Independent bookstores are the heartbeats of their communities. They provide culture and community, generate local jobs and sales tax revenue, promote literacy and education, champion and center diverse and new authors, connect readers to books in a personal and authentic way and actively support the right to read and access to books in their communities.
Each week we profile an independent bookstore, sharing what makes each one special and getting their expert and unique book recommendations.
This week we have Planting People Growing Justice Books in Minneapolis, MN.
What’s your store’s story?
Planting People Growing Justice Bookstore, a Black woman-owned social enterprise, is dedicated to promoting social justice and leadership through the power of books. Founded with a mission to inspire change, we specialize in literature that celebrates African American heritage and culture while fostering critical thinking and civic engagement. Our bookstore serves as a welcoming community hub, offering a curated selection of diverse books that encourage education, empowerment and growth.
What makes your independent bookstore unique?
Planting People Growing Justice Bookstore is more than a bookstore — it’s a social enterprise dedicated to creating a lasting impact. For every book purchased, we donate a book to inspire readers and promote literacy — a commitment that has allowed us to donate over 38,000 books to date.
We are proud to be at the heart of the Rondo Renaissance, building an arts and cultural hub that fosters community growth and meaningful change. Our customers love the vibrant, welcoming space we’ve created and our dedication to championing diverse stories that inspire learning, leadership and social justice.
What’s your favorite section in your store?
Our local apparel section celebrates culture and our local community. The bracelets are handcrafted by our bookseller, Jacob Deisch, and the t-shirts are designed by local artisans.
What book do you love to recommend to customers and why?
“The Myth of Race/The Reality of Racism: Critical Essays” by Mahmoud El-Kati is a powerful book that dispels the myth that race is rooted in science, carefully examining how the concept of race has evolved and been used as a tool to divide rather than unite.
El-Kati skillfully weaves a new narrative that emphasizes celebrating culture, understanding one’s ethnicity, and honoring unique cultural experiences. He defines racism as prejudice fueled by power and offers profound insights for combating it while fostering a collective vision for community building. It’s an essential read for anyone committed to understanding and dismantling systemic racism.
What book do you think deserves more attention and why?
“The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World” by the Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu and Douglas Adams serves as a reminder that ordinary people can have an extraordinary impact by choosing joy. Joy is not just a feeling but a state of mind that compels one to take action. Joy is a conscious choice to embrace our shared humanity and common destiny.
What books/series are you most excited about coming out in the next few months and why?
“When I Hear Spirituals” by Cheryl Hudson is a celebration of Black history and culture. It demonstrates the unwavering faith and audacious tenacity of the ancestors who have paved the way to a brighter future.
Why is shopping at local, independent bookstores important?
Shopping at local, independent bookstores helps build a more just and inclusive society by fostering community dialogue and nurturing a vibrant cultural ecosystem. Books play a critical role in community building and creating connections across cultures. Local bookstores act as essential gathering places that promote critical thinking, civic engagement and servant leadership.
By buying local, you ensure that resources are reinvested in the community. Independent bookstores like ours actively support the community by hosting book giveaways, hiring local talent and showcasing the creativity of local authors and artists. Every purchase you make strengthens not just the bookstore but the community as a whole, helping to create a richer, more connected world.
What are some of your store’s events, programs, or partnerships coming up this quarter that you would like to share?
Planting People Growing Justice frequently partners with local organizations to offer all kinds of events from writing workshops with the local arts council, food experiences in collaboration with local restaurants and more.
The store hosts a community event on the first Saturday of each month at the Rondo Community Library.
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