Independent Bookstore Day is April 24th, just a few days away! This one-day national bookstore party (always the last Saturday in April) will be celebrated as a hybrid event in 2021, with both in-store and online events. This year’s Independent Bookstore Day Ambassador is NYT-bestselling author Glennon Doyle, and one of the flagship events will be her conversation with Alex Elle, a longtime favorite here at Glitter Guide.
If you haven’t been lucky enough to read anything by Alex, you’re seriously missing out. As a wellness advocate, author, podcast host and writing to heal facilitator, Alex is on a mission to help uplift the lives of everyone around her.
We got the chance to talk to Alex ahead of her panel with Glennon Doyle and learn a little bit more about what is in-store, what she has been up to, and what’s next for her!
We’re excited about your upcoming panel today, April 22 with Glennon Doyle for Independent Bookstore Day! What can attendees expect at the virtual event?
I’m excited too! Attendees can expect a fun and easeful conversation about everything from our favorite books, to parenthood during the pandemic, to self-care as community care. It’s going to be a fun time!
Alex Elle and Glennon Doyle might just be our literary dream duo, what do you admire about Glennon as a human and an author?
I admire that Glennon is unapologetically herself and that she shares stories rooted in truth without shame. Her honesty gives others permission to show up as their true selves—I love it.
How have independent bookstores impacted you as an author?
They are the backbones of our communities! Their love and support is so far reaching. I’m a big believer in Indie Bookstores being a pillar in creating community care. We would be lost without them!
Do you have any local bookstores that you love to frequent?
Yes! Politics and Prose, Mahogany Books, Busboys and Poets, and The Potter’s House. They are all in DC or MD.
You’ve had a busy year with the release of your book After The Rain and its companion, In Courage, both of which we loved. How has this year been for you professionally? How about personally?
Thank you! You’re right—I have had a very busy year professionally. Personally, it’s been emotional but also, it’s allowed me to learn new ways to prioritize my self-care and wellbeing.
What’s the best book you’ve read so far in 2021?
- Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Tawwab
- Black Girl Call Home by Jasmine Mans
- Codependent No More by Melody Beattie
If you owned a bookstore what would you call it?
It’s a dream of mine to open a bookstore/cafe! I would name it: Dogeared Books.
What can our readers expect to see next from you? Any releases or news you can share with us?
They can expect a new inner child journaling course called “Healing Your Heart” (6/6 is our start date) and in 2022 a new book will be out from me—and I cannot wait to tell you all more about it.
Lastly, how will you be spending Independent Bookstore Day?
Cozied up at home with a good book after a long day!
You can register for the online conversation on Eventbrite now. The event is free, but there is a donation option with all proceeds going to support the Book Industry Charitable Foundation’s (Binc) bookseller safety net.
Thank you, Alex! Connect with her on Instagram.
