Third Place Books artist puts Seattle bookstores on the map

Map drawn by Stephen Crowe of Third Place Books

Puget Sound residents are proud of both their literary and arts communities, both of which make the region a draw to locals and visitors. These communities intersect and feed each other. Nowhere is this more evident than in Seattle’s independent bookstores, with their low turnover and multitalented staff members.

In celebration of the 2017 Seattle Independent Bookstore Day, local artist and Third Place Books graphic designer Stephen Crowe has created the Independent Bookstore Day Challenge Map, a gorgeous full-color poster featuring the 19 participating local stores throughout the region. The map will serve as a “passport” that visitors can pick up at each of the stores.

On a personal level, Crowe’s map is exemplary of his skill and love of books. In economic terms, the map points to a flourishing bookstore community. Literally.

The Challenge

On April 29, visitors who get their Independent Bookstore Day passport stamped at each of the 19 stores will receive 25 percent off at all participating stores for a year. In 2015, 42 valiant souls made the trek, and in 2016 that number grew to 120 bookstore “champions.” Booksellers are expecting the total to increase this year as word spreads. Those who visit three or more stores will be entered to win bookstore gift cards.

The Artist

Stephen Crowe is an accomplished designer and illustrator whose work has always skewed literary. He moved to Seattle from the U.K., where he gained a small following with his illustrated Finnegan’s Wake, and in 2014 was commissioned to illustrate an edition of James Joyce’s The Dubliners. He lives with his wife in Seattle. More of his work can be found at www.invisibledot.net.

Read Third Place in-house interview with Stephen Crowe here