Phoenix comic book store to close after nearly four decades of operation

PHOENIX — The day eventually comes when even superheros must hang up their cape and call it a career.

That day will arrive in April for Phoenix comic book store owners Marsha and Alan Giroux, who announced they are retiring and plan to close their store, All About Books and Comics, after 38 years of operation.

“Fun and rewarding, it has been a great ride, and an amazing place to raise our children, but now it is time to say goodbye to the brick and mortar side of our business,” read a statement on the store’s official website.

Originally purchased in 1981 with the name “A Little Bookstore”, the comic book shop has over one million back issue comics, along with toys, statues, t-shirts, gifts and more.

The store will carry new releases of comic books and specialty merchandise in store up to March 25. However, the couple will continue to sell comics through mail order and eBay.

Patrons can find items from 25% to 50% off for the retirement sale, which the couple say is a “celebration of retirement” and not a going-out-of-business scenario.

“Comic books are still a valuable and viable entertainment form and we will miss it greatly,” the statement read, adding the couple need a little bit less “retail” responsibility.

The couple’s statement encourages those who dream of owning their own comic book store to “just do it” and say there will always be a comic book market.

The Girouxs plan on spending more time with their new grandbaby, due in June, and travel.

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