When disasters strike, communities come together in unexpected ways. This is exactly what happened at Octavia’s Bookshelf, the only Black-owned independent bookstore in Pasadena. Owned by Nikki High, this bookstore transformed into a support hub after the Eaton Fire, offering shelter, resources, and emotional support to evacuees. While Nikki’s Altadena home was significantly damaged and remains unlivable, her bookstore became a beacon of hope for the local community.
A Safe Space Amidst the Chaos
Unlike many of her neighbors who lost their homes completely, Nikki High’s house suffered extensive damage, making it unsafe to live in. However, she quickly realized that her business was spared and could be used to help others.
At first, Octavia’s Bookshelf simply offered electricity and internet access to those who had been displaced. But as more people arrived, Nikki knew she had to do more.
“People showed up, then I thought maybe I should have food and water… and that was the start of it,” High shared.
This small gesture grew into a larger relief effort as the bookstore put out a community call for donations, replacing books on the shelves with essential supplies like air purifiers, food, and water.
Helping Hundreds of People in Need
Over the span of three weeks, Octavia’s Bookshelf served about 500 people, providing them with crucial aid during a time of crisis. The community’s response was overwhelming, as many of the same people who once supported Nikki’s bookstore now turned to it for help.
“It felt really full circle to be able to help people who helped me open the business, stay in business,” High said.
The generosity of donors and the resilience of the people in Altadena turned this bookstore into a symbol of hope and healing.
A Literary Connection to the Fire
Octavia’s Bookshelf is named after Octavia Butler, a Pasadena-born writer known for her thought-provoking science fiction. One of her most famous works, “Parable of the Sower”, has gained new attention in the wake of the Eaton Fire.
The novel, published in 1993, portrays a dystopian Los Angeles affected by climate change, economic collapse, and wildfires. In a chilling coincidence, an entry in the book—dated February 1, 2025—reads:
“We had a fire today.”
This eerie prediction has drawn readers to the bookstore, eager to explore the novel’s themes and join discussion groups focused on its relevance today.
Reopening with a Mission to Give Back
Now that the immediate crisis has passed, Octavia’s Bookshelf has reopened as a bookstore, but it remains deeply committed to community support. The store is stocking books that help children cope with disasters and guide families in disaster preparedness.
“This book is about a family who is evacuated because of a wildfire,” High explained about one of the featured titles.
Additionally, the store maintains a giveaway section where evacuees can still find free books, reading glasses, and wellness items like air purifiers.
While Octavia’s Bookshelf has returned to its primary role as a bookstore, it remains a safe space for healing, learning, and community support—a true testament to resilience in the face of disaster.
The story of Octavia’s Bookshelf is a powerful example of how small businesses can become lifelines for their communities during difficult times. Nikki High turned her bookstore into a resource center, offering relief and support to hundreds of people affected by the Eaton Fire. Even as the store returns to its original purpose, its impact remains strong, proving that books are more than just stories—they can be a source of comfort, education, and resilience. Through its continued community outreach, Octavia’s Bookshelf stands as a symbol of hope, recovery, and the enduring power of literature.
