Sure, one could get a new book on her e-reader without even leaving the comfort of her couch. But Parnassus Books, the legendary Nashville bookseller, is betting that some people will want physical books without the trouble of trekking all the way to Green Hills.
Parnassus is launching its very first bookmobile on Sunday. The truck is named Pegasus, but it has wheels instead of wings or hooves. According to Parnassus’ blog,
“The idea for the name ‘Parnassus Books’ originally came from a delightful book called Parnassus on Wheels by Christopher Morley,” says Parnassus co-owner Karen Hayes. The 1917 novella is a romantic comedy centered around a horse-drawn bookselling caravan. “Before we even opened the store I imagined how much fun it would be to have our own ‘Parnassus on Wheels’ one day, too.” Calling the truck Pegasus is a nod to Greek mythology and Mount Parnassus, also an inspiration for the store’s name.
The bookstore on wheels will be on a regular rotation around town, with some extra stops for special events.