Books Are Magic | Brooklyn, NY

What a fun bookstore! There is only one bench in the back where you can sit but other than that, do not expect to sit/read. I came for about 30min just exploring different books (sports, food, travel, picture books). I love how they categorize the books and add their own comments. They have greeting cards and merch too.

Posted on: January 23, 2026

Not only are books magic but "Book are Magic" is magic, as are the coven curating the creative compositions there. You can tell a lot about a person by browsing the shelves in someone's home - what's on display and what's been repeatedly used and lent and dog-eared for reference. But I was keanly aware that the books there are carefully considered recommendations for the benefit of the person walking through the door. There are the big hits with substance, and they sit alongside the books of big impact with a smaller distribution. The range is impressive - rather than 90 copies of this seasons "Eat Pray Love" they'll have 2 copies and a dozen + titles speaking to a broad range. They have recommendation cards a plenty so you know they know the library. You can tell books are a personal love language here. As a middle-aged/Autistic/Aboriginal/Jewish/Australian I felt uncommonly welcome here. I may have helped that the music was in one of the many playlists I've had over the years, like a sound track across the epocs of my history. I bought two books - Katherine May's "Enchantment" I bought in virtual version for a book club, ) and a unlike me a manga that made me take it like the face of a puppy looking up at me from an animal shelter, after I flipped a few pages. The staff are attentive and happy to facilitate as if you are a house guest rather than a target for financial transaction. Loved Books are Magic. Well worth a 23 hour flight.

Posted on: January 04, 2026

GORGEOUS indie bookstore! Independently owned by an author herself and full of charm and personality. The book talks (the sheets of paper describing staff’s favorite books) are what makes this place stand out. It feels like having a conversation with tons of passionate readers. Everything is cute and welcoming and I literally spent over an hour in there losing track of time. They have cards, puzzles, LGBTQ books, feminist literature, mystery, and so much more! You gotta check it out for sure :) a highlight of my NY trip!

Posted on: November 11, 2025

Well laid-out bookstore with a great selection for both kids and adults. The staff picks and write-ups make it even easier to find a book that you’ll like, and they have a huge variety of books that have been signed by the authors which is a nice touch.

Posted on: December 30, 2025

Such a wonderful independent bookstore! Carefully curated selections, helpful staff, and a nice kids' section. They host readings and events often. Always a great place to stop by when walking through Cobble Hill — inspiring and cozy.

Posted on: July 06, 2025