Book Stand Enterprise

This past winter Kip was really into writing illustrated storybooks. Every night when I would read to him before bed, he would work on his books. They are simple stories with a lot of action and fearsome dragon heroes. It was great practice for his writing and storytelling and he accumulated quiet a collection. 

One morning he informed us that he wanted us to make copies of his books so he could SELL them to his FRIENDS for the price of $2-$5. We had to all stifle our laughter because he was genuinely serious. This child has always been audacious but sometimes it really hits. This book selling idea reminded me of his Amazing Train Layout and Lemonade Stand from a few years ago when he expected strangers to pay to see his train layout. Thankfully, Jagee convinced him they could buy lemonade and see the layout for free. Hehehe.

Anyways, we talked to him about how his friends probably don't have a lot of cash and they certainly aren't bringing it to school and might prefer to spend it on something like a toy. He understood that and quickly pivoted to having US, his family, RENT his books even after I told him I would buy his first edition copies for $5 a piece. 

He has an entrepreneurial spirit, I'll give him that.

So that's how the book stand was created. And never one to be left out, Ivy solicited support to write some books for rent at well. They both made little stands out of stacking blocks our neighbors gave them, and every morning the stands were open to rent books for a non-refundable penny or two (the price was set by Mandy). If you didn't have exact change he would allow a nickle or dollar but would not give you change. There were late fees as well. This is a business, people!

Here is the inventory

And here are Ivy's books penned with the help of Kip and Dad.

If you come to our home, you might be solicited to rent a book.

I expect this is normal behavior for kids. After all, Mandy and I started a business with our neighbor friends when we were kids call MSLG Dried Flower Company and sold potpourri made from essential oils and flowers we took from our dad's garden. Our neighbors legitimately spent money on these creations. I try to remind myself of that when Kip puts forth his ideas. Adults can be quite generous to adorable kids. 

So to anyone out there who has paid a penny to rent a book or dropped a dollar at a lemonade stand or feigned interest in a toy train layout —THANK YOU! You're keeping dreams alive and restoring hope in humanity.