Although I’ve been working with visuals for the last few years, there’s still something that draws me to a nice book. I love the way the paper feels, the smell of ink, and just the general mystery and excitement that awaits a new story. I used to read all the time growing up, and mom is a librarian, so I think that’s where my love of narrative comes from. A good story really is what it’s all about.
I love Daunt Books on Marylebone High St in London, first of all, because it feels like you’re stepping into a story. The store itself is a bit of an architectural wonder, with a quaint and charming entry way that opens into a double-storied back room. Loads of old wood and small details mean this place is a world unto itself, the perfect place to get lost Alice in Wonderland style down the rabbit hole of good writing.
The second reason I love this place is because, although there’s a bit of everything, it’s dedicated to travel. How perfect? I picked up two books on food (naturally), but I found myself spending a good chunk of time perusing the collections of short stories.
A dear friend brought me here, and I’m glad she did. Daunt Books seems like one of the most quintessentially London places I’ve been to, yet it still has the “I’m the only one who knows about this wonder” feel that we’re all looking to find. Check it out if you have the time — it’s the perfect place to pick up a read for the flight home.
Also, it’s a bit like the English equivalent of Shakespeare & Co. in Paris.
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