Episode Summary: Annie B. Jones on "Ordinary Time: Lessons Learned While Staying Put"

Totally Booked with Zibby welcomes Annie B. Jones, author of "Ordinary Time: Lessons Learned While Staying Put", in an insightful and heartfelt conversation. This episode delves into Annie's personal journey, her love for books, the challenges and joys of running a bookstore, and the profound connections formed within a small community. Below is a detailed summary capturing all key points, discussions, insights, and conclusions from their engaging dialogue.

1. Introduction to Annie B. Jones and Her Work

The episode begins with Zibby Owens introducing Annie B. Jones, highlighting her roles as the owner of the Bookshelf Bookstore in Thomasville, Georgia, and host of the Book Review podcast from the Front Porch. Annie's book, "Ordinary Time: Lessons Learned While Staying Put", is also featured as one of Zibby's book club picks.

2. Exploring "Ordinary Time: Lessons Learned While Staying Put"

Annie provides an overview of her book, explaining its inspiration and structure.

Annie B. Jones [04:46]:
"I wanted to write a collection of essays and quiet stories that would be just about ordinary, quiet life. Because I do believe, I really do believe this... that's what most of us are doing."

The book is a compilation of essays that trace Annie's life from her childhood to her current role as a bookstore owner. It emphasizes the beauty and depth found in everyday moments and the act of staying rooted in one place.

3. The Significance of Books in Annie’s Life

A central theme of the conversation revolves around Annie's enduring passion for reading and how books have shaped her.

Annie B. Jones [09:04]:
"Books aren't just about escapism... they better prepare me for a life lived outside my comfy, cozy chair."

Annie discusses how reading serves as both a refuge and a source of strength, enabling her to connect with others and navigate life's challenges.

4. Journey to Owning the Bookshelf Bookstore

Annie shares her unexpected path to bookstore ownership, highlighting her initial roles and the gradual takeover of the store.

Annie B. Jones [12:54]:
"I decided to do it and managed that store for about a year before the owner decided she wanted to focus on the flagship store... So I earned the store by working in the store."

Her transition from a journalism background to managing and eventually owning the bookstore underscores her commitment and love for the literary world.

5. Building and Maintaining Relationships in a Small Community

Annie delves into the deep connections formed with customers and staff, illustrating the emotional ties within a small-town bookstore.

Annie B. Jones [16:44]:
"Small business... you are cleaning toilets together, you are dusting shelves, you are dealing with sometimes less than pleasant customers. And so you really form a bond."

She reflects on the bittersweet nature of seeing staff members grow and move on, balancing personal relationships with professional growth.

6. The Role of Book Clubs in Fostering Connections

The conversation shifts to the dynamics of book clubs, contrasting Annie's early experiences with her current philosophy.

Annie B. Jones [28:52]:
"Book club can just be book club. It doesn't have to be where you find your next kindred spirit. It could just be where you eat snacks and talk about whatever Elizabeth Gilbert just wrote."

Annie emphasizes the importance of lowering expectations to maintain the joy of discussing literature without the pressure of forming deep, lifelong friendships.

7. Overcoming Negative Feedback and Personal Growth

Annie candidly discusses her struggles with negative reviews of her podcast and how she learned to navigate criticism.

Annie B. Jones [32:39]:
"When you start reading reviews and they start to count... that's when you start to realize, oh, this is subjective... those voices might not be the ones I need to be listening to."

She highlights the importance of discerning which feedback to heed, focusing on constructive criticism from trusted sources rather than transient public opinions.

8. The Impact of the Bookstore on Personal and Community Life

Annie shares poignant stories from her time managing the bookstore, including the loss of beloved customers and the emotional weight it carries.

Annie B. Jones [26:54]:
"I wanted to honor Al and Paula and Rose. Those were three customers I really wanted to name. I wanted to honor them well, and I hope that I did."

These narratives underscore the profound human connections that transcend the transactional nature of retail, illustrating how a bookstore becomes a cornerstone of community and personal identity.

9. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

As the conversation wraps up, Annie reflects on her journey, the lessons learned from staying rooted, and the continual balance between personal fulfillment and professional responsibility.

Annie B. Jones [36:27]:
"I'm willing to listen to criticism or feedback that makes me or the show or the bookstore better... but not necessarily the reviews that may change on a whim."

Her insights offer valuable perspectives on personal growth, community building, and the enduring power of literature in shaping lives.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Annie B. Jones [07:10]:
  "Books fill me up. Quiet fills me up. My home fills me up."

• Annie B. Jones [09:04]:
  "Books aren't just about escapism... they better prepare me for a life lived outside my comfy, cozy chair."

• Annie B. Jones [28:52]:
  "Book club can just be book club. It doesn't have to be where you find your next kindred spirit."

• Annie B. Jones [32:39]:
  "Those voices might not be the ones I need to be listening to."

Conclusion

This episode of Totally Booked with Zibby offers a deep dive into Annie B. Jones's life, her unwavering love for books, and the intricate tapestry of relationships woven through her bookstore endeavors. Through heartfelt anecdotes and reflective insights, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the meaningful impact of staying rooted and the subtle complexities of fostering genuine connections within a small community.

For more information about Annie B. Jones, her bookstore, and her book "Ordinary Time: Lessons Learned While Staying Put," visit zibbyowens.com and follow her on Instagram @ibeowens.