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New independent bookshop opens in Harrogate

The Real Indie Bookshop on Parliament Street in Harrogate.

Children's author Christina Gabbitas is set to open her own bookshop in Harrogate today (Thursday).

The Real Indie Bookshop has taken over the former Prey Four premises at 4 Parliament Street.

It’s open from 8am to 9pm today, with authors dropping in to sign books and pianist Ciaran Gilligan due to play this evening.

The shop stocks books for all ages, with independent authors sharing shelf space with bestsellers.

Christina also plans to work with local primary and secondary schools on a ‘Pay it Forward’ scheme to get free books and vouchers to children who might otherwise miss out.

Christina published her first Felicity Fly book in 2012. In 2019, she founded a children’s literature charity that brings free books and literary events to families in disadvantaged communities.

Christina said:

“I’ve been writing since 2012 and have sold thousands of books in the UK and overseas.

"I know how much it means when someone gives your work a chance.

"That’s why you’ll find books by independent authors alongside popular and bestselling titles.

"I especially want to make room for writers from the North and from working-class backgrounds whose voices too often go unheard.”

Some of the shelves and tables came from WHSmith branches where Christina held book signings between 2012 and 2020.

The shop also has a music section, with its first vinyl records due to arrive on Friday.

Follow The Real Indie Bookshop on social media for updates. For more information email info@christinagabbitas.com.

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