From Books to Bookshop: Lauren Groff, The Lynx, and Defying Book Bans
From Books to Bookshop: Lauren Groff, The Lynx, and Defying Book Bans
Website: https://thelynxbooks.com/
Address: 601 South Main Street, Gainesville, FL
Virtual Tour of The Lynx Books: https://youtu.be/7ZeRydpvye8
The Grand Opening: https://youtu.be/zQKUgU2AuOo
The StayGainesville Connection: Lauren and StayGainesville's Susannah Peddie have been friends for 18+ years. If you ask her which one of Lauren's books is my favorite, she would have to say it's Square in a Circle World. Have you heard of it? Probably not... Lauren and Clay helped her have her first date out after Phillip was 2 weeks old. Susannah and her husband, Brian, dropped him off and said, "We may, or may not, be back," and proceeded to walk to Dragonfly Sushi. They did eventually reclaim him. Phillip was five years old and realized that Lauren was a famous author. He, of course, decided that since she was a famous author, she, of course, would want to write a book for him. He marched over to her house (well, with Susannah holding his hand) and held out the blank book and asked her to please write a book for him. Can anyone turn down a cute 5 year old? Apparently not... So Phillip has his very own, one-of-a-kind, Lauren Groff book. And it's definitely Susannah's favorite. Her second favorite is Fates and Furies.
Lauren Groff is an author whose words strike with the ferocity of a wildcat. Each of her intricately crafted novels and short-story collections digs into the complexities of human existence, leaving a lasting impact on her devoted readership. Now, Groff is expanding her literary influence beyond the page and into a brick-and-mortar haven for fellow bibliophiles—her new independent bookstore in Gainesville, Florida, aptly named The Lynx.
Lauren was also just voted one of the Top 100 Influential People by Time Magazine: https://time.com/6964750/lauren-groff/
More about Lauren http://www.laurengroff.com
More about The Lynx: https://thelynxbooks.com/
"Come to the Grand Opening on April 28th!!
The Lynx: GRAND OPENING April 28th
The Lynx is a new bookstore in Gainesville, Florida. We are a general interest bookstore that emphasizes banned books, BIPOC authors, LGBTQ+ authors, and Florida authors.
Though we aren't open yet, you can still support us by buying books through our affiliate link at www.Bookshop.org/shop/TheLynx!
A group of lynxes is a Watch. The Lynx will be your store; please join our Watch today.
Thank you. We love you."
Book The Laurel Oak Inn or The Camellia Rose Inn the night of or the weekend of The Lynx Books grand opening and save 20% off your entire stay. Book on www.camelliaroseinn.com or www.laureloakinn.com and use code LYNX20 at check-out.
The GRAND OPENING WAS A HIT!!! YOU CAN SEE ALL OF THE ACTIVITIES THEY HOSTED BELOW:
10am Ribbon cutting ceremony
Tiffiny Rose Allen writing custom poems (through 4pm)
10:30am Firefighter story hour – kids
11:30am Zine making DIY craft workshop with S.A.W. – all ages
12pm Florida Legal Services' Fair Housing table (through 3pm)
12:30pm Rebecca Renner reading
1pm Ange Mlinko reading + bookselling
Collin Whitlock music through 2pm
1:30pm Amy Hempel reading + bookselling
2pm David Leavitt reading + bookselling
Lexi Braun and Conor Mitchell music through 4pm
2:30pm Cynthia Barnett reading + bookselling
3pm Lauren Groff reading x
3:30pm Sandra Gail Lambert reading + bookselling
4pm Thomas Allain music through 5pm
4:30pm Jack E. Davis reading + bookselling
5pm Kristen Arnett and Kayla Kumari Upadhyaya readings + bookselling
5:30pm University Press of FL publishing and author panel
6pm PEN America panel with Katie Blankenship through 7pm
7pm Closing toast
Groff: A Literary Powerhouse
Lauren Groff isn't a stranger to literary recognition. From winning the Story Prize to being a National Book Award finalist multiple times, her writing showcases a remarkable ability to capture historical moments and weave them with the intricacies of everyday life.
Fates and Furies: This 2015 novel was an instant success, exploring the intricacies of a marriage through a dual narrative structure. Groff delves into the complexities of a seemingly perfect union, unraveling deep secrets and desires.
Florida: In this short story collection, the Sunshine State is more than a backdrop; it's a force that both shapes and haunts its inhabitants. Groff's stories feature hurricanes, panthers, and the simmering darkness that lingers beneath Florida's sun-soaked facade.
Matrix: This historical novel was one of the most talked-about books of 2021. Groff transports readers to 12th-century England and introduces us to the fierce and visionary Marie de France, an abbess who turns a failing convent into an island of feminine power and intellect.
Groff's prose is both beautiful and unsettling. Her words have a way of getting under your skin, burrowing into your mind to challenge your own perspectives. Her work is infused with themes of power, desire, ambition, and the ever-present battle between light and darkness.
Bookselling as Defiance: The Birth of The Lynx
Florida, in recent years, has become a battleground for book bans and limitations on what can be taught in schools. This censorship is antithetical to the open spirit of literature that Groff champions. It's in this fiery environment that The Lynx was born – a beacon of literary defiance.
The bookstore gets its name from the fierce Florida wildcat, a creature known for its resilience and cunning. It's a symbol that aptly embodies Groff's vision. Here's what sets The Lynx apart:
Banned Book Champion: The Lynx will place a special emphasis on titles that have been subject to censorship attempts. The store will be a safe haven for books that certain individuals would rather silence, and a resounding celebration of the freedom to read.
Diverse Voices: Groff believes in the transformative power of stories from a diverse range of perspectives. The Lynx will stock titles by authors from marginalized communities, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and Florida-based authors.
Community Hub: More than just a place to get books, The Lynx will be a hub for literary events. Think author readings, workshops, and community discussions, creating a space where book lovers can connect, discuss, and find new literary treasures.
In recent interviews, Groff has stated that The Lynx reflects the resilience of the Floridian spirit, a reminder that the state is more than its political struggles. The bookstore is a stand for intellectual freedom and proof that there will always be those who fiercely defend the power of the written word.
The Grand Opening and Beyond
The Lynx is set to open its doors in the spring of 2024 and promises a grand opening celebration that will make waves in the literary community. But The Lynx isn't just about a single moment; it's about an enduring commitment to literature and community building. Here's the kind of impact we can anticipate:
A Literary Lifeline: In an era where independent bookstores are becoming increasingly rare, The Lynx will provide bibliophiles in Gainesville and beyond with a place to discover new authors, support local voices, and find that sense of belonging that only a bookstore can provide.
Anti-Censorship Inspiration: Groff's bookstore is likely to inspire similar initiatives not just around Florida, but nationwide. It serves as a reminder of the unwavering resistance to censorship and the belief that books can make a positive difference.
The Ripple Effect: The Lynx has the potential to revitalize Gainesville's literary scene, attracting new writers, readers, and events to the area. It could also boost the local economy by acting as a destination for book lovers.
Looking for a place to stay while visiting the local Gainesville attractions? Look no further than Gainesville's locally owned vacation rental company, StayGainesville. Book directly on our site, or call us at 352-519-3994 for guidance. For homes and condos, StayGainesville has many options- large and small/ budget and luxury, and more. For a shorter stay, we have 2 beautiful historic Inns in downtown Gainesville. The Camellia Rose Inn and The Laurel Oak Inn- both have unique personalities and they both feel like a home away from home.
We were thrilled to welcome University of Florida's Tennis Great, Qavia Lopez to the Camellia Rose Inn this week! Qavia is one of our StayGainesville R.E.P. Program members and earns discounts for family, friends, and herself at our properties. We want to honor our Gainesville greats by partnering with them so that their family members can stay in the best properties in Gainesville. No more cookie-cutter hotels for our UF athletes. We offer 2 beautiful Inns in downtown Gainesville, as well as homes and condos near UF Campus. StayGainesville and Camellia Rose Inn owners, Susannah Peddie, had the pleasure of personally welcoming Qavia to the Inn on Monday night. We were thrilled to welcome her! Qavia's comments after her stay: "The Inn was great! It was very homey, and the breakfast was amazing. Thank you so much for the hospitality!" Thank YOU, Qavia, so much for staying with us! Learn all about UF's talented Qavia (Source: https://floridagators.com/sports/womens-tennis/roster/qavia-lopez/16283 ): Top-ranked recruit in the nation for 2023 women's tennis class Babola No.1 recruit in the nation Earned five-star and blue-chip honors Holds a No. 19 career best international tennis federation ranking Reached the semi-finals of the 2022 J1 Nottingham, JB1 Indian Wells, and JA Criciuma tournaments Participated in the 2022 Wimbledon Junior Championships and 2022 Junior Australian Open In doubles competition she has claimed four titles, winning the 2022 JB1 Indian Wells title, 2021 JB1 Nicholasville and JB1 San Diego titles and 2020 J3 Lousada title Follow Qavia on InstaGram: https://www.instagram.com/qavia.lopez/?hl=en Learn more about our REP Program Gator athletes are welcome to apply using the form on the StayGainesville REP Program information page . StayGainesville Launches StayGainesville REP Program: Rewarding Support for University of Florida Athletes GAINESVILLE, FL (April 22, 2024): Today, StayGainesville, a leading provider of temporary housing solutions in Gainesville, Florida, announces the launch of the StayGainesville REP (Refer, Earn, Post) Program. This innovative program aims to support University of Florida (UF) student-athletes and their families visiting Gainesville for athletic events. Student Athlete Program (staygainesville.com). Understanding the Needs of Student-Athletes: StayGainesville recognizes the unique challenges faced by UF student-athletes and their families. During busy athletic seasons, families may need comfortable and convenient housing for short-term stays. StayGainesville offers a wide range of accommodation types from large family homes to quaint bedrooms in our StayGainesville Inn properties, The Laurel Oak Inn and the Camellia Rose Inn. StayGainesville offers a wide range of fully-furnished rental properties, strategically located near UF's athletic facilities. Their rentals provide a comfortable and convenient home away from home, equipped with amenities to ensure a relaxing stay. The StayGainesville REP Program: The StayGainesville REP Program provides a win-win situation for UF student-athletes and their families. Here's how it works: UF student-athletes: Athletes can easily refer their families and fans to StayGainesville for temporary housing needs while earning monetary rewards based on number of nights stayed and promotion of StayGainesville on their social media accounts. Families: Families receive a significant discount on their stay at any StayGainesville rental property. This discount ensures comfortable and convenient housing at an affordable price. Become a StayGainesville Ambassador: For Athletes looking to earn higher rewards and show their support for local Gainesville businesses, StayGainesville has a Student Ambassador program that entails participating in local events supporting the thriving Gainesville community. Ambassadors will also have access to the catalog of StayGainesville Experience partnerships offering discounts on local goods and services usually reserved for Guests at a StayGainesville property. A Commitment to Supporting UF's Finest: "We are thrilled to launch the StayGainesville REP Program," says CEO, Susannah Peddie. "UF student-athletes dedicate themselves to excellence, and we want to ensure their families have a comfortable and supportive environment during visits. This program allows us to give back to the UF community and athletes while providing exceptional housing solutions." Contact: Susannah Peddie, CEO StayGainesville info@staygainesville.com www.staygainesville.com
Cultivating Creativity: A Journey Through the Gainesville Fine Arts Association Website: https://www.gainesvillefinearts.org/ Address: 1314 S Main Street in Gainesville, Florida Founded in 1923, the GFAA boasts a rich history as a champion of the arts, nurturing local talent and fostering a love for creativity within the Gainesville community. More Than Just an Art Gallery: A Hub for Artistic Exploration Step inside the stately, red-bricked GFAA building, and you'll be greeted by a welcoming atmosphere that pulsates with artistic energy. While the GFAA Gallery showcases captivating exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists, the organization's mission extends far beyond displaying art. It's a vibrant hub for artistic exploration, offering a diverse range of programs and services that cater to all ages and skill levels. A Gallery that Speaks Volumes: Diverse Exhibitions Throughout the Year The GFAA Gallery is a dynamic platform for artistic expression. Throughout the year, it hosts a curated selection of exhibitions that showcase a variety of mediums and artistic styles. From thought-provoking contemporary pieces to captivating photography exhibits, the gallery offers something to ignite the imagination of every visitor. Nurturing Artistic Seedlings: The GFAA's Renowned Education Programs One of the cornerstones of the GFAA is its unwavering commitment to art education. The organization offers a comprehensive curriculum of classes and workshops for all ages and artistic backgrounds. Whether you're a child yearning to explore the world of painting or an adult seeking to refine your pottery skills, the GFAA has a program designed to help you unlock your creative potential. Experienced instructors guide students through various artistic disciplines, fostering a love for learning and a supportive environment for artistic exploration. A Celebration of Local Talent: The Annual Student Juried Exhibition A highlight of the GFAA's educational efforts is the annual Student Juried Exhibition. This prestigious event showcases the exceptional work of students enrolled in the GFAA's art classes. The exhibition provides a platform for aspiring artists to gain valuable recognition, compete for scholarships, and see their work displayed in a professional setting. It's a testament to the GFAA's dedication to nurturing the next generation of artistic talent in Gainesville. Beyond the Classroom Walls: Fostering a Creative Community The GFAA's commitment to fostering a vibrant arts community extends beyond its walls. The organization hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including artist talks, gallery receptions, and community art walks. These events provide opportunities for artists to connect with the public, share their creative journeys, and inspire others. A Legacy of Impact: The GFAA's Enduring Influence on Gainesville For over 70 years, the GFAA has played a pivotal role in shaping Gainesville's cultural landscape. It has nurtured countless local artists, providing them with a platform to showcase their work, hone their skills, and connect with a supportive community. The GFAA's educational programs have instilled a love for art in generations of Gainesville residents, enriching their lives and fostering a deeper appreciation for creativity. More Than Just Art Classes: A Space for Artistic Connection Visiting the GFAA isn't just about admiring art or taking a class; it's about connecting with the vibrant artistic spirit of Gainesville. The GFAA fosters a welcoming environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to celebrate art, learn new skills, and share their passion for creativity. Whether you're browsing the gallery exhibits, participating in a workshop, or simply attending an artist talk, you'll be surrounded by a community that values artistic expression. A Destination for Everyone: Why You Should Visit the Gainesville Fine Arts Association The GFAA offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art in Gainesville. Here are just a few reasons why: Experience Diverse Exhibitions: Immerse yourself in a variety of artistic styles and mediums throughout the year, from thought-provoking contemporary pieces to captivating photography exhibits. Discover Your Inner Artist: Explore your creativity through the GFAA's comprehensive art education programs, with classes and workshops catering to all ages and skill levels. Support Local Talent: Witness the exceptional work of emerging artists at the annual Student Juried Exhibition and contribute to Gainesville's thriving arts scene. Connect with the Artistic Community: Attend artist talks, gallery receptions, and community art walks to engage with local artists and fellow art enthusiasts. Spark a Lifelong Love of Art: Whether you're an aspiring artist or simply appreciate beauty, the GFAA offers a welcoming space to explore your creativity and deepen your appreciation for the arts. Planning Your Visit to the Gainesville Fine Arts Association The Gainesville Fine Arts Association is located at 131 4 S Main Street in Gainesville, Florida. It's open Tuesday through Friday from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM and on Saturday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Before you visit, check out their website (https://www.gainesvillefinearts.org/) for upcoming exhibitions, class schedules, and special events. You can also follow them on social media for a sneak peek at the current exhibits and a glimpse into the vibrant artistic community they cultivate. A Look to the Future: The GFAA's Continued Commitment to Creativity The Gainesville Fine Arts Association's story is far from over. As the organization embarks on its next chapter, it remains dedicated to its core mission – fostering a love for the arts and nurturing artistic talent in Gainesville. With innovative programming, a dedication to inclusivity, and an unwavering passion for creativity, the GFAA is poised to continue its legacy as a cornerstone of Gainesville's cultural scene for years to come. So, next time you find yourself in Gainesville, take a detour from the well-trodden paths and explore the Gainesville Fine Arts Association. You might just discover your inner artist, witness the burgeoning talent of local creators, or simply be inspired by the sheer power of artistic expression. The GFAA is more than just an art gallery; it's a vibrant hub of creativity, a testament to the enduring power of art in enriching lives and shaping communities. Looking for a place to stay while visiting the local Gainesville attractions? Look no further than Gainesville's locally owned vacation rental company, StayGainesville . Book directly on our site, or call us at 352-519-3994 for guidance. For homes and condos, StayGainesville has many options- large and small/ budget and luxury, and more. For a shorter stay, we have 2 beautiful historic Inns in downtown Gainesville. The Camellia Rose Inn and The Laurel Oak Inn - both have unique personalities and they both feel like a home away from home. Looking for more things to do in Gainesville? Visit our Things to Do link.
