If you consider autographed books a form of art, then I own a compelling collection. Jacqueline Woodson, National Book Award winner; Valerie Hemingway , personal secretary and eventual daughter-in-law of Ernest Hemingway; Clint Smith , New York Times bestseller and poet. Jacqueline Woodson signs autographs at the Tattered Cover bookstore in Denver (2019). These authors provide a (very, very) small sample of the monikers scribed in my books. What they have in common is the signatures were collected at independent bookstores. Specifically in Denver, Missoula (Montana), and Baltimore. April 27, 2024, marks Independent Bookstore Day. In its 11th year, the event – held the last Saturday in April – signifies a national celebration for independent bookstores. Shopping at independent bookstores offers countless distinct advantages over larger chain retailers. Here are three. Uniqueness From the inventory to the vibe, independent bookstores shine....