Fannie Flagg Returns to Fairhope's Page & Palette for Book Signing 45 Years After First Event

Karin Wilson, Wolff's granddaughter, has operated Page & Palette since 1997. During her tenure, she has also served a term as mayor of Fairhope, initiated a shop-local movement, and played a role in publishing a book about a blue cat named Pete. As the store celebrates its 60th anniversary, Wilson reflected on its history and the story behind its growth, noting that she is now hesitant to claim Page & Palette as the "third oldest bookstore in the country" without caveats, as research into the designation is ongoing.

Flagg's debut novel, *Coming Attractions*, later retitled *Daisy Fay and the Miracle Man*, became a New York Times bestseller shortly after its release. The signing at Page & Palette initiated a long-standing relationship between the author and the bookstore. Wilson recalled her excitement when meeting Flagg for the first time. Since then, Page & Palette has hosted Flagg for each of her subsequent book signings. To commemorate their anniversary, the store printed a limited edition of 1,000 signed copies of Flagg's first novel.

Wilson’s daughters participated in photographs with Flagg, mirroring an earlier one taken at the first signing. She aims to display these photographs alongside Flagg's memorabilia, which currently includes the screen door from *Fried Green Tomatoes*.

After nearly two decades of managing Page & Palette, Wilson briefly transitioned into public service as mayor from 2016 to 2020. She explained that her career shift was influenced by her desire to raise her family around loved ones in Fairhope. The bookstore has evolved significantly since its founding in April 1966, expanding into a coffee shop, yoga studio, and bar, while maintaining a dedicated shelf for local authors.

Despite claims that Page & Palette is the third oldest independent bookstore in the nation, Wilson emphasized the importance of understanding and honoring the stories of all independent bookstores. She mentioned that while the store’s historical claims are still being researched, she is confident that Page & Palette is the oldest continuously family-owned independent general bookstore in the South.

The bookstore has faced numerous challenges, from economic recessions to competition from online retailers. Wilson noted that continuous adaptation has been key to survival, resulting in the addition of new spaces such as The Book Cellar, a bar designed to support the bookstore's events financially.

Wilson recounted how Page & Palette has become a valued community gathering spot for author events, citing Fairhope's literary history and the influence of local authors. She emphasized the importance of creating a unique experience that online competitors cannot replicate. Wilson's proactive engagement with publishing trends has also helped secure the bookstore's position through changes in the industry.

In a nod to the future, Wilson shared her vision for continued evolution under her daughters’ leadership, while also highlighting the necessity of offering experiences that keep the community engaged. As the anniversary year draws to a close, Page & Palette plans to celebrate during Fairhope's New Year's Eve festivities, highlighting its legacy and commitment to community.