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Growing readers and storytellers

January Events Are Live!

January at Midsummer Books is packed with events designed to spark imagination and welcome kids back into routines after the holidays. Whether your child loves reading, writing, crafting, or just being around other kids who love books, we’ve got something special waiting:

  • Cozy Storytime for little ones

  • Middle Grade Book Club (A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Graphic Novel)

  • Writing Clubs for middle graders & teens

  • Bookish Craft Hours including Zentangles & Fantasy Map Making

All sessions are warm, welcoming, and screen-free — the perfect winter reset.

View the full calendar & sign up today!

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Book clubs, craft hours, storytime, and writing clubs for all ages.
Sign up now — spots are limited! 

beyond books: the analag gifts your kids will love, available for in-store pickup

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About our book clubs

1

Early Middle Grade bookclub

A welcoming, low-pressure book club for emerging independent readers. We explore fun, imaginative stories together, talk about favorite characters, and enjoy simple book-themed activities. Perfect for kids growing their reading confidence and looking to connect with fellow young book lovers.

Typically ages 8-10

2

Middle Grade Book Club

A lively, discussion-centered club for readers who love diving deeper into stories. We unpack characters, plot twists, themes, and artwork (especially in graphic novels!), then wrap up with a creative, book-inspired activity. Great for curious, enthusiastic readers ready to share ideas and discover new favorites.

Typically ages 10-12

3

Teen book club

A relaxed, teen-led space to talk about bold stories, big themes, and unforgettable characters. Expect thoughtful conversation, modern reads, typically from the YA section Plus creative add-ons like activities, related reading and playlist prompts. A perfect place for teens to find community and connect over books.

Ages 13+

Upcoming book, writing, and craft clubs

Upcoming Events

  • Bookish Craft Hour: Zentangle Workshop
    Bookish Craft Hour: Zentangle Workshop
    Jan 17, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
    Philadelphia, 1219 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
    All ages Zentangle drawing and techniques.
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  • Hot Cocoa Story Hour
    Hot Cocoa Story Hour
    Jan 18, 2026, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
    Philadelphia, 1219 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
    Warm up with winter stories and a cozy setup! We’ll be serving (kid-safe) hot cocoa, reading seasonal books, and creating a relaxed winter morning for little ones and caregivers.
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  • Storytime with Ms Chris!
    Storytime with Ms Chris!
    Jan 22, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    Philadelphia, 1219 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
    Enjoy a fun storytime with local preschool teacher at Fishtown Preschool, and Fishtown fave, who will share some great stories as well as a little sing-a-long.
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  • Middle Grade Book Club (Ages 8–10)  Featured Book: A Midsummer Night’s Dream — Graphic Novel
    Middle Grade Book Club (Ages 8–10)  Featured Book: A Midsummer Night’s Dream — Graphic Novel
    Jan 22, 2026, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
    Midsummer Books, 1219 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
    A fun, accessible introduction to Shakespeare through a graphic novel retelling! We’ll explore characters, themes, and make space for discussion and creative activities. Our book pick this month is A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the Graphic Novel.
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  • Bookish Craft Hour: Fantasy Map Making
    Bookish Craft Hour: Fantasy Map Making
    Jan 24, 2026, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
    Philadelphia, 1219 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
    All ages Fantasy Map Making workshop Design fantasy worlds using simple cartography skills. From mountains and forests to sea monsters and hidden treasures, every map becomes a story of its own. A perfect creativity-builder for readers, artists, and daydreamers.
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  • Tween Writing Club: Ages 8-12
    Tween Writing Club: Ages 8-12
    Jan 25, 2026, 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
    Philadelphia, 1219 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
    A creative workshop where young writers explore storytelling through prompts, character-building activities, and short writing challenges. This club encourages imagination, builds writing stamina, and helps kids develop their unique voice. No experience needed — just curiosity and a love of stories.
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  • Teen Writing Club: Ages 13+
    Teen Writing Club: Ages 13+
    Jan 29, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
    Midsummer Books, 1219 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
    A low-pressure, inspiring space for teens to write what they love: fiction, poetry, journaling, graphic novels, anything. Sessions include prompts, time to write, optional sharing, and supportive peer discussion. This club helps teens build confidence, find community, and strengthen their creative
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  • Middle Grade Book Club (Ages 9–12)  Featured Book: The Jumbies
    Middle Grade Book Club (Ages 9–12)  Featured Book: The Jumbies
    Feb 19, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
    Midsummer Books, 1219 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
    Spooky, funny, and rooted in Caribbean folklore, this thrilling tale follows Corinne as she faces mischievous spirits and learns what true bravery looks like. Our book this month is: The Jumbies, by Tracey Baptiste
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  • Teen Book Club (Ages 13+)  Featured Book: Legendborn
    Teen Book Club (Ages 13+)  Featured Book: Legendborn
    Feb 20, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
    Midsummer Books, 1219 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
    Magic, secrets, and power collide in this modern fantasy rooted in Arthurian legend and Black Southern history. Our book pick is: Legendborn by Tracy Deonn
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  • Tween Writing Club: Ages 8-12
    Tween Writing Club: Ages 8-12
    Feb 22, 2026, 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
    Philadelphia, 1219 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
    A creative workshop where young writers explore storytelling through prompts, character-building activities, and short writing challenges. This club encourages imagination, builds writing stamina, and helps kids develop their unique voice. No experience needed — just curiosity and a love of stories.
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  • Teen Book Club (Ages 13+)  Featured Book:Angel of Greenwood
    Teen Book Club (Ages 13+)  Featured Book:Angel of Greenwood
    Feb 22, 2026, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
    Midsummer Books, 1219 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
    Set against the backdrop of the Tulsa Race Massacre, this powerful historical novel explores love, courage, and resilience in the face of injustice. Our book pick is: Angel of Greenwood by Rande Pink
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  • Teen Writing Club: Ages 13+
    Teen Writing Club: Ages 13+
    Feb 26, 2026, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
    Midsummer Books, 1219 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125, USA
    A low-pressure, inspiring space for teens to write what they love: fiction, poetry, journaling, graphic novels, anything. Sessions include prompts, time to write, optional sharing, and supportive peer discussion. This club helps teens build confidence, find community, and strengthen their creative
    Share

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