Wonderland Books to Open in Maryland in October

Wonderland Books, an independent bookstore selling new adult, young adult, and children’s books, will open this October in Bethesda, Md., which “has been without a bookstore for more than six years,” per a release. Wonderland will occupy more than 2,000-sq.-ft space in a former shoe store, and will carry a “wide range of books across genres, as well as a curated selection of cards and gifts,” and host author readings and other events.

The store is cofounded and co-owned by Bethesda residents Amy Joyce and Gayle Weiswasser. Joyce comes to bookselling from a career in journalism, having spent 28 years at the Washington Post, while Weiswasser is a former lawyer and corporate communications executive, as well as a book blogger and podcaster.

“Every community needs a bookstore—an inspiring space for readers, writers and thinkers, especially now. I am overjoyed to be able to create this here,” Joyce said in a statement. “I especially can’t wait to welcome children and teens who so desperately need a place to find books that will speak to them, expand their worlds and spur their imaginations.”

Weiswasser added: “Having free access to a range of viewpoints and voices has never been more important than it is right now. Opening a bookstore is one of the best ways to ensure that we continue to live in a society that safeguards free expression and the thoughtful exchange of ideas.”