The Wild Bookstore: Great Stop for Reading Near Indianapolis, Indiana

For those of us who have little ones who love to read or wish our little ones loved to read just a little more, The Wild is a hidden treasure nestled among the unique locally-owned stores in downtown Noblesville. The fun, colorful ambiance creates a warm, welcoming feeling where one could easily curl up with a good book and get lost in fantasy worlds, which is exactly what happens twice a week at story time. Book shelves line the walls and are filled with not only recent favorites, but also harder to find books, like Usborne and some old classics many of us may remember. Educational games, stuff animals, and other amusing toys are placed decoratively around tables and hanging from shelves. Entertaining bookmarks hang near the cash register and soft striped rugs adorn the floors. All in all, it creates a homey atmosphere that makes you want to come right inside and stay for as long as you can.

Each Tuesday and Friday at 10:30 A.M., The Wild opens it's doors to book lovers of all ages and offers free story time for the public. Children get to go to the back of the store and sit on small tree stumps while listening to energetic readers recite the lines of enjoyable books. Each story time is different in theme and activities, focusing on a pertinent topic to that week or month. Usually one of two books are read by one or two employees of The Wild. Stories include interesting characters, exciting voices, and important life lessons all focusing on one theme. Readers engage the audience by asking questions and encouraging them to guess what might happen next. Afterwards, enjoy a craft or explore the store to add to your own at-home library.

The Wild has big events focused on little kids. There are children book author book signings, art lessons, craft times, and music lessons. Costs, times, dates, and teachers vary. You can obtain a list of upcoming events each month at their website at http://gotothewild.com. Your children can try their hand at writing their own creative stories, learn to knit a hat, or make music on the ukulele. Classes are always hands-on and full of excitment!