During our weekend visit with the Bowers, we shared a few quick Instagram story photos of an irresistibly charming children’s bookstore and immediately got dozens of messages asking for a proper post so the spot wouldn’t disappear from people’s radars. So here it is: a full look at The Story Shop in Monroe, Georgia—one of the most delightful bookstores we’ve ever seen, full of creative kids’ room and home inspiration.
From the grand bookcase with its library ladder to the curated globe collection, the space blends classic library elements with a fresh, playful twist. A cheerful aqua accent wall brightens the entry (a similar effect can be achieved with Benjamin Moore’s Misty Teal on a single wall, a door, or a piece of furniture). One sweet touch at the front was an old TV tucked beneath a pink side table, hand-lettered with the phrase “read instead.”
Another striking detail was the peel-and-stick wallpaper in a bold pattern—perfect behind a child’s bed or on an accent wall—and the bright, whimsical painted animal heads that wear crowns, glasses, and mustaches. Throughout the store, clever literary references and hand-crafted signs add character and invite discovery.
One particularly magical feature is a wardrobe that actually leads to a hidden room—children (and adults) can walk right through it into a storytelling area decorated with playful touches. The space is anchored by two identical rugs, a smart choice that fills the floor without the cost or hassle of one large rug.
That hidden room opens into a storytelling nook centered around a whale motif and comfortable seating—perfect for reading aloud. There’s also a small round “hobbit hole” door leading to a tiny play space, a delightful secret kids always love. These little portals and passages make the store feel like an adventure in itself.
Throughout the shop, small theatrical touches abound: a brick wall covered in butterflies, felt garlands hung from driftwood, Peter Pan silhouettes, and storybook nods tucked into corners. These details create layers of charm and make every visit feel like a treasure hunt.
The kids in our group rushed straight to the swing suspended in one corner—yes, they had a swing!—and took turns while admiring a peaked “bookcase village” display showcasing stories from around the world. It’s an easy DIY idea to recreate at home: assemble small bookcases into a cityscape or buy pre-made bookcase units to mimic the effect on a smaller scale.
Books were even suspended from the ceiling, their pages cleverly bent so they hang open like origami—an eye-catching installation from below. Shelves were filled with thoughtful selections, including vibrant picture books and biographies that stood out for their design and storytelling.
Instead of traditional clothing racks, colorful chairs hung on the wall to display costumes and tees, adding whimsy and bright pops of color. Every surface seemed to offer another creative idea for kids’ rooms or play areas.
Artwork and decor throughout the store carried literary themes—classic prints, cleverly placed props like a rose under glass, and a Cheshire Cat motif stitched into a chair. These carefully curated elements reinforce the message that reading can be magical and fun.
One shelf showcased a rainbow lineup of hardcover classics that made us nostalgic for a home library. Color-coordinated spines and thoughtfully arranged collections are an easy styling trick for a home bookcase that looks both curated and inviting.
They even crafted oversized painted paper flowers reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland’s painted roses—another playful, theatrical detail that elevates the shop from a retail space to a story-filled experience.
Off to the side is a party room that they transform for themed gatherings—Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, and more—with table settings full of literary references and whimsical props. It’s the sort of place where kids’ parties actually feel like a theatrical event.
The store uses twinkle lights, grass-textured wall treatment, and string lighting to create an almost outdoor courtyard vibe—perfect for imaginative play or a magical storytime setting.
There are also gorgeous one-of-a-kind chairs and carved pieces scattered throughout that look like they belong in a storybook. These items add character and make the shop feel like a carefully composed set rather than a typical retail space.
Even the back of the store shows playful thinking, with clever ways to mark staff-only areas that match the store’s tone and imagination.
On a personal note, we enjoyed a few silly moments during our visit and even got to meet the designer, Stephanie Cannon, who turns out to be a reader of our blog and podcast—small world and full-circle moments all around.
If you find yourself near Monroe, Georgia, The Story Shop is absolutely worth a visit. It’s road-trip friendly and overflowing with ideas you can adapt at home: secret doors, hanging books, painted accents, thematic party setups, and imaginative furnishings. And a quick reminder—support your local independent bookstores when you can. These businesses bring creativity and community to life, and they’re worth preserving.
*This post contains affiliate links*