Aside from the Mammoth Hike Challenge and Spirit Tour, October in Walworth and Jefferson Counties now features the Storytelling Festival. As the leaves change colors and the weather cools, it’s the ideal time to dig into a good book. Plan a visit to one (or a few!) of these bookstores or libraries to grab a good read, and then make yourself comfy in a reading nook as you tuck yourself into a different world.

Bookstores

1. The Book Teller
117 W. Main St. Whitewater, WI

This quaint gem in the heart of downtown Whitewater puts a spin on a classic independent bookstore. Also a gift shop featuring work by local artists, The Book Teller created its stacks in an old bank. Go for a book and a gift, stay for the original teller windows and vault, aka, the Mystery and SciFi section. Be sure to catch storytellers at their Open Mic on Saturday evening, October 16th!

2. Planet Chaos
1117 Whitewater Ave. Fort Atkinson, WI

📸: Planet Chaos

Take storytime to a whole new level by visiting Fort Atkinson’s best kept secret, Planet Chaos. From comic books to the game of Magic, you have your choice of new adventures and letting your imagination run wild. Pop in to snag an intriguing comic book or indulge in a game day or a pre-release event!

3. Book Warehouse
575 W Linmar Ln. A90, Johnson Creek, WI

📸: Book Warehouse

If you’re a discount lover, Book Warehouse in Johnson Creek is the bookstore for you. With 50%-80% off, you can dig into a plethora of new worlds and keep it inexpensive! From local author meets and greets to kids coloring book grab bags, you'll find anything you need here.

4. InkLink Books
2890 Main St. East Troy, WI

📸: InkLink Books

As you walk through East Troy’s InkLink Books “lantern-lit doorway,” you’re transported to a magical realm. Peruse the murals while you peruse the stacks. You'll certainly find a treasure to take home with you!

Libraries

We know some of you prefer checking out books over purchasing them. We also know that it’s important to love on our local libraries and all they have to offer! Here are four of our favorites in the area:

• Jefferson Public Library: Jefferson, WI

• Dwight Foster Public Library: Fort Atkinson, WI

• Irvin L. Young Memorial Library: Whitewater, WI

• Anderson Library: University of WI Whitewater, Whitewater, WI

Reading Nooks

Book in hand? Too nice to read inside? We’ve got your outdoor reading nooks covered.

1. UWW Nature Preserve
Off West Schwager Dr. Whitewater, WI

With ecosystems such as woodlands, wetlands, and prairie, the UWW Nature Preserve offers the peaceful vista needed to indulge in a long read. Claim the bench on the hill or throw down a blanket under an oak and settle in for the afternoon.

2. Whitewater Lake
N7660 State Park Dr. Whitewater, WI

Follow the paved path along the shoreline of Whitewater Lake and cozy up on one of their three piers with your favorite book. Let the rippling waters and birdsong put you in the reading zone.

3. Haumerson Pond
522 South 4th St. Fort Atkinson, WI

A lovely mix of forest, prairie, and wetlands following the Bark River, Haumerson Pond is a natural paradise. Hike the short, easy loops, and then claim a bench near the river to curl up with your story.

4. Bald Bluff Overlook
County Rd. H, Palmyra, WI

If you’re looking to sweat a little before you settle in with your book, Bald Bluff is definitely for you. The 1,050ft hike up to the lookout point is worth the trek. Read while overlooking the forest, prairie, and countryside of Palmyra and Whitewater below.

Here’s to the stories we know and the stories we’re about to read/hear. Enjoy, bookworms!