October is flying by faster than a witch on a broomstick, and we’re loving every moment of this spooktacular season here on Main Street! Between crisp fall air, cozy reads, and community fun, we’ve got a full lineup of events that’ll keep your calendar (and your bookshelf) overflowing with goodness.
From writer meetups to Halloween treats — and a special appearance by bestselling author Chris Whitaker — there’s something for everyone this week and beyond. Here’s what’s happening:
✍️ Monday, October 13 – Main Street Writes (Zoom) (6:30–8:30 pm)
Our weekly writers’ group continues to grow! Whether you’re journaling, drafting, or deep into your next novel, come share inspiration and stories with fellow writers.
😱 Tuesday, October 14 – Thrill in the ’Ville: Forget Me Not by Stacy Willingham (6:30–8 pm)
Our thriller book club dives into this Charleston-based author’s suspense favorite — with wine, snacks, and lively discussion as always.
📖 Wednesday, October 15 – Stories on the Square (9:30 am)
Our weekly storytime for young readers and caregivers — come for the giggles, stay for the joy of reading together!
🧛 Thursday, October 16 – Third Thursday “Monster Mash!” (5:30–8:30 pm)
Summerville’s favorite block party gets a spooky twist! Stroll downtown, enjoy live music, treats, and community spirit — we’ll have themed specials and a few monster surprises!
🦊 Monday, October 20 – Adventures in Reading Kids Club: Blackberry Fox (5:30–6:30 pm)
Free for all young readers — plus 10% off the featured book!
🌅 Tuesday, October 21 – Peaceful Mornings (8–10 am)
Our quiet reading club — come sip, read, and enjoy a calm start to your day.
💞 Tuesday, October 21 – Kiss & Tell Romance Club: The Good Girl Effect by Sara Cate (6:30–8 pm)
Good conversation, great company, and free treats — come swoon with us!
🎃 Saturday, October 25 – Downtown Spooktacular Trick-or-Treat (10 am–1 pm)
Costumes encouraged! Join the fun throughout downtown Summerville — we’ll have candy, spooky surprises, and plenty of photo ops!
🌈 Sunday, October 26 – Meet Author Chris Whitaker (3:30–5 pm)
We’re beyond excited to welcome All the Colors of the Dark author and international bestseller Chris Whitaker to Summerville! Come hear him speak, grab a signed copy, and join this special literary afternoon.
📘 Tuesday, October 28 – Books & Banter: Buckeye by Patrick Ryan (6:30–8 pm)
Our general fiction club meets for another unforgettable evening of bookish chatter and community connection.
🍬 Friday, October 31 – Happy Halloween at Main Street Reads (10 am–7 pm)
Stop in for treats, storewide specials, and a free wizard wand while supplies last!
✨ Sneak Peek: November Highlights
👻 Saturday, November 1 – Book Launch: Where Evil Lives by A.F. Winter (1–3 pm)
Join us for the latest gothic horror tale from fan favorite A.F. Winter — a chilling new release, perfect for the season.
💎 Sunday, November 2 – Bedazzle Your Books! (4–6 pm | Ticketed Event)
Add sparkle to your stories in this creative, hands-on workshop — supplies (and snacks) provided!
🤫 Tuesday, November 4 – Silent Nights: Quiet Reading Club (6:30–8:30 pm)
Cozy up in your favorite chair with your current read — pure bliss.
🧙♂️ Thursday, November 6 – Fab Fantasy Book Club: The Magician of Tiger Castle by Louis Sachar (6:30–8 pm)
Magic, mischief, and wine — yes, please!
💌 Sunday, November 9 – Book Signing & Salon: Dear Everyone by Henley Carr (3–5:30 pm – Ticketed Event)
Join us for an afternoon of wine, charcuterie, and heartfelt conversation with debut author Henley Carr. Tickets include a signed copy of Dear Everyone.
🧩 Tuesday, November 11 – Thrill in the ’Ville: Doll Parts by Penny Zang (6:30–8 pm)
The thriller club continues — bring your theories!
🦮 Monday, November 17 – Adventures in Reading Kids Club: The Honest Truth (5:30–6:30 pm)
A heartwarming pick perfect for young readers.
💘 Tuesday, November 18 – Kiss & Tell Romance Club: Burning Daylight by Emily McIntire (6:30–8 pm)
Bring your book and your best banter — and maybe a glass of wine!
📚 Tuesday, November 25 – Books & Banter: The Secret Book Society by Madeline Martin (6:30–8 pm)
A perfect pick to close out November with heart, hope, and literary love.
💳 And Finally… Why I Flew to Washington
Last week, I had the honor of joining fellow bookstore and retail advocates from across the country in Washington, D.C., for a “Fly-In” sponsored by the American Booksellers Association. Our mission: to ask Congress to take action on swipe fee reform — a change that could help every small business (and every customer, meaning YOU) in America.
Every time you use a credit card, banks and networks charge merchants a “swipe fee.” Those fees have more than doubled over the past decade and now cost U.S. retailers AND consumers hundreds of billions each year. They’re one of the main reasons prices continue to creep up — not just for books, but for groceries, gas, medical bills, and more.
The Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA) is a bipartisan bill that would introduce real competition into the credit card market. It simply requires the biggest banks to make cards compatible with at least two payment networks — giving merchants the freedom to choose one with lower fees and better security.
Why does this matter? Because for most bookstores and small businesses, swipe fees are now our biggest operational cost after labor — and that affects every Main Street community. WORSE: these fees cost the average American family over $1,200 each year (and growing).
📣 Here’s how you can help:
Take one minute to tell Congress to support the Credit Card Competition Act. The American Booksellers Association’s Advocacy Action Center makes it super easy to fill in the info and make your voice heard.
Together, we can help level the playing field — for small businesses, for communities, and for readers everywhere, including YOU!
CLICK HERE TO MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD
Stay safe and dry ’til we meet again – we’ll see you on Main Street!