River Stone Bookshop | October News & Events
October's Newsletter
There’s a lot happening at River Stone, so I’ve packed this newsletter with upcoming events, writing workshops, and a few things happening around the shop.
Happy fall! I had to stop and take this picture because our street is so pretty right now. It looks like a painting, or a scene from a Hallmark movie. At least, that’s how it felt at the moment I snapped the photo.
A quick note about our hours: The shop will be closed Wednesday, October 7 through Friday, October 9 while I’m in Minneapolis for the MIBA book convention with independent booksellers from around the Midwest.
We have writing workshops in October and November, from single classes to a full series, and I’d love for you to join us.
You’ll find details about our author events, Melissa Hathaway’s art class, Nicki Leritz’s talk about unexpected career changes, Open Mic Night, and the book crawl over MEA weekend. Plus, there’s a look at last month’s book sales, a little news about Santa, and a few September moments; including our River Stone T-shirt making it all the way to London!
We Won!
Thank you so much for all your votes! River Stone Bookshop was voted Best Gift Shop and Best Boutique in the 2026 Readers’ Choice Best of the Valley, and we were also a finalist for Best New Business. To be recognized during my first year of owning a business means so much to me. Thank you for supporting River Stone since we opened. I’m so happy and grateful to be part of this community.
Closed for 3 Days
We will be closed October 7–9 while I’m in Minneapolis for the Heartland Fall MIBA Convention. I’ll spend three packed days learning new ways to make River Stone an even better bookstore, meeting authors, and visiting other bookstores. I’m excited to bring some new ideas home! I will YOU and the bookstore a whole bunch.
Founders Wall
Before River Stone opened, I held a book drive to help fill the shelves. I believe about 73 people and families donated books, and I’ve wanted to find a way to recognize them ever since. I finally had the Founders Wall plaque made, and seeing all those names together is very heartwarming. River Stone started with a lot of help from this community, and I’ll always be grateful. If you’re in the shop, take a look at the wall and see the people who helped make this place possible.
Writing Workshops Oct & Nov. Info Below
Class 1: Basics of Screenwriting
November 7th, 2 1/2 hrs. on Saturday morning (8am-10:30am)
Summary - A class for those interested in learning to write screenplays, which introduces students to standard screenwriting methodology, basic screenwriting format, general 3-Act story structure, techniques for planning and outlining a screenplay, and familiarizing students with what options are available for industry standard as well as free screenwriting software.
Led by Luke Driscoll, a screenwriter and novelist with a BFA in Screenwriting from Columbia College Hollywood. Now living in Amery, Wisconsin, Luke also hosts a weekly online writers group. In this workshop, he’ll introduce you to screenplay formatting, three-act structure, planning and outlining, and screenwriting software options.
$75 for workshop. Scan QR code below on flyer to join, or purchase your ticket at www.riverstonebookswi.com/events.
Class 2: Writing A Short Story
November 14th, 2 1/2 hrs. on Saturday morning (8am-10:30am)
Summary - A class for those interested in learning to write a short story, which introduces students to key elements of short-form storytelling, techniques for condensing plot points and character development, lessons on how to trim prose down to achieve maximize effect, and a primer on various publications that accept short story submissions.
Led by Luke Driscoll, a screenwriter and novelist with a BFA in Screenwriting from Columbia College Hollywood. Now living in Amery, Wisconsin, Luke also hosts a weekly online writers group. In this workshop, he’ll introduce you to screenplay formatting, three-act structure, planning and outlining, and screenwriting software options.
$75 for workshop. Scan QR code below on flyer to join, or purchase your ticket at www.riverstonebookswi.com/events.
Sunday Write-Ins:
Building Your Writing Craft
4:00 to 7:00 PM on Sundays in November at River Stone Books.
Whether you're working on a novel, memoir, nonfiction, short stories or something entirely your own, set aside the distractions, pull up a chair, and write.
Each week, we'll begin by exploring one element of the writing craft. Then, dedicated writing sessions provide the time, space, community and accountability to make progress on your project.
This class will be led by Stephani Halleen Atkins, founder and former executive director of StoryArk. She is a freelance grant writer and president of SummerSnow Publications, a multimedia company that creates stories to entertain and ignite. With a background in marketing, education, and student programming, Stephani has seen how stories can build empathy and help us better understand one another. This will be her fourth class at River Stone Bookshop, and we’re so glad to welcome her back.
We'll look at the craft of the work...
November 1: Develop a Compelling Protagonist
Create a central character readers want to follow.
November 8: Reveal Great Antagonistic Forces
Discover what—or who—stands in the way and why.
November 15: Create Seemingly Insurmountable Conflict
Raise the stakes and make things harder.
November 22: Construct a Page Turning Narrative
Turn events into a story that keeps moving forward.
...and the craft of being a writer.
Show up → Set an intention → Focus → Write imperfectly → Get unstuck → Take a break → Return → Leave a breadcrumb → Make the next appointment → Repeat.
Sunday Plotline
4:00–4:45 | Craft Explore the week's craft element and put it into practice.
4:45–5:00 | Connect Share discoveries, questions, and ideas with fellow writers.
5:00–5:45 | Write Set the timer. Put your head down. Write.
5:45–6:00 | Move Stretch. Walk. Snack. Reset.
6:00–6:45 | Write Come back and do it again.
6:45–7:00 | What's Next? Leave yourself a breadcrumb and make your next writing appointment.
Becoming a writer isn't only about learning how to write.
It's about building the habit of showing up and writing.
$225 for all four sessions. Payment plans available.
Scan QR code below to sign-up. Or go to riverstonebookswi.com/events
September Book Sales Update
In September, we sold 493 books, just seven short of our 500-book goal. I’m still very, very happy with that! And when I look at how many books we’ve sold since opening in February, it’s amazing. Thank you for every visit, every purchase, and all the ways you’ve supported River Stone. I’m so proud of what we’ve done in our first year.
Other Ways to Support River Stone
I talk about Bookshop.org quite a bit, but I haven’t mentioned another way to support River Stone: audiobooks through Libro.fm. Scan the QR code to go straight to our Libro.fm page, then choose River Stone Bookshop as your bookstore. Sign up for a membership with code CHOOSEINDIE and you’ll get a free audiobook. It’s a nice way to listen and support our little bookstore at the same time. You have no idea how much this helps us every month between these two.
Local Artist
One of my favorite little things is the seasonal artwork a local artist has been making for River Stone. She started with a spring drawing, and now she creates a new picture for me each season. It’s another lovely way someone in our community has made this bookstore feel special. When you’re in the shop, take a look at all the seasonal drawings!
Santa and Mrs.Claus coming to River Stone Bookshop!
Save the date! Santa and Mrs. Claus are coming to River Stone Bookshop on Small Business Saturday, November 28! Bring your kids, grandkids, little brothers or sisters, or anyone who’d love to spend a couple of festive hours with Santa and Mrs. Claus. It’s going to be so much fun!
Christmas Mystery Box
If you’re someone who likes to get a head start on Christmas shopping, this one is for you.
Think of it as one Christmas gift you can get taken care of now and not have to think about again later.
Christmas Mystery Book Box preorders are now open at River Stone Bookshop.
These are a little like our Blind Date with a Book idea, only taken a few steps further. You’ll choose the age range and genre, but the books and everything else inside will be a surprise. Each box will be put together here at River Stone specifically for the person you’re shopping for.
$25 Box
One surprise book, plus a few small bookish extras.
$50 Box
Two surprise books, plus a few bookish goodies.
$75 Box
Two to three surprise books, plus a larger mix of bookish gifts and extras.
$100 Box
Three surprise books, a candle, a small puzzle, a special cozy blanket being ordered specifically for these boxes, plus additional bookish extras and surprises.
We’ll have sign-up sheets here at the store with all the information I’ll need to put your box together, including age range, favorite genres, and other reading preferences.
All boxes are prepaid when ordered so I can begin ordering and preparing everything ahead of time.
Preorders and payment are due by Sunday, November 8. Limited quantities will be available, so early ordering is encouraged.
Christmas pickup details will be announced later, but preorders are officially open now.
Meet Naomi Kritzer
This is a big one for our little bookshop and little town.
On Thursday, October 15, River Stone will welcome Naomi Kritzer, an author whose work has earned some of the highest honors in literature, including the Hugo, Nebula, Edgar, Locus and Minnesota Book Awards.
Naomi grew up in Madison and now lives in St. Paul. She writes for both adults and young adults, and her books have received praise from The New York Times Book Review, NPR, Publishers Weekly, Kirkus and Library Journal. Readers may already know her from Catfishing on CatNet, Chaos on CatNet or Liberty’s Daughter.
Her newest book, Obstetrix, is a gripping near-future medical thriller. Following a highly charged court case, Dr. Liz is abducted by an isolated religious group that desperately needs her medical skills. Trapped inside its compound, she must find a way to survive, escape and help the girls being held there.
It is a tense and thought-provoking story about control, courage and what people are willing to risk for others, and it has already been earning extraordinary attention and praise.
Naomi will be joining us to talk about her writing and sign copies of Obstetrix. Having an author of this caliber come to River Stone is truly an honor, and I hope our community will give her a wonderful welcome.
Thursday, October 15, 2026
6–7:30 p.m.
River Stone Bookshop & Coffee Stop
205 N. Cascade Street, Osceola
It's Nice to Meet Me Too
Join us Thursday, October 22, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. to meet author Cynthia Rust at River Stone Bookshop!
Her book, It’s Nice to Meet Me Too, is a heartfelt collection of family stories about raising her son Randy, who was diagnosed with tuberous sclerosis complex as an infant. It’s filled with challenges, laughter, and joy. We hope you can stop in!
Mama's Still Dead
We cannot wait to welcome author Anne Davidson Keller to River Stone Bookshop on Wednesday, November 4, from 5:00–6:30 p.m.! Her novel, Mama’s Still Dead, is funny and heartfelt, with family secrets, a mother who unexpectedly returns, and advice straight from the ’80s.
Anne plans to talk about some of the book’s discussion questions, and we’ll also have a writing activity: a letter to Mom that we won’t send. Since the story explores motherhood, you can write whatever is on your heart—love, gratitude, questions, hurt, or even anger. If your mom has passed away, it can be a chance to say something you wish you could still tell her. Sharing your letter is completely optional.
Come meet Anne and hear more about her book!
Wednesday, November 4 | 5:30–7 p.m.
River Stone Bookshop
205 N. Cascade St., Osceola
When Your Career Take an Unexpected Turn
Nicki Leritz has been a wonderful friend and a real source of encouragement to me, including as I built my own business. I'm honored to have her share her story with us at River Stone. She is incredibly knowledgeable, encouraging, and passionate about helping others move forward. With more than 20 years of HR leadership experience, she has helped organizations of all sizes build strong teams, develop leaders, and navigate the challenges that come with growth.
If your career has ever taken an unexpected turn, you have dreamed about building something of your own, or you are simply wondering what your next chapter might look like, there are so many reasons to come hear Nicki’s story.
Nicki is a local business owner, life coach, and contributing author of What the FRAK. She will share the unexpected career change that led her to build something of her own, followed by conversation and a book signing.
Come meet Nicki, hear her inspiring story, ask questions, and pick up a signed copy of What the FRAK!
Friday, October 23
6:00–7:30 p.m.
River Stone Bookshop & Coffee Stop
205 N. Cascade Street, Osceola
Learn more about Nicki and People Solutions Hub at:
www.peoplesolutionshub.co
A Creative Art Workshop!
Join us for an art night with One Light Studio!! Link for tickets below!
"The Gathering Table" Workshop: Slow down, take a "creative pause", and join Melissa Hathaway from One Light Studio, around a creative table space in the charming River Stone Bookstore, in Osceola, WI. While you gather with others, you'll connect through free-flowing conversation, prompted discussions, and a creative group project that encourages you to release your inner-artist through simple, cohesive practices. This is for anyone over the age of 16, who is yearning for "creative connection" in a safe, positive, and encouraging space. No art knowledge or experience necessary; just a willingness to connect and slow your spirit for grounded presence among others. All supplies will be provided, with an opportunity to purchase One Light Studio prints and gifts, to follow. Workshop cost is $45.
Bring your poetry or writing you feel like sharing!
Oct 16 / 6-8PM
Book Crawl MEA Weekend!
The bookstores of East Central MN and the St Croix River Valley invite you to a BOOK CRAWL over MEA Weekend! We can't wait to see you between October 16-18.
View store hours below and visit each bookstore's website or Facebook page for fun weekend events.
• October 16-18, 2026 •
Minnesota & Wisconsin • Three Days • TEN Stores
Visit all ten stores for a weekend full of books, community, author events, and more!
The Bookstore
253 5th St SE
Pine City, MN 55063
Fri: 11am-6pm
Sat: 10am-6pm
Sun: Closed
Scout & Morgan Books
114 Buchanan St N
Cambridge, MN 55008
Fri: 9am-6pm
Sat: 9am-6pm
Sun: 10am-5pm
Dana's Bookstore
120 Heritage Blvd NE #3
Isanti, MN 55040
Fri: 10am-6pm
Sat: Closed
Sun: 11am-4pm
The Enchanted Quill
38500 Tanger Dr, Ste 207
North Branch, MN 55056
Fri: 11am-6pm
Sat: 11am-6pm
Sun: Noon-5pm
Wolfe Tomes
12727 N 1st Ave
Lindstrom, MN 55045
Fri: 10am-5pm
Sat: 9am-3pm
Sun: 10am-3pm
Bruyere Books & Tea
12814 Lake Blvd
Lindstrom, MN 55045
Fri: Noon-7pm
Sat: Noon-6pm
Sun: Noon-6pm
Twinflower Books
Author Events @ Pleasant Valley Orchard & Cidery
17325 Pleasant Valley Rd
Shafer, MN 55074
Fri: Spooky Storytime, 11am‑2pm
Sun: Haunts for Adults, 1‑3pm
Sharp Reads LLC
361 Bench Street
Taylors Falls, MN 55084
Fri: Noon-7pm
Sat: Noon-7pm
Sun: Noon-6pm
River Stone Bookshop
& Coffee Stop
205 N Cascade St
Osceola, WI 54020
Fri: 11am-5pm
Sat: 11am-5:30pm
Sun: 1-5pm
New Moons Bookshop
1107 Hwy 97 SE, Forest Lake, MN 55025
Fri: 10am-6pm
Sat: 10am-6pm
Sun: Closed
Happenings at River Stone Bookshop This Past September
There was so much happening at River Stone last month, and I wanted to share a little more about it.
Lisa Najarian was one of the kindest people I’ve met. Her book explores the friendships women have and how complicated, secretive, and beautiful they can be. I’m so glad she came to the shop, and even happier that I got to meet her.
I also got to spend time with Carrie Classon (LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!) at Festival Theatre in St. Croix Falls. She invited me and River Stone to be part of her book event, which meant so much to me. She is so supportive of my bookstore, and it was incredible to hear her perform and talk about her book. I’m thrilled she’ll be coming to River Stone with her new book at the end of January. I’ll share more details as we get closer!
Brenda Rausch gave a wonderful presentation on recovery, followed by creative journaling. It was a really nice chance to slow down and reflect, whether you’re dealing with anxiety, recovery, or whatever else life brings. Brenda hopes to offer more events in the future, and I’m excited about that.
The last photo is from our “Write a Novel in a Month” workshop. I took part, and it’s been an incredible experience. I can’t believe how much writing and creativity is happening in my bookstore, and I’ve loved spending that time with this group of writers. One night this past week, we stayed up together on Zoom from 9 p.m. until midnight, writing alongside each other for three hours. It was such a great experience to share that time and keep each other going. There’s a kind of magic in these workshops, and I hope more writers will join us for future classes. They’re absolutely worth it!
Author Lisa Najarian
Author Carrie Classon
Author Brenda Raush, MA
Writers Workshop. A month long Write a Novel in a Month
Tower Bridge
The Tower of London
This is Jack, who visited Osceola from England on a business trip back in May. He came into River Stone with a friend, and they were both so much fun. I loved hearing their accents! Jack bought a River Stone T-shirt, and I told him it would be so fun if he sent me a picture wearing it in London. He did, and now it’s become a thing!
Someone who’s currently on a mission trip in Vietnam has a River Stone T-shirt and is planning to send me a picture, too. And now people have come into the shop specifically to buy a shirt so they can take it on vacation and send me a photo from wherever they go. I love traveling myself, so seeing River Stone pop up in different places around the world makes me so happy. So if you plan on going anywhere, come pick up a T-shirt!! And take a picture!
Our Next Alaska Mission Trip
If you feel led to support my husband Jake and me with a donation or prayer, we'd be so grateful.
Bowser's Corner
My mom only brought me once to the bookstore last month. I hope she brings me again soon because I love seeing everyone and getting pets!
My only dog advice this month is to grab your puppies and curl up with a spooky book this month. When I’m at the shop with Mom, I see lots of customers checking out the mystery section. Come see what we have for spooky season! There are plenty of thrillers and mysteries, and even some dark romance.
I’M LOOKING FOR FLEXIBLE PART-TIME WORK
Ideally something remote or task-based that I can do while I’m at the bookstore.
I’m open to suggestions, including data entry, email or chat support, online product listings, proofreading, or social media work. If you know of an opportunity, please reach out!
Thanks for Reading My Newsletter
205 N Cascade St N
Osceola, WI, 54020 715-417-3220
riverstonebookswi.com
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