June 25, 2025 — Who said that reading can’t be fun? A Book Barn in Old Town Clovis believes it can. Located at 640 Clovis Ave, besides the variety of books they sell, they provide events to get kids and adults out and about to enjoy the allure of reading and discussing books.
The Clovis Roundup had the privilege of attending a couple of these events to see what this literary haven has to offer this summer.
On Wednesday, June 18, they had “Storytime” with Belle (a character reference from the animated film “Beauty and the Beast”) reading stories to kids. Some of the other festivities included balloon animals, playing with stuffed animals, and magic. It was free to the public and happens every month.
The portrayal of Belle was done by Addy Michelle, a local face painter and balloon artist. She does cosplaying around town. Besides doing Belle, she also does readings as Mother Goose. Michelle goes all out for her roles, as she does the voices and is in costume for each character.
This past Saturday, June 21, was a busy one. The day got kicked off with “Fossil Saturday” with Steve Hammond. Hammond is a local dinosaur expert, referred to as “The Dino Dude.” He shared the latest dinosaur fossil discoveries for those who attended the free event. He’s been collaborating with the store for the last few years and it happens monthly.
Later in the afternoon was a book signing and meet and greet with local author Sharyn L. Brown. She spent 50 years in education as a teacher, principal, special education director, and university instructor. She was there to promote her first book, Coffee and Courage, about her aunt Jeanne Mulquin. It was free to the public.
Synopsis: “Through meticulously preserved letters and firsthand accounts, author Sharyn chronicles the extraordinary journey of her aunt Jeanne – from ambitious college graduate to Red Cross director in war-torn England, and her life upon returning home.”
Brown gave the attendees autographed copies of her book, including one for the Clovis Roundup.
A Book Barn is known for supporting local authors and consistently hosting signings and readings. Their most recent one will take place on Saturday, June 28, at 1 p.m. where poet K.J. Norris will be presenting her book of poetry titled Unredacted.
They also do other things like local artist fairs. As of now, they have a huge inventory of several thousand classic sci-fi titles that they’re selling.
Continuing the Legacy
The Clovis Book Barn family recently experienced a profound loss with the passing of co-owner Daniel Dunklee on Wednesday, June 18. His services will take place on Sunday, June 29, at the Chapel of the Light. He is survived by his wife and co-owner, Peggy.
Despite this difficult time, Peggy and the entire Book Barn team are committed to continuing Daniel’s passion for literature and community. They invite everyone to visit, explore their diverse collection, and participate in upcoming events, ensuring that the Clovis Book Barn remains a vibrant hub for readers and local talent for years to come. For more information about events, go to https://www.facebook.com/TheRealClovisBookBarn