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This Woman Is Helping Make The Comic Book World A Little More Diverse

Ariell R. Johnson is the first female comic book store owner on the East Coast.

Ariell R. Johnson, comic book fan and coffee aficionado, just brought together the best of both worlds together in her new store, Philadelphia's Amalgam Comics & Coffeehouse. Combining reading materials with a cup full of caffeine is nothing new, but Ariell –- who first thought of the idea 12 years ago as a student at Temple University –- will be the first Black woman to own a comic book shop on the East Coast. Making history and fulfilling your dreams? Sounds like a win to us!

In addition to offering tons of comics and potent potables, Ariell will also focus on bringing a more diverse perspective to her store. "We will be a legit store, so expect to see the heavy hitters that we all know and love," she told the Philadelphia Daily News.

"But in addition to those usual suspects, we want to showcase diverse comics, creators, and characters. We think that comics are for everyone and anyone that loves comics -- women, people of color, and the LGBTQ community," she continued. "Whether you have been reading comics for 20 years or just started after watching a Marvel movie, our aim is to make everyone excited and comfortable."

Since opening her store, Ariell said that sales have been consistent and growing. Here's to breaking through the "comics" ceiling for fans of all stripes everywhere!

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