The Echo of a Literary Legend: Unearthing the Fabled Top Shelf Books

Palatine, Illinois – In the quiet suburbs of Palatine, Illinois, a used bookstore named Top Shelf Books once pulsed with an extraordinary literary energy, fostering a community that would unexpectedly shape the landscape of contemporary fantasy and science fiction. From approximately 2007 to 2013, this unassuming venue hosted an open-mic writers’ group that served as a crucible for nascent talents and a cherished sanctuary for established masters, including the late Grand Master of Science Fiction and Fantasy, Gene Wolfe. Its legacy, though the physical store is long gone, continues to resonate through the successful careers of its alumni and the persistent whispers among those who recognize its profound impact.

The story of Top Shelf Books and its legendary open mic is often discovered in fragments, much like an archaeologist piecing together an ancient civilization from scattered artifacts. S.E. Lindberg, a Managing Editor at Black Gate magazine, recounts how the name of this mythical venue repeatedly surfaced in conversations over a decade, with individuals who had frequented the shop speaking of it independently and across various locations. Each mention added another layer to the legend: a used book shop that provided a stage for writers to share their nascent works, forge connections, and, perhaps unknowingly, lay the groundwork for future literary acclaim.

A Nexus of Talent: The Genesis and Evolution of Top Shelf’s Open Mic

The origins of Top Shelf Books’ vibrant literary scene trace back to an serendipitous encounter between its future owner and its chief architect.

The Founding Vision: Katie Redding and C.S.E. Cooney’s Collaboration

The journey began in 2002 at Harper College, where Katie Redding and C.S.E. Cooney met in an anthropology class. Katie, whose mother owned Top Shelf Books, mentioned the store, sparking an immediate and enthusiastic response from Cooney, who had always dreamed of working in a used bookstore. Cooney was hired and quickly became an integral part of the store’s operations, even continuing to commute from Chicago after moving there in 2003 to attend Columbia College for Fiction Writing and Acting.

Cooney’s passion for fostering artistic communities truly bloomed when Katie Redding opened a second store in Chicago, "Kate the Great’s Book Emporium," a few blocks from Cooney’s residence. There, Cooney, alongside co-manager J9 Vaughn, transformed the space into a beacon for the arts, hosting everything from art galleries and new play festivals to poetry nights and concerts. This period, though Kate the Great’s ultimately closed due to insufficient foot traffic, honed their hosting and organizational skills, preparing them for the next chapter.

The closure of the Chicago outpost marked Cooney’s return to Top Shelf Books in Palatine. From 2008 to 2011, the open mic nights gained significant momentum and regularity, drawing in attendees from the former Chicago store and horror writing enthusiasts from "Twilight Tales," a weekly reading series run by Tina Jens. Katie Redding, the store’s owner, humbly attributes the "mastermind" role to Cooney, noting her own contribution as simply saying, "YES, we can do that," providing the essential space and support for the literary salon to flourish.

A Gathering of Giants: The Open Mic Era (2007-2013)

It was during these years that the Top Shelf open mic became a true hub for writers, attracting an eclectic mix of aspiring authors, seasoned professionals, and even literary legends. John O’Neill, the Chief Editor of Black Gate magazine, first learned of the group at the 2007 World Fantasy Convention in Saratoga Springs, New York, where Tina Jens introduced him to Cooney and Redding. Invited to join their monthly gathering, O’Neill quickly became a regular, a decision that would profoundly impact his own career and the future of Black Gate.

O’Neill used the Top Shelf stage to workshop chapters of his ambitious novel, The Robots of Gotham, which he wrote under the then-secret pseudonym Todd McAulty. He credits the welcoming and enthusiastic audience at Top Shelf with providing the courage and fuel for his late-night writing sessions. His generosity was legendary, often arriving with boxes of "Spunky Dunkers" donuts, a local Palatine favorite, endearing him further to the group.

Joe Bonadonna, acclaimed author of the Dorgo the Dowser series, was introduced to Top Shelf in late 2010 by fellow author David C. Smith. Initially a spectator, Bonadonna soon joined the ranks of readers after the publication of his first novel, Mad Shadows: The Weird Tales of Dorgo the Dowser, in 2011. He fondly recalls the camaraderie, the "snackety snacks," and the vibrant atmosphere that fostered constructive feedback and genuine connections.

C.S.E. Cooney, the group’s initial "ringmaster," read early drafts of her works, including Saint Death’s Daughter (then titled Miscellaneous Stones: Necromancer) and pieces that would later comprise her World Fantasy Award-winning collection, Bone Swans: Stories. Her presence as host and participant ensured a high standard of literary engagement.

Perhaps the most remarkable attendee was Gene Wolfe himself, one of the most revered figures in speculative fiction. Wolfe, who lived just a few miles away in Barrington, IL, would occasionally attend the events with his wife, Rosemary, and read from his works-in-progress. His quiet presence and profound insights lent an unparalleled gravitas to the gatherings. Cooney’s connection to Wolfe was particularly unique; she had become his primary caregiver for his wife, Rosemary, a relationship that Wolfe detailed in his foreword for Cooney’s Bone Swans.

Beyond these central figures, the Top Shelf open mic hosted a constellation of talented writers who would go on to make their own marks. These included Tina Jens (author of The Blues Ain’t Nothin’), Michael Penkas (Mistress Bunny and the Cancelled Client), Brendan Detzner (The Orphan Fleet trilogy), Dennis Depcik (Wouldn’t It Be Something), Jeffrey Westhoff (The Boy Who Knew Too Much), and Patty Templeton (There Is No Lovely End). The evenings were characterized by a supportive environment, lacking harsh criticism, and instead offering encouragement, enlightenment, and occasional musical interludes by attendees like Cynthia Glasson and Julie Barnett.

In 2011, Cooney moved to Rhode Island, and Katie Redding sold Top Shelf Books, leading to its eventual closure. The open mic, under the tireless leadership of Janelle Bada, attempted to continue in various temporary locations, including the Palatine Police Department and the Palatine Public Library, but ultimately disbanded by 2013 without a permanent home.

Voices from the Past: Testimonials and Reflections

The impact of Top Shelf Books is best understood through the firsthand accounts of those who experienced its magic.

Katie Redding, Top Shelf Owner, reflects on her role:
"If anyone was a ‘mastermind’ behind our literary salon, it was Claire. We met at Harper College in January of 2002 in an anthropology class. We hit things off immediately, and things developed from there. My main role was to operate the business, and I wanted to support artists. I can’t take much more credit than that. I guess I am the person who said, ‘YES, we can do that.’"

C.S.E. Cooney, World Fantasy Award-winning author, details her journey:
"I loved every minute of working hip-deep in dusty books, and meeting readers every day. These last three years, from 2008-2011 were when the open mics really started happening with greater regularity… My friend and mentor, Gene Wolfe, who lived a few miles away in Barrington, IL, sometimes came to our events with his wonderful wife Rosemary, and would read from whatever short story or novel he happened to be working on… My time at Top Shelf Books ended when I packed everything up and moved to Westerly, Rhode Island… Though it was the adventure of a lifetime, and opened so many doors to me I could not at the time imagine, I will always regard my time at Top Shelf Books as formative. It was my favorite retail job I’ve ever worked, and certainly one of the most vibrant reading and writing communities I’ve ever been a part of. I’ll be grateful forever."

Gene Wolfe’s vivid recollection from his foreword for C.S.E. Cooney’s Bone Swans (2015):
"Picture me sitting in a small used-book shop with a banana cream pie on my lap. The young man reading at the lectern has given us a short-story that is certainly publishable and has now launched upon one that is not. We have had the poetry that suggests a poor article in Reader’s Digest cut up into uneven lengths, and the heart-wrenching personal memoir of the sister of a soldier killed overseas. And others. You know. The readers are kept in order by Claire Cooney, a startling young blonde with a smile capable of lighting up a good-sized theater. At last she reads herself, a poem that rhymes and scans and grabs you from the opening line. The hero is a disfigured corpse floating down a city sewer, and it is funny when it is not horrible. (And sometimes when it is). She chants it, and her voice is clear and musical. I couldn’t be prouder of her if I were her father."

John O’Neill, Chief Editor of Black Gate, underscores the audience’s importance:
"The Top Shelf Open Mic evenings changed my life. It featured some enormously talented writers… But the wonder of Top Shelf wasn’t really the amazing writers. I think focusing on those of us who got up to the podium every month misses what made Top Shelf truly special. What made it so magical was the warm and receptive audience. The sense that, month after month, there was a genuinely enthusiastic and engaged community somehow looking forward to the next installment of your broken manuscript… If it wasn’t for Claire, who emailed me relentlessly until I finally came to my first Top Shelf Open Mic, and who was an incredibly astute and supportive listener, Robots would not exist. I owe her a huge debt of gratitude for that, and for much more."

Joe Bonadonna, author, cherishes the memories:
"Top Shelf holds a special place in our hearts and in our memories. I made many friends and associates there, and pigged out on all the great snacks everyone brought to the monthly gatherings, especially Spunky Dunkers Donuts, courtesy of John O’Neill… Those were halcyon nights, for sure and we all wish they could have gone on forever. I miss the people, the conversations, the readings, the smell of old, used books, the variety of used books… and of course I miss all those great Snackety Snacks . . . especially the donuts."

David C. Smith, author, expresses his enduring nostalgia:
"I miss those evenings, miss them, miss them, miss them! Every time Janine and I drive past that plaza (we are close by) and see the building with part of a private school since having taken over the building, damn, I swear out loud… But look at those overloaded bookshelves behind me in both of those snapshots. An honest-to-God real live used-book store made for loafing and smiling in."

Beyond the Bookshelves: The Enduring Legacy and Implications

The story of Top Shelf Books is more than a nostalgic look back at a beloved local haunt; it offers profound implications for the literary world and the cultivation of creative talent.

The Power of Community in Literary Development

The most significant takeaway from Top Shelf is the undeniable power of a supportive, in-person community for writers. In an era increasingly dominated by online interactions and remote collaborations, Top Shelf serves as a powerful reminder of the unique magic generated when creators gather in a physical space. The lack of harsh criticism, combined with genuine enthusiasm and accountability, created an ideal environment for writers to experiment, refine their craft, and build confidence. It demonstrates that true literary growth often requires more than just talent; it needs fertile ground, encouragement, and a listening ear.

Launchpad for Acclaimed Careers

Top Shelf proved to be an unexpected launchpad for several highly acclaimed authors. C.S.E. Cooney’s multiple World Fantasy Awards for Bone Swans and Saint Death’s Daughter, along with her Rhysling Award, stand as testaments to the early work she honed at the open mic. John O’Neill’s The Robots of Gotham emerged directly from his readings there, a novel that garnered significant attention. The regular attendance of a Grand Master like Gene Wolfe not only lent prestige but also provided invaluable inspiration and mentorship to the younger writers. This small suburban bookstore undeniably played a pivotal, albeit humble, role in the careers of individuals who would go on to achieve national and international recognition.

A Model for Paying It Forward

The infectious spirit of generosity and collaboration fostered at Top Shelf extended far beyond its closing. John O’Neill, upon becoming the Managing Editor of Black Gate, actively sought out talent from the Top Shelf community, hiring C.S.E. Cooney as the first website editor and bringing in others like Michael Penkas, Joe Bonadonna, and Patty Templeton as regular bloggers. This ripple effect illustrates how strong literary communities not only nurture individual talent but also create networks of support and opportunity that continue to benefit others for years to come. S.E. Lindberg’s own journey of discovery, connecting with these authors and eventually becoming Managing Editor of Black Gate, further exemplifies this enduring web of influence.

The Enduring Quest for Connection

Despite its closure, the legend of Top Shelf Books persists, inspiring writers and readers to seek out similar, supportive communities. John O’Neill’s advice to struggling writers — "find a supportive writer’s group" — directly echoes the transformative experience he had there. The hunger for such spaces, where stories are shared, dreams are nurtured, and friendships are forged over shared passion (and perhaps a few donuts), remains undiminished.

Conclusion: A Blueprint for Literary Community

Top Shelf Books, with its overflowing shelves and a community bound by the love of words, was more than just a bookstore; it was a sanctuary, a workshop, and a stage. Its legacy underscores the critical role that local, physical spaces can play in nurturing creative endeavors and building lasting literary connections. The collective memory of Katie Redding’s welcoming "YES," C.S.E. Cooney’s masterful orchestration, Gene Wolfe’s quiet wisdom, John O’Neill’s generous encouragement, and the vibrant contributions of countless others, paints a picture of a truly magical place.

As S.E. Lindberg notes, the feeling of having "missed the show" might linger for those who only hear the legend now. Yet, the enduring impact of Top Shelf Books is not about being there, but about understanding what it represents: a blueprint for literary community, a testament to the power of shared passion, and a timeless call to "start more legends" wherever writers and readers may gather. The spirit of Top Shelf Books lives on, a reminder that even in the most unassuming corners, profound artistic movements can take root and flourish.