Books / Bookshops
Two of Bristol’s bookshops shortlisted in the British Book Awards 2021
Two of Bristol’s bookshops have been shortlisted in the British Book Awards.
Max Minerva’s in Westbury-on-Trym and Storysmith on North Street have been nominated as the South West’s Independent Bookshop of the Year in the British Book Awards 2021.
Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights in nearby Bath, which has won the country’s Independent Bookshop of the Year twice, is again nominated for the national prize.
is needed now More than ever
“Last year was difficult for the entire books trade but indie booksellers were perhaps at very sharpest end of the pandemic,” says Tom Tivnan, chair of the Independent Bookshop of the Year judges and managing editor of the Bookseller.
“These shops serve vastly different communities and have their own specialties, but if there is a through-line, it is all used the challenges of 2020 to increase stock ranges, expand retail channels and broaden customer bases through social media.
“The bottom line is clear: indie bookshops will continue to thrive, no matter what is thrown at them.”
Emily and Dan Ross from Storysmith. Photo: Jon Craig
Two stores are among five shortlisted in the South West category, alongside The Snug in Bridgwater, Mr B’s Emporium of Reading Delights in Bath and Crediton’s Community Bookshop.
“We’re delighted to be shortlisted for Independent Bookshop of the Year,” says Dan Ross from Storysmith. “2020 definitely held its challenges, and our customers responded by turning to books.
“It was a huge effort to adapt to the new circumstances, and we so appreciate the support we received from customers, suppliers, authors and publishers across the industry: to us, it’s proof that books and bookshops will outlast any pandemic.
“It’s especially heartening to be shortlisted alongside our north Bristol neighbours at Max Minerva’s, proof (as if we needed it) that the literary health of the city is getting stronger every year.”
The shops will now progress to a second round with regional and country winners announced on Wednesday, March 17.
Max Minerva’s in Westbury-on-Trym are nominated, alongside Storysmith. Photo: Max Minerva’s
“It’s an honour to be included amongst such great bookshops (congratulations Emily & Dan at Storysmiths!) and a testament to our wonderful team,” say Jessica and Sam at Max Minerva’s.
“We know how lucky we are to have been able to keep trading and spreading a little joy during the last 12 months. Our customers have been fantastically supportive, as has Bristol’s book community as a whole.
“The fact that two bookshops from Bristol are on the list shows how well the city supports its arts scene and independent businesses. We feel fortunate to call the city our home.”
Main photo of Jessica Paul and Sam Taylor: Max Minerva’s
Read more: You can support two of Bristol’s bookshops from home
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
