Bookstore
Bookstore
Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1999
Book Brief
368
Biography • Nonfiction
New York City • 1970s
1999
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Bookstore recounts the 20-year history of Books & Co, a beloved New York City bookstore founded by Jeanette Watson, daughter of IBM's Thomas Watson, following her recovery from hip surgery. Watson's dream materializes into a cozy, two-story store that becomes a literary hub, hosting readings by notable authors. Despite commercial struggles and competition from big chains and rising rents, the store ultimately closes, symbolizing a cultural loss.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Melancholic
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
75 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lynne Tillman's Bookstore is praised for its clever exploration of the literary world, with engaging characters and sharp, witty prose. Critics appreciate its insightful commentary on the relationships between booksellers and buyers. However, some find the pace uneven and the narrative occasionally meandering. Overall, it’s an intellectually stimulating read for literature enthusiasts.
Who Should Read Bookstore?
Readers who enjoy Bookstore by Lynne Tillman often appreciate metafiction and literary satire, similar to works by Paul Auster or Italo Calvino. They seek narratively rich, introspective novels that explore the complexities of human relationships and the nuances of urban life, much like those found in The New York Trilogy or If on a winter’s night a traveler.
75 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
368
Biography • Nonfiction
New York City • 1970s
1999
Adult
18+ years
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