10 Secrets That Make FoxTale Book Shoppe The 'Best Bookstore In Atlanta' (And Why You Must Visit Now)
The FoxTale Book Shoppe in Woodstock, Georgia, is more than just a place to buy books; it is a vibrant, female-owned literary landmark that has repeatedly earned the title of "Best Bookstore in Atlanta." As of late
This deep dive explores the inspiring origin story, the powerhouse events, and the specific reasons why FoxTale Book Shoppe has cemented its reputation as a quintessential community hub, attracting both world-famous authors and devoted local bookworms. From its eclectic selection to its nationally recognized author programming, FoxTale is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about the written word in the Southeast United States.
The Inspiring Story of FoxTale’s Three Founding Owners
The magic behind FoxTale Book Shoppe is rooted in the remarkable friendship and shared dream of its three co-owners: Jackie Tanase, Ellen Ward, and Karen Schwettman. This trio of literary entrepreneurs created a business with a story so compelling, it deserves a book of its own.
- A Friendship Forged in Fiction: The three women, Jackie, Ellen, and Karen, initially met as classmates in a local college writing class, where their shared love for literature and storytelling blossomed into a deep connection.
- The 50th Birthday Trip: Their entrepreneurial idea took root when they all celebrated their 50th birthdays together with a memorable trip to Denver. This shared milestone and adventure provided the spark to turn their collective dream of owning an independent bookstore into a reality.
- Female-Owned and Operated: Since opening, FoxTale has been proudly female-owned and operated, contributing a strong, creative, and community-oriented presence to the downtown Woodstock area for over 17 years.
- A Community Pillar: The store's impact on the local area was immediate and profound. The Mayor of Woodstock officially declared the opening day "FoxTale Book Shoppe Day," a testament to the community's excitement and the store's role in fostering a sense of local connection.
The owners’ personal engagement is a cornerstone of the store’s atmosphere. They make a point to greet customers personally, creating a welcoming environment that feels more like a literary living room than a retail space.
FoxTale’s National Reputation: A Magnet for Bestselling Authors
One of the most defining characteristics of FoxTale Book Shoppe is its extraordinary ability to attract a steady stream of high-profile, bestselling authors, transforming the small, independent store into a major stop on national book tours. This dedication to author events is why the store was named the "Best Bookstore in Atlanta" by *Atlanta Magazine* in multiple years, including 2013 and 2019.
The store hosts author events, release parties, and book signings almost every week, cementing its reputation as a dynamic literary hub. These events not only draw crowds from across the region but also provide an invaluable platform for local and regional authors, a key focus of the store’s curated selection.
A Roster of Renowned Visitors
FoxTale’s author event history reads like a who’s who of contemporary fiction and non-fiction. The store has hosted numerous celebrated writers, providing fans with intimate, up-close experiences with their literary heroes. These events highlight the store’s topical authority within the publishing world.
Notable authors who have visited FoxTale Book Shoppe include:
- Harlan Coben: The internationally renowned author of the Myron Bolitar series and numerous standalone thrillers.
- Mary Kay Andrews: A *New York Times* bestselling author known for her Southern-themed novels.
- Karen White: Another celebrated Southern author, often appearing alongside Mary Kay Andrews.
- Raymond Atkins: A Southern humorist and novelist.
- Wendy Wax: A popular author of women's fiction.
- Greer Macallister: Author of historical fiction like *The Girl in His Shadow*.
- Katherine Reay: A contemporary novelist known for her heartwarming stories.
- Erica Wright: Author of titles such as *Famous in Cedarville*.
What’s New at FoxTale: Upcoming Events and Community Programs
FoxTale Book Shoppe is not resting on its past accolades; it continues to engage the community with fresh and exciting programming. For readers looking for the most current information, the store's calendar is always packed with book clubs and author discussions that keep the literary conversation going year-round.
Active Book Clubs and Literary Gatherings
The store is home to several active reading groups, fostering a consistent sense of community among local readers. The FoxChat Book Club is a long-standing gathering that typically meets on the third Thursday of every month, providing a space for lively discussion and shared passion for books.
Latest Author Events (Late 2025 - Early 2026)
The commitment to hosting new and relevant events remains strong. For instance, the store had an event scheduled for Tuesday, December 9, 2025, to celebrate the launch of a new novel, *Dark Sisters*. Furthermore, the store is already planning for the new year, with an event featuring author Chuck Storla scheduled for January 25, 2026, confirming its role as an ongoing destination for literary enthusiasts in the new year.
Commitment to Education and Local Authors
Beyond the main store events, FoxTale Book Shoppe extends its influence into the local school system. Owner Karen Schwettman has partnered with local educators to schedule author visits at Cherokee County schools, ensuring that the love of books reaches the next generation of readers and writers. This focus on local engagement, including highlighting regional authors and offering summer reading recommendations, is a hallmark of the store’s community-first philosophy.
In short, the FoxTale Book Shoppe in historic downtown Woodstock, GA, is the gold standard for independent bookstores. Its success is a powerful testament to the vision of its three owners, the loyalty of its community, and the universal magic of a great book. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the Atlanta area, a stop at FoxTale promises a memorable and enriching literary experience.
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