Bookstores of the World (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780789215161)

Even in these days of online commerce, the physical bookstore retains its fascination as a place to gather and discover new art and ideas, often serendipitously; in fact, the bookstore is a refuge from the often unreflective world outside. This splendid tribute to the bookstores of the world begins in France--which has the most bookstores per capita of any country--and continues throughout Europe, the Americas, the Near East, Asia, and Africa. Along the way we encounter legendary emporia such as City Lights in San Francisco and Foyle's in London, as well as new innovators such as the architecturally breathtaking Zhongshuge in Hangzhou. The insightful text explores the factors that have shaped bookselling in each region, from the price-fixing laws of France and Germany to the cultural and geographic diversity of the United States.


Illustrated with superb photographs of storefront and interiors, packed shelves and carefully curated displays, Bookstores of the World will inspire every bibliophile to chart new itineraries.

Author: Jean-Yves Mollier, Patricia Sorel
ISBN-10: 0789215160
ISBN-13: 9780789215161
Publisher: Abbeville Press
Language: English
Published: 10/07/2025
Pages: 320
Format: Hardcover