SPECIAL HOURS: OPEN 10AM-3PM
2023-09-29 10:00 - 15:00 UTC | Booklovers’ Gourmet, 72 East Main St, Webster, MA, 01570, United States
We apologize for any inconvenience, but we are closing at 3 p.m.

CLOSED TODAY
2023-09-30
We apologize for any inconvenience, but we will be closed today.

October Art Show-Self-Care Through (Imperfect) Creative Expression by Tina Brinks
2023-10-03 - 2023-10-31
We are pleased to present the October Art Show-Self-Care Through (Imperfect) Creative Expression by our very own Tina Brinks!
The show is made up of pieces using different techniques, materials and tools. The pieces express the artist’s interest at various moments in her life and making them helped her navigate her busy life. That is why the pieces are not for sale. They are made because it was enjoyable to do so and are expression of herself. The pieces are also an invitation to try out, to let go of control, to get inspired, to play, to get curious and to ask questions. She hopes the viewer will find inspiration to explore. And since she works at the bookstore, she is available for any conversation you would like to have regarding the show during regular business hours.

Tina has called Webster home since 2002 and after taking care of her family she now works part time at Booklovers’ Gourmet. This is her first art show, and it shows an overview of different tools, techniques and materials used to explore, create and play. For her, creating is first and foremost a process that connects the heart, hand and head and results in a sense of calmness and peace. Especially color, sound and movement are areas of interest. She is always learning and loves to read and hear about different artists, art styles and their creative process. These resources are very inspiring for her and have expanded her horizon in many, many ways.

She learned to knit, crochet and embroider at a young age from her mother and grandmother and was later on blessed with a very creative mother-in-law as well. She was encouraged to try out new things and enjoy the process of making.

Banned Books Week
2023-10-03 - 2023-10-07
Join us in celebrating Banned Books Week! This year’s theme is “Let Freedom Read”.

Stop in the store anytime this week during regular business hours to participate.
Pick up some free stickers, pins & bookmarks, a checklist of 2022’s most challenged books,
and get special discounts on select “banned books” including classics & more!

Human Rights Book Signing & Art Display with Thaer Abdallah
2023-10-14 14:00 - 16:00
Booklovers’ Gourmet and local Amnesty International Group #356, of Webster, MA, are co-hosting a book signing, talk and art display featuring human rights activist and artist Thaer Abdallah.
He will be signing and discussing his book Song in the Desert: My Journey from Baghdad to Boston.
Signed copies will be for sale with proceeds to benefit Amnesty International Group #356. Donations will also be accepted.
Some of his paintings will also be on display.
For more information call 508-949-6232 or email deb@bookloversgourmet.com.

Thaer Abdallah is a Palestinian artist and human rights activist who was born in Iraq and grew up in Baghdad in a one-bedroom apartment with his 12 brothers and sisters. Together they survived three wars and unbelievable challenges, culminating in the kidnapping and torture of Palestinian community members following the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Thaer’s story of hope and resilience leads him from the streets of Baghdad to the empty desert, from loneliness to love, from the pain of imprisonment and torture to an impossible dream of new life in a foreign land. His example of courage and survival gives hope to all who suffer seemingly insurmountable challenges, and shines a light through the darkness of our times.
Founded in 1961, Amnesty International is a global movement of more than 10 million people in over 150 countries and territories who campaign to end abuses of human rights. For more information about Amnesty International, please visit www.amnesty.org.

Metro West Paranormal Investigators Discussion & Demo
2023-10-28 14:00 - 16:00
Are you ready for Halloween? Join us for a ghostly good time! Our hosts are Metro West Paranormal Investigators, located in Southbridge, MA. The presentation will include a discussion of experiences and demos of devices used to record paranormal activity at various New England locales. Each attendee will receive a take home swag bag.

Please sign up to reserve your spot by calling 508-949-6232 or emailing deb@bookloversgourmet.com

Ray Arnold is a paranormal investigator and president of Metro West Paranormal Investigators since 2018. He has been into the paranormal since the late 1980’s in which time he has investigated many haunted locations throughout the New England area as well as met and worked with well-known paranormal investigators. Metro West Paranormal has done many podcasts from “Mostly Ghostly” in the Boston area and “Paranormal Access and Radio” in the United Kingdom.
Pam LaRue is an I.T.C. Medium and Akashic Message Tarot Reader. She communicates with ascended spirits through electronic devices, divining rods and pendulums. She works with a Spirit Collective and records her sessions on a nightly basis. Miss LaRue was a former disc jockey for many local stations throughout the years and worked as a cable television director, producer and camera operator. She received her Associates Degree in Radio and Television Communication at the New England Institute of Technology. She is a member of the First Spiritualist Church of Willimantic, CT.

November Art Show-Of Living Things by Lisa Kretchman
2023-11-01 - 2023-11-30
Of Living Things depicts the beauty of New England flora and fauna. Life and landscape from the artist’s trip to Acadia to the garden in her back yard. All things great and small.
Lisa’s work consists of acrylics, pastels and mixed-media.
Join us for a meet the artist reception on Saturday, November 18th, from 11 am-12:30 pm. Light refreshments will be served. Free and open to the public.
About the Artist
Lisa Kretchman is a mixed-media artist residing in Dudley, MA. Lisa started out as a traditional illustrator using soft pastel and scratchboard. While attending Massachusetts College of Art and Design, she studied illustration and was introduced to digital painting software. Blending those skills, she worked for over 15 years as a digital media artist and animator. She eventually returned to her traditional artistic roots to create more meaningful and personal artwork, inspired by nature and spirituality.
To see more of the artist’s paintings and process visit: lisakretchman.wordpress.com/fine-art/

"Dining with War" Poetry Reading & Book Signing Event with Karen Warinsky
2023-11-04 13:00 - 15:00
Karen Warinsky centers her work on mid-life and relationship issues, politics, and the search for spiritual connection through nature. Her poetry takes a hard look at the world around us with doses of humor and irony.
Warinsky, retired from careers in media and teaching, is a former finalist of the Montreal International Poetry Contest for her poem “Legacy,” which was published with other top entries in an anthology by Véhicule Press in 2013. She is a 2023 Best of the Net nominee.
Her debut collection, Gold in Autumn, was released in 2020 followed by Sunrise Ruby (2022) (both from Human Error Publishing) and her chapbook Dining with War came out this year (Alien Buddha Press). . She currently organizes poetry readings in CT and MA as coordinator of Poets at Large. This fall she is the MC of a spoken word series at The Vanilla Bean Café in Pomfret, CT which is held the last Saturday evening of the month.
Other work includes a short story about her grandmother featured in Dear Nana, (Pegasus Books), two poems in the 2017 anthology Nuclear Impact: Broken Atoms in Our Hands, work in editions of Blue Heron (2018 and 2021), and in 2017 and 2018 editions of Light; a Journal of Photography and Poetry. Warinsky is also published in the 2019 Mizmor Anthology, Deep Wild Journal, Honoring Nature, Circumference (Fall 2021) and Consilience, (Spring, 2022), among other publications and online sites.
The event is free and open to the public. Signed copies of her selected books will be available for purchase.
A native of Illinois, Warinsky lived in North Dakota, Washington State, and Japan before landing in her current base of Connecticut. She holds a BS in Journalism from Northern Illinois University and received her Master of English degree from Fitchburg State University. Visit her website: karenwarinskypoetry.wordpress.com or find her on Facebook through Poets at Large.

Artist Reception for Of Living Things by Lisa Kretchman
2023-11-18 11:00 - 12:30
Maine, pastel by Lisa Kretchman
Come meet and chat with the artist while viewing the work of this month’s featured exhibit in our cafe gallery.
“Of Living Things”, pastels, acrylics and mixed-media works by Lisa Kretchman.
Light refreshments will be served.

The Maenad’s God-Author Talk with Karen Michalson
2023-11-18 14:00 - 16:00
Boston 1992. Alienated FBI agent Pete Morrow discovers a murder and becomes obsessed with Jade McClellan, a mysterious mafia-backed rock musician. Tough-guy Morrow has never been in love before—but Jade is almost magical, creating a private imaginary world from his songs and stories that rapidly become the only thing Morrow values in his otherwise empty life. Unfortunately, Morrow is investigating the mafia family that is investing in Jade’s musical career. Being open about their relationship could get both of them killed. Chosen by Independent Book Review as one of the best books of 2022. Recipient of The Historical Fiction Company’s Highly Recommended Award of Excellence.
Alienation. Myth. Music. Law. Madness. Death. Divinity.
After all, the universe must balance, no matter who gets destroyed in the process.
“An engaging, snaking, and spirit-tinged murder tale about obsession and control.” – Kirkus Reviews
Karen Michalson has assumed many identities – criminal defense attorney, scholar and teacher of nineteenth-century British literature, and rock musician. All her experiences find a home in her writings as an award-winning, critically acclaimed author. She has written four novels, including The Maenad’s God, which was selected by Independent Book Review as one of the best novels of 2022 and by IndieReader as one of the Best Reviewed Books of March 2023. It also received a 5-Star Highly Recommended Award of Excellence from The Historical Fiction Company, and a Literary Titan Gold Book Award (2022).
Her books have been favorably reviewed by Clarion Foreword, Kirkus Reviews, Publishers Weekly, Independent Book Review, Literary Titan, Blue Ink Review, and numerous others. Michalson practiced criminal law for a decade. She left the law profession a little over four years ago to return to her novel-writing career full time.
She lives in New England. Official website: http://www.karenmichalson.com.

Plaid Friday & Small Business Saturday Celebration!
2023-11-24 - 2023-11-25
Shop Small and get BIG Rewards this holiday season!
Get in on the fun, grab some unique gifts and deals!
Save on journals, calendars, jigsaw puzzles, boxed cards, ornaments & more!!
15% OFF Holiday Gift Books in featured catalog!
Chance to win great raffle prizes too!

Jig Gets Lost-Children's Author Signing
2023-11-25 14:00 - 16:00
Join us on Small Business Saturday as we welcome children’s author Julia Kneeland and her book Jig Gets Lost.
Jig Gets Lost is a story about a dog who lives in the city and decides to go on an adventure. He follows the delicious smells from the street vendors. He meets a boy who gives him a treat! But when he looks around to go back home, he cannot find his way. Read on to find out how Jig gets back!
Perfect for 4-8 year olds or anyone who loves dogs!
The event is free and signed, personalized copies will be available for purchase.

Evening Book Group November
2023-11-29 17:30 - 19:00
Join us for the last book group meeting of the year! We will be discussing the novel Mercury Pictures Presents by Anthony Marra.
The epic story of a brilliant woman who must reinvent herself to survive in 1940s Hollywood and fascist Europe, a timeless tale of love, deceit, and sacrifice–and a perfect book club pick–from the award-winning author of A Constellation of Vital Phenomena.
Purchase the book in store for a 10% discount or ONLINE!
Please let us know if you are coming by calling 508-949-6232 or emailing deb@bookloversgourmet.com.

December Nature & Wildlife Photography Exhibit by Janet McDonald
2023-12-01 - 2023-12-30
Nature & Wildlife Photography by Janet L. McDonald will be on display and for sale from December 1st -30th in the cafe gallery during regular business hours.
A meet the artist reception will take place on Saturday, December 9th from 1-3 p.m. Free and open to the public.
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Wednesday 10am-6pm.
Special Holiday Hours: Sundays, Dec. 3rd, 10th & 17th 12-4pm, Mondays Dec. 4th, 11th & 18th 10am-5pm. Dec. 24th 10am-2pm, Closed Dec. 25th.

Janet L. McDonald Statement:
I often find wonder and beauty in the world around me. Whether I’m walking through the woods or even spending time in my own neighborhood, I always see magic in the ordinary. I am compelled to capture those scenes through my eyes so I can not only relive the joy I felt in that moment but share these portraits into my perspective and experience with others.
Bio:
Janet McDonald is an artist, a creator, and nature lover. She received a BFA from UMass Dartmouth and later earned a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Eastern Connecticut State University. Janet worked for over a decade as a textile graphic designer before pursuing a completely different creative outlet as a Pre-K teacher. Now in retirement, Janet walks dogs, pet sits and enjoys taking pictures while canoeing or hiking with her partner Tom.
Janet’s photography has been exhibited at the Sprinkler Factory Gallery, The Vanilla Bean Café, The Rose Room, Booklovers’ Gourmet, Attleboro Art Museum, the Sherill Library in Cambridge as well as many other libraries in the Northeast. The Brookside Chalet holds a permanent display of Janet’s photographs, inspiring visitors to explore the beauty, history and serenity of the Quiet Corner of Connecticut whether it be a whimsical look into the Thompson Dam or a striking view of Cargill Falls.
For more information on Janet and her work, visit her Instagram accounts
@janetmcdonaldphotography or @frenchcatdrawings

Random Thoughts from a Curmudgeon-Book Signing & Open Mic
2023-12-02 14:00 - 16:00
Join us for an amusing afternoon with Worcester humorist/poet Joe Fusco, Jr and his latest release.
Joe is the author of four other books of poems and essays.
An open mic poetry reading will also take place. To sign up, please call 508-949-6232 or email deb@bookloversgourmet.com

Holiday Hours
2023-12-03 12:00 - 16:00, 2023-12-17 12:00 - 16:00
For your shopping convenience, we are open 12-4 p.m. on the following Sundays in December:
December 3rd, 10th & 17th

Holiday Hours
2023-12-04 10:00 - 17:00, 2023-12-11 10:00 - 17:00, 2023-12-18 10:00 - 17:00
For your shopping convenience, we are open 12-4 p.m. on the following Mondays in December:
December 4th, 11th & 18th

Holiday Shop Hop!
2023-12-10 12:00 - 16:00
Join in the holiday spirit as 20 local businesses offer special deals, treats, samples and a fun shopping experience! See listing at left.
Visit 5 or more on the list and with each purchase get a stamp to enter into a raffle to win over $350 in gift cards!!
SHOP LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

Holiday Hours
2023-12-24 10:00 - 14:00
We will be open 10am-2pm on Christmas Eve.
Closed December 25th
Open regular hours Dec. 26th-30th

CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY
2023-12-25
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

CLOSED FOR VACATION
2023-12-31 - 2024-01-08
We will be closed December 31st-January 8th for vacation.
See you in 2024 on January 9th!!

January Photo Exhibit-"Shades of Winter" by Don McCallister
2024-01-09 - 2024-01-31
Birch and Ice
“Shades of Winter” by Don McCallister will be on view and for sale January 9th-31st, 2024 in our cafe gallery.
A meet the artist reception will take place on Saturday, January 27th from 1-3 p.m. Free and open to the public.
Viewing hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10-5, Wednesday 10-6.
For more information, call 508-949-6232 or email deb@bookloversgourmet.com.

“New Englanders might think that the winter season lacks color. Some people call winter “the stick season”. But like so many things in our wonderful local environment, it pays to look beyond the obvious. Casting a discerning eye at our local woods, fields, streams, and ponds will reveal the subtle shapes, textures, and, yes, colors. Sights that would be hidden during our spring, summer, and fall. The essence of photography has always been to share the vision of the photographer. This collection attempts to capture the unique winter details that were revealed to this photographer in his cold weather rambles. Hopefully, this collection will inspire you to do your own winter explorations.”

An Interlude of Music with P.E. James
2024-01-13 14:00 - 15:00
Start the new year on a musical note with singer P.E. James!
$10 per person payable at the door.

P.E. James (pejamesmusic.com) has been entertaining audiences by singing and playing acoustic guitar for over four decades. He performs at concerts and at restaurants all through central Massachusetts and is also enjoyed on the circuit of over 100 Memory Cafes, assisted living, retirement, Senior Centers, and rehabilitation facilities. He has completed his thirteenth consecutive year at Worcester’s Grill on the Hill restaurant in Green Hill Park.

He has been the featured headliner twice at the Amazing Things Art Center in Framingham, MA, and has performed his song “The Pantyhose Blues” at a well-known stage in Nashville, TN. He has twice sung the National Anthem for WooSox baseball games at Polar Park.

P.E. writes and performs cover songs and original material, and his recordings have been played on radio stations in both Worcester, Massachusetts and his native Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His recordings are available for listening at his web site.

Artist Reception with Don McCallister
2024-01-27 13:00 - 15:00
Join us for a casual meet & greet with local photographer Don McCallister of Oxford, MA.
View his show “Shades of Winter” and enjoy light refreshments as you browse.
Free and open to the public.

Annual February Group Art Show-Shades of Gray
2024-02-01 - 2024-02-29
Trail Texture #4 Photograph by Debra Horan
Please join us in this annual group exhibit showcasing talented local artists!
How to submit work: Please email small jpgs of work to be considered no later than Saturday, January 27th to deb@bookloversgourmet.com and include the following details. Don’t forget to attach images. You may also submit work in person.
Artist’s Name
Title
Medium
Price
Size (including frame)
Drop-off accepted work:
Saturday, January 27th, Tuesday, January 30th or Wednesday, January 31st
Between 10am-5pm
There is a $10 entry fee due at time of drop off of accepted work.
Requirements: Work must be original and reflect the theme of the show, literally (color-wise) or metaphorically. Media may include painting, photography, drawing, fiber, collage or other mixed media that can hang on the wall. Work must not exceed 16″X20″ and should be framed or ready to hang, preferably with a wire.
Each artist may submit up to 2 pieces.
All work must be for sale. Price is at the sole discretion of the artist. A 30% commission will be taken on any sales during or as a result of the show.
Location:
72 East Main Street, Webster, MA
Show Dates: February 1st-29th
On view to the public during regular business hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10-5, Wednesday 10-6

Reception Date: Saturday, February 10th, 2-4 pm
Artists are encouraged to invite family and friends to see the show and vote for their favorite piece.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS
Money prizes will be awarded for the top 3 vote-getters during the month.
FEEL FREE TO SHARE WITH OTHER LOCAL ARTISTS WHO MAY BE INTERESTED.
If you have any questions, please call 508-949-6232 or email deb@bookloversgourmet.com.

This Is Why I Sing by "Just Sue"
2024-02-03 14:00 - 16:00
Do miracles still happen? You bet they do! In this book you will read about more than one. You will discover just how powerful words are and how God’s Holy Spirit can be revealed through poems.
Come learn the many different ways He is reaching out to you. And learn how and why you can sing back to Him.
Sue is a life-long New Englander, and has been blessed with three adult children, two daughters-in-law and two grandchildren (and we can’t forget the five granddogs).
The event is free and signed copies will be available for purchase.
Sue is a life-long New Englander, and has been blessed with three adult children, two daughters-in-law and two grandchildren (and we can’t forget the five granddogs). You are welcome to contact her via email at: JustSue4@gmail.com.
The event is free and signed copies will be available for purchase.

Group Art Reception for Shades of Gray
2024-02-10 14:00 - 16:00
Come meet some talented local artists in this Annual Group Show featuring the theme “Shades of Gray” in various media including painting, photography & more!
Free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.
Vote for your favorite piece for the People’s Choice Award. Top 3 vote-getters throughout the month will win money prizes!
