Annie Krieg: Inside Rainy Day Books, Kansas City’s Iconic Independent Bookstore

For more than 50 years, Rainy Day Books has been at the heart of Kansas City’s literary community, connecting passionate readers with some of the biggest authors in the world.In this episode of There’s Just Something About Kansas City, we sit down with Annie Krieg, General Manager of Rainy Day Books, to explore the story behind this beloved independent bookstore and its lasting impact on Kansas City.Founded by Vivien Jennings and Roger Doeren, Rainy Day Books became a national model for author events, hosting literary icons like Stephen King, Walter Cronkite, Anne Rice, and even Bill and Hillary Clinton.Now entering its next chapter, the store has been acquired by the Kansas City-based team behind Made in Kansas City, ensuring it remains locally-rooted for decades to come.Annie shares how Rainy Day Books grew into a literary hub, what makes independent bookstores so essential in today’s world, and why community-centered spaces like this still matter more than ever.This episode is about books, connection, and the magic that happens when a city gathers around stories.🎧 A must-listen for readers, writers, and anyone who loves Kansas City.