is certainly a memorable tale that has earned its title as a Sci-Fi classic. Make sure to check it out before the movie adaptation next fall!
• Book you're currently reading: The Dark Prophecy by Rick Riordan

Rick Riordan always delivers a fun middle-grade rendition of greek classics. The Dark Prophecy is no exception! Filled with fun characters and goofy humor, it's wonderful and charming new-take on the Greek god Apollo.
• Author you love to read: Love V.E. Schwab, always!

• About yourself in 3 adjectives: whimsical, curious, and energetic

• Favorite thing to do besides read: Baking! I just tried out the Pieometry book, and it turned out wonderful.

• Reading goal for 2021: I'm looking to read more sci-fi and fantasy classics. I am used to exploring a lot of niche, lesser-known titles. Dune was a great change of pace, and I'm hoping to continue with that.

• Best part of being a bookseller? What's best about working here are my fellow booksellers! That, and being able to interact with such wonderful people in the shop about stories I love. Anytime someone picks up a book I loved or had recommended to them, it makes me so happy and excited to hear their thoughts when they come in next visit.
What We're Currently Reading
Libro.fm Listen: Audiobook Pick
A full cast brings to life the local author's followup to Newbery Medal-winning graphic novel New Kid.
Book2Look4:
Pre-order Pick
Author of The Pisces pens a new deliciously-fun food and fantasy romp. Preorder this with River Bend for an indie-exclusive gourmand starter pack + signed copy — while supplies last.
Looking for a unique gift for a book lover or loved one? Check our ❤️ Valentine Shop!