1. Books Are Magic

    1. Books Are Magic

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    Brooklyn, NY

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    Books Are Magic

    4.5 (102 reviews)
    ModerateBookstores
    Open 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

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    they are!
    Emina S.

    How have I not reviewed them yet? Tbf I don't think I've reviewed many bookstores (which I need to fiiiiix). One of my favorites, though! Love the curated sections like the one with BAM-recommended titles. They also bring new releases in at lightning speed. A few weeks ago, I came for Richard Scarry-themed Inciardi prints and a new book but stayed for the quaint yet busy atmosphere where turning every corner feels like uncovering a hidden literary world. The kids area in the back is ADORABLE and features a little reading cave. In love with the cookbooks and architectural books around there, too. Their website notes upcoming literary events and is well-organized; full of fun BAM-themed merchandise. Open 10AM - 6PM *daily* -- support local!

    Priscilla S.

    Books are Magic was on my list of bookstores to visit, and I finally made it. This is a cozy bookstore, not too big and not too small. It was pretty crowded the day I went, but it was still easy to move around and browse. What I like most about this bookstore is the cards put out on the shelves with books the staff recommends and why. I also like that they have a calendar of events for the month, including book signings held at the Montague Street location. They also have books that were signed by the author for sale.

    Inside
    Michael C.

    This place is absolutely amazing. I love the vibrant, unique area it's located in and that environment is translated and used inside. I have never had such a peaceful, welcoming, and fun time browsing books! They have a MASSIVE selection of books. Their assortment covers off on anything you could really think of. Each section is clearly labeled and has staff recommendations all throughout the store. There weren't many discounted books, but those that were on sale were clearly displayed and called out, which made it easy to identify potential savings. The staff were absolutely amazing. Helpful, but not overbearing. Extremely friendly and you could tell they loved working there. I left with several books (and merch items!) and I will definitely be back!

    YA/adult section
    Andrea R.

    If you're looking to romanticize your NYC life, you might picture dogs, cute little coffee shops, restaurants, and cozy bookstores. At least that's what I picture. I guarantee the bookstore you're thinking of is Books Are Magic. Books Are Magic has 2 locations: 1 in Cobble Hill and the other in Brooklyn Heights. The Cobble Hill location is the original store, and they recently opened the Brooklyn Heights store (also worth a visit!). This place is full of must-reads that are worth every penny. The best part about Books Are Magic is that the employees tag the books they've personally read and recommend. The tags include a little explanation as to why they recommend that particular book. It's nice to know that the books are being personally vetted, and it's always fun to read about what someone else has enjoyed! They have extensive collections in every genre you can think of, and they have cute merchandise, as well. Perusing the cookbooks at Books Are Magic is my guilty pleasure, but every single section will deliver exactly what you're looking for, every single time. This location is well-situated off the F/G subway line, and there is plenty of free street parking. If you're searching for the perfect weekend plan, I suggest picking up a coffee and a pastry at a nearby coffee shop (try Poetica Coffee or Amano) and get lost in the shelves!

    Hannah H.

    Books are Magic is a family-owned (author-owned!), independent bookstore that actually has 2 locations (on Smith and on Montague). They have a nice selection of books, signed books, ebooks, various merchandise, staff recommendations, and in-store events. I liked their independent book section of local writers, which I found interesting! If you're a fan of this bookstore, you can grab one of their large coffee mugs! +author-owned independent bookstore +independent local author section

    Stephanie R.

    Such a great bookstore! Tons of staff recs (with very descriptive recommendations) and lots of new releases, bestsellers, and more. A great place to browse when you want a new book but don't know exactly which one. The merch is cute and the staff is very friendly. Great spot for any bookworm.

    New book alert
    Drew W.

    I don't fashion myself as an avid reader. I do, however, enjoy a great book filled with action. The staff at the bookstore were more than friendly, breaking down each genre and giving a stellar recommendation. They have some of the best collections of books I've stumbled across in awhile. They also have a rewards program that will help me save a dollar here and there in the future.

    The books in display in the window
    Elissa S.

    Indie bookstores are my favorite places to visit when I'm out of town. Books Are Magic caught my attention on instagram, of all places, because of its beautiful mural outside. I was able to pick up a book I had my eye on, plus a store-branded t-shirt, on my travels here. The store itself is kind of small and narrow, but it packs a ton of personality. I didn't find myself lost in browsing, however. I think it took me longer to walk to this bookstore than I spent in it. But I still enjoyed experiencing it! Recommend.

    Books
    Katya U.

    Getting something to read. Absolutely lovely small bookstore in Brooklyn, wonderful books! Can feel many books speaking to us, making it hard which ones to choose!

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    8 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    7 years ago

    Great store with very orderly shelves and cozy atmosphere. Very friendly staff and frequent book signings.

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    8 years ago

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    7 years ago

    A gem of a bookstore. Loved the vibe and appreciate the selection of books. Can't wait to visit again!

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    7 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    8 years ago

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    9 years ago

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    8 years ago

    A neighborhood gem, thriving with family and friends sharing their love for learning and adventure through the many books available.

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    9 years ago

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    9 years ago

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    9 years ago

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    7 years ago

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    8 years ago

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    9 years ago

    This is a wonderful book store. Great selection, very welcoming environment, and the entire staff is very passionate about books.

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    Page 3 of 3

    Ask the Community - Books Are Magic

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    Review Highlights - Books Are Magic

    I wound up getting a book that I've had on my "must buy" list for awhile, but can never find in person and a sweatshirt.

    Mentioned in 2 reviews

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    Community Bookstore - He loves his current book

    Community Bookstore

    4.2(90 reviews)
    1.1 miPark Slope
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    I always love visiting independent bookstores, and Community Bookstore was such a nice experience…read more The staff was incredibly friendly and sweet. We even ended up chatting about the latest season of the Bear, which made the visit feel really welcoming and personal. I actually walked out with a physical book, which is rare for me since I typically use the app Libby to read. I ended up picking up Yesteryear and the waitlist for this book on Libby is MONTHS. So I was happy to finally have a copy in my hands instead of waiting. The store has a cozy neighborhood feel, and it looks like they also have a little outdoor space, though I didn't get a chance to check it out. Definitely a great spot to support an independent bookstore and browse for your next read.

    The Community Bookstore has everything I want in a neighborhood independent book store. It has all…read morefeels that make me at home in a bookstore- cozy, friendly welcoming, very customer oriented. I was looking for a particular book at another independent, local bookstore. When the other store didn't carry it (disappointing), I knew I would find it at Community Bookstore. They carry an excellent selection of new fiction, harder to find fiction, classics and everything In between. If you can't find what you are looking for, they will happily order the books for you for pick up and even delivery. They have an amazing author events which, I really enjoy. Books are a huge part of my life and I love to Community Bookstore.

    Photos
    Community Bookstore - Cute t-shirt sold at Community Bookstore

    Cute t-shirt sold at Community Bookstore

    Community Bookstore - Sign outside of Community Bookstore

    Sign outside of Community Bookstore

    Community Bookstore - Inside Community Bookstore

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    Inside Community Bookstore

    Books Are Magic - bookstores - Updated September 2026

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