“I loved the trips, Germany in Year 7, Harlech in Year 8, building sandcastles and exploring the castle. I loved all of the House competitions (Kings forever!), particularly anything to do with performing, so the drama and music events were always really enjoyable.”

That love of storytelling was reflected in her studies too. English was always a favourite, along with a shared love of Shakespeare with Mr Coote. Geography also stood out, with Mr Kay making lessons fun, as long as you did not yawn.

Despite her love of books, Amy never imagined she would one day run a bookshop.

“Running a bookshop certainly was not part of any plan, which is reassuring in itself because it shows how unpredictable and interesting life can be.”

A journey that didn’t follow a straight line

After leaving Crossley Heath, Amy went on to Greenhead College before studying Acting at Bretton Hall. While she loved performing, she soon realised that the professional industry was not for her.

Like many people, her path evolved over time. A variety of roles in her late teens and early twenties helped her understand what she valued most, creativity, working with people, and doing something meaningful. Along the way, she saved, travelled, completed a postgraduate teaching qualification and gained a Masters in Early Childhood Education.

Australia was always a dream destination, but what began as a 12-week trip turned into something much bigger.

“I ended up staying for 18 months instead.”

She later returned on a permanent visa and lived there for 11 years, building a varied and exciting career with organisations including the Australian Human Rights Commission, the Australian Museum, Sydney Trains, Transport for New South Wales and the University of Technology Sydney.

“I was often teaching thousands of students from a small office within the Australian Museum.”

During this time, she also raised her three children in Sydney.

“I feel incredibly lucky to have spent that period of my life there, and I will always call Australia my second home.”

Returning home and starting something new

A combination of timing, opportunity and a desire to be closer to family brought Amy and her husband Grant back to Halifax.

“Our children were growing and wanted to be near to their family for more than a few weeks at a time. The distance from our loved ones felt further than ever.”

Taking on a local bookshop offered a chance to build something creative, tangible and family-focused together.

“It became an anchor during a really unsettling period of time.”

Relocating across the world while taking on a small business at the same time was, by her own admission, a significant challenge.

More than just books

One of the biggest surprises has been just how much the shop is about people.

“Books matter, of course, but relationships, with customers, authors, schools, and the local community, are at the heart of everything.”

Balancing that with the realities of running a business has been a steep learning curve, but one she has embraced.

The shop has recently entered a new chapter, with a name change that reflects its evolving identity.

“We wanted a name that tells you exactly what we are, your one-stop for books.”

While still specialising in children’s books, the shop now also offers a growing range of adult titles.

Customers can expect a carefully curated selection, a quick ordering service and a knowledgeable welcome.

“We love seeing our regular storytime visitors grow in age and confidence. Some who started as babies are now walking out with their own little brown bags.”

Alongside the shop itself, Amy leads much of the school outreach and author events.

“It is incredibly rewarding when children get excited to tell me about the books they are reading or writing.”

Looking back and looking ahead

Reflecting on her journey, Amy is clear that there is no single path to success.

“It is okay not to know. You do not have to have everything mapped out early on. Try things, be curious, and do not be afraid to change direction.”

Her advice is simple but powerful.

“Sometimes, the experiences that feel like detours turn out to be the most valuable.”

And if she could offer one message to her younger self:

“Trust yourself a little more, worry a little less, and remember that there is no single ‘right’ way to build a life.”