James Davies has left his job of 23 years at EDF Energy to open House of Stories, a new independent, family-run bookshop in Morpeth, Northumberland, stocking new, preloved and antique books.
Davies previously ran a second-hand book stall at Tynemouth Market for around five years on weekends before deciding to take the leap into owning a bookshop. He said that juggling a full-time job with the stall was not sustainable, and with his heart in books, it seemed right to start this new chapter.
From market stall to bookshop
House of Stories is home to new, preloved and antique books, with a dedicated section for local authors. Customers can enjoy coffee or tea while browsing the shelves.
Davies said: "I never realised how many authors there are in the local area for such a small place." The shop is also set to host regular author nights, offering a chance for readers to meet local writers.
Community focus and giving back
The local community of Morpeth was a key part of the charm for Davies and his wife Sharon, who live in Chester-Le-Street. They chose Morpeth when looking to open the bookshop.
Davies said: "It's about trying to make sure we're giving a little bit back, so things like the author events are part of the parcel of that."
Antique books and a second lease of life
Some of the books in the shop date back to the 1700s. Davies acquires many through auctions and donations, but applies strict standards on what he takes in. Books that do not make the cut are donated to charities, keeping with his ethos of giving an old book a new lease of life.
For Sharon, watching James grow more passionate about his love for books has been the highlight of the venture. House of Stories offers a place where people can share their books and get their name out to new readers, while enjoying both new and old titles.
