We are proud to introduce Maryelizabeth Yturralde of Creating Conversations in Redondo Beach, CA!
How did you get into bookselling?
It was supposed to be a temporary gig while I strove to become the next Rachel Carson. Then college chemistry defeated me. I’ve worked for a small Southern Oregon indie, then B. Dalton, then Mysterious Galaxy and now Creating Conversations, with partner Terry Gilman.
What do you love most about being a bookseller?
The opportunity to not only share the magic of books I have personally connected with, but also to discover even more books via interactions with other readers — customers, publishing professionals, casual acquaintances, the clerks at the pet store…whomever!
What do you love most about your bookstore?
I love the range of book-related community opportunities. Creating Conversations not only maintains our curated in-store collections, and participates in traditional events like conventions and festivals, but also has connected authors and readers in less traditional venues, from personal residences to bars to art galleries. (Photo from the LA Times Festival of Books)
What are you listening to right now?
Seven Blades in Black by Sam Sykes
What audiobooks would you recommend or are among your favorites?
A People’s Future of the United States was excellent, especially with its multiple readers. Mackenzi Lee’s Montague Siblings stories were a delight [The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue and The Lady’s Guide to Petticoats and Piracy]! And listening to Mallory O’Meara read The Lady From the Black Lagoon added depth to her personal story interwoven with that of Milicent Patrick’s.
Where / When do you listen to audiobooks?
Almost exclusively while driving.
What is your favorite thing about audiobooks through Libro.fm?
The dedication of the Libro.fm team to a true collaborative and creative partnership with indie booksellers.
What do you do when you’re not selling books?
Play Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp and Pokemon GO — the latter while walking our sweet golden retriever, Puddin’.
