Local Author Opens Book & Gift Store in Downtown Henderson

Angie Ellington, local author and owner of the recently opened Calico Paw Books & Gifts in downtown Henderson, was the guest of honor on Tuesday’s edition of WIZS’ Town Talk program.

Located at 131 S. Garnett St. across from the former Wildflower Café building, the independent book store held its grand opening on Friday, April 27. Coincidentally, grand opening activities coincided with the date for this year’s National Independent Book Store Day.

Ellington said her vision for the store was born, in part, from her desire to make book buying more of an “experience” than one would get from purchasing online from a big retailer.

“I thought it would be nice to have something downtown where people can come in, pick up a book, sit down, buy a cup of coffee and read in the store,” Ellington explained.

As for the store’s name, Ellington was inspired by her own Calico cat, Miss Callie Ellington. A canvas print of Callie even hangs in the store for those interested in seeing the business’s namesake.

Of course, the store’s main draw is its selection of affordable books. Appealing to a diverse crowd, Calico Paw carries new and discounted books for all ages in a variety of genres. In fact, Ellington said a large selection of books is currently marked down to 50% off.

While primarily a book store, Ellington is also excited about the gift items she has in stock, including Huntsboro Hemp Company’s CBD products, bath and body products, candles, coffee mugs, drink koozies and hand-crafted items made by local merchants.

Much like her own independently published books, local and “indie” authors have a special place in Ellington’s heart, and in her store.

Originally from Oxford, Ellington grew up pursuing creative endeavors and participated in local theater. After graduating from UNC-W with a degree in Elementary Education, she taught grade school in Wilmington for several years before moving back to the local area.

Two years ago, Ellington began pursuing her creative interests by writing, and later self-publishing, her first book “Christmas in Fair Bend.” Four additional books quickly followed – “Spring in Lilac Glen,” “Dancing by the Moonlight,” “Love at the Salted Caramel Café” and “Autumn at Apple Hill.”

In describing the style of her books, Ellington said she writes “cozy and sweet romances with a bit of sass.”

You’ll find Ellington’s books, along with the works of many other independent and traditionally published authors, at Calico Paw Books & Gifts.

Store hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursdays from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; two Saturdays a month – times may vary.

For additional information, including store updates, Saturday hours and special events, please visit Calico Paw’s website at www.calicopawbooks.com or visit the store’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.

To hear the Town Talk interview with Angie Ellington in its entirety, click here.