Welcome to the Bluestocking Salon!
Dearest Readers,
Welcome to the Bluestocking Salon, a blog for customers and friends of the Bas Bleu Catalog. Bas Bleu is French for "bluestocking," and refers to learned mid-eighteenth-century women (and men) who gathered in the great salons of London for intellectual conversation and witty banter. Since 1993, Bas Bleu Catalog has curated a collection of odd little books that make you smile, clever treasures that make you think, and literary gems that make you feel like you belong to a secret society of fellow readers. In that spirit, this space is designed to invite you to slow down, explore, and discover thoughtful literary fare, intriguing book suggestions, and inspiring gift guides.
Happy reading, fellow modern bluestockings!
Celebrating the Fourth of July
Celebrating 250 Years of American History
A Meaningful Fourth of July: Celebrate with Heart, History, and Home
The Fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, marks the day the United States declared its independence from Great Britain in 1776.
On July 4, 1776, the United States Declaration of Independence was formally adopted by the Continental Congress. The document announced that the thirteen American colonies were no longer under British rule and would become a new nation.
The Fourth of July is often filled with fireworks, parades, and backyard cookouts—but it can also be a chance to slow down and reflect on the people, stories, and traditions that shape America.
This year, make the holiday more meaningful by creating moments that blend celebration with connection.
Recommended Books
Mermaid Solar Light
Creating a Reader’s Nook
English Garden Style
Creating a backyard “Reader’s Nook” inspired by the charm of an English garden is a beautiful way to blend literature, nature, and quiet escape. For readers who adore the thoughtful, literary offerings of Bas Bleu, this kind of space becomes more than a seating area—it’s a personal sanctuary for reflection and imagination
Ideas for Your Reading Nook
Book Nooks: Inspired Ideas for Cozy Reading Corners and Stylish Book Displays
Playful Cat Garden Stakes, Set of 3
Motion Activated Croaking Frog
The “Grand Literature” Movement:
Top Books for Discerning Grandparents to Read to Children
There’s something quietly powerful about a grandparent reading to a child. It’s not just story time—it’s legacy, connection, and the passing down of taste. The “Grand Literature” movement celebrates this special role, spotlighting picture books that are as thoughtful, beautiful, and enduring as the women and men who share them.
Fun Literary Facts You (Probably) Didn’t Know
Updated 5/21/2026
We all love those little nuggets of information that make you pause and say, “Wait… what?” Here are some fun and fascinating literary facts that might surprise you.
Here are some weird and surprising facts about famous books themselves—not just the authors, but the strange stories behind the pages.
Dracula Almost Had a Different Name
The original title was The Un-Dead. Honestly… not quite as catchy. The name “Dracula” was inspired by a historical figure, but the story itself is mostly fictional.
Moby-Dick Was a Massive Flop at First
Now considered a masterpiece, it was a commercial failure when first published in 1851. Critics didn’t know what to make of its strange structure and deep symbolism.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone Has Two Versions
In the U.S., it was renamed Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone because publishers thought “Philosopher” sounded too academic for kids.
Animal Farm Was Rejected for Political Reasons
Several publishers turned it down because it criticized the Soviet Union—at a time when Britain was allied with them during World War II.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland Was Banned in China
In 1931, a Chinese province banned the book because it depicted animals acting like humans—which officials believed was inappropriate.
Explore the
New Summer
Collection
We’re delighted to introduce our latest books, fresh from the shelves and ready to be explored. From compelling stories to insightful nonfiction, these new arrivals offer something special for every curious reader.
Meet 80 avian species from around the globe that have significantly impacted human life. An exquisite color portrait of each feathered friend accompanies a fascinating and informative profile. Sure to inform and delight bird-watchers and nature lovers!
This riveting and deeply researched biography honors the “journalist, suffragist, and anti-fashion icon” whose advocacy for sensible dress for women inspired the bloomers fashion trend. More than a footnote in fashion history, Amelia Bloomer was editor and publisher of the first newspaper written by and for women; and she was key to delivering the message from the Seneca Falls Convention to American homes. Biographer Sara Catterall has given this overlooked heroine of the Women’s Movement the tribute she deserves.
Curmudgeonly Sybil Van Antwerp writes (very opinionated) letters—to family, friends, businesses, even famous authors. The 73-year-old mother, grandmother, divorcee, and retired attorney has lived a full life, which she expects will continue as is. But when she receives letters from someone in her past, Sybil realizes she must examine her life and confront painful truths. An epistolary debut novel with an unforgettable protagonist, this is ultimately a poignant and very funny exploration of aging, forgiveness, and modern communication
This internationally bestselling Swedish novel is a quietly emotional powerhouse: at once heartbreaking and life-affirming. Elderly Bo’s quiet existence with his beloved canine companion, Sexton, is punctuated by visits from his home care team, rambling conversations with his best friend, and increasingly contentious encounters with his son. A threat of losing Sixten causes Bo to take stock of his life, his relationships, and the imperfect way he’s expressed love over the years. Poignant, funny, and full of wisdom… be sure to keep tissues close.
In this sentimental collection, 14 of our favorite authors share tributes to their beloved canine companions and the life-changing bonds they shared. Sometimes hilarious, heart-wrenching, or inspirational, essays edited by renowned author Alice Hoffman hail from such writers as Isabel Allende, Jodi Picoult, Elizabeth Strout, Amy Tan, Nick Trout, and Paul Yoon. A compelling book for anyone lucky enough to know a “once-in-a-lifetime” dog.
New York, 1920. Zelda Fitzgerald is unspeakably bored, and journalist Morris Markey, a newcomer to the city, hungers for his first big story. When notorious man-about-town Joseph Elwell is found shot through the head, these two unlikely cohorts form a team. As Zelda sweeps him into the scandalous revelry of the ‘20s, the amateur detective and the reporter hunt for an elusive girl in a green dress who may hold the truth about the case. A gripping historical mystery based on real unsolved deaths.
Otters: Nature’s Playful Water Dancers
Otters: Nature’s Playful Water Dancers
Few animals capture our hearts quite like otters. With their sleek bodies, curious faces, and playful antics, these aquatic mammals seem to turn everyday life into a game. But beyond their charm lies a fascinating world of intelligence, teamwork, and survival
Odder: An Otter’s Story
Odder spends her days exploring the ocean with her mother—until a dramatic twist leads to her rescue by kind humans. There, she meets other otters and discovers a special gift: teaching orphaned pups how to be otters. Adapted from Katherine Applegate’s bestselling middle-grade novel and inspired by a true rescue program. Ages 3–6
Dragonflies are Fascinating
Dragonflies are some of the most fascinating and ancient insects on Earth, often admired for their shimmering wings and graceful flight. Belonging to the order Odonata, dragonflies have been around for over 300 million years—long before the dinosaurs roamed the planet.
In short, dragonflies are more than just beautiful insects—they are ancient survivors, expert hunters, and vital parts of the natural world. Whether you spot one near a pond or in your backyard, take a moment to appreciate the remarkable life of this delicate yet powerful creature.
Dragonfly Garden Chime
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When she was 85, Sophy Burnham was asked, “What’s it like to be old?” Her response is this wonderful epistolary book, interspersed with quotes and insights from others who have enjoyed a well-lived long life. An uplifting gift for a milestone birthday.
Judith Viorst has long been beloved by our Bas Bleu community for her funny, insightful books about aging. In her 90s now, she’s taking a humorous look at what she calls the “final fifth” of life. A beautiful balance of grief and levity, this touching book makes a lovely gift for a milestone birthday.
In the Irish seaside town of Ballycove, an unexpected inheritance uncovers hidden desires, unspoken love, and the painful secrets of the past. When Joy Blackwood arrives in search of answers, she finds herself entangled in the fortunes of a failing bookshop and the lives of its eccentric patrons. Moving and atmospheric, this tale explores how one woman’s search for truth reshapes an entire community.
In 1938, as Jewish families fled Vienna, some placed ads in the Manchester Guardian, seeking safe homes for their children. Decades later, journalist Julian Borger discovered the ad that saved his father. In this powerful memoir, Borger traces his father’s story, along with those of other advertised children and their families. It’s a moving and fascinating true account of long-hidden family secrets and unimaginable choices.
London, 1895: Bound by stifling marriages and societal expectations, three women are summoned to tea with the enigmatic Lady Duxbury. There, a clandestine book club offers them freedom, sisterhood, and courage—even as whispers of scandal and murder shadow their group. An ideal pick for book clubs!
This is the powerful true story of Pippa Latour, the last surviving British female spy of WWII. Parachuted into Nazi-occupied France, Latour gathered critical intel from German soldiers while selling them soap. A long-kept secret—even from her family—her heroic story is now revealed in this riveting posthumous memoir.
How does your dog experience the world? Alexandra Horowitz, an authority on canine cognition, explains what it’s like to be a dog: to smell not only food but human emotions and the passage of time, for example, or to have hearing so strong it detects the vibration of insects. Updated with the latest advances in this fascinating field, this bestseller offers unparalleled insight into man’s best friend.
Quick! What’s the square root of 5,489? Learn how to quickly solve this and other brain teasers with this clever book. Its fun explanations and fascinating diagrams will help you become a walking calculator.”.
How did a single radio antenna save the Eiffel Tower from being demolished? How did an accident-prone housewife inspire the invention of the Band-Aid? And how did Napoleon’s hemorrhoids affect the outcome of the Battle of Waterloo? Sure to amuse and amaze, this historical potpourri outlines all sorts of remarkably serendipitous—and disastrously unlucky—occurrences that had big ramifications.
Dogs appeared frequently in Mark Twain’s correspondence and fiction, excerpts from which have been collected into this lighthearted anthology of “true and imaginary adventures.” Mark Twain for Dog Lovers honors man’s best friend with forty-six short pieces: “Why Dogs Aren’t Welcome at Funerals,” “A Dog With Genius in Him,” and more.
Tasha and her sister Alice share a striking resemblance but lead very different lives—Tasha is a married mother of two near Bristol, while Alice is a globe-trotting scientist. When Alice offers to watch Tasha’s kids, tragedy strikes: Alice is attacked, her husband killed, and a chilling note arrives: “It was supposed to be you.” An exciting thriller about family, secrets, and deadly consequences.
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Why Bas Bleu?
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We handpick our features, so when you scroll through our website or flip through our catalog, you’re seeing items that have been selected with careful thought, not by an algorithm. We genuinely care about your interests and your experience.
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We support small publishers and big publisher backlists, not just the bestsellers, so by supporting us, you’re supporting the publishing industry.
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We know we can’t compete with the discount prices offered by companies like Amazon. It’s important to note that Amazon’s profits are so vast because of their investor base. They lose money on their discounts, just like we would. The difference? They can afford the loss. But we understand that filling your shelves can be costly. That’s why our Bas Bleu Society membership— for just $30 a year— gets you 10% off our regular-priced books, free standard shipping, and exclusive promotions. Sign up here!
