Inside Charlie’s Queer Books, a joyfully unapologetic space

Independent bookstores are the heartbeat of their communities. They provide culture and community, generate local jobs and sales tax revenue, promote literacy and education, champion and spotlight diverse and emerging authors, connect readers to books in a personal and authentic way, and actively support the right to read and access to books in their communities.

Each week we profile an independent bookstore, sharing what makes each one special and getting their expert and unique book recommendations.

This week we have Charlie’s Queer Books in Seattle!

Founded by Charlie Hunt, a transgender man with experience in publishing and building beloved brands, Charlie’s Queer Books is a lively but cozy little shop. Dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ authors and building community, Charlie’s began as a book cart before morphing into today’s brick-and-mortar location.

“Our customers love that the store radiates unusual joy,” Hunt said. “From the pink walls to the flamingo bathroom, walking into Charlie’s feels like walking into a Palm Springs boutique rather than a dark, murky store. In addition to quirky socks and bestselling books, we also curate books that customers may never have imagined—like a gay 60s cookbook or a romance with a lesbian knight.

Watch: USA TODAY Independent Bookstores Map