Meet TAMARA SHILOH | Author, Bookstore Owner, ED for Nia Academy (microschool), and ED for Just Imagine KidZ

We had the good fortune of connecting with TAMARA SHILOH and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi TAMARA, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One thing about owning a bookstore that most folks are probably unaware of is how much of the job involves behind-the-scenes coordination and inventory management—not just reading and recommending books. Bookstore owners spend a surprising amount of time tracking sales trends, handling returns with publishers, managing unsold stock, and organizing events, all while staying on top of new releases. It’s as much about running a finely tuned business as it is about sharing a love of literature.

What should our readers know about your business?
What sets you apart, and what are you most proud of or excited about?

Our bookstore is proudly multicultural, and we stay true to our name by intentionally curating titles that reflect the voices and experiences of African American, Hispanic/Latinx, Native American, Asian, and South Asian communities. We carry books across most genres—from baby board books to adult fiction and nonfiction—with strong representation in areas like diversity, disability, LGBTQ stories, and graphic novels.

What sets us apart is that we’re not just a place to buy books—we’re a space where readers of all backgrounds can see themselves reflected on the shelves. We’re building a community where inclusion isn’t an afterthought, it’s the foundation. I’m most proud of how our bookstore has become a resource for families, educators, and readers who are looking for books that both affirm identity and expand perspective.

How did you get to where you are today business-wise? Was it easy?

Getting to this point has taken determination, faith, and a lot of behind-the-scenes hustle. It hasn’t been easy. I’ve had to navigate everything from inventory management and publisher relationships to event planning and financial pressure. But being an author myself has given me a unique lens—I understand the joys and frustrations on both sides of the industry. That insight helps me advocate for lesser-known writers, highlight authentic voices, and make meaningful connections between readers and stories that matter.

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that representation really does matter—and not just in theory. When a child finds a book with a character who looks like them or speaks their language, something powerful happens. But I’ve also learned that running a bookstore means constantly learning, adjusting, and showing up—especially when it’s hard. The passion has to carry you through the late nights, the slow sales weeks, and the unexpected curveballs.

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?

I want people to know that this bookstore exists because I believe stories can heal, teach, and connect us. It’s a labor of love rooted in cultural celebration, inclusion, and accessibility. As both a bookstore owner and an author, I’m committed to creating a space where books are more than just products—they’re invitations to feel seen, to learn, and to imagine new possibilities. This work is personal, and this space is built with intention and care—for everyone who walks through the door.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I live in the beautiful San Francisco Bay Area, where we’re surrounded by an incredible mix of culture, scenery, and experiences. If my best friend came to visit for a week, I’d make sure we soaked up the very best of it—from the coast to the vineyards.

We’d start in San Francisco, exploring iconic spots like the Ferry Building, Golden Gate Park, and some hidden gem neighborhoods for coffee and book browsing. Then we’d make our way north, stopping in Sausalito for lunch by the water and maybe a stroll through the Marin Headlands for the view.

From there, we’d head into wine country—Napa Valley and Sonoma—where we’d spend a couple of days winery-hopping, eating farm-to-table meals, and just enjoying the slower pace. We’d stop at a few charming towns along the way, maybe even squeeze in a spa day.

Back near home, we’d hit the coast for some beach time—Half Moon Bay or Santa Cruz, depending on the mood. And of course, we’d round out the week with good music, movies, and some unforgettable meals at local favorites that reflect the diversity of the Bay Area.

It would be a mix of relaxing, indulging, exploring, and celebrating all the vibrant people and places that make this region so special.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I dedicate my shoutout to my mother.

We went through some difficult times, but she always found a way to keep us going. As a child, I didn’t fully grasp the depth of her sacrifices—but as a young adult, it hit me just how often she quietly made things happen when the odds were against us. Her resilience was incredible. She was the rock of our family.

Now, when life feels uncertain or the path ahead looks cloudy, I find myself thinking like she did—believing that somehow, things will work out. That quiet strength and unshakable faith she carried still guides me today.

Website: https://www.multiculturalbookstore.com

Instagram: mcb_bookstore

Linkedin: TamaraShiloh

Twitter: @mcb_bookstore

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/once-upon-a-time-blk-hist

Facebook: MCBBookstore

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHeyYHELyNzZSknx-_quiNQ

Image Credits
Tamara Shiloh