Stories should be seen not as a product, but as an experience. There needs to be a small safe space for those who love stories and art. Every time a book is in hand, it shouldn’t remain contained within itself, but the magic of those pages should reach others. This is the effort of Sumi, who tries to share that magic with everyone.
Sumi, a native of Thiruvananthapuram, had one singular passion while growing up: a love for stories and comic books. While other children were interested in videos and games, Sumi found joy in flipping through the small pages of comic books. Every comic book, with its characters, phenomena, and variety of subjects, transported her to another world. Time passed, and though she grew older, her love for stories never faded. One day, she discovered that the old comic books she had read as a child were being republished. It dawned on her that these weren’t just meant for her, but for others to enjoy and experience their energy too.
Thus, three years ago, she started a business called Red Eye Chapters. This is not just an ordinary bookstore. Every book sold here has been personally read and cherished by Sumi before reaching the hands of the readers.
Today, Red Eye Chapters offers comics, novels, graphic books, and picture books. The focus is not on the language, but on the content, proving that what truly matters is the story. Although most books are in English, there are also some Malayalam-translated versions available. Independent artists and writers, who are opening new directions in the publishing world, are an integral part of Red Eye Chapters. Their stories, experiences, and art styles are uniquely reflected in each book.
Sumi’s marketing strategy involves art exhibitions and Instagram. Deliveries are made through courier services, and Red Eye Chapters now sends books to various cities across India. Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore are part of her business expansion goals. Sumi’s next big dream is to either open a bookstore café or collaborate with other bookstores to make sure these stories reach an even wider audience.
Although it is a passion project, Sumi approaches it practically. There isn’t a consistent income from this venture, so support and courage are necessary. She mentions that she had family support, which is why she decided to pursue this path. Red Eye Chapters is not just a bookstore; it is a universe where the perspectives of story lovers come together. Sumi’s journey continues with every new book, with every new reader.
