Q: What type of books do you keep in stock?

A: We carry a mix of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books — from buzzy bestsellers to niche and local finds.We also keep a small selection of giftable items for fellow book lovers.

Q: Who runs Meant Well Books?

A: Meant Well Books is run by a book-loving mom and her nine-year-old daughter. The daughter is the unofficial "Head of the Kids Section," selecting most of the children's books and bringing the energy and cuteness (don't be surprised if you see her cartwheeling behind the check-out stand) to most of our pop-up stops — though not every single one, because she is nine, after all.

Q: What inspired you to start a book truck?

A: Reading, writing, and supporting literacy has always been a big part of our lives. It's been a dream to start a bookshop, but this felt like a much more accessible way to do it, outside our nine-to-five/elementary school.

We also realized that people who love books often love the experience of browsing and connecting over books just as much as reading itself. And the truck creates an engaging, natural space for that to happen.

For people who haven’t picked up a book in a while, it can be an invitation. For people who already love books, it can be a new, shared experience, often in a beautiful location!

Q: Where did the name “Meant Well” come from? And the logo?

A: The short answer: it’s about trying your best.

The longer answer is that when this idea was forming, friends who run small businesses kept saying, “You just have to start.” Not perfectly. Not with everything figured out. Just start, learn as you go, and keep improving.

That’s something I talk about with my daughter too — it being ok to make mistakes if you pick yourself up, and not waiting until everything feels flawless before you begin.

I came across the phrase “Meant Well” in something I was reading, and it captured that spirit. The logo itself was inspired by my daughter’s drawings — not always perfect, but fun and full of heart.

Q: Where do you pop up?

A: In our first summer, we focused on Greater Victoria — from Fairfield, to downtown markets and festivals, to the West Shore, and neighbourhood pop-ups across the broader city. It's an incredibly supportive place and we're greatful to everybody who came out!

For our second year, we’re looking at broadening our scope a bit more (can you say road trip?!)! Open to your suggestions.

Q: Can you pop up at my event?

A: We love being invited. Availability depends on the season and schedule, but we’re always happy to hear about potential collaborations and appreciate you thinking of us.

Q: What are "reading parties"? When is your next one?

A: Reading parties are community gatherings where we bring the truck, set aside dedicated time to read together in a relaxed setting, and leave space to chat, browse, and connect. Think: blankets, books, and good company. We often have other vendors there with food, drinks, and more books, as well as our partner and host, Simon Says, who helps build community and connection.

We usually host them during the less rainy months on the West Coast. For upcoming dates, check our Events page or follow along on Instagram for the latest updates.

Q: What kind of truck is it — and where is it from?

A: She’s a 2006 Suzuki Carry, imported from Japan. Our friends at Platform Garage in Shawnigan Lake helped bring her over and get her road-ready.

Q: How many books are on the truck?

A: At our most recent stop, it was just under 400. The shelves are always shifting as we bring in new titles and see what resonates.

If you’re ever curious before heading out, you can browse the majority of our current stock online. And feel free to drop us a note if you're looking for something special.