Swallow Stories

Bookshop

Welcome to Swallow Stories Bookshop, your family owned bookstore in the heart of Downtown Lisle.
Within these shelves, books remain a constant: stepping stones across history and guardians of language. Once a story lands in your hands, you are free to consume it, savor it, and return to its unaltered pages as often as your heart desires. For as long as we consume stories, books will never become obsolete.

Visit our Bookshop.org page to order any title online

Check out our store page to see featured products

Upcoming Events

  • Mahjong for Kids!

    October 16th, 6:00PM-7:00PM

    Ready to introduce your kiddo to the game of Mahjong? 🀄️

    Join Kristi Gorski of Social Moms of DuPage County for a fun introduction to American Mahjong designed especially for kids ages 6–12. Kristi will walk kids through the basics using a simplified Mahjong card, giving them a chance to learn the game, try out the tiles, and play with other kids in a fun, relaxed setting.

    Please arrive at 5:45pm.

    No previous Mahjong experience is needed! Parents are welcome to drop off or stay and observe.

    Space is limited. Advance registration is required.

    Tickets: $20/child

    Register Now

  • Another Crafternoon in Chicagoland

    October 17th, 11:30-1:30PM

    Make Typewriter art and junk journal in a group setting!

    Registration fee $20

    Register Now

  • Pumpkin Carving Social

    October 23rd, 5:00PM-7:00PM

    Ready to win a $30 gift card?

    Bring your own pumpkin to decorate as you like!

    Pumpkins will then be used to decorate the Prairie Path walkway of Downtown Lisle. The lucky winner of the pumpkin voted “Best Dressed” will receive a $30 gift card to Swallow Stories Bookshop!

    Carving materials and markers will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own!

    Register Now

  • A Court of Splintered Harmony Release Party

    October 27th, 6:00PM-8:00PM

    Join us for themed drinks and crafts at Skeleton Key Brewery, 8102 Lemont rd, #300, Woodridge, IL, and get your copy of A Court of Splintered Harmony!

    We will have a bedazzling corner along with ACOTAR themed journaling kits and plenty of merch.

    Special Gift: Preorder your copy of A Court of Forgotten Melody on this day, and save 15%!

    This event is first come first serve. Copies of Book 6 are available while supplies last.

  • Mah Jongg Guided Play

    November 10th, 6:30-8:30PM

    Are you ready to put your skills to the test in a group setting?

    This is a two hour Guided Play session for players who have taken an American Mah Jongg 101 lesson

    All game sets provided Bring your 2026 NMJL playing card with you Minimum 8 participants, maximum 20

    Registration fee $30

    Register Now

  • Candle Making Workshop

    November 21st, 12:00PM-2:30PM

    Join Sprinkle Candles for a cozy, autumn-inspired candle making experience!

    Surrounded by books and romantic fall vibes, you'll create your own custom soy candle. Choose your fragrance, pour your candle, and decorate it with beautiful fall-inspired wax toppings and labels.

    Registration Fee $45 per person

    All materials included

    Approximately 75–90 minutes

    No experience necessary!

    Click Here

  • IL Burbs Book Crawl!

    Sunday, November, 22nd

    Get ready for a day of books, local discoveries, and supporting small businesses at the IL Burbs Book Crawl! Join fellow book lovers as you explore participating bookstores throughout the Illinois suburbs, discover new favorites, meet local booksellers, and celebrate the amazing independent bookshops that make our communities special.

    With 27 participating bookstores, there are plenty of places to explore, books to discover, and stamps to collect!

    Learn More

  • Come Learn American Mah Jongg

    Tuesday, November 17th

    6:30pm - 9:00pm, Please arrive at 6:15pm.

    This class is perfect for first‑time players and newer players looking for a friendly refresh.

    Spend an evening learning American Mah Jongg in the cozy, book‑lined charm of Swallow Stories Bookshop. You’ll learn everything you need to get started: the tiles, the NMJL player card, dealing, the Charleston, and all the beginner essentials. Enjoy a fun night as you play and learn in a friendly, no‑pressure setting.

    Space is limited. Get your tickets today!

    Please note refunds are not available for cancellations made within 48 hours of the event.

    Register Now

Join Our Bookclub!

Love reading? Join our book club for lively discussions, new friendships, and unforgettable literary journeys! Whether you're a bookworm or just starting your reading adventure, all are welcome!

Our group is consistently growing (yay!), so we ask that you RSVP a week in advance to ensure we have enough space.

Purchasing the book of the month through any platforms that support Swallow Stories Bookshop is required to participate.

Our Bookclub meets every third or fourth Sunday of the month at 5:00pm. Below are the upcoming dates and titles:

October 25th: The Found Object Society by Michelle Maryk

November 22nd: Cahokia Jazz by Francis Spufford

Future Dates and Titles TBD!

RSVP Now
A cartoon illustration of a pirate ship with black sails featuring a skull and crossbones, emerging from an open magic book with clouds and water around it, and cartoon palm trees.

Join us every first and third Saturday of the month at 2 p.m. for fun and engaging story time events at Swallow Stories Bookshop—where stories come to life and little readers are treated to surprise giveaways! From exclusive movie promos to themed goodies, we love making story time a magical experience for children and families.

Find more family friendly activities in our Events page

Story Time & Giveaways

A framed collage artwork of pink water lilies with green lily pads on a blue background.

Local Artist Spotlight

We proudly showcase the work of talented local artists right here at Swallow Stories Bookshop. From bookish accessories and handmade pottery to intricate micro mosaics, our curated collection brings creativity and craftsmanship to every shelf.

Our selection rotates regularly, so there's always something new to discover.
Stop by anytime to see what’s fresh and local—or check our Events Page for featured artist pop-ups and workshops!

Play chess amongst the pages at Swallow Stories Bookshop

Workshops & Tournaments

We believe in the power of literature to bring people together, which is why we host a variety of engaging events throughout the month. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date on events like author signings, story time, book clubs, and even outdoor events like our motorcycle nights and other motoring events!

Register

Host an Event

Children's Corner fireplace at Swallow Stories Bookshop

Swallow Stories Bookshop is now offering the perfect venue for your private events! Whether it's a book club gathering, a small party, or a unique literary event, we provide a charming and cozy setting to make your occasion special.

Reach out to us with all of your event details on the contact page and let’s chat about creating a memorable experience for you and your guests!