Two things about me that will always be true: I love learning and I love animals, especially cats. After 6 years in corporate America, I'm finally taking the leap and pursuing my passions. I am bringing downtown Detroit its first-ever independent bookstore that doubles as a cat adoption and donation center. PurrFiction is a space where people can come to connect and relax, discover their next favorite book, and even take home a new best friend. If there are two things we can never get enough of in this world, they are education and empathy. These are the core values that PurrFiction is built upon.

We will be partnering with local, foster-based rescues to host adoption events 2-4x a month. The goal is to increase visibility for local adoptable cats, increase adoption rates, and raise more money to support the heroes that are outside saving animals' lives every single day, year-round. Burnout in the rescue space is real, and I hope PurrFiction can offer a creative solution to alleviate at least some of the burden and support these organizations to keep doing what they do best. And rest assured, a portion of our proceeds will ALWAYS go back to the rescues we work with.

I humbly turn to my community, my friends, and family both near and far, to ask for your support in this endeavor. Creating a retail space that is safe and comfortable for both humans and animals requires careful planning and investment. Your support will go directly toward furnishings and fixtures that are critical to making the space feel safe, functional, and inviting. As we work toward a grand opening in Eastern Market this summer, our key expenses will include:

Our book inventory will consist of 80% gently used books and 20% new books. We primarily source our used book inventory locally, offering a store credit program and accepting book donations as well. Aside from books, you can expect to find artisanal goods and art from local creators, plus a curated selection of pet-related items for your furry friends (dogs too).

However, PurrFiction will do more than just sell things. We will also offer unique opportunities for the community to come together. Monthly book clubs, educational workshops, poetry readings, crafting parties, rescue focus groups, small group fitness classes, and even private events will all be welcome. The possibilities are endless, and we are excited to partner with as many fellow small businesses and nonprofits as possible to bring our community a variety of creative experiences.

I hope you see the vision as clearly as I do. We have enough bars and chain retail stores; let's build something different. Something that leaves our community better than we found it. Thank you for any amount you can pledge to support this cause and for any ounce of belief you have in my ability to make this happen.