On the very last day of our month-long road trip, we stopped by Lemuria Books in Jackson, MS. It was one of the most impressive stores we visited--one of those places where you just wished you could spend the night. A huge selection spread across lots of rooms, big and little, with lots of light and good energy.

It was there we met Clara Martin, bookseller, book buyer, book review, and book writer! We were so impressed with all that Clara is doing in the world of books that we asked if she'd be willing to answer some questions for us. She was kind enough to agree, and in part 1 of our interview, Clara discusses the joys and challenges of bookselling, why independent bookstores are important, what she's looking for when considering books for the store, and positive developments in the kidlit world. 

Clara Martin is the Children’s Books Buyer and Event Coordinator at Lemuria Books in Jackson, Mississippi. She is the owner of TwentybyJenny.com, where she reviews books for children of all ages. Clara attended Vanderbilt University where she received a B.A. in English Literature and Art History, and she also received a MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts.

PCB: What's your role at Lemuria Books? Describe a typical day at work…