Last night, I had the pleasure of speaking with Marian Schembari regarding her delightful and humorous memoir, A Little Less Broken, in Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Here are five observations I made…
To start, Marian and I (above) both sported shiny silver footwear! (My choice was a pair of flats, though I also find these and these appealing.)
Before the event commenced, I had the chance to meet a lovely Cup of Jo reader who had on the most stunning red nail polish. She shared that she uses two thick coats and a clear top coat for added shine and to prevent chipping. Isn’t that nice?
Marian was also showcasing this social battery pin, which you could adjust to indicate how much human interaction you could handle. How cool is that — should we all be getting one of those?!
Lastly, the discussion itself was truly wonderful. When Marian was diagnosed with autism at age 34, she realized, as stated in her book, that she wasn’t “weird” or “broken,” but rather autistic! This revelation explained her frequent feelings of social confusion, overwhelm from noises and lights, and anxiety about eye contact.
A particularly intriguing moment was when Marian discussed how living abroad felt easier for her. Why was that? When she didn’t conform to various social norms, people didn’t see her as odd; they simply assumed it was due to her being a foreigner. I inquired about which country made her feel the most at home, and she mentioned Germany because “people arrive on time and express exactly what they mean.” Her thoughts reminded me of this amusing cake video:
@killersundy cultural differences of offering
♬ original sound – Killian Sundermann
Have you read any outstanding books recently? I absolutely loved Marian’s memoir and strongly recommend it; I’m also currently engrossed in this parenting book. And, as always, please share any insights on nail polish 😉
P.S. Did you receive an autism or ADHD diagnosis as an adult, and what are your three favorite books?
Note: If you make a purchase through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission or have a sponsored relationship with the brand, at no cost to you. We only recommend products we truly enjoy. Thank you so much.
**Five Essential Insights from a Visit to a NYC Bookstore | Cup of Jo**
There’s an unmistakable charm to entering a New York City bookstore. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, the experience captivates the senses — the aroma of newly printed pages, the gentle sound of readers turning through books, and the sight of shelves overflowing with literary delights. Recently, during a journey to one of the city’s favorite independent bookstores, several key insights stood out. Here are five takeaways from that experience, encapsulating what makes NYC bookstores truly unique.
### 1. **The Art of Curation: Carefully Selected Titles**
In contrast to the vast, impersonal aisles of major chain bookstores, NYC’s independent bookstores are celebrated for their thoughtfully curated collections. Every book seems to be handpicked with care. During my visit, I observed that the staff recommendations section was especially cherished. These picks included not just bestsellers but also lesser-known treasures, debut authors, and niche genres. The handwritten notes accompanying each selection provided a personal touch, sharing why a certain book resonated with the recommending staff member.
This careful curation showcases the bookstore’s distinctive character and the community it serves. In such a diverse city as New York, it’s refreshing to see bookstores catering to a variety of preferences, from literary fiction and poetry to graphic novels and memoirs. The atmosphere feels intimate, as if the staff is sharing their personal favorites rather than merely selling books.
### 2. **The Emergence of Niche Sections: Books for Every Passion**
One of the most delightful surprises during my visit was uncovering niche sections tailored to specific interests and communities. Beyond standard categories like fiction, history, and self-help, I stumbled upon dedicated shelves for topics including feminist literature, LGBTQ+ voices, and works by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) authors. There was even a section for translated literature, showcasing international authors who might not usually receive significant attention in mainstream bookstores.
These niche areas are a testament to the inclusivity and diversity that NYC bookstores promote. They provide a platform for marginalized voices and ensure that readers from all backgrounds can discover stories that resonate with them. It serves as a reminder that bookstores are not merely retail spaces; they are cultural hubs reflecting the values and interests of their communities.
### 3. **The Significance of Events: Fostering a Literary Community**
NYC bookstores offer more than just retail experiences; they serve as gathering places for literary fans. Many independent bookstores host regular events such as author readings, book signings, and panel discussions. During my visit, I saw a calendar of upcoming events prominently displayed by the entrance. The lineup featured everything from a poetry reading by a local author to a discussion on climate change with a well-known environmental advocate.
These gatherings cultivate a sense of community and allow readers to engage with authors and fellow book enthusiasts. In a fast-paced and sometimes isolating city like New York, these events offer a rare opportunity to pause, connect, and share ideas. It’s evident that bookstores play a crucial role in fostering the city’s literary culture, providing a space for dialogue and exploration.
### 4. **The Cozy Café Corner: A Space to Relax**
Many NYC bookstores have embraced combining books with coffee, creating cozy café corners where patrons can linger for hours. During my visit, I couldn’t resist enjoying a cup of coffee while settling into a comfy chair with a novel. The café was vibrant, with patrons working on laptops, conversing with friends, and many simply relishing a quiet moment with a book.
This fusion of books and coffee creates an inviting environment that encourages patrons to stay longer. It transforms the bookstore from merely a transactional space into a destination where one can unwind, reflect, and recharge. In a city where time is often a luxury, being able to slow down and enjoy a good book with a warm beverage feels like a meaningful act of self-care.
### 5. **The Lasting Allure of Print: A Love for Physical Books**
In this era of e-books and digital reading gadgets, it’s heartening to observe that physical books still hold a cherished place among many readers. During my visit, I noticed a continuous flow of customers browsing the shelves, flipping through pages, and meticulously choosing books to take home. There’s a unique joy in the tactile experience of holding a book — the weight of it in your hands, the feel of the pages, the elegance of the cover design — that a screen simply cannot replicate.
NYC bookstores have celebrated this enduring affection for print by offering beautifully crafted editions, from special hardcovers to illustrated volumes and limited-edition prints. Many stores also provide a range of literary-themed merchandise, including tote bags, bookmarks, and journals, further honoring the physical experience of reading.
