Bloomin' Books provide personal stories

A love for reading and a background as a substitute teacher are the drive behind Beverly Bloom's business.

Bloom is the owner of Bloomin' Books, a Buffalo Grove business that involves publishing personalized story books.

Working with a publisher in Colorado, Bloom features 30 titles in which she weaves in aspects of the young reader's life. The child's name, friends and teachers can be included in the books.

A popular pick are the books for a new baby that includes the infant's weight, length and doctor's name. Other personalized books are available in a variety of themes including, princess, sports, adventure or a new sibling's arrival in the family.

"I am able to make the books overnight," Bloom said.

She added that she is passionate about reading and believes the books help create a love of reading in children.

"It's a great way to motivate kids to read if they see their name in a book," she said. "Today's readers are tomorrow's leaders," she added.

The books, which are about 36 pages, sell for $19.95. Bloom said the hard cover books are made of a material that can be wiped clean.

Bloom works with individuals as well as business owners who use the books to give to clients.

Jerry Block, an interior designer in Northbrook, enjoys giving the books instead of candy to valued customers.

"I enjoy reading the stories. I'm almost in tears because they're so cute," said Block, who owns Spring Interiors. "I feel it's a rewarding gift to give clients with young children."

Rebecca Bloomfield, who specializes in private health insurance, feels the same way.

"I buy the books for clients who have children or grandchildren. The books are unique, personal and always appreciated," Bloomfield said. "It's a caring gift."

The books, which can be purchased online, are designed for children up to age 9, said Bloom, who started the business about 15 years ago.

She left a 20-year-career as a computer programmer at Allstate to start the book printing/binding firm. She worked as a substitute teacher before starting at Allstate.

For more information, check out bloomin-books.com or call (847) 520-4984.

Kim Mikus covers small business. She welcomes comments at (847) 427-4567 or kmikus@dailyherald.com.