Bookshop in Stockholm(Science Fiction Bokhandeln)📚

Life goal: find a sunny spot and nap on a mountain of old books. 🐱📚☀️
No deadlines. No notifications. Just warm pages and quiet vibes. Honestly… this cat gets it. 😌

notjustshakespeare

I went to Kolkata last week and did the one thing I always do: I got lost on College Street. It’s a place that feels less like a market and more like a nervous system for every story ever told, with veins of books pulsing through every narrow alley.

On my last day there, I found this. A Penguin Popular Classics edition of Hamlet. The cover was soft and faded, the way only a well-traveled book can be. I was about to add it to my stack when I opened it.

And I found her.

A message, left 26 years ago. A quiet, heartbreaking note from someone named Navita to her future self—or perhaps, to whoever found her.

“In remembrance of my lonely self…
Namita/Navita
Feb'98
Cal.”

I stood there in the crowded street, holding this tiny, monumental confession from 1998. Who was Namita/Navita? Why was she lonely in the city of joy? Did she find what she was looking for?

I didn’t just buy a play about a prince grappling with existence. I bought a artifact of a stranger’s existence. I bought the tangible proof that our smallest, most vulnerable moments can outlive us, travel through time, and land gently in a stranger’s hands to say: “You are not the first to feel this way.”

I bought it for Shakespeare. But I’m keeping it for Namita/Navita.

#kolkata #college street #boipara #secondhandbooks #hamlet #shakespeare #penguinclassics #foundwriting #marginalia #ephemera #1998 #calcutta #navita #used books #tbt

Books I got at a book sale

Last week, the Pequot Library held their annual book sale. I’m pretty sure it’s annual. I heard about it from a special education teacher who works with my brother and she took us there last Sunday. The sale only sells used books, and, in my opinion, I got a treasure trove. Their books aren’t just used, they’re also pretty old depending on which section you go to. I saw boxes of Harvard books, the kinds wrapped in dark leather with their insignia on it.

Anyway, here’s the twelve books I got.

Starting off with my favorite mythology: Greek!

I found these two in different areas. Favorite Greek Myths was in the poetry bin, and I can’t remember where Treasury of Greek Mythology was, just that I was really excited to find it. I am very sure I had a paperback copy of it that I bought at a book fair back in middle school, but I left it in my locker because I thought we’d come back after a week during the pandemic. I’m not entirely sure if it was this book, but I know I bought something like this.

Just by looking at the title, I don’t have to explain to you what this book is retelling.

Summary: Katiyana Whyte’s world is only as big as the apple orchard she was raised on. She can never leave the home where she grew up under the careful eye of her great uncle Barney. But when life at the orchard suddenly becomes dangerous and her childhood friend Jeremy begs her to flee, Kat finds refuge in the Fluttering Forest with seven dwarves.

Meanwhile, the queen of Mayhem, an evil sorceress, learns through her magic mirror that the daughter she believed to be dead still lives. Enraged, she sends a servant to kill Kat, the princess of Mayhem, but Kat finds protection in a spell that causes snowstorms whenever she is in danger, giving her the nickname Snow Whyte.

In the wonderfully imagined Snow Whyte and the Queen of Mayhem, nobody is quite who they seem. Full of romance and adventure, this is the magical tale of Snow White as you’ve never read it.

Also, the queen isn’t her stepmother, it’s her actual mother.

The next book gives me Harry Potter vibes.

It wasn’t the cover itself that gave me Harry Potter vibes, but it’s summary.

Amelia Jones has always dreamed of attending the Mystwick School of Musicraft, where the world’s most promising musicians learn to create magic. But when she messes up her audition, her dream comes to an abrupt and humiliating end–until the school agrees to give her a second chance. Amelia is determined to prove herself, vowing to do whatever it takes to become the perfect musician. Even if it means pretending to be someone she isn’t.

Between a teacher who really dislikes her and a roommate who wants to see her expelled, life at Mystwick is harder than Amelia thought it would be. And that’s not even counting the mysterious events that are starting to make the teachers worry. When supernatural powers threaten the school, can Amelia find the courage to be true to herself, save Mystwick, and prove once and for all where she belongs?

Okay, extremely different from Harry Potter aside from the magic, but what gave me that impression was the part about a teacher disliking Amelia and I thought of Snape. Either way, I’m excited to read this book when I get to it.

The reason I’m showing the spine is because it is obvious this book had been created with a dust cover in mind. I had to get the summary off of Goodreads.

Pride and Prejudice gets remixed in this smart, funny, gorgeous retelling of the classic, starring all characters of color, from Ibi Zoboi, National Book Award finalist and author of American Street.

Zuri Benitez has pride. Brooklyn pride, family pride, and pride in her Afro-Latino roots. But pride might not be enough to save her rapidly gentrifying neighborhood from becoming unrecognizable.

When the wealthy Darcy family moves in across the street, Zuri wants nothing to do with their two teenage sons, even as her older sister, Janae, starts to fall for the charming Ainsley. She especially can’t stand the judgmental and arrogant Darius. Yet as Zuri and Darius are forced to find common ground, their initial dislike shifts into an unexpected understanding.

But with four wild sisters pulling her in different directions, cute boy Warren vying for her attention, and college applications hovering on the horizon, Zuri fights to find her place in Bushwick’s changing landscape, or lose it all.

In a timely update of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, critically acclaimed author Ibi Zoboi skillfully balances cultural identity, class, and gentrification against the heady magic of first love in her vibrant reimagining of this beloved classic.

I’ve never read Pride and Prejudice, mostly because it didn’t feel like a book I could get into, but there was something about this book that caught my eye, so if I like it, I might get Pride and Prejudice and see what I missed out on.

I’ve started getting into gothic fantasy, and this felt like it was a part of that genre when I saw the cover. It’s not gothic fantasy, but it is gothic horror, as said at the end of the summary.

Nothing much exciting rolls through Violet White’s sleepy, seaside town … until River West comes along.

River rents the guesthouse behind Violet’s crumbling estate, and as eerie, grim things start to happen, Violet begins to wonder about the boy living in her backyard. Is River just a crooked-smiling liar with pretty eyes and a mysterious past? Or could he be something more? Violet’s grandmother always warned her about the Devil, but she never said he could be a dark-haired boy who takes naps in the sun, who likes coffee, who kisses you in a cemetery … who makes you want to kiss back. Violet’s already so knee-deep in love, she can’t see straight. And that’s just how River likes it.

Blending faded decadence and the thrill of gothic horror, April Genevieve Tucholke weaves a dreamy, twisting contemporary romance, as gorgeously told as it is terrifying.

Honestly, I just want to know what happens to Violet, and if River is actually the Devil or a close counterpart. ‘Cause those two people standing reallllly close at the cliff’s edge makes me want to know.

I got this book because the title instantly reminded me of the Canterbury Tales - although, I couldn’t remember the name until minutes later - and I just had to get it. Unsurprisingly, the author did take inspiration from that. Not only are there medieval illustrations scattered throughout the pages, but the chapters are named exactly like in Canterbury, with it telling or continuing the tale of a character.

Summary: The king is ready for war. He is not fighting another army. He is not fighting another king. He is fighting three children and their dog.

On a dark night in 1242, travelers gather at a small French inn. It is the perfect night for a story, and everyone in the kingdom is consumed by the tale of three children: Jeanne, a peasant girl who has visions of the future; William, a young monk with supernatural strength; and Jacob, a Jewish boy who can heal any wound. Together, their powers will be tested by demons and dragons, cruel knights and cunning monks. From small villages to grand banquet halls, these three unlikely friends–and their faithful greyhound–are chased through France to a final showdown in the waves at the foot of the abbey-fortress of Mont-Saint-Michel.

Featuring manuscript illuminations throughout by the illustrator Hatem Aly and filled with Adam Gidwitz’s trademark style and humor, The Inquisitor’s Tale is bold storytelling that’s richly researched and adventure-packed.

I hadn’t realized this was the third book in the Graceling series until I looked up Graceling Realm. Fortunately, I was interested in the series, I was just waiting to ask my mom for Graceling - the first book. I’m still reading this despite missing all of the worldbuilding, character growth, and whatever else.

Summary: She has been hidden away. Now she is choosing to use her power.

It is not a peaceful time in the Dells. Young King Nash clings to the throne, while rebel lords, in the north and south, build armies to unseat him. War is coming. The mountains and forests are filled with spies and thieves.

This is where Fire lives, a girl whose startling appearance is impossibly irresistible and who can control the minds of everyone around her.

Everyone … except Prince Brigan.

It was the cover and curiosity. What’s a spindler? Well, I have to read to find out.

Summary: When Liza’s brother, Patrick, changes overnight, Liza knows exactly what has happened: The spindlers have gotten to him and stolen his soul.

She knows, too, that she is the only one who can save him.

To rescue Patrick, Liza must go Below, armed with little more than her wits and a broom. There, she uncovers a vast world populated with talking rats, music-loving moles, greedy troglods, and overexcitable nids … as well as strange monsters and terrible dangers. But she will face her greatest challenge at the spindlers’ nests, where she must pass a series of deadly tests–or else her soul, too, will remain Below forever.

Based on what little I read of the first chapter, I’m assuming spindlers are changelings, especially since the first chapter is titled “The Changeling, and the Letters Spelled in Cereal”

Still going to be an interesting read.

I thought this might be a horror story for children, or maybe something like Molly McGee and her ghost. I really love the dedication page: “For the kids who are afraid–whether it’s of bullies or ghosts or grumpy moms, first days or bad days or everything in-between days. You have more courage than you know.”

Now, for the summary: I am a dark spirit, the ghost announced grandly. I am your inheritance, your grandmother’s legacy. I am yours to command.

Pink may be a ghost, but he’s the best companion a lonely girl like Suraya can ask for. He has a dark side, though, and when Suraya makes human friends, Pink’s jealousy begins to overtake him.

Soon Pink’s shadows threaten to consume them both, and Suraya and Pink must find enough light to survive before they are both lost to the darkness.

For some reason, my dumbass didn’t realize this was part of the series despite it saying so right at THE FUCKING TOP! Like seriously, how did my brain not comprehend that until I got home?

Anyway, I’m not sure what drew me to this 'cause I wasn’t interested at first, but I felt like it was calling to me, like I was supposed to take it, so I did. Much like with Fire, I am going to read this to see if I like it before getting the first and third book. World’s End is part of a trilogy, but getting the first and third book is definitely going to be a challenge because it’s one of those books you are more likely to find used.

Also, the cover reminds me of Treasure Planet.

Summary: Ever since returning from Dormia, Alfonso has enjoyed sleeping in a bed like a normal person.

But then, while visiting France, Alfonso feels that strange and familiar pull of sleep. Upon waking, he finds himself in the belly of a ship headed to Egypt. In his backpack are a few old books and a vial of medicine be stole while asleep.

Something is calling Alfonso back to Dormia. Perhaps it’s the Founding Tree? Or perhaps it’s the man he sees in his dreams–the one who looks just like his deceased father? Whatever it is, Alfonso is powerless to resist.

The storytellers Jake Halpern and Peter Kujawinski take Alfonso on another fantastical quest to Dormia–and beyond–to a vast underground world that holds the answer to a terrifying message: Let me tell you of a dark shadow tree and the world’s end.

Last but not least

When I saw the title, I thought of Trollhunters, and the summary was what convinced me to get it.

(I just found out today when I searched it on Goodreads, it’s the first in a trilogy)

Jack was eleven when the berserkers loomed out of the fog and nabbed him. “It seems that things are stirring across the water,” the Bard had warned. “Ships are being built, swords are being forged.”

“Is that bad?” Jack had asked, for his Saxon village had never before seen berserkers.

“Of course. People don’t make ships and swords unless they intend to use them.”

The year is A.D. 793. In the next months, Jack and his little sister, Lucy, are enslaved by Olaf One-Brow and his fierce young shipmate, Thorgil. With a crow named Bold Heart for mysterious company, they are swept up into an adventure-quest in the spirit of The Lord of the Rings.

Other threats include a willful mother Dragon, a giant spider, and a troll-boar with a surprising personality–to say nothing of Ivar the Boneless and his wife, Queen Frith, a shape-shifting half-troll, and several eight-feet-tall, orange-haired, full-time trolls. But in stories by award-winner Nancy Farmer, appearances do deceive. She has never told a richer, funnier tale, nor offered more timeless encouragement to young seekers than “Just say no to pillaging.”

Used Books Hold More Than Stories They Hold Memories Too

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There’s something different about used books. Maybe it’s the creased spine, the faded highlight on page fifty-three, or the note in the margin that simply reads “this.” Unlike a brand-new copy, a used book carries more than just a story — it carries someone else’s experience.

At Used Book Depot, our shelves in McKinney TX are filled with volumes that have lived rich lives before finding their way to your hands. Each one has passed through homes, bags, libraries, and laps — soaking up moments, moods, and memories along the way.

A Mark of the Reader Before You
Open a used book and you might find:
• An inscription: To Sarah, Christmas 1998 – Keep dreaming big
• A pressed flower resting between pages
• Notes in the margins that make you pause and think
• A name or address, long faded, in the inside cover

These are small traces of people you’ll never meet, but somehow feel connected to. Used books create a bridge — not just between reader and story, but between readers across time.

Why Memories Matter
We often hear customers at our bookstore in McKinney say, “I love finding notes in old books.” It’s a reminder that reading is a shared human experience. When you buy a used book from a local shop, you’re not just saving money — you’re continuing someone else’s journey.

Some shoppers come in looking for stories. Others come in looking for memories — a childhood favorite, a book their grandfather once read, or something they read on a rainy afternoon ten years ago.

At Used Book Depot, we believe every book deserves a second chapter. And sometimes, that second chapter is your story.

Why McKinney Book Lovers Keep Coming Back
Whether you’re from Collin County, nearby Plano, or just passing through, our store is a local favorite because of what we carry — not just the titles, but the meaning behind them. People return not just for the books, but for what those books represent.

If you’ve never browsed the used shelves with intention, we invite you to stop by. You might find:
• A book you didn’t know you missed
• A message from the past that somehow still fits your present
• A spark of nostalgia in a title you forgot existed

More Than a Store
Used Book Depot isn’t just a place to shop — it’s a place to connect. To memories, to stories, and to each other.

📍 Visit us at 7951 Collin McKinney Parkway, Suite 350, McKinney TX
🕮 Or explore our shelves online: usedbookdepot.com

What memory did your last used book unlock? Share your story and tag us — or better yet, come visit our McKinney store and discover your next book with a past.

Why Buying Gently Used Books Is Smarter Than Paying Full Price

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Looking to grow your home library without overspending? Discover why gently used books are the smarter choice for readers who care about their wallets, the planet, and the joy of the hunt.

From affordability to sustainability, here’s a breakdown of why more readers are turning to used books over brand new ones.

📖 Read the full article on Blogger:
👉 Why Buying Gently Used Books Is Smarter Than Paying Full Price

🔗 Explore our full collection of used books and shop with purpose at Used Book Depot.

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Used Books

Are you thinking about selling your used books? Before you do, make sure you’re not falling into the most common traps that can cost you money or slow down your sales.

In our latest guide, we cover the top 5 mistakes people make when trying to sell used books — and how to avoid them. From pricing errors to platform mismatches, this is the checklist every book seller needs.

📖 Read the full post on Substack:
https://open.substack.com/pub/usedbookdepot/p/top-5-mistakes-to-avoid-when-selling

🔗 Learn more about how to sell your used books the right way with Used Book Depot.

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A selection of items, available soon, found in our recently wrecked storage shed. See image alt text for more info.

7/12/23 Open 6-9p. No open containers, please.

Bonnett's Books (@BonnettsBooks@mastodonbooks.net)

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Today’s featured fresh-arrival is “Philosophy 101.” What do you think?

That was a rhetorical question. Think nothing of it.

Think about Thought.

6/27/23 Open 6-9p. No open containers, please.

Bonnett's Books (@BonnettsBooks@mastodonbooks.net)

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I often say, “Stop in often or you’ll miss the good stuff!” The theory applies at your local, indie bookstore, too! These Haunted Ohio books were claimed before they even left the ‘to-do’ pile!

6/26/23 Open 6-9p. No open containers, please.

Bonnett's Books (@BonnettsBooks@mastodonbooks.net)

Only the most current electronics…

Blind date with a vintage paperback book (avail: Cali Vintage Finds on Etsy)

A graphic novel reinterpretation….

Vintage The Three Musketeers Comic Novel (avail: Cali Vintage Finds on Etsy)