British Bookshops (& One in the U.S.) Prep for 'Civilized' Weekend

Shelf Awareness

Independent bookshops in the U.K. are gearing up for Civilized Saturday, which was launched last year as an antidote to Black Friday mayhem. The Bookseller reported that "Great British Bake Off-inspired events, wine, chocolate and the coziness Danish lifestyle philosophy of hygge feature heavily in genteel plans for the day."

Former Great British Bake Off host Mary Berry will be signing copies of her new book, Mary Berry's Family Sunday Lunches, at the Chorleywood Bookshop in Hertfordshire, where "civilized refreshments" will be on display. The Bookshop in East Grinstead is having a "Bookshop Bake Off" charity cake sale.

Wenlock Books in Shropshire is hosting a hygge-inspired Civilized Saturday centered on "coziness, warmth and relaxed Christmas shopping." Picaresque Books & Galerie in Fantoosh "is also joining in with the hygge theme, offering mince pies, chocolate and mulled wine, as well as an orchestral ensemble to create a 'relaxed and entertaining environment' for shoppers," the Bookseller noted. Helen Whipp of This Forest will be at Mr. B's Emporium of Reading Delights in Bath "to bring some natural calm to the day by pressing flowers between pages of books across the bookshop for customers to discover as they browse."

"This year's Civilized Saturday is bigger and better than last year," said a spokesperson for the Booksellers Association. "Booksellers across the country will also be on hand to help recommend this year's must-buy Christmas books."

At least one bookstore in the U.S. was inspired to get in on the low-key fun. Bridgeside Books, Waterbury, Vt., will celebrate Civilized Friday this week: "In the spirit of Giving, being Thankful and Civilized, Bridgeside Books offers A Civilized Friday to our friends, supporters, and customers. Join us throughout the day for delicious mimosas, tea and sweet treats, hand massage and live music."