Summary

AStardew Valleyfan found a store display celebrating the game and offering book selections based upon the characteristics of some fan-favorite NPCs.Stardew Valleyhas an astounding number of players, so while a bit unusual, it makes some sense for a store to target the cozy farm sim demographic.

Stardew Valleyhas been a major success storyfor developer ConcernedApe, as well as fans of farming games. While the title was originally developed to serve as a sort of spiritual successor to theHarvest Moongames, it’s evolved into something entirely its own with a fervent and dedicated fanbase.Stardew Valleyhas become so popular that it even has its own cookbook now, which served as the centerpiece of this particular store display.

Stardew Valley Tag Page Cover Art

Stardew Valleyplayer Melody12234 shared the store display highlighting the game at a Barnes and Noble bookstore. TheStardew Valleycookbookis at the center of it, but the most intriguing thing is that the display recommends fiction books based upon the personality and characteristics of select NPCs from the game. Each NPC is divided up by “loves” and “hates,” mimicking how the NPCs prefer certain items over others given as gifts. However, the “loves” and “hates” here are more like pros and cons, highlighting an element of each character’s personality and putting a book that ties into those elements above them.

Stardew Valley Store Display Character Associations

For example,Elliott, Pelican Town’s author, is highlighted as being into the beach life and writing poems, but having little personality outside of being a writer. Based on these elements, the store recommends Beach Read by Emily Henry. Maru’s loves and hates revolve aroundMaru’s involvement in science and engineeringand the fact that her father, Demetrius, sometimes seems to dislike the player’s farmer. This association suggests Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood. The display also includesEmily, Abigail,Penny, Shane, Sam, Haley, Harvey,Sebastian, and Alex.

Fans in the comments are debating whether the book choices are appropriate for each character. Some find the books to be good matches, while others aren’t in agreement. Players have also pointed out that of theromanceable characters inStardew Valley,Leahis strangely absent from the display. This display apparently also isn’t limited to a single Barnes and Noble store, with one user saying that their local store’s version chose different books for each character. While the accuracy of the display is a matter of opinion, the find is a cute nod to one of the most successful indie games ever.

Stardew Valley

WHERE TO PLAY

You’ve inherited your grandfather’s old farm plot in Stardew Valley. Armed with hand-me-down tools and a few coins, you set out to begin your new life. Can you learn to live off the land and turn these overgrown fields into a thriving home? It won’t be easy. Ever since Joja Corporation came to town, the old ways of life have all but disappeared. The community center, once the town’s most vibrant hub of activity, now lies in shambles. But the valley seems full of opportunity. With a little dedication, you might just be the one to restore Stardew Valley to greatness!