A Conversation with the New Owners of a California Literary Haven

Hicklebee's owner and staff (photo credit: Enya Yang).

Since 1979, Hicklebee’s has sold best-selling books, hosted public events such as meet-and-greets for authors and illustrators, and so much more. Located in San Jose, Hicklebee’s is an award-winning independent bookstore owned by Laura Gahrahmat who is devoted to continuing its legacy after purchasing it from former owners Monica Holmes and Valerie Lewis.

Recently, I sat down with Gahrahmat and two store employees, Cathy Nichols and Helen Parkhurst, for an interview to learn more about  the important role Hicklebee’s plays in our community.

What inspired you to buy Hicklebee’s from its previous owner? Were you a former customer?

Gahrahmat: “I have always had a passion for books.  My business career afforded me the opportunity to combine my small business ownership work with my interest in literature, literacy, and community engagement. When it was announced that Hicklebee’s was for sale, I threw my hat in the ring.  Hicklebee’s is my local independent bookseller, and I had been a loyal customer for several years.”

How do you choose books and activities for kids who visit Hicklebee’s?

Nichols: “We have a toy buyer and various people that buy the books. The staff also helps choose: if there’s something that we think is really hot or we want in the store, then they’ll get it. We also view customer requests.”

Which books are the most popular currently? 

Nichols: “It [the most popular] varies. We sell a lot of graphic novels, and right now, the new Hunger Games book is the new ticket.”

What is your favorite thing about Hicklebee’s?

Parkhurst: “I like the diversity of books and customers we have. It’s always good fun and really interesting to see the different authors, different books, and different topics.” 

Have you noticed any trends in the types of books that interest kids? 

Gahrahmat: “At the moment, Hicklebee’s middle grade customers seem to be loving mystery, fantasy, and historical fiction books.  Our YA (young authors) readers appreciate a good romance book.  In my time at Hicklebee’s, I haven’t seen a changing trend in picture books.  If the picture book has a zany, laugh-out-loud animal character, a kid will love it!  That never seems to change.”

What strategies do you use to encourage children to read more?

Nichols: “We always ask them what they like to read and what their last favorite book was. It really depends on the kids, and we try to have the stuff they really like to read in stock.”

What was your favorite childhood book and why?

Parkhurst: “I quite liked Roald Dahl. I’ve read all of the Roald Dahl books. I think he is a fantastic writer.”

Can you share a memorable experience that highlights the impact of reading on kids?

Nichols: “When we get authors, kids are always very excited to meet and talk to the authors. A lot of times, we have future authors or illustrators in the audience, so the authors and illustrators are always wonderful with the kids; they answer their questions. They have the kids come up and draw if they want to become an illustrator, or they’ll draw for the kids. It encourages the kids then, too, if they want to continue in that direction.”

What subject do you wish was taught in schools that is not currently taught?

Parkhurst: “Allowing young people to do more critical thinking and problem solving rather than teaching or reciting what is required for an exam.”

In three words, what is your hope for future generations?

Nichols: “Read more books.”