Book By Its Cover » Essentially Odd

Thanks to my friend Jess who sent me this book as a surprise! Apparently she’s very proud of herself for not only finding a book I didn’t have but finding one I didn’t even know existed! haha!

In very close walking distance to my house is a Superhero Supply Co. A what? Yes, you read right- a store where you can test a new cape, buy gravity by the galloon or a big can of muscle. This is one of the very many genius stores that houses non-profit writing centers for kids in the back. Started at 826 Valencia Street as a Pirate Supply Store, the project has expanded to seven cities as seven creative and amazing fronts to get kids excited about learning. This was all started by the same guy who created McSweeney’s, wrote some fantastic books and is responsible for the screenplay of a highly anticipated film: Dave Eggers. Besides the pirate and superhero store there is The Greater Boston Bigfoot Research Institute, The Boring Store (a secret spy shop), The Echo Park Time Travel Mart, The Liberty Street Robot Supply and Repair and The Greenwood Space Travel Supply Co. Having only been to one of these stores, I have always been curious what crazy products the other stores carry. Now finally I know because of this catalog that has just come out. Not only does it have big images of the amazing interiors of the stores, but it acts as an archive of everything they sell or have sold over the years, products they created solely for their stores. From the Black Hole Starter Kits to Mermaid Bait to Yeti Hairballs, all the products get a page with description, size and designer. I think these stores are brilliant and am so happy imaginative places like these exist, especially for such positive purposes. You can get a copy of this book here and learn more and donate to 826 Valencia here. Thanks again to Jess!