Pages Bookshop - Detroit, MI

Pages Bookshop, Detroit, MI

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Pages Bookshop in Detroit is a baby bookstore, barely even 2 years old, and already it is serving a purpose and filling a void.  This bookstore is located in a neighborhood that didn't have one.  And now that it's here, the community is discovering a place that is welcoming, offers an inventory of books that are relevant and informative, and books that allow diversions and escapes.  In short, just like any other independent bookstore you visit.  

Susan M. is the owner here and she told me that even though they aren't sustaining yet, things are still going well in its brief existence.  Pages is a one-level, smallish to medium sized store offering all new books.  I thought the store was neatly organized and well-lit making browsing easy to do.  This indie is especially strong if you're looking for books about social justice, Detroit centric topics, and children's books.  They have a relevant display for Black Lives Matter and they also offer all the usual recent releases and best-sellers.  The sidelines here are limited but do include t-shirts, mugs, and greeting cards with the greeting cards selling quite well.  One of the best things for the store has been their events, especially those held off-site where they can attract larger crowds.  They're also able to hold events in the store and can accommodate up to 50 people, but the off-site events are the ones that have really been an important part of the business.  The store is located on a very busy street, Grand River Ave, giving it high visibility.  If you drive here by car, you can find free parking on either side of the street.  

On the day of my visit, I met Susan and one of her staffers, Leighton.  Both of these people were so nice to meet me and tell me lots about the store and the business.  In the store's short history, Susan shared with me how helpful other bookstore owners are with each other, a true camaraderie of brotherhood and sisterhood.  This is something I've observed as well, which continues to reaffirm to me that bookstore people are simply some of the most remarkable people anywhere.

Since this store is just a baby, the word isn't completely out yet.  But now the word is out!  Make a point to visit this bookstore, bring a friend, and enjoy browsing a fine inventory of books and meeting the terrific people that work there.  Go to an indie and buy a book.  Bonsoir.

CURRENTLY READING:  The Fever, Megan Abbott.  

RECENTLY PURCHASED:  I Am Rosa Parks, Brad Meltzer.  

Another exterior view.  

And this store has lots of great GIFTS!

One of the front window displays.  

Beautiful view looking into the store from the front entrance.  

The Pages cat surveying the front table display.  

A great place to sit in the front of the store and sample a book.  

A few of the greeting cards available.  

A charming display of a variety of sidelines.  

This should be a requirement.  

Table display of new paperbacks.  

Timely display with some outstanding books.  

A portion of the children's section.  

Book-themed book bags and socks.  

Book-themed and Detroit-themed t-shirts.  

A portion of the offerings of local interest.  

Events are an important part of Pages.  

This whiteboard is located near the front of the store.  A great idea for customers to share their favorite books and for others who come in looking for a recommendation.  

View from the back of the store looking toward the front entrance.  

With Leighton on the left and Susan in the middle, two of the fine people you'll enjoy meeting at Pages Bookshop.  Thanks for a great visit.