Orlando’s Ivanhoe Village is known for its vibrant arts scene, eclectic shops, and now, a unique bookstore experience that invites you to engage with literature in an entirely new way. Authentic Books, a local highlight, has transformed the traditional bookstore model by offering a sensory reading experience that started as an online subscription service and has now found its first physical home in this charming neighborhood.
The Birth of a Sensory Experience
Authentic Books began as a self-care book subscription box that allowed readers to experience stories through all five senses. This award-winning concept transforms reading into a multi-sensory journey:
- Sight: Choose from three newly released, highly anticipated books each month.
- Smell: Hand-poured soy wax candles capture the scents of your book’s setting.
- Taste: Drinks and treats with flavors inspired by your book enhance the experience.
- Touch: Enjoy self-care items that cleverly connect to your book’s themes.
- Sound: A custom Spotify playlist transports you to the story’s time and place.
This innovative approach creates an Authentic Books sensory reading experience unlike any other.
How It Works
- Customize
The process begins with personalization. Choose your book from three of the best new reads each month, and select your preferences for the accompanying sensory items. Authentic Books thoughtfully curates goods that connect to your monthly book pick, making each box a unique sensory reading experience.
- Experience
Receive your custom book experience box, crafted in collaboration with authors. This approach creates a reading journey that’s unmatched, award-winning, and allows you to enjoy stories in an entirely new way.
- The Magic
Enjoy your bookish items while you read, creating a one-of-a-kind immersive experience. Each item in your box is designed to connect with your chosen book, whisking you away into its world while enhancing self-care.
Ivanhoe Village: The First Brick-and-Mortar
Authentic Books’ first physical location in Ivanhoe Village brings this online magic to life. At this immersive Orlando bookstore, you can experience their five-senses reading adventure in person, making it an essential destination for those seeking an Authentic Books sensory reading experience.
Here’s how it works:
- Grab a Tote or Box: Start by choosing your container.
- Pick a Book: Select from a curated selection of titles.
- Fill with 3 More Items: Choose from sensory items that engage your other senses, just like in the subscription box.
The store offers a flat price for creating your reading experience, no matter what items you choose, allowing for endless customization and discovery.
Our Visit to Authentic Books Ivanhoe Village
We recently visited Authentic Books and were impressed by the warm atmosphere and the personalized service. Founder Natisha Asbell greeted us with enthusiasm and a genuine love for books. She helped our team member, Christine, curate a perfect gift box for a friend based on a brief description of her friend’s reading preferences. Natisha’s expertise and passion for creating tailored reading experiences were evident and made the visit truly memorable.
More Than Just a Bookstore
Authentic Books is not just about reading; it’s about community and creativity. The store hosts a variety of themed events and workshops that bring book lovers together. Some upcoming events include:
- Charms & Pours Candle Workshop: On August 15th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., enjoy an intimate evening curating candles and designing your charm bracelet, complete with light bites, drinks, and the company of fellow book lovers.
- ACOTAR Paint & Pours Candle Workshop: On August 29th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., immerse yourself in the world of Sarah J. Maas’s “A Court of Thorns and Roses.” All Courts of Prythian are welcome for a night of candle-making and painting. Come dressed in your Court’s best!
Visit Authentic Books Today
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring Ivanhoe Village, Authentic Books is a must-visit destination for those who love literature and the unique experience it offers. Step inside to discover a new way to read and connect with stories through all your senses. Let Authentic Books transform your reading journey into a sensory delight that you won’t soon forget. Check out their website or visit their Instagram, @authenticbooks.