Progressive book store in Decatur. Loved that they have many books on many topics such as abortion and LGBTQ. They have also a section with stickers, notebooks and even Agnes Scott merch. I loved that they had community resources and even free plan b and other s3xual health necessities. read more

Very feminist and LGBTQ-affirming shop within a charming Southern space. Lots of knick knacks - could have bought nearly the whole shop. I ended up with a deck of learning cards based on the vagal system and two stickers. read more

See all

This shop is one of the indie bookstores on our list to check out. There is plenty of parking in the back which is nice. I love how they have a whole section of Agnes Scott College wear since the school is across the street. The books are separated by genres. I felt like it was a little cluttered feeling. They do have some recommendations in the front but I wish it said why these books were recommended. This is definitely a good store if want books based on actions and all genders. They also have some cards and stickers as well. read more

I was never a fan of reading for fun until I hit my 30s. Now I make sure to hit every local bookstore I see. For the longest time, I thought this was a book store for Agnes Scott students only, but found out it's also open to the public. This place is wonderful with their carefully curated books. Also one of the few places left where face masks are appreciated, but not required. I do believe if they have events in the back of the building, then you just wear a face mask. I was able to snag a few books and opened up an account with them - it's free btw. I was told that if you spend $150, then you get a $10 credit. Tons of parking in the back too, which is a plus. read more

Charis Books & More - Bookstores Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

I visited this bookstore for the first time about two weeks ago and wow--the bookstore of my literal dreams! There are a lot of small details that make this place special. I love that they have accessible parking. They actually answer the phone when you call with questions--unlike some businesses in the age of social media. Their selection is huge, with an emphasis on books that highlight marginalized communities. I was immediately struck by their kid's section because I have a baby niece. They had all the books I was looking for and more. I can't wait to go back today! read more

Charis Books & More - Bookstores Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

Love this bookstore! It seems like someone's front porch but the bookstore is cozy and has a great collection of books. They have all genres of books, stickers, Agnes Scott Merch, and Knick knacks. There is ample parking in the back of the store. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. They carry a superb collection of books on "Politics of Place", "Women and Race", and "Children's Books". It is a reader's heaven and a perfect place to buy a gift. The books are moderately priced. They have month-wide events for readings and discussions. I highly recommend bringing yourself here with a cup of coffee and kindling your thoughts with some amazing reads. read more

See all

Great selection of LGBTQ + books available and cute items for sale, too. Worth the visit

I have attended a few events hosted by Charis virtually, but finally got to visit for the first time yesterday. The staff at Charis is so wonderful and friendly, and they have a fantastic selection of books and goodies! After browsing for about 30 minutes, I left with 2 books, but added 5 other books to be my TBR (and future purchases) list in the process. I cannot wait for my next visit to Charis! read more

Omg I've lived here all my life and this is the first time I've stepped into this amazing bookstore! If you're looking to educate yourself more on all things social justice, abolition, liberation struggles, inclusive feminism, lgbtq+ topics, this is a great bookstore for you. I was only in there for 30 min and left with 9 books. They also have great community events I'll definitely be checking out. read more

Charis Books & More - books - Bookstores Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

See all

I love reading and books and bookstores and the smell of books...you get the idea. So when I travel, I don't buy souvenirs. I buy books from local independent bookstores (books about or set in the place I'm in are especially sought after souvenirs). So, when I was in Atlanta this past weekend, I knew I was going to stop in to a few independent bookstores in the city (Atlanta has a lot of bookstores!). And I knew that Charis was at the top of my list. The oldest feminist bookstore in the South. To be honest, I didn't even know there were feminist bookstores in the South. And Charis lived up to my expectations. What a selection of books! Everything I wanted AND nothing I didn't! This is a place to browse and find something amazing or to come get a signed copy of a book by an author who was just in the store. The store is inside an old house, and I was able to park down the street and walk up to the bookstore. And I left with a few "souvenirs" to be sure! read more

Charis Books & More - Bookstores Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

See all

Nice bookstore. Beautiful building! I missed it when driving by, had to turn around and come back. Would come back

This was an incredible store. When I travel I have a tradition of seeking out a used bookstore with an emphasis on queer identities. Charis is not a used bookstore but it is an incredible place. Charis has a long and important history in the queer community so it was wonderful to visit this incredible space. Their main focus has historically been on feminist and lesbian literature, but they have since evolved to incorporate a broader literature about and for the queer community. I was pleased to find and purchase a recently published queer history book, as a young adult novel. (I'm a sucker for a young adult novel about queer literature.) It's important to also be transparent: this is not a used bookstore, and therefore sells literature at retail value. However... you should go here, and you should purchase a book in your price range. Why is this important? There are very few of these spaces left in the United States, so it is important to patronize these businesses. Unfortunately, It's so easy to just find the book you want and purchase it on places like Amazon, in which case you might save a few bucks. But remember that you may not have found some of these books without places like Charis. So, support the community. In my case, I opted to purchase two books but write down two books to purchase elsewhere at a later time. All in all, this is an important place in the community and for the community. They have a great selection of popular books and books for/about the community. They also host events and readings which feature members of our community. Check them out. Thanks Charis - I look forward to my next visit. read more

Charis Books & More - Outside - Bookstores Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

See all

My girlfriend dreams of the next time we can make a trip from Tampa to Atlanta just to go to this bookstore. You will never find a more inclusive spot to find that unique book that you have been looking for. read more

Yes to everything about this store!!! They have so many options and alternative books. They have fiction , non fiction, mystery, humor, African American, and children. I love their children section It haves so many options and even bilingual ones! They also do yoga Sunday at 11 which is free (donation based) They also have reading for kids every Saturday and a reading group! read more

Charis Books & More - Bookstores Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

See all

Update: New location has ample parking in the back, larger space for reading and browsing, and a lot of anti-Amazon-ness, which makes me really happy. FACT: so many local bookstores ACTUALLY close because they can't compete with large capitalist corporations. Don't let that happen. Shop here. You can in fact, order ANY book, from this store. Just give them a call and order it. They will get it within a week for you to pick up. It doesn't have to be about feminism, about gender issues, about politics--it can be any book, and they will find it and order it for you. WIN. read more

Had the pleasure of visiting this bookstore today for the first time. I've been on the hunt for independent, leftist bookstores since I moved to Atlanta and this place fits the bill perfectly! The folks working there were super friendly, the space was cute and homey, and the collection was really great. There were even some cool non-book items, like candles, bumper stickers, and magnets. I can definitely see this place becoming my go-to for books in the future! read more

Charis Books is the oldest existing feminist bookstore in America. That's a cool distinction! I would love to have a feminist bookstore in my neighborhood. The book world is pretty dominated by men, so I like the idea of a bookstore that focuses more on female voices and feminist ideology. Charis is a great bookstore, even without that feminist qualifier. It's not a huge place, but it has a good selection of new and used books, with a lot of fiction and an adorable children's book corner. There's also a nice gift section, with a neat collection of greeting cards. The staff is very nice, and the store is welcoming to all. Remember, men - feminists don't hate you. I came to Charis as a guest author when I was in Atlanta last month. It was a fun event, and I'm thankful to Charis for having me. Elizabeth played host, and she was super friendly. The set-up was comfortable, and the turnout was better than expected. I think Charis does a good job promoting author events, and it also has good community and online presence. I met local author Amanda Kyle Williams at my reading, and we exchanged books. I guess she has a relationship with this bookstore - a good sign, surely. As I was reading, I noticed a small basset hound stuffed animal in the children's area. It was propped up on display in such a way that I almost felt like it was waiting for me. I'm a huge basset lady, so naturally, I bought the doll, as well as a basset hound Get Well card. I can't wait for my fiancé to get sick so I can give him that card. Any bookstore that loves bassets is a bookstore for me. Between the bassets, the feminism, and the hosting of an unknown debut author on her first tour, Charis Books has my loyalty. read more

Was able to find a wide variety of books that applied to my specific, niche interests. Would highly recommend this bookstore for broadening your understanding of many topics. read more

A trove of gems. Inviting inclusive and quaint. The layout of the books is also picturesque.

My go to place for all books. Amazing personalized recommendations, and they can easily order books they don't have in. Love love love

I never knew this place existed. I mean, there's a lot of places I don't know exist, but I've walked by this particular instance dozens of times. On Friday, a new friend decided to introduce me to lesbianism under the guise of visiting a feminist bookstore. I can totally tell that sort of thing. We were warmly welcomed despite the urban legends about scornful glances towards anyone who doesn't have a short crop and weathered Birkenstocks. My friend admits it has taken years of visiting and buying to enter the realm of acceptance. Nevertheless, I was content reaping the benefits of her patronage. We attended a reading of Women. Period. Four of the anthology's contributors were present and they were all very witty and engaging. A look at their calendar seemed promising as well, with prominent antiracist lecturer and speaker Tim Wise on the docket for the end of the month. Charis is a welcome addition to - and resource for -- my literary, political and social knowledge base. read more

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2014, Charis Books & More is one of the oldest independent feminist bookstores. Sadly, this distinction also means that Charis is on the endangered species list--it's one of fewer than a dozen feminist bookstores remaining in North America. Charis is more than just a place to buy books. The store is a community gathering spot that hosts numerous events and workshops every month. I've seen this versatile space used as an intimate nook for a memoir writing workshop. I also attended a folk music concert at Charis. You can order books online through Charis's website, but I prefer to visit the store and talk to the knowledgeable and friendly staff. Charis offers products that you won't find in any other bookstore in town--a diverse selection of children's books, feminist and cultural studies texts, LGBTQI fiction, nonfiction and magazines, and gift items that reflect Charis's mission of empowering women and providing a welcoming, educational space for all members of the Atlanta community. read more

The decline of the feminist/indie bookstore is depressing. Charis Books fully intends to stick around, and instead of hunkering down and remaining paper based, they have made available plenty of e-books for your tablet reading pleasure. They also oodles and poodles* of events on their calendar with plenty of amazing author readings, yoga, film screenings, anti-oppression panels, and open mics, including one called CLITERATI which makes me titter to no end. Speaking of tittering, there is a lot of really amazing lesbionic womb moon stuff up in Charis, and this also makes me titter. Not because I don't like it, or because I am a jerk, but because it is just delightful to know that a place like this still exists, is ran by kind and amazing human beings, and is dedicated to so many social justice causes other than the lesbian agenda. As a southern queer, I am proud that Charis keeps on doing the good work in the south and for the Atlanta community. I value this precious space so very much and I am glad it is a mere 6 hour drive for me to go and sniff all of the books, ogle all of the silver butches, and laugh with the hilarious and welcoming staff. *no real poodles were harmed in this review read more

I'm embarrassed to say that I've lived in Atlanta for almost a decade and have never visited Charis until recently. I've heard about it through the community, and have known about countless great events here, but alas, I've never been. I've missed out! What a great local bookstore with even better atmosphere. The girls working here are so helpful and awesome. There's always a womanist themed event, book circle or talk here, which is really part of the charm of the place. Not to mention the book selection is really great. read more

I've been to Charis quite a few times. I first noticed them by seeing their vender station at Pride last year. I bought some comics and grabbed a flyer and then went on a date there. A year later and I still visit Charis (and I'm still dating the same girl!) I try to go to all their little parties and celebrations and I'm trying to commit to going to some monthly events or lectures but they always seem to be scheduled at bad times for me. When I go every few weeks, I normally browse their queer latin@ books and generally always leave with SOMETHING whether it's a book or an item they sell. All of the employees are the sweetest and most informative people you will ever meet. Sometimes I just go to be in the space. Friendly people with interests similar to mine. What's not to like? Charis is so so important. You should know by now it's the last feminist lgbtq bookstore remaining in the south and we are so lucky to have it in our city. Go to this bookstore! Note: it's pronounced like Charismatic. CHARISmatic. Charis read more

Unlike some of the other reviewers I wouldn't say it's like walking into someone's home: except the store is in a converted house and there was a wee doggie napping in his bed in the middle of the shop. I will agree that it's off the beaten path, though hidden in plain sight just behind The Brewhouse, I must have driven by it a dozen times and never "seen" it. (hint: park behind Abbadabba) I went in on the advice of my therapist who told me I was having an existential crisis, and when I relayed that to the kind woman behind the counter she was eager and ready to help. She walked me around the store, pulled a few titles, gave a brief summary of each book as we went. This is the neighborhood/community love that keeps me in the clutches of our fair city. Now that I've found Charis, I may never be the same. Not only do they have a wonderful and diverse collection on the shelves, they'll order anything you like, have regular writing and reading groups and special guest author visits, which in the coming weeks include Hollis Gillespie and SARK. Crisis or not, if you're looking for anything meaty to sink your brain fangs into, I'd be willing to be Charis has it. read more

Whoa, I have never met such nice people at a bookstore before! They go a bit beyond just the usual "can I help you with something;" it's easy to strike up any sort of conversation with the staff. But note, they will hold your purse/bag hostage at the door. Anyways - this is a small little bookstore tucked away in Little Five. They have their own mini parking lot, which is a definite plus. There's a good selection available - more than just feminist or LGBT material. As far as prices go, I'm going to assume that Amazon (or similar) would offer a better deal for new books, but this place does have a rather large amount of used books available, which is nice. Cozy, small, and you'll be left alone to browse whatever it is you wish. I didn't buy anything, so I'll probably be back in the near future. read more

There are so few indie bookstores around it is great when one is found. First stopped in here in 2004, glad to see it was around in 2016. It is nice to find a diverse selection on LGBT Spirituality. Need to include the really great selection of bumper stickers. Thanks and good luck for many more years. read more

I am a big supporter of any independent feminist bookstore. Charis offers lots of community programing and books you can't get other places. And that is fantastic, of course. But the version of feminism promoted here is one particular kind- mostly popular feminism and grassroots. And while there is *absolutely nothing wrong* with that kind of feminism, it drastically limits their appeal to a larger feminist audience. I want to go in and buy a bunch of things and support them, but I don't usually find much when just browsing. They will order anything for you, though. read more

It was my first time going into Charis and I'm in love! The guy that works there is so friendly and helped me find a book on coming out to your family. I sat and read for a while and I've never felt so comfortable. Not only is this store LGBT friendly, they have an extensive collection of feminist books. I can't wait to go to some of there events coming up soon. read more

Perfect kind of bookstore like in the small town I grew up in. The books are inviting, the employees are knowledgeable and helpful and my kid is drawn to their curated collection. The have interesting programming constantly and their values of lifting voices that would normally be in the margins is right where I want to spend my extra money. read more

Incredible poetry, fiction, feminist studies, +++ book collections! Fabulous postcards/candles/pins/more! Be prepared to walk out with far more than you intended. :) read more

I love this bookstore! I attend a monthly book club that is always both lively and eye-opening. It is only one of many special programs offered. They have a wonderful selection of books and will also special order things they don't have. The staff is both kind and very knowledgeable. read more

I've only been to Charis once but I already cant wait to return! They have a great selection of feminist, nutritional, and spiritual literature as well as more general fiction, childrens books and more. They also have hilarious bumper stickers and carry many handmade items from local Atlanta artists such as candles, chocolates and knitted knick knacks. They also hold writing and discussion groups on various topics. Its a great neighborhood place you should definitely check out. read more

Ack! I'll continue to get my books elsewhere. Maybe it was an off day, but the lady with the scraggly brown and gray hair was not friendy AT ALL! They aren't getting MY money. read more

This bookstore is almost hidden off the beaten path of what is Little 5 Points. It is worth a small detour if you are a book lover. Far from the chain competitors, this shop offers a comfort and environment that can make you feel like you are over for tea at the neighborhood historian's house. The selection is nice and you'll find a good assortment of books that appeal to the female agenda. read more

I discovered this little bookstore in 2001 when my mom and I were in Atlanta for Halloween. I loved the environment and when we were back in town, I wanted to revisit it. I wish there was a feminist bookstore in Raleigh. :) read more

Have bought a few books here and have only had good experiences. I will continue to go back as long and as often as I can. :) Support independent bookstores! And it's a feminist bookstore! They have poetry readings and whatnot also. Check this place out, it's super cozy and has decent hours also. read more

Charis is the best bookstore! But it really isn't just a bookstore. It's a safe space where you can find amazing people and let down all barriers. Charis hosts an endless number of speakers/ events/ readings/ lectures/ signings and so much more! If they don't have it they will order it! If you need a suggestion they will help you out with it- seriously! If I am having one of those days that seems like THE WORST I go to Charis and I feel better (not just because of retail therapy either!) and usually have had a great conversation! If you want to get a book club started (or join one) then this is the place to go! They're always glad to order books- even if you have a group of people who will need to get the book. They've got great magazines on hand and have videos as well as other gift items. Charis is truly a gem and anyone who lives in Atlanta and has not been to Charis seriously needs to get on that! Go to Charis!! Now!!! Many people may not know that Charis has a few binders that you can flip through to find positions or service providers. Need a therapist? Check out the binder! Have a pet sitting business? Put your card in there! Want to learn about repairing your bike? Charis probably has a program coming up so you can learn! If not make a suggestion and Charis will more than likely host a program so you can learn! Charis is certainly lesbian/ queer friendly but it isn't a place just for lesbians/ queers! Feminists will be thrilled to find the selection of books and videos available there. Moms and kids will LOVE the selection of books- they've got great books for kids including books in Spanish, for various kinds of families and for different life experiences as well as just regular old kids' books! You can also get on their frequent buyer program! I think for ever 10 books you get $10.00 off your purchase. If you're not in the area you can still order books from Charis online! Can I say enough about Charis? NO! It is SOOOOO amazing! read more

It's hard to find an independent & feminist bookstore these days; Charis is the best! There are many programs and services delivered under the non-profit - Charis Circle. An impressive list of visiting authors and speakers include: Alice Walker, bell hooks, Pearl Cleage, Tayari Jones, Dorothy Allison, Leslie Feinberg, Connie May Fowler, Shay Youngblood, Lauren Myracle, asha bandele, Michelle Tea, Fiona Zedde, Jessica Care Moore, Crystal Wilkinson, Gloria Steinem, Chitra Divakaruni, Dar Williams, Doria Roberts, Karin Slaughter, Johnnetta Cole, Beverly Guy Sheftall, Kate Bornstein, Jennifer Nettles, Kristen Hall, Indigo Girls, Rita Mae Brown, Katherine Forrest, Gloria Wade Gayles, Maya Angelou, Kimberly Springer, Connie Curry, Minnie Bruce Pratt, Bhati Kuumba, Rosemary Daniell, Amy Richards, Jennifer Baumgardner, Alix Olson, Julie Anne Peters, Nikky Finney, Ellen Hart, Joan Drury, Byllye Avery, Claire Mickelbury, Meshell Ndegeocello, Octavia Butler, Letta Neely, Alison Bechdel, Urvashi Vaid, Melissa Etheridge, Jane Fonda, Anne Lamott, John Lewis, Athens Boys Choir, Ellyn Maybe, Tananarive Due, Susanne Fincher, Riki Wilchins, Felice Newman, Phyllis Chessler, Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz, Paul Loeb, Howard Zinn, Donna Troka, Amber Hollibaugh, Phyllis Bennis, Lisa Moore, Emily Saliers, Adodi Muse, Radclyffe, Lynn Ames, Laurinda Brown, Sarah Waters, Paul Kivel, Loretta Ross, Daniel Helminiak, Trish Carter... There's so much more to say... one thing is certain- this world needs a Charis Books & More in every city & town... explore their website, or go there to find out why! read more