Abbi Diego is the founder of Prelude Bookstore —and a lifelong bookworm with a big heart for stories and community. From her earliest memory of bounding into kindergarten expecting to learn to read that very day, Abbi’s love of language has never wavered. Raised by a librarian mom and a sci-fi-loving dad, she grew up believing that every genre was universal, every story worth exploring, and no book was ever off limits.

She followed that passion academically, earning a degree in English Literature and a Master’s in Children’s Public Librarianship. After time spent living and working in Washington, D.C., Abbi and her husband eventually put down roots in Dunwoody, Georgia, where they’re raising four energetic boys—and plenty of bookshelf chaos.

The idea for a bookstore came about recently, when a charming little space opened next to their favorite coffee shop. “It just seemed too serendipitous to pass up,” she says. That intuitive leap became Prelude Bookstore , a cozy, curated shop designed to feel like a jewel box—calm, beautiful, and filled with unexpected treasures. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect gift, a new story to dive into, or just a quiet moment to browse, Abbi hopes Prelude becomes a place where everyone feels welcome.

As a parent and a reader, Abbi believes stories can shape your worldview. She seeks out books that broaden perspectives and spark conversation—and finds particular joy in turning reluctant readers into ravenous ones. A few of her favorite reads include Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson (for its quirky magic and unconventional heart), The Secret History, Circe, poetry by Mary Oliver and Kate Baer, and anything involving Calvin and Hobbes.

Abbi’s biggest joy? Talking books with new people—and sharing the kind of stories that stay with you long after the last page.