Books Of Wonder Bookstore

There are two five star book shops in New York City. One is Bank Street and the other is Books of Wonder. They have moved a few times in the last five years and the newest location is the best so far. Not only does The Oz Society meet here but they have added a new "Cupcake Cafe" which has great sweets for the whole family. The book selection is amazing, everything from rare out of print children's books to the newest alphabet books for toddlers. The staff are top notch and will help you find whatever you need and are great for gift advice. I can't recommend this shop enough.

Bank Street Book Store

The Bank Street Book Store part of the Bank Street Teachers College is an amzing place to shop for your child. Just because the store is connected to an institution of higher learning the atmosphere is far from stuffy and the books are not all educational books. Two large floors crammed full with anything a child could desire to read plus a few small toys. The service is top notch, they really know there stuff. A truly wonderous place to shop, bring your kids and turn them on to books.

PROS: Utterly Amazing Shop
CONS:

Asia Society & Museum

The Asia Society and Museum is a fascinating place. In a new modernistic building sits an amazing collection of art from Asia. The constantly change exhibitions so there is always something new and exciting to see. The gift shop has a great assortment of books and some replica art and you can find books here that you wouldn't normally see. The price to get in to see all this is fair, $10 for adults, $5 students and free for the under 16 set.

PROS: Tremendous collection of art
CONS: None

Richard B Arkway Books

Right off Park Avenue up on the 6th Floor sits this magnificent map shop. I'm not talking about modern maps either but hundreds of vintage maps going back to the fifteenth century. If you want a map of Jerusalem from the 1500's or Paris from the 1800's this is the place to go. THe selection is breathtaking and some maps are surprisingly affordable when you consider there age and beauty.

PROS: Great Selection
CONS: They Keep Banker's Hours

Appelfeld Gallery Bks

When you first enter Appelfeld Gallery you realize there is more to the shop then the dingy view through the window. This store gives out an old book store vibe and there shelves contain many treasures. They deal in first editions and out of print books but everything here is not expensive. You could pick up a really nice gift for under $50 here. Worth taking a look at if you find yourself in the neighborhoos, they are across the street from The Hospital For Special Surgery and Soethebys Auction House.

PROS: Fascinating Selection
CONS: A bit dingy

Mercer Street Books & Records

Mercer Street Books & Records is an interesting neighborhood used book shop in the West Village. They carry an eclectic assortment of books many of them first editions or rarities. They are very friendly and knowledgeable and are more than capable to assist you in tracking down a hard to find book.

PROS: Very Helpful Open Late
CONS: None

Westsider Records

Westsider Records is a great asset in a City with many shops devoted to Classical Music and the performing arts. Stacks of Broadway and Movie Soundtracks and thousands of used Classical CDs. They also have a nice selection of used and out of print books and scores which are always a welcome addition to any collection. Open late and look up they're on the second floor.

PROS: Good Hours and Selection
CONS: None

Westsider Rare & Used Books Inc.

Westsider Rare & Used Books Inc used to be Gryphon Books. They have two locations both of which I will review since they are markedly different. This location has an interesting mixture of used CD's and out of print books. There pricing is a little choppy, I've gotten some real deals over the years but have also seen items that I thought were way over priced. They have great hours, some nights open until midnight. This is no Strand but a good useful source of out of print material.

PROS: Great Hours
CONS: Choppy Prices

Grun Andrei

I have two children who love to go to the Dentist and I don't think there can be any higher tribute to a Dentist. Of course there is more than kid friendly when it comes to this practice. He's replaced some fillings in my mouth and is currently working on the wife. He keeps evening hours which is great for working parents. I can't recommend him highly enough.

PROS: Great Hpurs and Manner
CONS: None

Global Pediatrics

Dr. Palmo Pasquariello of Global Pediatrics took care of both of our children when they were very young. He is a warm, affable man whom children enjoy. The practice is large which allows them to have extended hours which is great especially if you prefer weekend appointments. We came in contact with some of the other Doctors in the practice and found them to all be warm, capable caregivers. I highly recommend Global Pediatrics.