Kaboom is a great bookstore with so many options! The store is separated into fiction and nonfiction. I could easily stay for hours browsing! There's definitely something for everyone, plus there are friendly cats to keep you company. Prices are also great and the owner is very helpful! I will be back for sure. read more

I love this bookstore more than life itself. First of all, there was a bookstore cat, and due to my love for cats, I fell in love instantly. Oliver, the cat, was very sweet; he was sunbathing when we first saw him and then followed us around the store. As for the bookstore itself, I love everything about it. There aren't many bookstores like this around anymore, so this is pretty much a hidden gem. With floor to ceiling bookshelves overflowing with books, this store is like heaven on Earth for bookworms. If you live close, or if you live 45 minutes away (like me), definitely visit this place at least once because it's something to cherish! read more

Kaboom Books - Oliver (the best employee) - Used Bookstore Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Excellent, well curated bookstore with extensive math, physics, and general science sections. The owner is knowledgeable about his inventory, and the pricing is reasonable even when compared to online sites. If you like Powells or other famous bookstores, then you will probably like this place. read more

The owners were very nice!! the place had a large collection of books that were very interesting and multiple copies of the same books in different formats. The prices are great and they have a wide variety of genres all sorted out. Highly recommend!! read more

A great find! Used books in good condition and reasonably priced about all topics. The owners are also knowledgeable and very helpful. You could spend hours there on a weekend afternoon ! read more

This used bookstore is an excellent place to browse for lesser known titles, etc. 15/10!!!

The wife loves to read! I was very excited to find these guys on Yelp and check it out. The books are literally stacked to the ceiling in every direction. There are books on just about every subject. She found two books that she had been looking for and I found a really cool book on Japanese Art. I found a few other titles I was interested in but they were a little on the pricey side (for me anyway). The coolest thing about this used bookshop is the shop cat. It was incredibly friendly and purred like a lawnmower. We will for sure be back! read more

Kaboom Books - Used Bookstore Near Me - Houston, Texas

New to town - visiting now, moving this summer. Among the usual tourist shit, I had to Google bookstores because what's a vacation to a book nerd without a browse? From the moment I walked in, I was in love. Then, when the owners acknowledged us but- and this is important- let us alone to browse and get lost in my own world, I knew this is the place I want to be. I wasn't able to browse as much as I wanted because we had a schedule to keep but it was amazing. Of course, I still ended up buying a few. Floor to ceiling selection and very reasonably priced! The owners who will chat with you, which I appreciate, and their love and knowledge of books come through in their personality. I cannot wait to go back when I have time to immerse myself completely. read more

Kaboom Books - Used Bookstore Near Me - Houston, Texas

Kaboom Books is a quaint bookstore located in the center of Houston attracting avid book lovers and casual readers alike, with its unique charm and inviting atmosphere that goes beyond just buying and selling books--it's a haven for those who find joy, in reading. When you walk into Kaboom Books it feels like entering a haven of wonders and exploration. The shelves are filled with a variety of second hand books that carry tales from the uncharted territories in a gentle manner. Every book exudes life with its pages and history; it gives readers a bond that newer editions often lack. Kaboom Books captivates visitors not with its collection but also, with its cozy ambiance that exudes a sense of warmth and hospitality.The soft lighting creates a setting for diving, into books while the scent of old books and classic covers adds to its allure by wrapping guests in a peaceful embrace. As you explore the stores shelves and aisles and browse through the selection of books ranging from literary classics, to specialized scientific publications; it becomes apparent that the collection is carefully curated with a deep understanding and appreciation for literature, across genres while also catering to a wide range of reader preferences. The staff, at Kaboom Books play a role in creating a captivating experience for visitors to the bookstore. Their efforts often go unnoticed despite being essential to the charm of the place. They are well informed individuals who are always willing to enhance a visitors visit by providing valuable insights and recommendations that can lead to unexpected literary discoveries. Their love for books is infectious. What I love about Kaboom books store is beloved classics to unique discoveries not typically found in larger chain stores.The eccentric organization of the books makes it a joy to wander through and stumble upon stories and authors you may have never encountered before.This is a true haven for book worms for those keen to unearth new areas of knowledge and insight. Whenever you come here you'll always find something new waiting for you. Whether it's a first edition book or an amazing conversation with the employees, and with John Dillman who is the manager of this establishment. John has a talent, for literature and loves sharing book recommendations and interesting stories whenever you visit him at the bookstore. It's an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression on you because of his genuine love, for books that he passes on to others during your casual chats there. Kaboom Books exudes an inviting atmosphere, with its nooks and comfortable seating arrangements that encourage you to relax and enjoy a good read for some time. The gentle sound of pages. Soft conversations murmuring in the background provide a sanctuary away, from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Kaboom book store is great place if you just want to get away from your ordinary life and dive into new adventures and interesting characters that will keep you on the edge of your seat. read more

If one loves reading, one will love Kaboom Books for its wide selection of food for the mind. I cannot claim to be a regular patron as I usually drop in every few months or so. Each and every time I visit Kaboom Books I leave impressed with the variety of books on hand across every genre. They also have first editions on display next to the register where knowledgeable staff give useful tips. I have bought several gifts for dear friends at Kaboom which were all very well received. We are truly fortunate that Kaboom Books relocated to the Bayou City from the Crescent City (New Orleans) after Katrina. Kaboom Books epitomizes everything excellent about the determination of small business owners to persist. I hope they continue operations well into the decades to come!! We love Kaboom Books! read more

Don't let the giant piles of books stacked to the ceiling in every direction fool you - the selection here is fantastic. If you are into books (in whatever subject: from Christian mysticism to baseball to poetry to history and more) there is something here for you. It's also a fun experience in an endearing and memorable space. I'm glad I needed to leave for an event or else I probably would have spent a day here (and an ungodly sum of money). read more

This store has books to the ceilings, it is very impressive when you walk in the door. Lots of non-fiction, covers the world and many subject matters, for your education and edification. You can spend hours wandering the aisles finding an interesting book or something you remember emjoying as a child. I have a book list that covers books that sound interesting but are out of print, hard to find or I'm not sure I want to own; I found one here that I'd been looking for a few years. It was last published in 1969, so long out of print, but they had a copy, score! So if you have some free time, come and browse the shelves, you don't know what treasure you might find. read more

Kaboom Books - Shop cat! Every bookstore needs an animal in it. - Used Bookstore Near Me - Houston, Texas

this was such a gem to stumble across! i felt like i was in another world walking into this book store. from floor to ceiling the whole place was filled with books. book lover vibe strong, i believe the owner was the only one manning the place, seem to be every knowledgeable regarding their collections. can help you find almost anything! very friendly! they have a store mascot! you'll see a cat roaming around, keeping things in order. so cute! this second hand book store would be the best place to look for old books that you can't find anywhere else. it seems chaotic, but there's a system going on! 10/10 would recommend! pricing is also pretty great too! since it second hand. it was a slow sunday when i came in, i managed to snagged a few photo IT WAS AMAZING! check it out and support local business, they've been around since 2008!! read more

Kaboom is not your ordinary secondhand bookstore... Kaboom is an intellectual experience! Every time I'm looking for something not conventional or wanted to read that special book of history hard to find... Kaboom is just the answer. Poetry, Literature, Arts, History, Languages, Medieval & Renaissance writings, Psychology, Philosophy, Anthropology, Folklore and more is available here. Don't be afraid to ask the old man... he knows everything there. read more

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Wow I love it here. I could've stayed all day. I actually left and came back because I had to use the restroom ( he doesn't have a public restroom - don't blame him ) there are so so many books, of all categories , something for everyone. I don't think I saw a book over 8 bucks. I left with a handful. I chatted a bit with the owner I didn't get his name LOL but the cats name is Oliver ! I didn't get to meet him. He was out being a cat. I live 2 hours away but if I'm in the area I will be going back. Do NOT sleep on a place like this... it's a gemstone. read more

If you are a book lover, then this place is heaven! When I stopped in, I was greeted and given a quick tour of where I could find the books I was looking for. I'd recommend coming here to browse, more than buy any book in particular, so that way you will find something you're guaranteed to like! read more

Kaboom Books - Used Bookstore Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Definitely my new favorite book store. For the size it has a huge and diverse collection of books to choose from. read more

Kaboom Books - Beautiful book store with the colors changed to highlight all of the teal/green books. - Used Bookstore Near Me - Houston, Texas

After entering and saying hello to the patron orange cat, I found myself winding around bookshelves. There are tons of books packed into this tiny location making a maze to get lost in. Unfortunately, I wasn't looking for a book. Since I'm moving, I had a ton of books to sell. Service is so much faster than half price books. The owner looked at my books and bought about 10 for 10 bucks. This process took no more than 5 minutes! Half price books will keep you waiting for 20-30 minutes. I know because after Kaboom, I sold my remaining 5 books for $4 at half price. It is very hard to find, but once you do there is a great little parking lot in back of the building. read more

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My dream has always been to own a used bookstore. I've always had an idea of what I would want my own used bookstore to look like, so imagine my joy when I entered Kaboom and saw the bookstore of my dreams. I love books. Kaboom has piles and piles of books, and shelves and secret rooms and boxes of books everywhere and it just so splendid. The organization is great, the selection and variety is exemplary, and the owners are friendly and impressively knowledgeable. I love Kaboom. The instant you walk into this place, you just feel good. It's an absolutely beautiful store with a great location, and the best of all is that you are supporting a local business. And a local used bookstore at that. Be still my heart. Come here, browse and buy. Your heart and mind will thank you. read more

Kaboom Books - Bookstore perfection. - Used Bookstore Near Me - Houston, Texas

The extent of my used bookstore experiences have been restricted to Half Price Books as they're quite prevalent throughout the Houston (and one or two in Austin) area. Lately it's been amazon.com or half.com and not very often because you know, I've pretty much been rendered illiterate in the last few years - it happens, somehow. ANYWAY, Kaboom is simply darling - it's a pretty cozy space, wall to wall, floor to ceiling crammed tight with books galore. They are shelved in an orderly classification system, but it can be a little overwhelming if you're simply perusing. However, the lady who owns this place (name escapes me, I suck) with her husband (I think?) is totally the cat's meow about assisting you. By cat I mean dog's bark because on the particular day I was here, her two gorgeous pups were chillaxin' at the store, making me fall in love with them and stuff. She was really sweet and kept chatting me up about some gems available at her store, upcoming events, her dogs new tricks, etc. She even offered me a little tour of Kaboom, too cute! So yeah, stop by here for goodness sakes! Barnes and Nobles and Borders - I ain't hating, but there's something to be said about giving used books a second life and at a portion of the price. read more

What an amazing bookstore! Floor to ceiling with books and such a great selection! The man who owns was extremely helpful. It was my first time at the store, and he pointed me in the direction of the fiction section. At the register, he had pamphlets that contained names and address of all of the independent book stores in Houston. He saw me looking at it and crossed out the stores that have closed since the pamphlet's printing and gave recommendations as to the best ones. The books are extremely well priced, and I walked out with three books I can't wait to read for less than $20. Great place to buy books for yourself and gifts for others (especially since they have some very old books)! Loved shopping here! read more

Kaboom Books - Used Bookstore Near Me - Houston, Texas

Wow! How fortunate are we to have such a whimsical and lovely book shop in our city? Kaboom has a seriously insane collection spanning every category under the sun. Highly recommend if you're not looking for anything specific (and even if you are, there's a great chance you'll find it here). Prices are very fair compared to online and *other corporatized chain bookstores that shall not be named*. If you're a well-read literature nut or a dabbler, like myself, you will find yourself in good company here. Owner is approachable, friendly and keeps track of just about everything in his shop off the top of his head. Viva Kaboom Books! read more

If you're looking for a book, or not even sure what you're looking for, you'll probably find it here. This place goes on and on and feels like it never stops. You'd never be able to really look through it in one visit. The prices are reasonable, and if you're looking for weird, out of print or unique books at collector pricing you'd probably find it here as well. The Spy and Science Fiction sections are huge! Would definitely recommend this place as a must see for people who love looking for used books. read more

Kaboom Books - Used Bookstore Near Me - Houston, Texas

I've went to this bookstore for almost 9 years now since I've moved to Houston. It's truly a jem. Great selection of fiction and nonfiction and the owner is always ready to make book recommendations. I also appreciate that he has steered me away from some books that he doesn't like as much. That's the sign of a true reader instead of a just a salesperson. It's the sort of place you could stay in for hours. I could not recommend this more! read more

I came to the bookstore as a getaway from my studies and my experience overall was phenomenal! The owner is COVID concious and immediately offered hand sanitization once stepping into the establishment and helped me find the section I was looking for. Of course if one were to scan a book and decide not to purchase there are bins located around for re-sanitization and re-shelving. Furthermore I found some pretty bomb gems that would have costed me at least twice more for the market buying price so I'll be for sure coming back in the future! read more

There isn't any parking. Don't know how to stretch that out any further. Not much point in being a business if people can't get to you.

A poetry section says much about a bookstore. Poems aren't big money makers; every cubic foot of shelf allotted to them represents an opportunity cost that would take platoons of McKinsey, BCG, and Bain consultants to write ten Powerpoint decks of 150 slides each to calculate the loss in ROI---big business being the very apex of efficiency and all. Many bookstores, even independent ones, are cramping their verse tighter than ee cummings. At Kaboom, verse books wrap around a central shelf in the "big" room, walled in by fiction and sitting one low shelf over from YA and children's books. You can keep your kids occupied but within inside-voice distance while you peruse the section that makes Mitt Romney curse out a "goshdarnit." I don't know what it says that Kaboom keeps their film section (quite literally) surrounding the bathroom. I'll chalk that one up to space limitations, because this place, though large for an indie bookstore, is spilling over with books. Like any used shop, particular titles are not guaranteed. Come with a wide net or an open mind. As for prices, they seem inline with other used bookshops. However, their books are in very good shape. I saw few markings, dog ears, or creases in the books I checked. Owner seems like a cool dude with a wry self-deprecating wit. He was very helpful and open to just chatting. Oh, and there's a very friendly cat that just goes about their business. read more

This place is so neat. And the guy working there really knows his stuff. Must stop for any bibliophile!

Cramped location. Poor selection of books, priced waaaay to high. Some parking issues. Owner was generally rude and unfriendly. I will not return to this store. read more

I was in there like a month ago and I was pretty much the only one in the store. The lady working there at some point was almost following me every section I went. Made my experience pretty uncomfortable. read more

There are SO MANY books to look through! The owner is so passionate about his business and knows so much about the books he has in his store. I genuinely feel like he's read all the books! I could be wrong, but I wouldn't be surprised! read more

A wonderful used book store with a fascinating and wide-ranging selection. This place is a real gem.

Love this place! Prices are low and there's this cute little cat that roams around the shelves. read more

Kaboom Books - Used Bookstore Near Me - Houston, Texas

I heart that in a town that LOVES tearing down old buildings and storefronts, the Heights recycles these old buildings. It's like a collective "eff you" to the Weingarten Realty Company. This book store oozes charm, where the one on Studewood does not. I look forward to more of the long shut down stores in the area being reopened as cool shops and restaurants. If they are as cool as this store, we are in for an off the beaten path treat of unexpected awesomeness. This location is quiet with only offices next door. No loud (yet awesome) coffee shops and convenience stores. The front of the store is perfect. Brick with huge picture windows and a heavy wooden door. Inside, the high-ceilinged room is lined with bookshelves. There are a few tall ladders to assist with the books that are eighteen feet up. There are a number of spotlights and the ceiling and ac system is painted black. I felt like I was in a small 150-seat makeshift theatre. Also, this larger store (comparing again to the Studewood shop) has chairs to read in. Okay, there are only two and they're in one of the front windows, but it adds to the oozing charm. Oh, the books? There is a huge selection of varied types and subjects. Cookbooks, Espionage, Mystery, Fiction, Art, whatever you seek. read more

One of the benefits I can allocate for themselves: more than reasonable prices. As compared to other shops here prices are much cheaper. I like calm, no one goes follow you and does not impose their assistance. You can spend hours choosing / feel / touch / smell / read books, and no words can say. read more

I have no idea why I didn't review this place till now. They are by far the best bookstore that I've run into in Houston. Unfortunately I was at a phase where I was more getting rid of instead of getting books. But they had eminently fair prices - especially if you took the exchange rates, but even if you take cash I'd say its still better than Half Price. A little out of the way, but an awesome awesome place with a great selection of interesting books. read more

This is my favorite bookstore in the city. I have been coming here for the three years I have called Houston home and I have never once left empty handed. The selection is incredible and the owner is knowledgeable about what he has and is always extremely helpful! read more

This is literally the most amazing book store I ever imagined could exist. There are stacks on stacks of books from floor to the ceiling. The owner is very friendly and lets you know the general layout. I would recommend coming in here not if you have a specific book in mind but rather if you are flexible and looking for a good read. That is exactly the beauty of this place. You never know what you will find but the experience is enhanced by the endless selections of books. I like to support local businesses and even though I could have probably found the book cheaper somewhere else, it is a great idea for the community to support places like this. I always enjoy reading whether it is Russian Literature or Military History and everything in between. Kaboom books is definitely a place any one that enjoys reading should stop by and support! read more

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Great haunt/ owner cold except for his kind pup pets. I should be grateful. Humans are not my preference either, read more

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Great old way to buy books, the owner knows his stuff and will spark a great conversation about everything and anything. I took my 9yr old son to pick out a book, he enjoyed it very much and brought home an old Batman comic book from 1966. read more

Kaboom Books - Used Bookstore Near Me - Houston, Texas