Savannah Oaks, 21 / Owner, Wonderous Books & More
Savannah Oaks graduated from Hidden Valley High School in 2018. In March 2020, at only 19 years old, she opened Wonderous Books & More, a used bookstore, in the face of the pandemic. She remained vigilant by maintaining safety guidelines and offering curbside service and home delivery. She sells used books, as well as promotes local authors, artisans and crafters; she also hosts paint nights and plans to build community with poetry slams, spoken word and other non-alcohol-related events where people can be with their peers without judgment. Oaks is currently a college junior at Virginia Western Community College. She was a 2020 Salem Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award nominee and is active in the Chamber as the 2022 Head of Ambassadors, Co-Chair of the Restaurant and Retail Committee and an A-Team Ambassador herself. She donates books to nonprofits and the Roanoke City Jail’s inmates, is a Girl Scout (who sold over 1,000 boxes of cookies!), a member of Fem City and often works with Macaroni Kid Roanoke to offer ideas and deals for parents and children in the community. “I’m very passionate about bringing the love of reading back to the Valley!” Oaks says. “And by opening my store, I can provide a place where people can come and connect over something they enjoy!”
- Former volunteer for Mill Mountain Zoo
From the Nomination: “At the age of 19, Savannah Oaks opened a used bookstore in March of 2020. Yes, since the beginning of the pandemic, she has started and significantly grown her used book business. In addition to used books, Oaks supports other local authors, artisans and crafters, by letting them sell their wares in her store. … Oaks is not only an entrepreneur, but she wants to bring the community together … Throughout this tough year, Oaks has hosted events that help bring the community together. She also offers a safe and fun place for teens and college students!”
What do you love about Roanoke?
Oaks: “The people and the atmosphere of the mountains surrounding us! I also love the support that I have been shown over the past year and a half!”
How does your passion impact our community?
Oaks: “I’m very passionate about bringing the love of reading back to the valley! And by opening my store, I can provide a place where people can come and connect over something they enjoy!”
