Brookline Booksmith

My visit to this bookstore was absolutely delightful. The carefully curated bookshelves, adorned with staff recommendations, added a charming human touch in this digital age. I was particularly touched by the section proudly displaying “banned books sold here, love freedom.” This place is incredibly LGBTQIA+ friendly, and I’m thrilled I had the opportunity to explore it during my time in Boston.

I recently relocated to Boston and was on the lookout for a privately-owned bookstore. I'm not a big fan of shopping at the "big-chain" book stores. I also am not huge on reading books from an electronic device. I'm on my computer and phone all day. My eyes prefer a physical paper book. I scoured Yelp and found a spot called Brookline Booksmith. The reviews were solid and I knew I had to check it out! I am glad I did! The size and selection is unmatched. This isn't your ordinary bookstore. While they do have a plethora of books to choose from, they also have a massive selection of other products. They have a massive selection of craft-made sweets, snacks, sauces, craft-sodas and drinks, CBD infused drinks and candy, craft-beverage mixes, cocktail kits, sugar cubes/sticks, cocktail rim salt/sugars, craft chocolate bars + truffles, craft teas, rice crispy treats, craft popcorn, cookies, nuts, and so much more! If you're looking for home-goods, they have you covered! They have a solid selection of glassware, plates, mugs, teapots+cups, bowls, chopsticks, utensils, platters, bar ware, kitchen tools, and more! The quality is top-notch and the items are incredibly unique. I've never seen such an incredible selection! They also have a solid "self-care" section with incense, candles, body care, cosmic crystals, crystal sets, stones and stone sets, crystal candles, chakra stones, meditation stones, healing stones, serenity stones, grounding stones, and other assorted minerals and stones! If you're looking for gorgeous jewelry, they have you covered on that too! They have a huge selection of anklets, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and so much more! Now, onto the books! After all, it is a bookstore! They have a massive selection of books in every genre you can imagine. They also have a solid selection of cookbooks and adult coloring books! They do have a solid selection of book lights for those who like to read at night without disturbing others. I love the adult coloring books and they have the largest selection I've seen anywhere. You can even find the profanity-laced coloring books here! They have a solid selection of quality, high-end colored pencils and such so you don't have to go anywhere else! If you're looking for a new journal, THIS is the place for it. They easily have HUNDREDS of choices in nearly every size, color, and pattern imaginable. They also have a solid selection of accessories for your new journal, like a loop to hold your pen. Honestly, it was overwhelming there were so many choices. You'll see what I mean when you first walk in. It is the biggest selection anywhere! They also have a great selection of calendars in different themes, sizes, and designs. I strongly suggest spending an afternoon taking in everything they have to offer. The amount of stuff is incredible! The book selection is massive. I wish I had more time on my first visit here, I did not realize how large the place was. I will certainly be back on a rainy afternoon to really spend some time shopping and picking out a few good books. I did end up grabbing some craft snacks and sweets and a CBD infused beverage! I look forward to coming back! The only thing that could make this place even better would be a small cafe! However, I understand why they don't have one. There likely wouldn't be the space to accommodate a cafe. Service is friendly and efficient. The line at checkout moves quickly and they do have employees on the floor to help guide you to that perfect book! Prices are very reasonable for the quality products offered. I can't wait to come back!

A perfect place to visit for any time of year, but it especially shines for the holiday season! You can (and I have) gotten gifts for the entire family from here, including books, socks, tea, chocolate, jewelry, whatever you may need, they have it. They also have a rather large selection of discounted books which have some hidden gems so it is definitely worth a visit!!