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[español abajo] Hello friends! Stopping by to say “hola!” and share some quick updates with you all. May has been a little slower in the pop up department as I took a step back to hang with family, but we still have our upcoming book clubs in Magical Realism and Historical Fiction. If book clubs aren’t your thing, you can always head to our website or the link in our bio and check out our online shops with @bookshop_org and @librofm . I hope to see you around!! 📚🌷 ¡Hola, amigos! Me paso por aquí para saludaros y compartir con ustedes algunas novedades rápidas. Mayo ha sido un mes un poco más tranquilo en cuanto a pop-ups, ya que he dado un paso atrás para pasar tiempo con la familia, pero seguimos teniendo nuestros próximos clubes de lectura sobre realismo mágico y ficción histórica. Si los clubes de lectura no son lo tuyo, siempre puedes visitar nuestra página web o el enlace de nuestra biografía y echar un vistazo a nuestras tiendas online con @bookshop_org y @librofm. ¡Espero verles por aquí!

[español abajo] Hello friends! Stopping by to say “hola!” and share some quick updates with you all. May has been a little slower in the pop up department as I took a step back to hang with family, but we still have our upcoming book clubs in Magical Realism and Historical Fiction. If book clubs aren’t your thing, you can always head to our website or the link in our bio and check out our online shops with @bookshop_org and @librofm . I hope to see you around!! 📚🌷 ¡Hola, amigos! Me paso por aquí para saludaros y compartir con ustedes algunas novedades rápidas. Mayo ha sido un mes un poco más tranquilo en cuanto a pop-ups, ya que he dado un paso atrás para pasar tiempo con la familia, pero seguimos teniendo nuestros próximos clubes de lectura sobre realismo mágico y ficción histórica. Si los clubes de lectura no son lo tuyo, siempre puedes visitar nuestra página web o el enlace de nuestra biografía y echar un vistazo a nuestras tiendas online con @bookshop_org y @librofm. ¡Espero verles por aquí!

I really enjoyed Buncombe County Libraries’ One Book, One Buncombe event today. Not only was the conversation with @dolenperkinsvaldez funny and insightful, but I also ran into some friends along the way.

Did you know that Ronnie Pepper was instrumental in shedding light on the Kingdom of Happy Land? He is both a staple in the Hendersonville community and a talented performer. I will forever remember his role in Dreamgirls at the community theater in Hendersonville.

I can’t forget @samantha_randolph, my fellow bookworm and book club alum. If it’s bookish, I know she’ll be there spreading book joy. 💕

I really enjoyed Buncombe County Libraries’ One Book, One Buncombe event today. Not only was the conversation with @dolenperkinsvaldez funny and insightful, but I also ran into some friends along the way.

Did you know that Ronnie Pepper was instrumental in shedding light on the Kingdom of Happy Land? He is both a staple in the Hendersonville community and a talented performer. I will forever remember his role in Dreamgirls at the community theater in Hendersonville.

I can’t forget @samantha_randolph, my fellow bookworm and book club alum. If it’s bookish, I know she’ll be there spreading book joy. 💕

Really enjoying our May Magical Realism Book Club pick, River Mumma by Zalika Reid-Benta. It’s got a powerful Jamaican River spirit, sassy 20 somethings, a nod to ancestry, and touches on why it’s important not to appropriate other people’s dang culture. 🌊💕

Really enjoying our May Magical Realism Book Club pick, River Mumma by Zalika Reid-Benta. It’s got a powerful Jamaican River spirit, sassy 20 somethings, a nod to ancestry, and touches on why it’s important not to appropriate other people’s dang culture. 🌊💕

✨ May Book Clubs with Cuentos y Café ✨

We’ve got two incredible discussions lined up this month featuring unforgettable stories, rich conversations, and cozy community spaces. Grab your copy and join us! 💛

🌊 Magical Realism Book Club
📖 River Mumma by Zalika Reid-Benta
🗓 Sunday, May 24
⏰ 12–1:30 pm
☕ Cooperative Coffee Shop

🏛 Historical Fiction Book Club
📖 This Kind of Trouble by Tochi Eze
🗓 Friday, May 29
⏰ 5–6 pm
🐈 BattleCat Beverly Hills

✨ And keep an eye out… details for our upcoming Book Club en espanol are coming soon!

Whether you’re a longtime book club regular or thinking about joining for the first time, we’d love to see you there. 📚💫

✨ May Book Clubs with Cuentos y Café ✨

We’ve got two incredible discussions lined up this month featuring unforgettable stories, rich conversations, and cozy community spaces. Grab your copy and join us! 💛

🌊 Magical Realism Book Club
📖 River Mumma by Zalika Reid-Benta
🗓 Sunday, May 24
⏰ 12–1:30 pm
☕ Cooperative Coffee Shop

🏛 Historical Fiction Book Club
📖 This Kind of Trouble by Tochi Eze
🗓 Friday, May 29
⏰ 5–6 pm
🐈 BattleCat Beverly Hills

✨ And keep an eye out… details for our upcoming Book Club en espanol are coming soon!

Whether you’re a longtime book club regular or thinking about joining for the first time, we’d love to see you there. 📚💫

Excited to finally get a chance to read Xóchitl Gonzalez’s latest novel that dropped last month. I might be a little late to the party, but the signed copy makes up for it. I’ll keep you posted on how it goes! If you haven’t already, grab a copy of Last Night in Brooklyn. If you’re in the Asheville area, I have a few copies left. Happy Reading! 😉

Excited to finally get a chance to read Xóchitl Gonzalez’s latest novel that dropped last month. I might be a little late to the party, but the signed copy makes up for it. I’ll keep you posted on how it goes! If you haven’t already, grab a copy of Last Night in Brooklyn. If you’re in the Asheville area, I have a few copies left. Happy Reading! 😉

Magical Realism Book Club was extra yummy today. Our friend Hau got a little inspired by the recipes in this sweet novel and brought in some tofu he made to share. It was just the right snack for our little chat. 💕📚

Magical Realism Book Club was extra yummy today. Our friend Hau got a little inspired by the recipes in this sweet novel and brought in some tofu he made to share. It was just the right snack for our little chat. 💕📚

📚✨ Magical Realism Book Club is tomorrow! ✨📚

Join us May 3rd at 12 pm at Cooperative Coffee Shop (210 Haywood Road) as we gather for a cozy, magical conversation around The Calico Cat at the Chibineko Kitchen by Yuta Takahashi 🐈🍲

Expect a story full of heart, healing, and a little everyday magic—perfect for a slow Sunday with good coffee and even better company ☕💫

Whether you’ve finished the book or are just getting started, you’re welcome to join us. Come chat, sip, and connect! 💛📖

❤️

📚✨ ¡Mañana es la reunión del Club de Lectura de Realismo Mágico! ✨📚

Acompáñanos el 3 de mayo a las 12 del mediodía en Cooperative Coffee Shop (210 Haywood Road) para disfrutar de una conversación acogedora y mágica en torno a El gato calicó de la cocina Chibineko*, de Yuta Takahashi 🐈🍲

Te espera una historia llena de corazón, sanación y un poco de magia cotidiana, perfecta para un domingo tranquilo con buen café y aún mejor compañía ☕💫

Tanto si ya has terminado el libro como si acabas de empezar, eres bienvenido a unirte a nosotros. ¡Ven a charlar, a tomar algo y a conectar! 💛📖

#CuentosYCafé #ClubDeLecturaDeRealismoMágico #CaféCooperativo #ClubDeLecturaAVL #LibrosBIPOC #LectoresDeAsheville #LecturasDeDomingo #BIPOCbooks #MagicalRealism

📚✨ Magical Realism Book Club is tomorrow! ✨📚

Join us May 3rd at 12 pm at Cooperative Coffee Shop (210 Haywood Road) as we gather for a cozy, magical conversation around The Calico Cat at the Chibineko Kitchen by Yuta Takahashi 🐈🍲

Expect a story full of heart, healing, and a little everyday magic—perfect for a slow Sunday with good coffee and even better company ☕💫

Whether you’ve finished the book or are just getting started, you’re welcome to join us. Come chat, sip, and connect! 💛📖

❤️

📚✨ ¡Mañana es la reunión del Club de Lectura de Realismo Mágico! ✨📚

Acompáñanos el 3 de mayo a las 12 del mediodía en Cooperative Coffee Shop (210 Haywood Road) para disfrutar de una conversación acogedora y mágica en torno a El gato calicó de la cocina Chibineko*, de Yuta Takahashi 🐈🍲

Te espera una historia llena de corazón, sanación y un poco de magia cotidiana, perfecta para un domingo tranquilo con buen café y aún mejor compañía ☕💫

Tanto si ya has terminado el libro como si acabas de empezar, eres bienvenido a unirte a nosotros. ¡Ven a charlar, a tomar algo y a conectar! 💛📖

#CuentosYCafé #ClubDeLecturaDeRealismoMágico #CaféCooperativo #ClubDeLecturaAVL #LibrosBIPOC #LectoresDeAsheville #LecturasDeDomingo #BIPOCbooks #MagicalRealism

Hey party people, it’s time for the Ujamaa marketplace. Our vendors are set up and waiting to say”hi,” and show you all their wares. Come thru and get some food, listen to some tunes, and support some lovely small businesses in Asheville’s historic The Block! We’ll be here from 10-3. 💕📚🎶

Hey party people, it’s time for the Ujamaa marketplace. Our vendors are set up and waiting to say”hi,” and show you all their wares. Come thru and get some food, listen to some tunes, and support some lovely small businesses in Asheville’s historic The Block! We’ll be here from 10-3. 💕📚🎶

Join us tomorrow, May 2nd, for Ujamaa marketplace from 10 am - 3 pm. The marketplace will be located in the section of S. Market between S. Pack Square and Eagle Street. This marketplace experience is a partnership among orgs and businesses such as Noir Collective AVL, Center for Participatory Change, Merchants of Downtown Asheville, and Just Folks.

Cuentos y Café is excited to finally participate in this month's Ujamaa marketplace with other local small businesses, so come out and enjoy the vibes! You can also visit local businesses like Noir Collective and Pennycup YMI, and grab some delicious West African Cuisine from Kente Kitchen.

Ujamaa marketplace
Saturday, May 2nd, 10 am - 3 pm

🥁

Acompáñanos mañana, 2 de mayo, en el mercado Ujamaa, de 10:00 a 3:00. El mercado se celebrará en el área de S. Market situada entre S. Pack Square y Eagle Street. Esta iniciativa es fruto de la colaboración entre organizaciones y empresas como Noir Collective AVL, Center for Participatory Change, Merchants of Downtown Asheville y Just Folks.

En Cuentos y Café estamos encantados de participar por fin en el mercado Ujamaa de este mes junto con otras pequeñas empresas locales, así que ven y disfruta del ambiente. También puedes visitar negocios locales como Noir Collective y Pennycup YMI, y degustar la deliciosa cocina de África Occidental en Kente Kitchen.

#Ujamaa #YMICulturalCenter #EagleMarketStreets #ArtsAVL #828isgreat #GoLocal #TheBlockAVL #CuentosYCafe

Join us tomorrow, May 2nd, for Ujamaa marketplace from 10 am - 3 pm. The marketplace will be located in the section of S. Market between S. Pack Square and Eagle Street. This marketplace experience is a partnership among orgs and businesses such as Noir Collective AVL, Center for Participatory Change, Merchants of Downtown Asheville, and Just Folks.

Cuentos y Café is excited to finally participate in this month's Ujamaa marketplace with other local small businesses, so come out and enjoy the vibes! You can also visit local businesses like Noir Collective and Pennycup YMI, and grab some delicious West African Cuisine from Kente Kitchen.

Ujamaa marketplace
Saturday, May 2nd, 10 am - 3 pm

🥁

Acompáñanos mañana, 2 de mayo, en el mercado Ujamaa, de 10:00 a 3:00. El mercado se celebrará en el área de S. Market situada entre S. Pack Square y Eagle Street. Esta iniciativa es fruto de la colaboración entre organizaciones y empresas como Noir Collective AVL, Center for Participatory Change, Merchants of Downtown Asheville y Just Folks.

En Cuentos y Café estamos encantados de participar por fin en el mercado Ujamaa de este mes junto con otras pequeñas empresas locales, así que ven y disfruta del ambiente. También puedes visitar negocios locales como Noir Collective y Pennycup YMI, y degustar la deliciosa cocina de África Occidental en Kente Kitchen.

#Ujamaa #YMICulturalCenter #EagleMarketStreets #ArtsAVL #828isgreat #GoLocal #TheBlockAVL #CuentosYCafe

[español abajo]

✨ Book Club Reminder! ✨

Join us this Friday, May 1st for our Historical Fiction Book Club at BattleCat Beverly Hills, from 5:00–6:30 PM 📚☕

We’ll be discussing Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez, a moving multigenerational novel inspired by true events and set in the mountains of Western North Carolina. It’s a powerful story of family, legacy, hidden histories, and the courage it takes to protect what matters most.

Come sip, connect, and join us for a thoughtful conversation with fellow readers. New faces are always welcome! 💛📖

🎉

Acompáñanos este viernes, 1 de mayo, en nuestro club de lectura de ficción histórica en BattleCat Coffee Bar Beverly Hills, de 17:00 a 18:30 📚☕

Hablaremos de Happy Land, de Dolen Perkins-Valdez, una conmovedora novela multigeneracional inspirada en hechos reales y ambientada en las montañas del oeste de Carolina del Norte. Es una historia impactante sobre la familia, el legado, las historias ocultas y el valor que se necesita para proteger lo que más importa.

Ven a tomarte algo, a conocer gente y a unirte a nosotros para una conversación profunda con otros lectores. Las caras nuevas siempre son bienvenidas.

#AVLBookClub #AshevilleEvents #HistoricalFiction #CuentosYCafe #BookClubReads #SupportLocalAVL

[español abajo]

✨ Book Club Reminder! ✨

Join us this Friday, May 1st for our Historical Fiction Book Club at BattleCat Beverly Hills, from 5:00–6:30 PM 📚☕

We’ll be discussing Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez, a moving multigenerational novel inspired by true events and set in the mountains of Western North Carolina. It’s a powerful story of family, legacy, hidden histories, and the courage it takes to protect what matters most.

Come sip, connect, and join us for a thoughtful conversation with fellow readers. New faces are always welcome! 💛📖

🎉

Acompáñanos este viernes, 1 de mayo, en nuestro club de lectura de ficción histórica en BattleCat Coffee Bar Beverly Hills, de 17:00 a 18:30 📚☕

Hablaremos de Happy Land, de Dolen Perkins-Valdez, una conmovedora novela multigeneracional inspirada en hechos reales y ambientada en las montañas del oeste de Carolina del Norte. Es una historia impactante sobre la familia, el legado, las historias ocultas y el valor que se necesita para proteger lo que más importa.

Ven a tomarte algo, a conocer gente y a unirte a nosotros para una conversación profunda con otros lectores. Las caras nuevas siempre son bienvenidas.

#AVLBookClub #AshevilleEvents #HistoricalFiction #CuentosYCafe #BookClubReads #SupportLocalAVL

I need to take a moment to once again thank the kind folks at the The Yellow Mug Coffee Lounge in Weaverville for not only letting me set up shop in their space, but also for these heavenly French Toast. I think they’re called Mystery Machine, I can’t remember. What I do remember is the strawberry cream cheese filling and the way I devoured them in record time. That washed down with a yummy caramel latte had me floating straight into pop-up mode. Also, the owners are the best and the staff was so helpful and attentive! Another Indie Bookstore Day in the bag, and a new local gem discovered in my backyard. Whoot whoot! 🎉

I need to take a moment to once again thank the kind folks at the The Yellow Mug Coffee Lounge in Weaverville for not only letting me set up shop in their space, but also for these heavenly French Toast. I think they’re called Mystery Machine, I can’t remember. What I do remember is the strawberry cream cheese filling and the way I devoured them in record time. That washed down with a yummy caramel latte had me floating straight into pop-up mode. Also, the owners are the best and the staff was so helpful and attentive! Another Indie Bookstore Day in the bag, and a new local gem discovered in my backyard. Whoot whoot! 🎉

We are here at The Yellow Mug in Weaverville for the Independent Bookstore Day Weaverville Book Crawl, put together by the amazing @vagabondbookswnc , and what a treat! They have delicious coffee, yummy food, sweet vibes, and super cool humans ready to make your experience a great one. For my book friends, we have an afternoon of book fun planned for you. @cuentosycafebooks will be here from 2-6 pm. Then hop on over to The Leveller and visit our friend @litlocalbooks, before you cruise your way to Eluvium to visit our friend @willbloombooks, and end your evening at The Lion Dog, where you can say hello to the mastermind behind this lovely book crawl, @vagabondbookswnc . Don’t forget, there is a Golden Ticket up for grabs, and a chance to win 12 free book credits from @librofm !! 🥰

We are here at The Yellow Mug in Weaverville for the Independent Bookstore Day Weaverville Book Crawl, put together by the amazing @vagabondbookswnc , and what a treat! They have delicious coffee, yummy food, sweet vibes, and super cool humans ready to make your experience a great one. For my book friends, we have an afternoon of book fun planned for you. @cuentosycafebooks will be here from 2-6 pm. Then hop on over to The Leveller and visit our friend @litlocalbooks, before you cruise your way to Eluvium to visit our friend @willbloombooks, and end your evening at The Lion Dog, where you can say hello to the mastermind behind this lovely book crawl, @vagabondbookswnc . Don’t forget, there is a Golden Ticket up for grabs, and a chance to win 12 free book credits from @librofm !! 🥰

[español abajo]

Today is the day!!! It's officially Independent Bookstore Day, and we are so excited for today's Weaverville Book Crawl.

To make things even better, you have a chance to win a year of free audiobooks? 🤩🎧📖

We’ve partnered with @Librofm to give one winner 12 free audiobooks on Bookstore Day! Visit our pop-up at The Yellow Mug today, Saturday, April 25th, to find the hidden Golden Ticket! 🎫

Head to the link in bio to learn more about celebrating with Libro.fm!

🎉

¡¡¡Hoy es el gran día!!! Es oficialmente el Día de las Librerías Independientes, y estamos deseando que llegue el Weaverville Book Crawl de hoy.

Y para que sea aún mejor, ¡tienes la oportunidad de ganar un año de audiolibros gratis! 🤩🎧📖

¡Nos hemos asociado con @Librofm para regalar a un ganadxr 12 audiolibros gratis en el Día de las Librerías! ¡Visita nuestro puesto temporal en The Yellow Mug hoy, sábado 25 de abril, para encontrar el Golden Ticket escondido! 🎫

¡Entra en el enlace de la biografía para saber más sobre cómo celebrar con Libro.fm!

#indiebookstoreday #theyellowmug #BookCrawl #Librofm #IndependentBookstoreDay #BIPOCBooks #Audiobooks #CuentosYCafe

[español abajo]

Today is the day!!! It's officially Independent Bookstore Day, and we are so excited for today's Weaverville Book Crawl.

To make things even better, you have a chance to win a year of free audiobooks? 🤩🎧📖

We’ve partnered with @Librofm to give one winner 12 free audiobooks on Bookstore Day! Visit our pop-up at The Yellow Mug today, Saturday, April 25th, to find the hidden Golden Ticket! 🎫

Head to the link in bio to learn more about celebrating with Libro.fm!

🎉

¡¡¡Hoy es el gran día!!! Es oficialmente el Día de las Librerías Independientes, y estamos deseando que llegue el Weaverville Book Crawl de hoy.

Y para que sea aún mejor, ¡tienes la oportunidad de ganar un año de audiolibros gratis! 🤩🎧📖

¡Nos hemos asociado con @Librofm para regalar a un ganadxr 12 audiolibros gratis en el Día de las Librerías! ¡Visita nuestro puesto temporal en The Yellow Mug hoy, sábado 25 de abril, para encontrar el Golden Ticket escondido! 🎫

¡Entra en el enlace de la biografía para saber más sobre cómo celebrar con Libro.fm!

#indiebookstoreday #theyellowmug #BookCrawl #Librofm #IndependentBookstoreDay #BIPOCBooks #Audiobooks #CuentosYCafe

Tomorrow is Independent Bookstore Day, and we’re bringing some special featured titles to the Weaverville Book Crawl! 📚✨

Grab one of the hottest new releases, The Last Night in Brooklyn by Xochitl Gonzalez, fresh on the shelves and ready for your TBR.

We’ll also have a few signed copies of Crowntide by Alex Aster — perfect for fantasy lovers and collectors alike.

Looking for exclusives? Don’t miss special Independent Bookstore Day editions of Blacktop Wasteland by S. A. Cosby and Black AF History by Michael Harriot.

And for our youngest readers: free copies of this year’s Independent Bookstore Day coloring books while supplies last! 🎨📖

Plus, shop our usual curated selection of BIPOC-authored books for children and adults, along with fun stickers and bookmarks.

Come celebrate indie bookstores, discover your next favorite read, and support local! 💛📚

#IndependentBookstoreDay #BookCrawl #WeavervilleNC #ShopIndie #IndieBookstore #BIPOCBooks #Bookstagram #SupportLocal #ReadMoreBooks #CuentosYCafe

Tomorrow is Independent Bookstore Day, and we’re bringing some special featured titles to the Weaverville Book Crawl! 📚✨

Grab one of the hottest new releases, The Last Night in Brooklyn by Xochitl Gonzalez, fresh on the shelves and ready for your TBR.

We’ll also have a few signed copies of Crowntide by Alex Aster — perfect for fantasy lovers and collectors alike.

Looking for exclusives? Don’t miss special Independent Bookstore Day editions of Blacktop Wasteland by S. A. Cosby and Black AF History by Michael Harriot.

And for our youngest readers: free copies of this year’s Independent Bookstore Day coloring books while supplies last! 🎨📖

Plus, shop our usual curated selection of BIPOC-authored books for children and adults, along with fun stickers and bookmarks.

Come celebrate indie bookstores, discover your next favorite read, and support local! 💛📚

#IndependentBookstoreDay #BookCrawl #WeavervilleNC #ShopIndie #IndieBookstore #BIPOCBooks #Bookstagram #SupportLocal #ReadMoreBooks #CuentosYCafe

[español abajo]

Took my copy of Happy Land by Dolen Perkins Valdez to a track meet this week, and it has not disappointed. I'm really enjoying this historical fiction piece set outside Hendersonville, in Zirconia.

Fun fact: not only is Happy Land the latest pick for the One Book, One Buncombe Book Club, it's also our Historical Fiction Book Club pick. Looks like there will be plenty of opportunity to delve into this fabulous novel.

❤️

Esta semana me llevé mi copia de Happy Land, de Dolen Perkins Valdez, a una competición de atletismo, y no me ha decepcionado. Estoy disfrutando mucho con esta novela histórica ambientada en las afueras de Hendersonville, en Zirconia.

Dato curioso: Happy Land no solo es la última elección del club de lectura «One Book, One Buncombe», sino que también es la elección de nuestro club de lectura de ficción histórica. Parece que tendremos muchas oportunidades para disfrutar de esta fabulosa novela.

[español abajo]

Took my copy of Happy Land by Dolen Perkins Valdez to a track meet this week, and it has not disappointed. I'm really enjoying this historical fiction piece set outside Hendersonville, in Zirconia.

Fun fact: not only is Happy Land the latest pick for the One Book, One Buncombe Book Club, it's also our Historical Fiction Book Club pick. Looks like there will be plenty of opportunity to delve into this fabulous novel.

❤️

Esta semana me llevé mi copia de Happy Land, de Dolen Perkins Valdez, a una competición de atletismo, y no me ha decepcionado. Estoy disfrutando mucho con esta novela histórica ambientada en las afueras de Hendersonville, en Zirconia.

Dato curioso: Happy Land no solo es la última elección del club de lectura «One Book, One Buncombe», sino que también es la elección de nuestro club de lectura de ficción histórica. Parece que tendremos muchas oportunidades para disfrutar de esta fabulosa novela.

¡Hola, mi gente!

March came and went, and April is on its way out, but we have some fun new book recommendations for you.

In Ariana's Corner, she shares her first pick, Most Ardently: A Pride and Prejudice Remix by Gabe Cole Novoa. A fun remix of an old classic that gives you a glimpse of how the LGBTQIA+ community lived in the 1800s.

Her second pick, The Name Drop by Susan Lee, is a hilariously cute YA romance so captivating, you won't want it to end.

Tamara's first pick is Isabel Ibanez's Graceless Heart. This beautiful, magical tale, set in Florence in the 1400s, is full of intrigue, romance, and a heroine who kicks butt, even when she's terrified.

Her second pick, With Love from Harlem by ReShonda Tate, is a fictional take on the true life of jazz legend and advocate for civil rights, Hazel Scott. It explores her tumultuous marriage to preacher-turned-politician, Adam Clayton Powell Jr.

#gracelessheart #isabelibanez #reshondatate #gabecolenovoa #susanlee #bipocbooks #cuentosycafe

¡Hola, mi gente!

March came and went, and April is on its way out, but we have some fun new book recommendations for you.

In Ariana's Corner, she shares her first pick, Most Ardently: A Pride and Prejudice Remix by Gabe Cole Novoa. A fun remix of an old classic that gives you a glimpse of how the LGBTQIA+ community lived in the 1800s.

Her second pick, The Name Drop by Susan Lee, is a hilariously cute YA romance so captivating, you won't want it to end.

Tamara's first pick is Isabel Ibanez's Graceless Heart. This beautiful, magical tale, set in Florence in the 1400s, is full of intrigue, romance, and a heroine who kicks butt, even when she's terrified.

Her second pick, With Love from Harlem by ReShonda Tate, is a fictional take on the true life of jazz legend and advocate for civil rights, Hazel Scott. It explores her tumultuous marriage to preacher-turned-politician, Adam Clayton Powell Jr.

#gracelessheart #isabelibanez #reshondatate #gabecolenovoa #susanlee #bipocbooks #cuentosycafe

Libro.fm's Indie Bookshop Appreciation Sale!

For the love of independent bookshops, explore tons of on-sale audiobooks from @librofm now through April 26th! Every purchase supports our store 🎧

Head to the link in bio to start shopping!

❤️

¡Por el amor a las librerías independientes, descubre la gran variedad de audiolibros en oferta de @librofm desde ahora hasta el 26 de abril! Cada compra contribuye a apoyar nuestra tienda

¡Entra en el enlace de la biografía para empezar a comprar!

Libro.fm's Indie Bookshop Appreciation Sale!

For the love of independent bookshops, explore tons of on-sale audiobooks from @librofm now through April 26th! Every purchase supports our store 🎧

Head to the link in bio to start shopping!

❤️

¡Por el amor a las librerías independientes, descubre la gran variedad de audiolibros en oferta de @librofm desde ahora hasta el 26 de abril! Cada compra contribuye a apoyar nuestra tienda

¡Entra en el enlace de la biografía para empezar a comprar!

Hey Charlotte friends and anyone in the area! The NYHSR Book Fair has BOOKS! 🥳 Representing the Class of 2002, @cuentosycafebooks is excited to be a part of the Book Fair at Not Your High School Reunion on April 19 at @thelongroomclt.

Tickets to Not Your High School Reunion are on sale now at playmorecharlotte.com/the link in their bio. Your ticket includes…

👾 Gaming with @gamingloungeclt
💿 DIY CD altars (to honor that playlist you’ve had on repeat for 5, 10, 20, or 50 years)
🦛 Giant Hungry Hungry Hippos
🧩 Puzzle races and giant Rubik’s cubes
🪩 The beloved Play More Charlotte kandi bracelet bar
🏅DIY superlative medals
🎤 Giant Grab The Mic
🧪 Sensory science trays
🔺 Pyramid races
🏫 Collaborative LEGO build
✏️ Cool S Drawing Contest (Winner gets a gift card to @upcycleartsclt 🥳)
📄 Note Folding Contest (Winner gets a gift card to @upcycleartsclt 🥳)
👑 Snap a pic with our Homecoming Monarch
🗳️ Vote in the totally fictional Alumni Chair election (The candidates can’t wait to meet you.)
🤫 SURPRISES!

Hey Charlotte friends and anyone in the area! The NYHSR Book Fair has BOOKS! 🥳 Representing the Class of 2002, @cuentosycafebooks is excited to be a part of the Book Fair at Not Your High School Reunion on April 19 at @thelongroomclt.

Tickets to Not Your High School Reunion are on sale now at playmorecharlotte.com/the link in their bio. Your ticket includes…

👾 Gaming with @gamingloungeclt
💿 DIY CD altars (to honor that playlist you’ve had on repeat for 5, 10, 20, or 50 years)
🦛 Giant Hungry Hungry Hippos
🧩 Puzzle races and giant Rubik’s cubes
🪩 The beloved Play More Charlotte kandi bracelet bar
🏅DIY superlative medals
🎤 Giant Grab The Mic
🧪 Sensory science trays
🔺 Pyramid races
🏫 Collaborative LEGO build
✏️ Cool S Drawing Contest (Winner gets a gift card to @upcycleartsclt 🥳)
📄 Note Folding Contest (Winner gets a gift card to @upcycleartsclt 🥳)
👑 Snap a pic with our Homecoming Monarch
🗳️ Vote in the totally fictional Alumni Chair election (The candidates can’t wait to meet you.)
🤫 SURPRISES!

The way I’ve been fully engulfed in this book and this world the past few days, is insane. @isabelibanezbooks is an amazingly talented writer whose work I love, and I got the pleasure of getting this beauty signed back in January, and I’m so glad I finally got to dig into it. Aside from the gorgeous cover, the story has had me hooked. If you haven’t read anything by Isabel Ibañez yet, please do. In addition to this adult novel, she writes great YA novels. Please check her out. 📚🥰
Es una locura lo absorta que he estado en este libro y en este mundo durante los últimos días. @isabelibanezbooks es una escritora con un talento increíble cuya obra me encanta, y tuve el placer de conseguir que me firmara esta maravilla allá por enero; estoy muy contenta de haber podido sumergirme por fin en ella. Aparte de la preciosa portada, la historia me ha tenido enganchada. Si aún no has leído nada de Isabel Ibañez, no te lo pierdas. Además de esta novela para adultos, escribe novelas juveniles estupendas. Échale un vistazo.

The way I’ve been fully engulfed in this book and this world the past few days, is insane. @isabelibanezbooks is an amazingly talented writer whose work I love, and I got the pleasure of getting this beauty signed back in January, and I’m so glad I finally got to dig into it. Aside from the gorgeous cover, the story has had me hooked. If you haven’t read anything by Isabel Ibañez yet, please do. In addition to this adult novel, she writes great YA novels. Please check her out. 📚🥰
Es una locura lo absorta que he estado en este libro y en este mundo durante los últimos días. @isabelibanezbooks es una escritora con un talento increíble cuya obra me encanta, y tuve el placer de conseguir que me firmara esta maravilla allá por enero; estoy muy contenta de haber podido sumergirme por fin en ella. Aparte de la preciosa portada, la historia me ha tenido enganchada. Si aún no has leído nada de Isabel Ibañez, no te lo pierdas. Además de esta novela para adultos, escribe novelas juveniles estupendas. Échale un vistazo.

Another big shout out to Marisa on her new album. I could feel the love and the music in every inch of that room.

Another big shout out to Marisa on her new album. I could feel the love and the music in every inch of that room.

Love the way our Cuentos y Café display looks amongst all the beautiful art at Third Room. Just 30 more minutes before the doors open for Marisa Blake’s album release! There’s still time to get a ticket and enjoy music, art, and drinks.

Love the way our Cuentos y Café display looks amongst all the beautiful art at Third Room. Just 30 more minutes before the doors open for Marisa Blake’s album release! There’s still time to get a ticket and enjoy music, art, and drinks.

✨ Exciting News! ✨

You can now find Tamara’s Book Pick recommendations for Cuentos y Café featured in the latest March/April issue of The Envoy! 📚💫

Be sure to check out our curated reads and explore the many incredible articles put together by the talented photographer and writer Yvette Freeman.

The Envoy is such an important publication, created to fill the gaps in mainstream media by centering people of color and uplifting diverse voices across the country. With every issue, it highlights entrepreneurs, artists, community advocates, and creatives who deserve to be seen and celebrated. It’s a platform rooted in representation, storytelling, and empowerment, offering readers inspiration, expert knowledge, and a reminder that our communities are rich with brilliance.

Grab a copy, show some love, and dive into a magazine that is truly for us, by us. 🖤📖

✨ Exciting News! ✨

You can now find Tamara’s Book Pick recommendations for Cuentos y Café featured in the latest March/April issue of The Envoy! 📚💫

Be sure to check out our curated reads and explore the many incredible articles put together by the talented photographer and writer Yvette Freeman.

The Envoy is such an important publication, created to fill the gaps in mainstream media by centering people of color and uplifting diverse voices across the country. With every issue, it highlights entrepreneurs, artists, community advocates, and creatives who deserve to be seen and celebrated. It’s a platform rooted in representation, storytelling, and empowerment, offering readers inspiration, expert knowledge, and a reminder that our communities are rich with brilliance.

Grab a copy, show some love, and dive into a magazine that is truly for us, by us. 🖤📖

🌼 April with Cuentos y Café🌼

Spring is here, and so are some beautiful community moments! Catch us popping up across Asheville and Charlotte all month long. Save the dates, bring a friend, and come show love to local creatives, makers, and indie bookstores.
✨

¡Ya ha llegado la primavera, y con ella, un montón de momentos maravillosos en la comunidad! Nos encontrarás por todo Asheville y Charlotte durante todo el mes. Apúnta las fechas, trae a un amigx y ven a apoyar a lxs creativxs, artesanxs y librerías independientes locales.

📀 April 3 — Marisa Blake’s Album Release Party
Third Room Music · Doors 6 pm · Music 7 pm
46 Wall St., Asheville

🌿 April 4 — Front Porch at Free More West
11 am–4 pm
2215 Thrift Rd., Charlotte
(One of Charlotte’s fave community markets!)

🎨 April 12 — Chicas Frida Market
12–5 pm · Spark Centro
8801 E. WT Harris Blvd., Charlotte

🎉April 19 — Play More Charlotte: Not Your High School Reunion
1–5 pm
1111 Central Ave, Ste 230, Charlotte

📚 April 25 — Indie Bookstore Day Book Crawl
Find Cuentos y Café at The Yellow Mug
2–6 pm · 113 N Main St.

✨ Come shop, vibe, and celebrate community all month long. See you out there! ✨

🌼 April with Cuentos y Café🌼

Spring is here, and so are some beautiful community moments! Catch us popping up across Asheville and Charlotte all month long. Save the dates, bring a friend, and come show love to local creatives, makers, and indie bookstores.
✨

¡Ya ha llegado la primavera, y con ella, un montón de momentos maravillosos en la comunidad! Nos encontrarás por todo Asheville y Charlotte durante todo el mes. Apúnta las fechas, trae a un amigx y ven a apoyar a lxs creativxs, artesanxs y librerías independientes locales.

📀 April 3 — Marisa Blake’s Album Release Party
Third Room Music · Doors 6 pm · Music 7 pm
46 Wall St., Asheville

🌿 April 4 — Front Porch at Free More West
11 am–4 pm
2215 Thrift Rd., Charlotte
(One of Charlotte’s fave community markets!)

🎨 April 12 — Chicas Frida Market
12–5 pm · Spark Centro
8801 E. WT Harris Blvd., Charlotte

🎉April 19 — Play More Charlotte: Not Your High School Reunion
1–5 pm
1111 Central Ave, Ste 230, Charlotte

📚 April 25 — Indie Bookstore Day Book Crawl
Find Cuentos y Café at The Yellow Mug
2–6 pm · 113 N Main St.

✨ Come shop, vibe, and celebrate community all month long. See you out there! ✨

Sundays are for Magical Realism, coffee, and conversation. Join us tomorrow, March 29th, at the Cooperative Coffee Shop for Cuentos y Café's monthly Magical Realism Book Club. We'll be chatting about Brenda Peynado's intense short story collection, The Rock Eaters.

☕

Los domingos son para el realismo mágico, el café y la charla. Acompáñanos mañana, 29 de marzo, en la cafetería Cooperative Coffee Shop para la reunión mensual del club de lectura de realismo mágico de Cuentos y Café. Hablaremos sobre la intensa colección de relatos de Brenda Peynado, The Rock Eaters.

March 29th, 12-1:30 pm
Cooperative Coffee Shop
210 Haywood Road

Sundays are for Magical Realism, coffee, and conversation. Join us tomorrow, March 29th, at the Cooperative Coffee Shop for Cuentos y Café's monthly Magical Realism Book Club. We'll be chatting about Brenda Peynado's intense short story collection, The Rock Eaters.

☕

Los domingos son para el realismo mágico, el café y la charla. Acompáñanos mañana, 29 de marzo, en la cafetería Cooperative Coffee Shop para la reunión mensual del club de lectura de realismo mágico de Cuentos y Café. Hablaremos sobre la intensa colección de relatos de Brenda Peynado, The Rock Eaters.

March 29th, 12-1:30 pm
Cooperative Coffee Shop
210 Haywood Road

It's Book Club Day! Join us at Battlecat Beverly Hills on Tunnel Road today at 5 pm for the Historical Fiction Book Club. We'll be chatting about Mirta Ojito's novel, Deeper Than the Ocean. This one definitely hit deep. See you there!

❤️

¡Hoy es el día del club de lectura! Acompáñanos hoy a las 5:00pm en Battlecat Beverly Hills, en Tunnel Road, para la reunión del club de lectura de ficción histórica. Hablaremos de la novela de Mirta Ojito, *Deeper Than the Ocean*. Sin duda, es una obra que llega al corazón. ¡Nos vemos allí!

March 27, 2026
5-6:30 pm
Battlecat Beverly Hills
885 Tunnel Road

It's Book Club Day! Join us at Battlecat Beverly Hills on Tunnel Road today at 5 pm for the Historical Fiction Book Club. We'll be chatting about Mirta Ojito's novel, Deeper Than the Ocean. This one definitely hit deep. See you there!

❤️

¡Hoy es el día del club de lectura! Acompáñanos hoy a las 5:00pm en Battlecat Beverly Hills, en Tunnel Road, para la reunión del club de lectura de ficción histórica. Hablaremos de la novela de Mirta Ojito, *Deeper Than the Ocean*. Sin duda, es una obra que llega al corazón. ¡Nos vemos allí!

March 27, 2026
5-6:30 pm
Battlecat Beverly Hills
885 Tunnel Road

Getting ready for Sunday’s Magical Realism Book Club and enjoying the sun. Brenda Peynado’s The Rock Eaters is no joke. Grab a copy and start reading!

Getting ready for Sunday’s Magical Realism Book Club and enjoying the sun. Brenda Peynado’s The Rock Eaters is no joke. Grab a copy and start reading!

Hanging with these power houses at One Dozen Who Care, Inc.’s 2026 Multicultural Women’s Development Conference. Feeling inspired and empowered to keep using our voices to change the world one step at a time!

Hanging with these power houses at One Dozen Who Care, Inc.’s 2026 Multicultural Women’s Development Conference. Feeling inspired and empowered to keep using our voices to change the world one step at a time!

Here's a pretty little stack of books written by some badass writers to brighten your day. And yes, this might be a tiny little fraction of my TBR, but we don't need to talk about that. All you need to know is that they're all available in our online store.

Click on the link in our BIO and let's keep celebrating Women's History Month.

Here's a pretty little stack of books written by some badass writers to brighten your day. And yes, this might be a tiny little fraction of my TBR, but we don't need to talk about that. All you need to know is that they're all available in our online store.

Click on the link in our BIO and let's keep celebrating Women's History Month.

Catalyst Cohort Group Picture!!!

So proud of all of the super-talented entrepreneurs I got to meet at the Mountain BizWorks Catalyst Cohort. I'm excited to keep sharing ideas and victories with you all. We did it! 💕

Catalyst Cohort Group Picture!!!

So proud of all of the super-talented entrepreneurs I got to meet at the Mountain BizWorks Catalyst Cohort. I'm excited to keep sharing ideas and victories with you all. We did it! 💕

At Cuentos y Café, we love book clubs. If you are a fan of Historical Fiction or Magical Realism, or just want to join the conversation, come hang out with us this month. First up, we have the Historical Fiction Book Club at Battlecat Beverly Hills, where we’ll be discussing Deeper Than the Ocean by Mirta Ojito. This beautiful sage will have you in your feelings, for sure. Then we’ll head to Cooperative Coffee Shop for our Magical Realism Book Club, where we’re doing something a little different this month, and diving into Brenda Peynado’s The Rock Eaters, a short story collection with elements of fantasy, science fiction, and more.
I look forward to seeing you there!
📚

En Cuentos y Café nos encantan los clubes de lectura. Si te gusta la ficción histórica o el realismo mágico, o simplemente quieres unirte a la conversación, ven a pasar un rato con nosotros este mes. Para empezar, tenemos el Club de Lectura de Ficción Histórica en Battlecat Beverly Hills, donde hablaremos de Deeper Than the Ocean, de Mirta Ojito. Esta preciosa historia te conmoverá, sin duda. Después nos dirigiremos a Cooperative Coffee Shop para nuestro club de lectura de realismo mágico, donde este mes haremos algo un poco diferente y nos sumergiremos en The Rock Eaters, de Brenda Peynado, una colección de relatos cortos con elementos de fantasía, ciencia ficción y mucho más.
¡Espero verte allí!

Historical Fiction - March 27th
5-6:30 pm
Battlecat Beverly Hills
885 Tunnel Rd

Magical Realism - March 29th
12-1:30 pm
Cooperative Coffee Shop
210 Haywood Rd

At Cuentos y Café, we love book clubs. If you are a fan of Historical Fiction or Magical Realism, or just want to join the conversation, come hang out with us this month. First up, we have the Historical Fiction Book Club at Battlecat Beverly Hills, where we’ll be discussing Deeper Than the Ocean by Mirta Ojito. This beautiful sage will have you in your feelings, for sure. Then we’ll head to Cooperative Coffee Shop for our Magical Realism Book Club, where we’re doing something a little different this month, and diving into Brenda Peynado’s The Rock Eaters, a short story collection with elements of fantasy, science fiction, and more.
I look forward to seeing you there!
📚

En Cuentos y Café nos encantan los clubes de lectura. Si te gusta la ficción histórica o el realismo mágico, o simplemente quieres unirte a la conversación, ven a pasar un rato con nosotros este mes. Para empezar, tenemos el Club de Lectura de Ficción Histórica en Battlecat Beverly Hills, donde hablaremos de Deeper Than the Ocean, de Mirta Ojito. Esta preciosa historia te conmoverá, sin duda. Después nos dirigiremos a Cooperative Coffee Shop para nuestro club de lectura de realismo mágico, donde este mes haremos algo un poco diferente y nos sumergiremos en The Rock Eaters, de Brenda Peynado, una colección de relatos cortos con elementos de fantasía, ciencia ficción y mucho más.
¡Espero verte allí!

Historical Fiction - March 27th
5-6:30 pm
Battlecat Beverly Hills
885 Tunnel Rd

Magical Realism - March 29th
12-1:30 pm
Cooperative Coffee Shop
210 Haywood Rd

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