At Lucas Literacy Lab, we believe in the power of hands-on learning. This year, our middle schoolers are not just learning how to write, read, and analyze — they’re building their own businesses. Part of our mission is to show them how everything they’re learning in the classroom applies to the real world. And what better way to bring this to life than by diving into the heart of New York City’s unique bookstore scene, where the fusion of creativity and entrepreneurship is on full display?
Recently, we took a field trip through the vibrant streets of NYC, exploring how aesthetics and visuals play an integral role in shaping a brand. From murals to poetry vending machines, the trip was a perfect blend of inspiration, learning, and creativity. Let me take you through the highlights of this unforgettable day.
The Lit Bar: Where Art Meets the Bookstore
Our journey began in the Bronx at The Lit Bar. a bookstore that’s not just a place to buy books but a space that embodies community, culture, and art. One of the main attractions at The Lit Bar is the stunning mural by Andre Tenier, a local artist whose work speaks volumes about the space it occupies. Before the trip, we had spent several days studying Andre’s murals, diving into the heart of his art, his process, and why his work was a perfect fit for this particular bookstore.
What made the experience even more special was the surprise visit from Andre himself! He took us on a tour of his other murals around the city and invited us into his studio. There, he shared his personal story — from his beginnings as an artist to how he’s now a successful entrepreneur. He gave our students a firsthand look at what it takes to make it as an artist in the fast-paced world of urban design. It was clear to everyone that Andre is not only talented but incredibly passionate about his work, and that passion was contagious.
The students were in awe. Above all, they said he was “swaggy."
The Ripped Bodice: A Romance in Every Corner
Next, we headed to Brooklyn, where we visited The Ripped Bodice, a romance-themed bookstore that’s as on-brand as it gets. Walking into this space was like stepping into the pages of a romance novel itself. From the charming decor to the carefully curated book displays, everything about The Ripped Bodice was thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of whimsy and wonder.
For our students, this wasn’t just about appreciating the books on the shelves; it was an opportunity to learn how the atmosphere and visual identity of a store can shape its brand. The Ripped Bodice was the perfect example of how a specific theme — in this case, romance — can influence everything from the color scheme to the choice of furniture and even the events held inside the store. It was a chance for the students to see how a brand’s visuals are an essential part of its identity and success.
Books Are Magic: The Poetry Vending Machine
We ended the day at Books Are Magic, a bookstore that lives up to its name. Located in the heart of Brooklyn, Books Are Magic offers more than just a collection of books; it offers an experience. One of the most unique features of the store is its poetry vending machine — a quirky little machine that dispenses poems instead of candy.
This became a fun, interactive learning experience for our students as they picked their poems and discussed what they learned about the store’s brand, just from the visuals and the overall vibe. It was a perfect example of how even a small, playful addition can create a strong emotional connection with customers, all while staying true to the essence of the brand.
A Day of Learning, Inspiration, and Possibilities
This trip was more than just a visit to a few bookstores. It was an immersive experience that gave our students the chance to see how visuals and aesthetics speak volumes about a brand before anyone even says a word. They saw how art and design can shape a business’s identity and how important it is to stay authentic to the heart of the brand.
A huge thank you to Andre Trenier for being such an inspiring figure. The kids were amazed by his generosity, insight, and the way he combines his artistic passion with entrepreneurial spirit. Their excitement was palpable, and the lessons they learned will stay with them long after the trip ended.
At Lucas Literacy Lab, we believe in the power of freedom and creativity in education. This field trip was just one example of how we give our students the tools and experiences they need to build their own futures. With an innovative, hands-on approach, our students are not just learning; they are discovering the world of business, entrepreneurship, and creativity for themselves.
Microschool freedom is like nothing else. To learn more about what we do at Lucas Literacy Lab and how your child can be a part of our unique educational experience, visit LucasLiteracyLab.com. Now enrolling for the 25/26 school year!
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