Books of Wonder

They offer a wide and thoughtfully curated selection of books, complemented by a handful of popular toy options that make it easy to find something special for different age groups and interests. Although the store is on the smaller side, it is well organized and clearly signposted, making browsing enjoyable rather than overwhelming. It’s also impressively well stocked for its size. The staff are friendly, approachable, and genuinely helpful — if you’re looking for something specific or need recommendations, asking for guidance is definitely the quickest and easiest way to find the perfect pick. We picked up a few great finds during our visit and will absolutely be back for more the next time we’re in town.

This outstanding bookstore caters to readers of all ages, offering an extensive selection of children's books that will delight both young readers and parents alike. Many of these books are signed by the authors or illustrators, adding a personal touch that book lovers will appreciate. Additionally, the store features a rare book section, where you can discover unique and collectible titles that are sure to pique the interest of avid readers and collectors.

I stopped in to buy one book for a baby shower and ended up wanting half the store. The selection is incredible and so thoughtfully curated. I came 30 minutes before closing, and they kindly stayed open a bit later so I could keep browsing. The young gentleman who helped me was very knowledgeable about age-appropriate books and perfect choices for different occasions. Amazing service, amazing variety. Highly recommend! I will absolutely be back! Thank you!

This is an incredible bookstore in Manhattan. I stumbled upon Books of Wonder about a year ago while visiting NYC. I was looking for books for my daughter. The staff was incredibly helpful and provided great recommendations. I had such a great experience then that I returned recently with my daughter. Based on my daughter's interests, Rosalind provided us with multiple recommendations while telling us about the story in each book. I don't get this kind of service in my library, nor my local B&N. In my experience, Rosalind's level of professionalism and knowledge is unparalleled. We left with 4 books this afternoon, and my tween already finished one of her murder mysteries tonight. I think we will bs back to visit Books of Wonder soon!

Super cute book store! I happened to stumble across it. It’s definitely more heavily focused on children books. It seems that they were having like a little reading session for the kids when I passed by, but definitely very kid friendly and kid orientated.

I came to buy some books for my son and my daughter, the owner was able to give me lovely suggestions. They have a fantastic selection of books for children of all ages. The place is really cozy, I’d definitely recommend asking the staff for recos as they seem to know a lot.

Just amazing! The selection is so wonderfully curated, you can pick almost anything right off the shelf and love it. We got our 3 year a huge selection of books for Christmas and she loves every last one. I highly highly recommend!

Children’s tales, signed editions, rare treasures, Books of Wonder is where New York hides its bookish magic.

WHEN: Tue @11am More than a bookstore is what it is. Not only do they sell a huge collection of children's books, but they have a wall to wall gallery of signed prints, rare posters, and original art for sale! This huge store does book signing events, and displays thier books that makes it so easy to shop for illustrated children's books of all kinds! What a fun place this was!

I placed an online order and have to say I'm incredibly impressed by the quality of products and overall exceptional customer service. Great selection and value! Thank you from a new fan on the West Coast.

A cute used and new book store for children. Neatly arranged and pleasing to the eye. Parents were at the counter asking about books. Staff were informed and helpful. Street parking.

To get the perfect children's book. You must visit the Books of Wonder bookshop. They have a wonderful and huge selection of Children's books. From Winnie the Pooh to current works. The store is extremely clean, books very well displayed and organized and the staff very helpful. Highly Recommend this bookstore, if you're looking for enjoyable children's books and the atmosphere will take you back to the days of your childhood. A +++

I was sent a set of their oz books (the ones they claim to be a facsimile copy of the originals) & the shipped package arrived in such a poor state. It was literally like they had never shipped a large collection of books before, despite having them listed as a collection on their website. They used the flimsiest box, reused from something before, & used bubble wrap with the tiniest bubbles ever. Anyone who does shipping can imagine that a collection of more than 15 books should be well packaged, filled tightly inside a sturdy box, or the weight of the books is going to be thrown all around & bust up the box. The box was torn up during transit & even had multiple busted through corners. A few of the books got damaged but not too badly so I let it go...but I called the store to give them feedback & the person on the phone sounded unconcerned / uncaring. I have no idea if my feedback reached anyone who cares. Plus - the quality of the oz collection that they are selling for over $200 on their website is not too good. There are blank pages on the back of each page that has full page pictures. The paper for the image pages is different than the rest of the book. On many pages the print is inconsistent & faded. Many of the images color impedes one's ability to easily read the

A charming children's bookstore! It's very welcoming and spacious, and one could spend quite a few hours absorbing the books here. I admit to spending a few hours of my New York trip reading a handful of the picture books here. They also offer a great selection of author events. One of my goals in my writing career is to have a reading and signing here! Just putting it out there in the universe. :)

Small selection but love a small business book store. We attended a book reading that was a unique experience for my son to hear from an author.

I happened to stop by on independent bookstore day so the place was gonzo with people but bookseller Elena still took the time to give me advice about books. She was kind, knowledgeable, and really listened. I left with two new great books that were exactly what I wanted. This place is a gem and I'll be back each time I visit nyc.

Stopped in here to browse a book I've been considering buying (Dead Wednesday by Jerry Spinelli) and everyone working here was the nicest... they were so kind to my dog Gerbert and he loved it! And they kindly let me freely read with no interruptions. They've got such an incredible library of old, rare, and children's books. Thanks again everyone, I'll be back! 5 stars!!!!

I really enjoy this book store! I came here for an event which was fantastic. The staff is great and there's a great selection of YA, children, and toddler books!

The best, and possibly the only children's book store in Manhattan. I will be sad when my son outgrows it!

Super cute book store. Wondering still existing this kind of You've Got Mail style bookstore? All languages kids books you can find here. Hope this book store stays long here...

I stumbled upon this bookstore and it is awesome. There are what would seems as never ending rows of colorful, wonderfully illustrated books that are enticing to any book lover. The staff here is very helpful with finding the perfect book to your liking based on previous items you've read but should try to curb personal conversations when in earshot of customers. The rows are a little tight but organized to perfection based on genre and age. I would highly recommend this bookstore. It is very cool!

So so thrilled to have this relocated and reopened for business. If you're looking to support local and get a gift for a child, look no further. This place gets special autographed books, has cute totes, and sells special edition children's classics for your library. I've been waiting years to hear about their new location. It smells better than the 18 st location because it no longer shares space with a cafe that stopped paying rent. They have a loyalty program too.

Such a cozy and friendly bookstore for kids. Love the creaking floors as you walk through the aisles of books. Went on a Saturday afternoon with my sister and nephew for storytime. The employees are all helpful, inviting and friendly. The reading levels are from 0 to young teens (~middle school). You won't find any high school level classic literatures like The Catcher in the Rye, To Kill a Mockingbird, etc. However, they do carry lots of classic children's books. Another, interesting aspect of this store is that they carry a lot of vintage and collectible children's books. It was so nice to see all the classic books/stories my parents would read to me when I was a kid. The back of the store displays all the vintage books in a glass case. There's a nice area in the back for children and parents to sit and enjoy storytime.

This place is so adorable! Walked in and was immediately greeted by the people in the front. I got to browse the paintings and books at my leisure. When I asked a sales associate where to find two of the books that I was looking for, she not only directed me, but she also found about 5 different versions of "The Hungry Caterpillar" for me to pick from. She sold me on the fancy one with the actual stuffed caterpillar that can go through the holes in the book. She had already wrapped the book by the time she was done ringing me up and gave me a reusable tote. Will definitely come back!

This magical space is comparable to stepping into The Shop Around the Corner that Meg Ryan's character owned in You've Got Mail (1998). I felt the years dissolve away as I entered into Book of Wonder and transformed into my kid-self again. Like when you watch The Never Ending Story (1984) or The Labyrinth (1986). You can literally stay here for hours under their "fluffy clouds." Staff are personable and helpful. Not just a place great for kids. If you want to get nostalgic, come inside this world of Books of Wonder.

Stopped in on a whim. Definitely has the smaller more intimate vibe than the big barnes and nobles chains. Also sells adorable wizard tattoos! Huge selection of childrens books both preteen & toddlers books! Worth a repeat visit

New favorite. Stopped by last night, for an new author reading and book signing (my sis-in-law was among the authors), and knew immediately I'd be coming back sometime to linger. Loads of books, great selection, very helpful staff, and a space that is both lively and soothing (not an easy balance to strike). Books of Wonder makes me nostalgic for all the times I was late to class, during elementary school, because I'd lost track of time reading in a corner of the school library. A totally sweet book spot, and I can't wait to come back. If you're a fan of children's literature or YA books, check 'em out!

Really enjoyed this bookstore with my kids. Found several books that I was unable to find at other bookstores.

This was a nice find as they carry a ton of choices and all just for children. I found quite a few interesting titles that I had not seen previously at Barnes and Noble, Strand and Kinokuniya. It was fun to browse and see the books in person as it's not as easy or fun to on Amazon. Plus too many idiot parents don't know how to review a damn book properly so I'd rather see it for myself if the book is good or not, which requires going in person. But overall I look forward to eventually taking my son here in the future. I also liked they carry LGBT and inclusive choices. (Although as other places, they also did not have any Kickstarter published books like amazon does.). Also they had seating, which at 7 months pregnant, greatly appreciated. The reason they lost a star is the staff seemed like typical hipsters that are allergic to being social to pretty much anyone else. On one hand, I'm introverted so I don't mind being left alone but to an extent. I wasn't asked at all if I needed help until I was close to leaving anyway. I mean when I asked for a business card, the guy up front was nice enough but that's it really.

Such a nice, cute book store! The employees were all extremely nice and greeted us as we walked in. There is ample space between each aisle so it is easy to explore. They have a lot of wonderful, signed books. They have books for every genre. They also have a lot of cool rare books on display. Even though the book store is for children's books, people of all ages can enjoy coming here. I still go here when looking for a bookstore that is well-organized and has a relaxed vibe. It brings back many fond childhood memories, such as seeing some of the books I used to love to read. I love the variety of books they have-there is a store for every child to enjoy. This is by far one of the best bookstores I have ever been too!

I thought of B.o.W. When buying a gift for my niece and even though I'm in California, I received my book quickly and with the great on phone customer services of Kellie!! Please continue to support small businesses and thank you so much for my book!!

All the kids books. So many kids books. The best kids books. New ones, classics, rare aulde ones! They are mostly all hardback, but hey, I'm not curating and showcasing like these people are, just browsing and purchasing, loving and learning, passing on the knowledge and wonder. What a joy:)

Great selection, albeit dwindling. Their recommendation based on our particular needs have been very well received by my daughter and their special events always help present perspectives we are less exposed to in our daily lives.

Best place for children's gifts. Books are the only gifts Children should ever receive. Toys end up in landfills. Good books last several lifetimes. They get passed down from generation to generation. Physical books are the only way to go. Books of Wonder is an incredible gem, especially in NY these days. Support this store and may it stay open forever!

I try to avoid Barnes & Noble whenever I can, for reasons both political (they replace local businesses) and practical (terrible service, too many coffee cups and calendars, etc). Independent booksellers are, as the kids say, where it's at, and this place + the adjoining cupcake cafe gives me an incomparably goofy grin. I came in to buy a book for my nephew's birthday (whosa good auntie? whosa good auntie??), and was surprised at how this shop is able to maintain a "shoppe" atmosphere while having a stocklist about a mile long. So. Many. Books. And unlike other children's bookstores I've visited, the shelves aren't cluttered with syndicated toys or other disposable gifts, and everything is laid out so clearly that the sheer number of titles isn't overwhelming. The staff is really helpful, too: young people who genuinely care about helping you find just the right book. I picked up a hardcover copy of "Earl the Squirrel" by Don Freeman and a "Where The Wild Things Are" birthday card (gift wrap is free!), and the total came to $7.99. Apparently, my book (a classic, by the way) was on sale and I didn't even know it. What a welcome surprise! Even if you aren't in the market for a copy of "Don't Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus," you should still stop in to see their collection of limited edition prints and posters of illustrations and peruse the rare books. This is as good as it gets! There's just no reason to buy children's books anywhere else.

I never outgrew my love for children's literature. Wonderful children books have the magical property to whisk me away from the humdrum life and into an enchanted world where elves and faeries live and magic still exists. Or I'm transported back to the "Wild Wild West" where I have to keep a lookout for bandits and work the land alongside my Pa. I was absolutely delighted to see that Books of Wonder had all of the great children classics that are no longer sold in the big chain bookstores. I greeted them like old friends. They also carry new children books that will one day be considered classics. I immediately wanted to grab a book, sit on the floor, and read just as I used to do when I was a kid. Not to mention, the large locked bookcase at the back of the store, they sell rare collectibles. Looking for the original Wizard of Oz series? They have them. Tolkien? Got that too. If you have a child or know of a child or still have a child-like love and wonder for books, I can't think of a better place to get a gift than Books of Wonder.

Books of Wonder is filled with things for children, and yet it is not a hellish cesspit of screaming, spittle, snot and sippy cups. This dazzling miracle alone would garner the store 5 stars if the knowledgable staff, fine selection, and impeccable upkeep didn't already accomplish that. I'm a children's book fanatic for some reason, and this is my absolute favorite place to shop in the city. Barnes & Noble's got a big selection and everything and is pretty good as chain stores go, but Books of Wonder has this ineffable quality to it that makes me love the merchandise more. I could pick up the same book in both places, and I'd feel more of a connection to it at Books of Wonder. But anyway, let me change the subject before I get started on my weirdo-geek-librarian love-for-books psychosis and lose all my friends. Their classics section is really neat because you can find some pretty editions there that you wouldn't necessarily see other places. If you like Oz books, you'll be in absolute heaven, but I don't like them so, ok. Also, one day I went in there looking for a picture book, and I had the wrong title and author, and the guy working instantly saw through my mental problems and told me the book I was really looking for, so clearly everyone working there is a genius.

What an awesome bookstore. Better than the children's section of a Barnes & Noble or Borders -- which is usually impressive in its own right -- this independent bookstore gives one hope on many levels. One, it's independent. This is the children's bookstore to patronize. And I don't mean look down on. Two, it's extremely focused in what it carries. The book selection is smart and savvy. And the shop resonates with a love of reading, children, and children's literature. The place is all about sharing stories. Three, it's organized for the explorer as well as the sentimental. Classic picture books are shelved separately from modern picture books, so if you want to return to the books of your youth, you can. And youth fiction is organized by age range. It feels just awesome to see Charlotte's Web shelved so closely to the Cricket in Times Square and Bunnicula. And four, there's a cafe area that sells cupcakes. Cupcakes are perfect little cakes for kids. I haven't eaten then there yet, but go, get a book (say, a Bear Called Paddington), buy a coffee, and get your nibble on. I can't wait to read the books I got, and I can't wait until my son is old enough to share them with him. Also, I don't know how it works, but I got several Books of Wonder Dollars, which appear to be $1 coupons off future purchases. They're dated to expire in March, so they appear to be good for about four months after your purchase. That ensures I'll be back real soon!

Whoa. WHOA! Seriously, what can I add that hasn't already been said? Uncramped, clean, and stocking nearly everything you could want, there's a reason this store is called "Books of Wonder". For children of all ages who can't get enough of reading, this will be like stepping into a fantasyland. They even have a rare books and artwork section! And readings! And I found books that I haven't read as a child but was determined to buy! Okay, I'll shut up a'fore I geek out. BOOK SELECTION: For books from tots to teens, nothing better. Seriously. They may not have every single book in a series, but their selection is much more vast than other bookstores while stocking both classics and newbies. FOOD: That's right. FOOD! MUFFINS AND CUPCAKES! AND COFFEE!!! OMNOMNOMBNOMNOMNOM... oh, excuse me... For children's books, avoid the nearby Barnes & Noble and come to this place for all of your needs. A word of warning: you may wind up buying more books for yourself than your children.

BRING YOUR KIDS HERE!!!! They have a great selection of books for kids. This IS a kids bookstore. They are friendly, lively, happy to have you there, and welcoming. The exact opposite of what B&N is (unfriendly and rude). I will only now take my son here to purchase his books :)

This is a hidden gem! I just recently found out the name of this bookstore after a year of just remembering it. I went downtown a year ago in the rain for photography equipment and as I walked out it began to pour. A few steps away and I dashed into this world of wonder! I felt like I stumbled upon literature heaven! There were kids sitting in comfortable lounge chairs with their mothers reading books. Other kids were running around and enjoying themselves. Another group of kids were browsing books in the huge selection that they have. And lastly - there were children waiting for their yummy cupcake treats! I immediately went for the cupcake treat myself. The cupcake was delicious and I adored the butter cream icing. After filling my stomach I browsed the books and hung around reading books I remembered. The rain died down and I walked out forgetting to look at the store sign and a year later, I'm re-united.

Beautiful store with an excellent selection of children's books. The space is bright and welcoming, and the store contains tons of books without feeling cramped. The staff is friendly and efficient. I've been a voracious reader for as long as I can remember, and standing in this store brought back so many memories of books I've known and loved. I should mention that I visited this store to attend a signing featuring Neil Gaiman and Adam Rex for their book Chu's Day. It was a huge event, and the store was very busy, but the experience still somehow managed to be immensely personal and enjoyable. Staff members were helpful and upbeat, which is not easy at 7 PM after an all-day event. I've been to big book events at other places, and staff can seem frazzled and agitated, but not here. Everyone was more than professional: they seemed to actually *like* their jobs and made the experience so pleasant that I can't say enough nice things about them. When we were on our way out, the guy working the counter asked us if we'd had a good time. It was like an extra cherry on top of an already-delicious sundae. Someone (Peter, I think his name was?) even took the time to chat with my husband, me, and our nine-month-old son about raising a future reader. I live in Pennsylvania now and only visit the city a few times a year, but I have a feeling this will be one of the spots I make it a point to visit again and again. This is the kind of business that you want to see last. Their passion for books and the people that make them shines, and it's refreshing to know that places like this still exist.

Wonderful bookstore! Awesomely amazing staff!! Great selection! Impressive museum area with rare books. Big enough to spend some time in. Fair prices! They told me it's been here for 35 years which is cool!

This place is the most loveliest bookstore I've ever been to. It has all types of books and an awesome set up in their store, it makes you want to come in and look. The cashier was also very pleasant and friendly! Any time I've been in here the workers have always been super nice. They have tons of fun books for kids and for adults. This place is definitely a gem.

My secret weakness is reading children's classics such as Laura Ingalls Wilder and Roald Dahl, and I don't care if that makes me the uncoolest adult in New York City. Books of Wonder helps facilitate my secret with their huge selection of children's literature, not to mention their bookshelf full of Oz books. I bet you guys thought it stopped at the Wizard of Oz, huh? Nerp! The staff are super friendly and know their children's literature back and forth, as they were so excited to talk in depth about the books I was purchasing. I also asked about another author, which they admitted were out of stock but wanted to chat about the particular book I was looking for. I received a reusable bag (to help me hide my secret addiction, shh) and some coupons to use for next time. The fact that they're an independent bookstore still surviving in the dawn of Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc. makes them really awesome, and I'll definitely be back to support them (and my habit).

Loved this place! I spent like 3 hours there. People were helpful. The books are awesome! some books have signatures of the authors like Harry Potter. They have separate department that has rare and old books. Winnie the pooh was from 1920s, Harry Potter with signature and many many other books. You can ask the staff to open those rare and old books because they are in glass bookshelf. They also sell those rare and old books. In general, I loved this place. A lot of books, pretty and old ones. I wish I could buy all of them.

If I could go to this bookstore every week, I'd be giddy. So many wonderful children's books, and a nice collection of limited and collectible books and prints. It's a great place to go with children - or by oneself - when needing a bookstore to hide and find good books in. And kudos to the staff. They were extremely helpful and very lovely people to chat with.

THIS BOOKSTORE IS THE MOST AMAZING THING I'VE STUMBLED UPON in weeks. if you've even talked to me in the last week, you would've heard me espousing about this.. and the new oliver jeffers art work for sale. i didn't even know who he was until i walked in. i also want to have children* now so that i can impart upon them how great reading is... hopefully in this store. please stick around! birdbath bakery is also in-store so there are endless pretzel croissant treats for the lucky. *or a puppy

Just call this place the wonderful Books Of Wonder! This is absolutely THE best children's book shop in Manhattan. I am a children's book fanatic and own a pretty significant collection of antique children's books. This place has a fantastic selection of contemporary children's books as well as an amazing collection of antique books for sale. For all of you fans out there of the movie "You've Got Mail", this store is the real life, larger version of "The Shop Around The Corner." I've been shopping here for well over a decade - dating back to when they were at their previous location on Seventh Ave. The staff is wonderful - both very knowledgable and friendly. The store is very neatly organized and decorated in the most charming manner. It's so much fun to shop here - unlike those big chain book "warehouses" that feel so impersonal and overwhelming. This shop is truly one of NYC's finest shopping gems. A must-go destination for any book lover seeking a little escape from the hustle & bustle of the city streets to reconnect with their inner child, as well as a fun place to bring your little tots! The fact that the store shares their space with an outpost of fabulous Cupcake Cafe makes it an even more worthwhile adventure!

As a childrens book illustrator, this place is HEAVEN. Lovely helpful staff, tons of great books, well organized, nice atmosphere and decoration - also a really nice art gallery with some originals (graeme base originals, sweet!!!) Nice place to hang out, quiet and relaxed. When I worked nearby I would always come here on breaks. Also came here for the final Harry Potter book release party - pretty dang fun. They know how to throw a book release party :P. and the cupcakes are cool too, but i guess thats technically a different place to review...

This place is incredible! Story time is a must do event for anyone with kids. They don't just read the words, but they read the books with all the fun they deserve. The book selection is great, and there are lots if special editions if you need a gift.

A great childrens book store with a bangin' cupcake shop attached. Not much else I could ask for! Having worked in the childrens section of a bookstore, however, I have to give them demerits on their selection. Although they have everything new, some of the classics are missing. When I go to a specialty shop, I expect to find obscurities as well - this was not the case here, but they make up for it in the fact that anything I wanted, they could order for me, and have in a matter of days. Plus they were ridiculously friendly. The store is clean (VERY different from a chain bookstore), the staff was knowledgeable (for sure), and the store was just plain adorable. Very reminiscent of "The Shop Around The Corner" from "You've Got Mail". I half expected Meg Ryan to walk out with a princess hat and read about mice. Love it.

What a freakin' gem! I'm going to liken the store's revolving doors to the wardrobe from Narnia because as soon as you walk in, you are in a magical, magical world. Amazing selection of new and old children's and YA literature, with lots of signed copies available (I thought John Green's signed copies of TFiOS were all gone, but nope, there's several copies still here!). Really great, and if it wasn't so far away from me (wah wah wah, the woes of living in Brooklyn), I would be here every week. P.S. Keep an eye out for cool events!

Many years ago before I became a teacher my mother recommended this bookstore to me since I am an avid reader of childrens' books. This place has every book you ever wanted and if they don't they will get it for you. There are classics and new books that are just great. There is not a bad book in the house. Make sure to check their books signings on their calendar as well. I have met Mo Willems and Neil Gaiman. If you have a child in your life or are a child at heart please go and enjoy this magical place.

I really like this bookstore. We went to NYC and our daughter asked us for a fairy book. Apparently, this is not as easy as it would sound. After going to several bookstores, B&N, some small local ones, this was the only bookstore we could find that had the request fairy books. You could tell it was a wonderful independent bookstore, and I hope it will there when I come back to NY.

A friend of mine from when I lived in NYC introduced me to this store on one of my visits after I had my son. Since then, I never miss a chance to shop here when we are in the city. We recently popped in while there for our annual trip to the US Open in Aug and bought so many books for our son that we had them ship them to us in CA. NEVER have I seen such an amazing collection of children's books. Anything you could possibly want. HUGE selection. It's really amazing and you could easily spend an hour in there and lots of money. In any case, when the box arrived, the books were lovingly and painstakingly wrapped in brown paper. In addition, they threw in some reusable bags with their logo on them. The service is fantastic. What more could you ask for?! Love this store.

I felt like I walked into book heaven! I'm a huge bookworm and it saddens me when bookstores are disappearing left and right. However, I have hope that bookstores will continue in the world because of bookstores like this! I love how they have books signed by the authors and the environment is brightly colored and inviting. I wish I had unlimited money to buy all the books there but alas, I was only able to buy two and call it a day. I will be back :)