Today’s Spotlight on Bookstores post was submitted by Samantha, who blogs at Living Little Women. She is an aspiring YA author who posts about reading, writing, and life in general. Here she writes about Books of Wonder, a independent children’s bookstore which offers not only recent works, but also rare and collectible books and Wizard of Oz memorabilia:
Books of Wonder, in New York City, is my favorite indie bookstore for two reasons.
First, the staff has a great depth of knowledge and enthusiasm for the books they sell. A few years ago I struck up a conversation about the young adult novels I was reading with the woman who was checking me out. She hadn’t read the ones I was talking about. I was happy to tell her why I loved them. She then recited a list of her recent favorites. I hadn’t read any of them and was so excited to put them on my list!
The other reason I love Books of Wonder is because they give local authors a chance to shine. Most of us write about things we know and the way that other authors perceive the places and things that I see every day is fascinating. I think it helps me, as an author, to remember to never take the seemingly banal for granted.
Thanks, Sam! What you write about seeing the world through the eyes of others is so true – sometimes we don’t appreciate what’s right in front of us because we’ve allowed these wonders to blend into the background. We all should take the time to “stop and smell the roses” … or, perhaps, stop and browse the books!
I was lucky enough to go to Books of Wonder in May and I agree – it’s a fantastic store!
I love it that the staff at the store knows it’s books, and is also interested in taking recommendations. Sounds like a great place!
Next time I’m in NYC, I’ve have to take time to visit this one.
I’ve been to Books of Wonder on numerous occasions and it is fantastic for a Kidlit/YA lover. They have a huge selection of picture books and put together fantastic events.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t lucky enough to visit this bookstore while in NYC this year, but it sure sounds like a good one.
Kathy – next year, for sure!
zibilee – yes, it’s a give and take; booksellers who recommend AND listen to your picks
Beth F – oh, I’ll go with you … I know a short cut …
Michele – my sister would go crazy for all the Oz memorabilia, too
Serena – I’ve yet to go also, but all the kidlit/YA fans have me convinced it’s a must-see. Maybe we’ll make it during BEA 2011
[...] Spotlight on Books of Wonder by Samantha at Living Little Women March 15th, 2010 | Tags: Books of Wonder, children's, Manhattan, Oz | Category: Manhattan, children's [...]