Cover to Cover Children's Books — Local services in Upper Arlington

On 1-25-2020, I attended a "children's book reading" by author Brian Wray at Cover to Cover Children's Books at its new location in the "Old Arlington" neighborhood of Upper Arlington. The "Old Arlington" neighborhood of Upper Arlington is anything south of W. Lane Ave. Cover to Cover Children's Books had previously been located in the "Clintonville" neighborhood of Columbus.

I have not been a child for approximately 60 years and I am not a parent so I have had only minimal interaction with children's literature for many decades. I live only 1½ miles away from Cover to Cover Children's books so I had been able to walk there [even though it had been late January -- but evidently had been sufficiently warm -- that day].

The area near the back of Cover to Cover Children's Books had been filled with many people [most of them children sitting on the floor but there had also been adults sitting on chairs]. The next paragraph is quoted from the "official" description of the book that Brian Wray had read and discussed that day.

"Talking about mental health issues is daunting. Often, just starting the conversation is the hardest part. With his latest book, 'Max’s Box,' Brian Wray offers children and grown-ups a way to begin these important discussions. Through simple story-telling and cartoonish illustrations, Wray gives his readers a glimpse into what can happen when emotions are suppressed. He also demonstrates how, with the help of people who care, we can learn to express, and then let go of, the things that hold us back."

Cover to Cover Children's Books is a well-designed space with a great selection of children's books. I highly recommend Cover to Cover...

Just an amazing place for young and old (but especially the littles!). Authors read their books to kids at story times on the weekends. The small shop abounds with an amazing selection of books and gifts and wonderful places to read or sit.

If that wasn't enough, which frankly it is, the staff are more like curators and guides. That's likely due to the vision of the stores founders who are amazing.

Thank you for this neighborhood gem. This gem is just to good to keep to myself so I decided to write this review. Check the website for events, come for no reason other than a love of books, or stop by for great gifts for the kids in your life. You will not be disappointed

Disclaimer: I detest giving everything a 5 star (3=adequate/average, 4=really great; mostly my reviews get those ratings) so this place really...

I hesitate to write this review because, selfishly, Cover to Cover has been a secret I have kept all to myself, as it is my absolute favorite children’s’ book store in Columbus, both as an educator and as a giver of gifts to the young kiddos in our family! Between the incredible personalized service, the thoughtfully curated collection on offer, and the various author visits and events the staff organize. This shop will be your ace in the hole, as it has been mine over the last few years. It’s a delight just to visit, and I will surely be back for many years to come, regardless of distance or (today’s)...