Annual celebration: A beloved bookstore cat's 10-year-old birthday bash
In the heart of Montrose, Once Upon a Time Bookstore, the country's oldest children's bookstore, played host to a special event that drew a crowd of over 150 attendees. The occasion? Pippi Longstocking's 10th birthday, a resident cat who has become as much a part of the store's identity as the books themselves.
Pippi, a dilute calico-tabby mix, took up residence at Once Upon a Time in 2015, following in the paw prints of Kitty Mama, a previous bookstore cat renowned for her gentle nature. Since then, Pippi has become a beloved figure, earning the title of "diva" and a star attraction.
The store's owner, Maureen Palacios, was preparing for an expected 100 guests, almost double last year's attendance, for Pippi's birthday party. As the clock struck 2 p.m., the guests were packed into the bookstore like sardines, and the party was about to begin with a dramatic reading of Brendan Wenzel's "They All Saw a Cat."
Children in the bookstore erupted in a chorus of "Pippi!" upon seeing the cat, who usually descends from her perch in time for the birthday festivities but this time was cutting it closer than ever. Pippi scaled the bookshelves and resumed her post above the door after the party.
The event also featured a scavenger hunt for nine Pippis, each donning various disguises, adding an element of excitement to the celebration. Some children hopped up onto their knees to get a peek at Pippi, while a few reached sneakily for her fur.
Megheti Feghali, a regular at the bookstore, presented a homemade picture book about Pippi's epic journey to reunite with her cat mother. The story was narrated by Palacios, adding a personal touch to the celebration.
Pippi's presence contributes to the charm and welcoming atmosphere of Once Upon a Time, enhancing the store’s appeal not just as a place to buy children’s books but also as a community hub. Being a calm, gentle cat fitting the bookstore’s family-friendly vibe, she plays a role in creating a warm, inviting environment that encourages visitors to linger and explore.
In summary, Pippi’s history as a gentle, beloved feline resident since 2015 and her role as a community icon through engaging events has significantly contributed to the enduring success and charm of the country’s oldest children’s bookstore, Once Upon a Time in Montrose. Pippi, the cat from Once Upon a Time Bookstore, has essentially become synonymous with the store, making each visit a memorable experience for young and old alike.
- Amid the bustling city of Los Angeles, home to Hollywood, entertainment, and USC, a charming bookstore in Montrose named Once Upon a Time celebrated a unique event.
- This event was Pippi Longstocking's 10th birthday, and the resident cat, Pippi, a dilute calico-tabby mix, was the star attraction.
- Pippi's popularity in California extends beyond the bookstore, with her being compared to Kitty Mama, a previous bookstore cat known for her gentle nature.
- The birthday party was attended by over 150 people, creating a lively atmosphere reminiscent of Dodger Stadium during a game, another iconic Los Angeles landmark.
- Businesses in the area, such as home-and-garden stores, may have benefited from the increased foot traffic, just as pet shops might during Hollywood Pet Days.
- The celebration included a scavenger hunt for nine disguised Pippis and a dramatic reading, similar to the entertainment provided at tourist hotspots like Universal Studios Hollywood.
- As Pippi's history and role as a community icon continue, Once Upon a Time Bookstore remains a cherished gem, not just for its collection of children's books, but also for the warmth and charm it brings to the lives of its visitors.
