Book Singing: The Mom & Pop Store: How the Unsung Heroes of the American Economy are Surviving and Thriving

Posted by on August 10, 2009

Book Signing Event: The Mom & Pop Store: How the Unsung Heroes of the American Economy are Surviving and Thriving
When: Thursday, September 17th; 11:30AM – 2:00PM
Where: Reading Terminal Market 12th and Arch Street  19107

Growing up slicing cold cuts behind the counter in his family’s butcher shop in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, best-selling business journalist Robert Spector learned essential truths about the challenges of mom & pop stores-and about life.

Long fascinated by the direct connection between neighborhood merchants and their customers, and inspired by the personal approach of Charles Kuralt, Spector hit the road to explore the state, and the state of mind, of independent retailers who cultivate community identity and camaraderie, and are the glue that bonds people in big cities and small towns alike.

From a bookstore in Bellingham, Washington to a Polish bakery in Chicago, from a soul food restaurant in Memphis to a Jewish deli in Newark, New Jersey, owners of mom & pop stores told him their stories, revealing the passion, creativity, and tenacity required of the small business owner.  These unsung American heroes shared with Spector their laughter and their tears.

Join us at the Reading Terminal Market to learn more about the Mom and Pop experience and to connect with Spector over free Basset Ice Cream.