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

  • 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 Now

  • Mah Jong 101

    Thursday, September 10

    6:30pm - 9:00pm

    Please arrive at 6:15pm.

    This class is perfect for perfect for first‑time players and newer players looking for a friendly refresh.

    Spend an evening learning American Mah Jong in the cozy, book‑lined charm of Swallow Stories Bookshop. You’ll learn everything you need to get started: the tiles, the NMJL player card, dealing, the Charleston, and all the beginner essentials. Enjoy a fun night as you play and learn in a friendly, no‑pressure setting.

    Space is limited. Get your tickets today!

    Please note refunds are not available for cancellations made within 48 hours of the event.

    Register Now

  • Nikki Day signing the Emerald Skies series

    Saturday, September 12th

    11:30PM-1:30PM

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

    Click Here

  • Owl Encounter

    Friday, September 18th

    6:30PM-7:30PM

    Our owls are back!

    The Atwood Nature Center will be bringing in various birds of prey for you to see up close and personal. This event is family friendly and children under the age of 3 will not be charged.

    Tickets

    $25/person

    Groups of four or more are $20/person. (Please call 630-706-1085 to register your group)

    Seats are very limited, so register today!

    Register Now

  • The Baby-Sitter’s Club Super Special Booksih Glam Event

    Saturday, September 19th

    10:30AM-1:30PM

    Join us to celebrate the new release of The Baby-Sitter’s Club Super Special:Baby-Sitters on Board!

    For $45 your passenger will receive the new book, decorate sea shells, and get her hair done to the theme!

    Register Now

  • Lauren Johnson signing The Soufflé also rises

    Saturday, September 19th

    11:30AM–1:30PM

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

    Click Here

  • Pen Trade Day

    Saturday, September 26th,

    12:00PM-3:00PM

    Looking to meet new friends in the stationery world? This is the time to do it!

    We are expanding into the stationery territory here in Swallow Stories Bookshop and we want to meet you!This is a free event

    where you can mingle and trade the pens you have with like minded members.

    Register Now

  • Threshing Day Release Party

    Tuesday, September 29th

    Dust off your riding gear!

    We’re hosting our very first release day party at Skeleton Key Brewer!

    Get ready for merch, themed drinks, and some fun games!

    Winner receives a new book plus a gift basket with Fourth Wing goodies.

    This is a FREE event. Books are available while supplies last.

    Click Here

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:

September 20th: The Day The World Came to Town: 9/11 in Gander by Jim DeFede

October 25th: The Found Object Society by Michelle Maryk

November 22nd: Cahokia Jazz by Francis Spufford

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!