A book is like an alligator’s mouth. If you see one open you often end up disappearing inside. That’s the motto of The Alligator’s Mouth. We are standing outside this delightful independent children’s bookshop in Richmond.
The Alligator’s Mouth is more than just a shop. It is a community hub for young readers. The shop is located at 2a Church Court. It is open seven days a week.
Margaret Wallace-Jones and Tony West established The Alligator’s Mouth in March 2015. Previously, they ran The Lion & Unicorn Bookshop. They aim to find the right book for every child. They want to help create as many readers as possible.
Inside The Alligator’s Mouth you will find books for babies to late teens. There is also a small selection of cards and board games. The shop is a veritable treasure trove. It is full of imaginative delights.
The Alligator’s Mouth supports local schools. They provide events and stock libraries. The shop hosts regular events. These include storytime, a book club, and a comics club. These events encourage creativity. The Alligator’s Mouth frequently hosts author and illustrator visits. Jacqueline Wilson and Chris Riddell have visited. Cressida Cowell, Oliver Jeffers, and Axel Scheffler have also been guests.
The Alligator’s Mouth can count on strong support from British writers and illustrators. The grand launch of Richmond’s new independent children’s bookshop was a success. Many people came to celebrate. There was much cake and Gruffalo.
Margaret believes children need challenging, well-written material. She thinks reading changes lives. The shop fosters close relationships with local schools. The Alligator’s Mouth sees itself at the heart of the local community. The Alligator’s Mouth was shortlisted for The British Book Awards Children’s Bookseller of the Year 2017. The Alligator’s Mouth wants to reach all readers. They want to help confident, beginner, and reading-resistant children.
The Alligator’s Mouth team includes artist and designer Mark Pembrey. Margaret Wallace-Jones and Tony West also run the shop. Margaret and Tony used to run the Lion & Unicorn Bookshop. Sky-high Richmond rent forced them to close. But they did not let that beat them.
So next time you are in Richmond stop by The Alligator’s Mouth. You will discover a world of stories. You might even disappear inside a book.