Bookstores you’re bound to love
Now that school is officially in full force, students have been hitting the books. However, there are plenty of literary worlds waiting to be discovered beyond the rigid spines of our Organic Chemistry textbooks. Now is the perfect time to check out the local independent bookstores hidden around Houston. Whether you have specific titles in mind or want to help support your community, there’s a store for everyone.
Brazos Bookstore
This independent bookstore in Rice Village has been a Houston staple since 1974, and they’re still going strong. Locally owned by 27 Houstonians since 2006, the store offers the best of both classic and recent releases in a variety of genres, from children’s fiction to music to social justice topics. Browse their event calendar for author readings and book signings, which they host regularly.
Murder by the Book
Just across from Brazos, Murder by the Book is a store dedicated to horror and mystery novels. They regularly host late-night author events and have a book subscription service for fans of crime fiction. They’ve had numerous book signings since their opening in 1980 from authors like James Lee Burke and Daniel Silva.
Kaboom Books
Just north of downtown Houston, this New Orleans-based used book franchise offers finds from all time periods. They boast a collection of over 100,000 books spread across 84 sections including fiction, art, history and more.
Quarter Price Books
This store is more of a used book store than the others on this list. It’s full of rare finds for low prices, and the person running the store has been there for decades and is always willing to talk about his collection and Houston over time. While focused more on non-fiction, there are still some old fiction novels and religious texts for those interested.
Kindred Stories
This relatively new store located in Houston’s Third Ward focuses on Black authors and stories. They also feature self-published authors and work with local organizations such as the Black Man Project that promotes Black wellness. The store also hosts author talks, book clubs and community-involvement events such as Educators’ Night, meant to build community among teachers, librarians and school leaders.
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Local thrifting hot spots
Perseverance. Humility. An eye for beauty. Qualities you must keep close at hand (perhaps in the back pocket of your favorite jeans, or tucked into your worn-down sneakers), ready to be drawn upon at a moment’s notice. Any seasoned, stylish or frugal Houstonian can attest: these are vital components of a thrifter’s repertoire.
Nearby city niceties
Do you have a time in your calendar that needs filling, but don’t want to spend thirty minutes walking in the August heat or $30 on admission? Consider checking out one or more of these activities within one mile of Rice — all free or discounted with a Rice ID.
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