There are few better ways to spend a summer Saturday morning than diving into a room full of books. Or, at least, there is no better way for a book lover. There’s something so exciting about the hunt for a new book. Maybe it’s those hunter/gatherer genes from a past life kicking in?
Stepping into a room full of intrigue and opportunities, it’s almost magical. I have plenty of books to read at home, but the idea of finding my next great favorite is too much to resist.
The Perfect Bookstore
As I’m sure I’ve expressed before, I’m very particular about the bookstores I love to visit. While I’ll visit any bookstore once, especially on vacation, I have a hard time paying over $10 for a used book. Maybe I’m too cheap or maybe years of finding books at thrift stores has left me with certain expectations. So, the fancy bookstores with high-priced items don’t appeal to me.
No, I prefer the endless collections of $5 books meaning I can get a sneak a few more in before my bank account hurts too badly. I don’t need fancy books, and I am far from a latest-hit reader. Honestly, unless something about the story is incredibly captivating, I’d rather stick to finding something loved over finding something new.
I mean no shame to you BookTok hunters who love picking up the latest trends! It’s just not my style.
Book Haul
On our recent visit, I did not go home empty-handed. Despite the crowded room full of fellow readers, I snagged a few books I can’t wait to dive deep into.
The Storyteller
by Kathryn Williams
Good Reads Rating: 3.8
Synopsis
Jess discovers that her aunt may be a direct descendant of the Romanov family. That’s right, her aunt might actually be the missing Anastasia. With the help of a local college student, Jess dives deep into the mystery of her family’s past
Will I actually read this book?
Yes, I love a little investigative and historical research story. I love learning about the past with a fun story to guide me through it.
Mistress of the Art of Death
by Ariana Franklin
Good Reads Rating: 3.9, Book 1 in a 5-Book Series
Synopsis
When four children are mysteriously murdered, the people of medieval Cambridge, England immediately blame the Jewish community. King Henry II takes them under his protection and requests help from the world’s leading medical experts, Masters of the Art of Death. A young prodigy steps up to the challenge. She attempts to unravel the mystery and find the real killer while also avoiding the label of witchcraft. Her investigation leads her to Cambridge’s darkest alleys as she works to prevent further murder.
Will I actually read this book?
Absolutely! Years of watching Law & Order have left me with a deep appreciation for crime dramas. Add in a little history, and I’m sold! The topic is very dark, so if I can’t handle it I will give up on the book. I’m hoping the details of the actual murder are limited, so I can enjoy the story that follows.
The Fall of the Sparrow
by Robert Hellenga
Good Reads Rating: 3.6
Synopsis
Alan is alone. He lost his youngest daughter in a terrorist bombing several years prior, his other two daughters have grown up and moved away, and his wife left him in the years following their tragic loss. His life begins to change, though, as he attends the trial for those guilty of his daughter’s death. Slowly, he finds new life and a chance to love again.
Will I actually read this book?
Maybe… There were several books on the shelf from this particular author, and this one stuck out to me more than the others. Alan is a professor, and it’s always been my dream to join the faculty of some college or university. Like the previous book, the topic is unbearably sad. I’m hopeful I’ll do my best to make it through this one.
Case Histories by Kate Atkinson
Good Reads Rating: 3.8
Synopsis
Retired office now turned Private Investigator, Jackson Brodie has three unconnected cases fall into his lap.
– A little girl disappears in the middle of the night while surrounded by family.
– A young woman falls victim to a seemingly random attack.
– A new mother suffers a psychotic break resulting in the death of her husband.
Will I actually read this book?
Spoiler alert, I already read this book! I don’t think I’ll do a full review because it wasn’t really my cup of tea. The initial cases captivated me, but I quickly grew bored of the plot to get those stories resolved. The characters were relatively average and unlikable. I didn’t connect strongly with any, and I only finished the book to get to the conclusion of those original cases. I even admit to skimming a page or two to get there faster.
Make the Most of Your Bookstore Visit
Now, whether you’re headed to a high-end bookstore/coffee shop combo or to Goodwill, here are a few tips on how to make the most of your next bookstore visit.
1. Keep the day and time of your visit in mind.
We usually visit my favorite store in the dead of winter. That means a relatively empty store with plenty of room and time to browse. The summer is a whole different story. We forgot about beach traffic and visited on a very crowded day. While I love seeing the store busy, it was hard to take the time I wanted while trying not to bump into others.
2. Bring only what you need.
I have a lovely husband to carry around my selected books. If you’re on your own, bring a tote bag to hold any books. It’ll allow you to be a little more hands-free while you continue looking.
Bring your limit! Used bookstores are great places to spend lots of money! I usually limit myself to a specific number of books before each visit. With that goal in mind, I can make better decisions about which books are worth bringing home.
3. Leave your expectations at home.
If you have a specific book you’re looking for, I recommend looking somewhere else. The beauty of used bookstores is finding something you weren’t expecting or haven’t heard of before.
4. It’s okay to judge a book by its cover.
While I highly encourage you to be open-minded about the genre and style of books you choose, sometimes you just know when it’s not going to work out. Trust your instinct and save your money. I have more than one book at home that I wish I’d never bought.
Have I inspired you to check out your local bookstore? If you make the trip, let me know! I’d love to hear about your local bookstore along with your best book browsing tactics.
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