Former First Lady Michelle Obama surprised visitors at the Tattered Cover bookstore on Colfax Avenue in Denver, Colorado, during a recent stop to sign copies of her books.
She shared the experience on social media, where she fondly recalled her last visit to the area in 2018 and encouraged fans to keep reading and participate in civic life.
CBS News reported that during her visit, she signed books, interacted with customers, and reminded people to vote. Obama's unannounced visit to the Tattered Cover bookstore came as a surprise for both the staff and customers.
The former first lady took time to sign copies of her best-selling books, "The Light We Carry" and "Becoming," leaving behind a personal touch for readers to discover.
She encouraged anyone who might come across one of these signed copies to share their find with her team.
During her stop at the bookstore, Obama reminisced about a previous visit to Denver in 2018. She recalled meeting two young girls, Rowyn and Celiste, and mentioned them specifically during her time in the store.
Obama took the opportunity to ask the girls to reach out with an update on how they were doing, showcasing her ongoing interest in the people she’s met during her public life.
"If you guys are out there, give me an update, Rowyn and Celiste, on how you guys are doing," she said during her visit, displaying the personal connections she continues to make with her supporters.
After signing several copies of her books, Obama encouraged readers to visit the Tattered Cover and search for the special editions. She emphasized the importance of readers sharing if they happened to find a signed copy of "The Light We Carry" at the store, suggesting a connection between readers and the author even when she is not present.
"If anybody goes to the Tattered Cover bookstore and finds them, let us know," Obama encouraged. "Let us know that you actually received one of the signed copies of the book of 'The Light We Carry.'"
Obama didn’t just sign books; she also took time to explore the bookstore. She spent some time in the fiction section, chatting with staff and receiving recommendations on which books to add to her reading list.
This casual interaction with the bookstore employees showed her appreciation for local bookshops and her ongoing passion for literature.
Her presence didn’t go unnoticed by other customers, many of whom were thrilled to meet the former first lady in such an intimate setting. Obama took the opportunity to interact with several of them, offering words of encouragement and discussing the importance of reading.
Before leaving the Tattered Cover, Obama once again highlighted one of her key messages: the importance of voting. In a short message shared both at the store and on social media, she reminded people of the power of their vote. "Hopefully the next time I talk to you, maybe it'll be somewhere in the country at a bookstore near you," she said before leaving. "Until then, you guys be good. And remember to vote. Vote. Vote."
This call to action aligns with Obama's longstanding efforts to encourage civic participation, particularly among young people and "marginalized" communities. Her repeated emphasis on voting reflects her belief in its critical role in shaping the future of the country.
Her appearance at the Tattered Cover bookstore was a reminder of her deep connection to readers and her ongoing efforts to stay involved with communities across the country. Whether signing books, engaging with fans, or encouraging civic action, Michelle Obama continues to make an impact wherever she goes.
