March is National Reading Month + y’all know we love finding opportunities to celebrate these recognitions locally. Last week, we talked to Benjamin Adams, the owner of Odd Bird Books, and asked for a few suggestions for springtime reads.

So if you’re stuck in a reading rut or haven’t decided what to pick up next, check out these five page-turners that Ben recommended.

📚 My Year Abroad by Chang-rae Lee — a fun satirical novel, perfect for anyone missing the idea of travel

📚 World of Wonders by Aimee Nezhukumatathil — a neat nature book to read as we get ready for spring

📚 The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah — a deeply moving new novel from the author of “The Nightingale”

📚 The Code Breaker by Walter Isaacson — a new biography of Nobel-winning scientist Jennifer Doudna, just in time for Women's History Month

📚 Concrete Rose by Angie Thomas — the biggest YA book of the year so far, from the author of “The Hate U Give”

But before you click “add to cart” on Amazon (for any of your next reads), don’t forget about Columbia’s independently owned bookstores that not only offer a variety of titles to choose from, but they also don’t make you wait for shipping. ⬇️

Odd Bird Books, 1332 Main St, #105

Located in the Arcade Mall on Main Street, Odd Bird Books opened in early 2020 + sells general interest new releases for adults and kids.

Odd Bird Books | Image via @helloamandajaye

Ed’s Editions Bookstore, 406 Meeting St., West Columbia

Ed’s Editions sells used books in the heart of West Columbia and is South Carolina’s only ABAA/ILAB and ABA bookstore.

The Book Dispensary, 710-C Gracern Rd.

The Book Dispensary is the oldest independently owned used bookstore in Columbia and opened in 1975. The store also takes trades.

What are the COLAtoday editors reading?

Lauren is almost finished with “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr + has her eye on “Educated” by Tara Westover next.

Jess is reading “Outlawed” by Anna North and “The Duke and I” by Julia Quinn.

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