Wit's End Books, a new business that specializes in gently-used books, has opened in the busy Safeway Plaza, right next door to Cristiano's restaurant at the corner of Grove Street and State Avenue in Marysville.

Owner Sierra Cartwright is a busy mother of six children between the ages of 3 and 9 years. 3-year-old Sebastian spends some days at the store with his mother, playing in the colorful kids' area that features a whimsical "Where the Wild Things Are" mural hand-painted by Cartwright's mother Ann Inman.

Five of the family's six children were adopted through the local foster care system. While focusing on their needs, Cartwright worked at a home-based business and, in the process, built a network of other men and women who are involved in similar enterprises. Now, in addition to the works of local artists, Wit's End showcases candles, lotions, handmade jewelry and other one-of-a-kind products.

While the selection of books, mostly newer used paperback fiction, is well-organized and lovingly displayed at Wit's End, the store may well set itself apart from competitors with some of the more unique activities taking place there.

Every Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. is Psychic Night, with standing-room-only crowds waiting to get readings from four local intuitive mediums. One of the readers is Inman, who specializes in Tarot card sessions.

"The mediums are so comforting, like friends and grandmothers," Cartwright explained. "They provide kind, non-judgmental readings in palmistry, crystal and Tarot."

Wit's End also schedules ongoing classes and workshops. Some are fairly traditional, like knitting and crochet classes, while others, like the Mechanics of Karma and Angel Communication, may be a little more esoteric.

"Owning a bookstore was always in the back of my mind," said Cartwright. "Ever since I worked at one many years ago, I've always wanted to have a shop of my own."

She spent months shopping on eBay to find her inventory of books, and friends have helped her organize the selections alphabetically by category. The sturdy shelves are well-marked and favorite authors are easy to find in the store.

Comfortable areas for reading or conversing are situated throughout the space. As soon as the health department approves the espresso operation, shoppers will be able to order their favorite hot beverage while browsing among the stacks.

The books sell for half the cover price, and Cartwright also accepts trade-ins in good condition, usually offering one-fourth the cover price in store credit.

Wit's End is open Monday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday until 9 p.m.