We’re beyond excited that our new store in the Beechmont area of Cincinnati is joining the HPB family! In this edition of meet the bibliomaniac, we introduce you to April Wakeman, Assistant Store Manager. She joins the team all the way from HPB in Washington. Take it away, April!
When did you join the team?
I began my HPB career at the Concord, California store in November of 2008. Since then, I’ve worked in Bellevue and Redmond Washington, and I’m currently helping install the Beechmont store in Cincinnati, Ohio.
What is your favorite part about working at HPB?
I love the variety of work and experiences that are part of daily life at HPB. No two days are quite the same, and something new happens every single day!
As ASM, what’s an average day like for you?
As I said above, no two days are ever the same, and working as an Assistant Store Manager provides another layer of variety. As ASM, I have a unique mix of bookseller, managerial and office tasks I get to tackle on a daily basis. I may be biased, but it feels like the most fun position to hold because you really get to do it all!
What is your all-time favorite book, movie, or album?
My favorite album of all-time is Rabbit Fur Coat by Jenny Lewis and The Watson Twins, but I enjoy anything Jenny Lewis does!
What are you reading right now?
I’m currently reading The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern, and it’s fantastic! A co-worker was gracious enough to give me her copy of the book when we weren’t seeing any coming into the store, and I plan to pass it along to another co-worker, or our store, when I’m finished.
What TV show or movies are you embarrassed to admit you love?
I don’t know that I’m embarrassed about it, but I love The Golden Girls!
What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?
My favorite place in the world and where I’d like to retire (in a perfect world) is Oberbozen, Italy.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love playing board games. Whether it’s classic, strategy, card, or co-op (a favorite to play with my husband), I love them all!
If you could write a book about yourself, what would the title be?
She Did It Her Way: The April Wakeman Story
When are you the happiest?
I am the happiest simply hanging out with my husband Jordan. It doesn’t matter if we’re at home or out, watching TV or on an adventure, everything is more fun with your best friend!
Anything else you’d like to add?
I’m incredibly excited to be a part of opening a new store! We’re really enjoying the experience of building an empty space into our very own store. I can’t wait to join manager Tyne Flora and our team in shaping the direction and success of Beechmont. We’re lucky to be on this adventure!
