I’m starting to sound like a broken record, I know. But oh, how I love the bookishness of Boston. Here, a few of my favorite bookish haunts so far:
1. Brattle Book Shop. I’ve gushed about this place before, but I’ll say it again: Outdoor stalls crammed with treasures ALL $5 and under. A rare-book room that feels as sacred as a church. Stacks of fiction, a wee children’s alcove, a shelf of review copies at the front, and a giant pencil over the front door. It is heaven. (And perfectly located near a coffee house, a yarn shop and my beloved Boston Common.)
2. Brookline Booksmith. This place is just dazzling – shelves upon shelves of books in every genre, a gorgeous gift section, and a Used Book Cellar. I wrote about it a few weeks ago, and I love a good browse when I’m in the area.
3. The Boston Public Library. Elegant, imposing, full of art and books and even a fountain in the central courtyard. I wandered around alone a few weeks ago, took Jeremiah back, and plan to return.
4. Quincy’s Thomas Crane Library. Our local library (with four branches!) has a fabulous selection of books, audiobooks and DVDs. Needless to say, I am here ALL the time.
5. Wellesley Booksmith. This is a bit farther out – but I got to meet Erin here a couple of weeks ago, and it’s a charming, cozy spot with a wide selection and fun, funky gifts.
I’m sure this list will grow as I continue to explore Boston…which is, really, a delightful prospect. I’ll be sure to share any future bookish treasures with you.
[…] door and turn east, to visit the post office or the bank or spend a little while browsing at the Brattle. I’ve treated myself to a lunch or two at Thinking Cup, on the days when we run out of […]
[…] discounts aren’t enticing enough to make me buy books there instead of at my other favorite bookish places.) I hope the store doesn’t stand empty long – but I wish it weren’t closing at […]
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hi there, I’m leaving on a a short trip to Boston in a couple of months and I’ll make good use of your list – many thanks !
[…] And slowly, it became my city – my beloved green Common, my stops along the Freedom Trail, my bookshops and cafes and general haunts. I learned the layout and the frustrating ways of the public transit […]
[…] and Concord and Rockport and Brookline, alternating between tourist attractions and the cafes, bookshops and other haunts I’ve come to […]