A Novel Idea on Passyunk - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Peter J.

This a quite interesting bookstore in Philly. Small but warm and cozy place of collections. If you love book just try to stop by you may find interesting book.

Jenna K.

Their selection of books is uniquely curated and there is something here for everyone!! I love that they highlight work from local authors, I've been able to discover some amazing books here that resonated with me that I otherwise never would have come across. And if you are looking for more popular books, they have those, too! If something you are looking for isn't available or you'd like to pre-order something, you can do that too, bringing you back to the good ol days of the anticipation of going to pick up a book you're excited to buy. ☺️

Timothy K.

I was recommended to come here from a very knowledgeable person in the neighborhood. I went to see what it was like, and A Novel Idea on Passyunk seems like a wonderful experience in a local Philly neighborhood.

The room is spacious, and carefully curated with literature. The contrast between this space and other bookstores may be that there is not an overwhelming sense of choice. This is different and it is refreshing, because it allowed me to peruse. It felt as if the space offered a moment to have deep conversation amongst well-written authors.

I would recommend grabbing a coffee from one of the neighboring coffee shops and browsing A Novel Idea on Passyunk. It may be the modern day feel of a Paris salon during the Enlightenment!

J S.

In this era of megacorporations and online retailing, it is difficult to conceive of the sort of coziness we have lost. It seems that A Novel Idea is attempting to return us to that level of coziness and connection that we once enjoyed with local businesses. I am not sure how long it has been since there was a locally-owned bookstore in this neighborhood, but it is a welcome development that one now exists.

It is a shame that the idea of a bookstore owned by people in the neighborhood with a commitment to local authors and creators is a “novel idea,” but that is the world in which we live. This bookstore has a cozy lay out and nice selection of new releases and used books, but what sets it apart is the commitment to local artisans, authors and publishers, the small presses that are increasingly proliferating in our hunt for authenticity and community. This commitment to buying local and selling local, but also being local, sets A Novel Idea apart, and, hopefully, will contribute to its long term success.

Come in to browse some local books and products, and stay for one of the readings or events.

Emily H.

The sweetest and most intentional book store! My book club hosted a night here recently where we got to bring snacks, drinks, spend time amongst the beautiful store and then have our tarot cards read by the shop owner, Christina. Was one of our best book clubs yet 10/10!!!

Jamiegirl P.

Quaint little bookstore people in there are so nice and helpful. They will even order a book for you if they don’t have it.

Zach P.

My favorite book store in the city! I go to their book club every month and it's a great time. Highly recommend checking out and stopping in

Hanna K.

I always love coming here! Christina and Alex are the best and always friendly. A Novel Idea is a small shop, but there's always something going on from bookclubs, writing workshops, and author events.