Osondu Books and Tea

I second Heather F.‘s review. Ms. Osondu has read, I believe, every book every published :) The place is comfortable and the selection of tea is out of this world. I do wish the prices were more reasonable (but remember, this IS an independent book seller) and that there was more room to grab a book and relax… but you always feel welcome at Osondu’s — be you a local like me or someone visiting from out of town.

I’ve been in a lot of bookstores where the staff members have been helpful, but where it has been clear that I am to buy my books, and get on my way. At others, I’ve noticed a great selection, but not felt anyone was truly interested in whether I found something I loved or not.
In my mind I always pictured my dream bookstore. Somewhere warm and welcoming, that encouraged relaxing and leaving the world behind, and where the booksellers were truly invested in helping their customers find a great read. A warm cup of tea or a glass of wine would have been a nice touch, but that seemed too far-​fetched. Apparently Margaret Osondu and her husband Scott Osondu also pictured a bookstore like this, because they created it, even better than I could have ever imagined.
Osondu Books and Tea has been in existence in Waynesville since 2004. It has changed quite a bit over the course of the last few years, and each time I get a chance to see it again, I sigh with relief, feel the weight of the world fall from my shoulders, and I feel completely at home. Now if I only lived in Waynesville!
The owners are true lovers of books (and tea!) and are truly passionate about fostering the love of reading into their community. Margaret Osondu, the owner, was formely a pyschotherapist, but now is a bibliotherapist. She makes great, personal recommendations to her customers. When her daughter, Amanda, worked at the store, she helped me find some books that fit exactly what I was looking for.
Events occur here regularly, including events with authors and authorless events. There are children’s events, talks by local scholars, book reading and signing… the list goes on and on. Osondu Books and Tea also hosts several book clubs in the shop. These include an all women’s book club, an all gender all genre book club, a nonfiction book club and a kids book club.
This is a really special place, with wonderful people. If you are in the area, check it out! You’ll find friendly people, a great selection of books (including lots of local authors), places to relax and enjoy your book of choice, and even tea and wine…