Blue Apple Books to host book club, crafts painting and author
MADISON – A widely diverse slate of activities will unfold soon at Blue Apple Books.
“In April 2026, Blue Apple Books began a new store-affiliated book club, the Open Table Book Club, requested by customers and community members who had expressed interest in such a club,” store owner Robin Dauma said.
“The book club gathers every other month. It’s a curious and inclusive group after reading a book exploring questions surrounding faith, community and life,” Dauma said.
People from all faith backgrounds — or none at all — are welcome to attend. “The goal is not discipleship or proselytization but inclusive discussions that prompt participants toward curiosity and reflection,” she said.
The Open Table Book Club’s next meeting will be June 14 from 3 to 5 p.m. The club is reading “The Sin of Certainty” by scholar Pete Enns. “While we don’t require a book purchase to participate, we hope you will consider buying from Blue Apple Books, either in store or online at blueapplebookstore.com,” Dauma said.
The next activity at Blue Apple Books will involve local craft enthusiast Layne Jensen. During this entertaining evening of crafting, participants will use paint to create a ‘bookish’ tote bag that’s both whimsical and practical.
“No experience is required. Layne will help you with your design and your painting techniques. A minimum age of 12 is recommended for this workshop,” Dauma said.
Tickets will include all needed supplies and instructions for assistance with the painted tote bag. A participant will receive a charcuterie cup and choice of a cocktail or mocktail. During the event, participants will receive 10-percent discount for in-store purchases at Blue Apple Books / South & Pine.
“Blue Apple Books is honored to welcome bestselling author of children’s books, Ben Okon, to Madison on June 13 from 10:30 a.m. to noon,” Dauma said. “Ben is married to the former Ginny Coats of Madison and has arranged this visit to Ginny’s hometown to celebrate the release of his children’s book, ‘Dinos Love Donuts.’” “The staff of Blue Apple Books, along with Ben, invite you to join them for a wonderful morning of storytelling and, of course, DONUTS!” she said.
“’Dinos Love Donuts,’ is a tongue-twisting, laugh-out-loud tale about the mishaps of dinosaurs and their favorite sweet treat, donuts. Dinos have so many foods they eat: Some graze on grass and veggies while the others just like meat.”
“But really, dinos never eat the things that you’ve been taught. All dinos eat are donuts! It’s no joke; they eat a LOT!,” according to a release. “Dinos Love Donuts” is sure to be devoured by children as soon as they open it.
Okon’s first child was born during COVID-19’s quarantine, while simultaneously his grandmother, Gigi, a retired writing teacher, lived in the pandemic’s isolation. Gigi and her grandchild could not visit in person. Okon’s solution was to connect with videos of Gigi as they read children’s books together.
“Ben Okon’s stories are filled with humor, heart and self-discovery and are as varied as the readers who enjoy them,” Dauma said. His work includes unexpected wordplay, interwoven games, cross-generational humor and not-sosubtle tips and tricks about life.
Okon’s books include award winners and bestsellers – “King Chameleon,” “Younger Me Academy,” “Mythical Feasts” and “Mo’s Emotions.”
Blue Apple Books’ address is 14 Main St., Suite B in Madison. For more information, email owner@shopsouthandpine. com or visit shopsouthandpine. com.
