Swallow Stories

Bookshop

Welcome to Swallow Stories Bookshop, your family owned bookstore in the heart of Downtown Lisle.
Within these shelves, books remain a constant: stepping stones across history and guardians of language. Once a story lands in your hands, you are free to consume it, savor it, and return to its unaltered pages as often as your heart desires. For as long as we consume stories, books will never become obsolete.

Visit our Bookshop.org page to order any title online

Check out our store page to see featured products

Upcoming Events

  • Monthly Crochet Classs

    Monthly Crochet Class

    Friday, August 21st
    3:30-4:30 PM

    In this class we will be making Kindle Sleeves!

    This class is ideal for beginners looking to learn the basics and have fun creating.

    Tickets are $20 and include your materials and instruction. Walk-ins are welcome!

    Call to Register
  • Luke Lipien signing his debut YA book, Void Seeker

    Luke Lipien signing Void Seeker

    Saturday, August 8th

    12:00PM-2:00PM

    Michael Bren is a thirteen-year-old Void Seeker; a boy who can see the dark creatures that roam a grim realm called the Void. He believes that he is the only Void Seeker in the world, and because of his unique powers, he leads a lonely, isolated life. His only friend, a strange and vocal Void Creature called Chloe, acts as his guardian angel and warns him from straying too far from his stale, suburban life. But after a failed attempt to reveal his powers to his parents, Michael runs away from home and gets captured by the mad scientist Doctor Manapart. Michael learns the reason for his capture when he meets Manapart's other test subjects, kids who can see the Void just like he can. He must team up with these other Void Seekers to escape Manapart's facility and get back home, but getting out might only be half the battle...

    Preorder

  • Pottery Decorating

    Saturday, September 5th

    1:00PM-3:00PM

    You will be choosing a prepriced cup, vase, bowl, or plate to decorate with food-safe underglazes.

    All pieces are hot food safe. We recommend handwashing and no microwave use.

    All materials are provided — we’ll glaze and fire your piece for pickup the following week.

    Prices range from $25–$50 depending on the item.

    Registration fee is $10 and goes towards the pottery piece you choose to decorate!

    Register Here

  • Tanima Kazi Signing Chandigarh Chai

    Tuesday, August 18th

    2:30PM-4:30PM

    Avni Chawla just got rejected from Le Cordon Bleu. But when a letter from her nani arrives, revealing that the family chai shop in Chandigarh is closing, Avni packs a bag for India with one mission: save the shop.

    The problem? She can barely save herself.

    Between navigating family secrets, reconnecting with her enigmatic grandmother, and trying not to burn down the chai shop in the process, Avni discovers that sometimes saving a legacy isn't about holding on-it's about learning to let go.

    Preorder

  • Jennifer Lloyd Signing Broken Blossom and The End is the Beginning

    Saturday, August 29th

    1:00PM-3:00PM

    For more information about the titles, please visit our events page.

    Click Here

  • A Crafternoon in Chicagoland

    Saturday, August 29th

    11:30AM–1:30PM

    2 hours @ $20.00

    Join us for A Crafternoon in Chicagoland — a cozy afternoon of creativity, community, and handmade art at Swallow Stories Bookshop.

    Start by learning how to create playful typewriter art with Typewriter Chicago, then stay for a crafty junk journaling session with Chicagoland Journal Club. No experience necessary — just bring your creativity! All materials will be provided. No AI.

    Register Now

Join Our Bookclub!

Love reading? Join our book club for lively discussions, new friendships, and unforgettable literary journeys! Whether you're a bookworm or just starting your reading adventure, all are welcome!

Our group is consistently growing (yay!), so we ask that you RSVP a week in advance to ensure we have enough space.

Purchasing the book of the month through any platforms that support Swallow Stories Bookshop is required to participate.

Our Bookclub meets every third or fourth Sunday of the month at 5:00pm. Below are the upcoming dates and titles:

August 16th : BYOB-be ready to discuss a book you chose to read!

This is the perfect chance to join the bookclub and get to know current members!

Pick a book of your choosing, old or new, for this month’s bookclub and take a few minutes to tell us all about it.

Some members will be bringing themed treats and dressing up, while others are choosing to keep it simple.

The choice is yours, so have fun with it!

September20th: The Day The World Came to Town: 9/11 in Gander by Jim DeFede

October 25th: TBD

A cartoon illustration of a pirate ship with black sails featuring a skull and crossbones, emerging from an open magic book with clouds and water around it, and cartoon palm trees.

Join us every first and third Saturday of the month at 2 p.m. for fun and engaging story time events at Swallow Stories Bookshop—where stories come to life and little readers are treated to surprise giveaways! From exclusive movie promos to themed goodies, we love making story time a magical experience for children and families.

Find more family friendly activities in our Events page

Story Time & Giveaways

A framed collage artwork of pink water lilies with green lily pads on a blue background.

Local Artist Spotlight

We proudly showcase the work of talented local artists right here at Swallow Stories Bookshop. From bookish accessories and handmade pottery to intricate micro mosaics, our curated collection brings creativity and craftsmanship to every shelf.

Our selection rotates regularly, so there's always something new to discover.
Stop by anytime to see what’s fresh and local—or check our Events Page for featured artist pop-ups and workshops!

Play chess amongst the pages at Swallow Stories Bookshop

Workshops & Tournaments

We believe in the power of literature to bring people together, which is why we host a variety of engaging events throughout the month. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on events like author signings, story time, book clubs, and even outdoor events like our motorcycle nights and other motoring events!

Register

Host an Event

Children's Corner fireplace at Swallow Stories Bookshop

Swallow Stories Bookshop is now offering the perfect venue for your private events! Whether it's a book club gathering, a small party, or a unique literary event, we provide a charming and cozy setting to make your occasion special.

Reach out to us with all of your event details on the contact page and let’s chat about creating a memorable experience for you and your guests!