Port Douglas bookshop and cafe hotspot for world famous authors
The charm of Whileaway
Mixing fiction with flat whites, the warm, snug and cosy Whileaway Bookshop and Cafe in Port Douglas has grown the last 16 years into a bustling hub for locals, tourists and even well-known writers.
No stuffy old library, inside you’ll find a book lover’s utopia. The bookshop and cafe has become a mecca for booklovers and coffeeholics and every now and then famous authors pop their heads in when on holidays in our tropical seaside town.
Recently, award-winning author Margaret Hickey dropped in to sign some of her books while enjoying the region.
Devra King, owner of Whileaway said the author was thrilled to see that the bookshop held quite a lot of her books.
“Over the years we have supported many local authors such as Caroline De Costa, Debra Gavranich, Samantha Walker, Crystal Leonardi and other local authors”, Ms King said.
“We love to welcome national and international writers when they come our way, we’ve had names such as Rick Morton, Lynley Dodd, Judy Nunn, Loraine Peck, Di Morrissey, Dinuka McKenzie amongst many others.
“We are also very excited to be able to hold an event for the world famous crime writer Michael Robotham next month, more info is still to come.”
Passion for books
Ms King’s passion for books began while growing up in Beaumaris, Melbourne.
“My mother took me and my three siblings from our earliest years to Sandrinham library every week. It was a treasure trove and I made the most of all it had to offer.
“When I became the owner of Whileaway it was just a one-shop space. It now inhabits three shop spaces, each area specialising in a particular age group or zone with a great cafe to while away the hours.
“We also now have a greatly expanded children's area, a vastly extended non fiction section and various tables where locals and visitors can work, hold meetings or just simply relax."
The charm of Whileaway
“I think part of the charm of Whileaway is that it is a big attraction for all. The wonderful ambience created by the visitors themselves and the staff makes it quite a unique destination.
“I select every book, card, toy and game in Whileaway myself. It keeps me very busy just researching and keeping in touch with publishers and suppliers.
“My dream for Whileaway is that it will continue to provide enjoyment for lovers of great books and delicious coffee, for many more years to come.”