The Two Sisters Bookstore

 I love discovering new bookstores and this one was such a treat. The Two Sisters is nestled in the midst of Richmond, Indiana's historic Depot District. It's packed with shelves of books but still manages to have an open airy feel. There are both used and new books, including some lovely Penguin editions. I could have spent all day wandering through the shop.

Of course I couldn't leave without a few goodies. I found three classics that just had to come home with me. Their prices were really reasonable and I had a hard time keeping it to only three books. I bought a 1924 copy of "When We Were Young" by A.A. Milne, a copy of “Winesburg, Ohio” by Sherwood Anderson and a beautiful edition of Gene Stratton-Porter’s “Michael O’Halloran” because I loved “A Girl of the Limberlost” so much!

 

There were great little signs identifying each each section of books (above). There was also a huge selection of tea at the front of the shop. 

One of the best parts of the whole shop is hidden in the back in the children's section. There's a Harry Potter nook under the stairs!!! There was a complete set of the books, a photo of Harry, Ron, and Hermione, a Gryffindor scarf and glasses. If I were younger I might have curled up on the little bed with a book!

There were many literary themed gifts in the shop as well, coffee mugs, etc. I loved all the unique details that popped up around each corner. One sign on the fireplace mantle (above) said "Monthly Movie Crush: Benedict Cumberbatch". I mean really, tell me you don't want to be friends with these ladies! I loved everything about the shop and can't wait to visit again.

Photos by moi.

Limberlost State Historic Site

 After reading A Girl of the Limberlost earlier this year I knew I wanted to visit the author's home in northern Indiana. I'm so glad I did! I didn't have long to explore, but it was well worth the trip. Gene Stratton-Porter lived in Geneva, Ind. where she and her husband designed and built a gorgeous home (above). It's now the Limberlost State Historic Site. It was full of interesting design choices, like a built in greenhouse and detailed wallpaper and sliding doors.

Anyone who has read the books will appreciate seeing the author's personal moth collection. She had dozens and dozens of specimens, including the famous yellow emperor from the story.

 In the visitor center there are two dolls depicting the dresses worn by the two main characters that are inspired by the moths. They were so beautiful!

The author's study included first editions of her books, her type writer, etc. I loved the open feel of the house. All the rooms open into others and they are filled with natural light. 

I also saw the original Loblolly Marsh (above) on my way out of town. That was where the main character searches for moths and where her father drowned before she was born. I know most people won't be able to road trip to Indiana to visit the home, so I thought I'd share it with anyone who loved the book as much as I did!

A Girl of the Limberlost

A Girl of the Limberlost 

by Gene Stratton-Porter

★★★★★

How did I miss this book when I was younger? It’s like a slighter darker version of Anne of Green Gables, and I loved every second of it.

Published in 1909, the story is about a young girl named Elnora who lives in the country. She is going to high school for the first time, but her lack of social skills and money makes the way difficult. Her whole life has been spent on her farm with her cold, unloving mother. Her father died in the Limberlost swamp the day she was born and her mother has resented her ever since.

Elnora is such a unique character. She is stubborn and driven to succeed. She's fiercely intelligent but incredibly compassionate. She is patient, giving her mother the benefit of the doubt for years. She's a hard worker, willing to make money to achieve her dreams. She has self-respect and is willing to sacrifice in order to find true happiness. She reminded me a little bit of Jane Austen’s Lizzy Bennet, particularly in a scene where one woman comes to talk to her about her possible engagement.

There is so much I loved about this book. There's a fantastic female lead who isn't just trying to win a man. The plot focuses on relationships with her family and friends and pursuing her dreams. She stands up for herself even when she doesn't fit in. She's a problem solver and isn't overwhelmed when a slight obstacle gets in her path.

**SPOILERS**

Kate Comstock, Elnora's mother, is a fascinating character. She’s so oblivious to the pain she causes her daughter because she’s trapped in a prison of grief. She has one of the most drastic changes in attitude and overall character development that I've ever read. The way it's done it's completely believable, but it's still a 180 and it was so satisfying to see her relationship with Elnora change throughout the book.

I love how the romantic aspect of the story played out too. Elnora protects her own feelings and isn’t swayed the moment Philip gave her a second glance. She waited until she was sure he didn't want anyone else and she was not just a consolation prize. That’s so unusual to find in a novel, especially one written more than 100 years ago. She wanted someone who loved her deeply, not someone who settled for her in a moment of passion.

**SPOILERS OVER**

BOTTOM LINE: I fell hard for this novel. Elnora is so determined and intelligent, she’s definitely become one of my new favorites. The book is chocked full of wonderful characters, including her Uncle Wesley, the young ruffian Billy and even her selfish, detached mother becomes a character you care about.

BONUS: This is a Hoosier classic set in the Limberlost swamp that is in northern Indiana. I visited the author’s home after finishing the book and will post on my trip!