SHARON, Pa. – What began as a cozy shop showcasing local artists – with just a small shelf of books – has transformed into something much bigger: a fully realized independent bookstore rooted in community, creativity and connection.
The Wandering Soul, owned and operated by Dani Johnson, will officially relaunch as a bookstore Friday. A celebration will be held from noon to 6 p.m., with a ribbon-cutting at noon. The celebration will feature exclusive deals, a “bring a book, take a book” swap and complimentary coffee and cookies while supplies last.
“When I opened The Wandering Soul, I started as a shop with local art … and some books,” Johnson said. “Now I can finally say I’m a bookstore, with more than 2,500 titles on the shelves.”
Johnson’s path to bookstore ownership has been anything but conventional. A lifelong learner and passionate advocate for community, she left high school before graduating, later earning her GED at age 21 – completing four years of coursework in just four months. At 28, she enrolled at Penn State Shenango, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in administration of justice.
Her professional experience spans server, bartender, caregiver, dog groomer, case manager, social media assistant and business liaison – roles that taught her adaptability and connection. In November 2022, she opened The Wandering Soul, blending books, art and a welcoming space for all.
Since then, Johnson has received support from organizations including the city of Sharon, Shenango LaunchBox, Sharon Economic Development Grant Committee, Sharon Community Development Corp. and the Small Business Development Center at Gannon University.
“We are excited to collaborate with Dani and other regional economic development agencies to help strengthen and grow her business,” said Tom Roberts, project coordinator for Shenango LaunchBox. “She brings great energy and joy to the downtown community, and it will be exciting to see her dreams take flight.”
The Wandering Soul now offers a thoughtfully curated collection of books spanning a wide range of voices and perspectives, including banned and challenged titles, LGBTQIA+ literature, classic and contemporary fiction, fantasy, horror, poetry and more. Local artists’ handcrafted items remain a centerpiece, making the store a space where literature and art meet.
“This space is about community,” Johnson said. “It’s about joy, safety and walking into a place where something speaks to you – whether it’s a story, a piece of art or just a quiet moment.”
For more information, call 724 979 4039 or email thewanderingsoulshop@gmail.com.