Meet a Mom: Heather Moran of The Book Club
This month, we’re excited to introduce you to Heather Moran, a West Hartford mom of three and the passionate founder of The Book Club—a children’s literacy center that’s quickly become a local favorite. With a background in education and a deep love for storytelling, Heather is on a mission to help kids fall in love with reading while giving parents a little less to worry about. Get to know Heather and the inspiration behind her joyful, community-centered business.
Let’s Start with You…
Heather is mom to Lila (9), Hayes (7), and Leni (5)—a trio she credits with redefining multitasking. With 15 years of experience as a teacher, curriculum writer, and school leader, she’s now channeling her passion for literacy into something new for the Greater Hartford community.
“I grew up in Manchester, New Hampshire,” Heather shares. “But after meeting my husband, who’s from here, we eventually made our way to West Hartford when our oldest was born—and like so many young families, we never left.”
What might surprise you? Heather is a self-proclaimed Halloween fanatic who never says no to a spooky movie or decoration. She’s also an organizing enthusiast (label makers = joy) and a DIY-loving interior design dabbler. And once the kids are asleep, you’ll likely find her catching up on reality TV, fully invested in the drama.
The Birth of The Book Club
The idea for The Book Club was born from Heather’s years in the classroom and her experience as a parent. “I saw how often students weren’t given the time—or the choice—to fall in love with reading,” she says. “Even I struggled to consistently carve out space for deep, meaningful book conversations. Life is busy.”
That realization led her to a big leap: leaving her role as an Academic Dean to bring The Book Club to life. She spent last summer transforming an old office space, building out curriculum, and even getting handy with power tools. By January, the doors opened—and the community response has been incredible.
The Book Club now offers 6-week themed sessions for babies through tweens, with group discussions, hands-on book-inspired activities, and special events like author visits, birthday parties, and book swaps.
What Makes The Book Club Special?
“We’re not a tutoring center, and we’re not a storytime,” Heather explains. “We’re somewhere in between—and that’s intentional.”
The Book Club focuses on joyful, meaningful engagement: letting kids read books they enjoy, talk about them with peers, and take part in creative activities that make stories come alive. “It’s about confidence, curiosity, and connection—so reading becomes something they want to do, not something they have to do.”
And it’s working. Parents report that their kids are voluntarily picking up books over devices. Some are making leaps in reading levels, and others are simply finding a place where they feel seen and heard. “It’s not just about books,” says Heather. “It’s about belonging.”
On Motherhood & Entrepreneurship
Most days, Heather’s life is a whirlwind of school drop-offs, pickups, practices, snacks, and squeezing in curriculum design in between. “I’m also figuring out social media, website updates—you name it. It’s chaotic, but I wouldn’t trade it.”
Being a mom has reshaped how she works. “It made me more intentional. I now create experiences that are engaging, practical, and built with the whole child in mind.”
Her advice to moms considering launching their own venture? “Don’t wait for the perfect moment—it doesn’t exist. Progress matters more than perfection. Your perspective as a mom is a superpower.”
Local Love from Heather
Heather and her crew love spending time at Jonathan’s Dream playground, DBAT, and the basketball program at the JCC. Both of her daughters play in the West Hartford Softball League (her husband, Mike, is a coach!). Her daughter is involved with the Newington Children’s Theatre Company, and her youngest is prepping to start dance at Verve.
As for local gems, she’s a big fan of Lil Hope for thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts.
Lightning Round
Favorite kids book? You’re a Hero, Daley B. — a hidden gem her entire family enjoys.
Coffee order? Latte… though she’s recently hopped on the matcha train.
Go-to dinner? “Rotisserie chicken—known in our house as ‘Oh no, not rotisserie chicken again.’”
Can’t live without? Her Google Calendar. “If it’s not on there, it’s not happening.”
Coming Soon: Mom’s Night, Booked! – A Book Club Just for You
We’re so excited to share that we’re launching a Greater Hartford Moms Book Club, designed just for local moms looking for connection, conversation, and a little “me” time.
Whether you’re an avid reader or just trying to finish one chapter before bed, this group is all about low-pressure, high-fun discussions with other women who get it. Expect cozy vibes, seasonal picks, and gatherings that feel like a deep breath in your busy week.
Want in? Click here to join the interest list or get notified when we launch!
