Thursday, July 24, 2025

Thunder Road Books

 I have been looking for new books to help me with my watercolor painting journey.
I ordered two books online, 
books I thought to be the same as what I had been using and enjoying, but with different themes.
When they came I realized
they were both "copycats" of the books I have been using, they have different paper.
Not watercolor paper, but white shiny paper, that was not conducive to watercolor paint.


I went to
A really cute, new bookstore in Spring Lake, here at the shore.


I did a little research on the name of the book store and it's connection to Bruce Springsteen's song
  - Thunder Road -
While not owned by Bruce the name clearly references his work, making the connection through the song.
Bruce grew up here in Monmouth County, where the store is located, 
close to where he spent his teen years.


So nice and cozy, I really loved the vibe of the store.
If you are ever in the area, stop by and support this local shop and the other small stores nearby.



There, I found the 2 authentic books I wanted...what I thought I had ordered, and would be receiving.
These have the right quality paper..

I am excited to start painting in the birds book...as of right now, I have only painted flowers.


This is one of the two books I received from my online purchase. 
You can see that the paper is a glossy white paper, not heavy, watercolor paper.


If you decide to try one of these books, (they are all over IG and Amazon),
I recommend buying one at a local bookstore, where you can feel the pages.
I was told at Thunder Road books, there are 4 "copycats companies" making and selling these books.
The two I ordered online can not be returned and cannot be used with watercolor paints. 
I am going to try using colored pencils rather than throwing them out!

What hobby are you favoring right now during these dog days of summer.
- It is nice to have a hobby that keeps you happy indoors -

11 comments:

Anonymous said...

I looked at those books too thanks for the info. I am teaching myself to paint too but I have to any things going with rug hooking and embridiery.
Cathy
Acornhollow.blogspot.com

Rian said...

Cute bookstore! Love the cozy chairs... Barnes and Noble USED TO have them too... not anymore. Your watercolor books look interesting. I've never used one. Tried once, found I did better just teaching myself (might have been a mistake). But I do enjoy it. Can't do much right now with my eye situation.

eileeninmd said...

The bookstore looks wonderful. I am glad you found the books you wanted. They look nice! Take care, have a great day!

Marie Smith said...

Reading keeps me going…and photography. What a beautiful store!

Lowcarb team member said...

That looks a fabulous bookstore.
Keep on enjoying your art.

All the best Jan

Jeanie said...

Very interesting about the copycat companies with the wrong paper. That's a wonderful tip. Both these books look terrific -- I'll have to see if I can find them locally.

Linda's Relaxing Lair said...

Hi Debbie, I love the red brick exterior and the awning-link black sign! This looks like a great place to browse and find a good book! I am not at all good at drawing, painting, art period, but I absolutely love to see the art of those who have the talent. Thank you so much for sharing.

Farm Girl said...

How fun Debbie. I didn't know you were learning water coloring. I didn't know that about the books either. I would love that bookstore. We only have one local bookstore now in our town. I love seeing what you are learning.

Soma @ InkTorrents.com said...

This is really very disturbing. I doubt the author even knows about them. I am glad you found the right books at the bookstore. That is a such a beautiful bookstore too.

-Soma

Coloring Outside the Lines said...

I am reading again. It's been a good while, but I really enjoy that. Also my genealogy and cemetery work online. Those really keep me busy. Your paint workbooks are very interesting to me. I wish I could draw or paint...no talent in that department I'm afraid!

Nicole Orriëns said...

What a lovely bookstore, and I love the name! Those books look beautiful. It' so nice that they come with instructions.