As the third national lockdown continues, some of us suddenly have a lot more free time for hobbies like reading.
If you’re hunting for a new book to dive into, why not take a browse through a virtual bookshop close to home? In times like these, it’s more important than ever to support our local, independent businesses when we can.
These independent bookshops in York have online ordering. From fiction, non-fiction, poetry, children’s books, classics, and more, there will be something for everyone. I’ve even thrown in a few of my own recommendations!
If you’re looking for rare editions, collectables and specialist books, check out Ken Spelman Bookshop, Lucius Books and more in our full bookshop guide to York.
Happy reading!
The Blue House Bookshop
karen@thebluehousebookshop.co.uk
An independent bookshop that specialises in children’s fiction – but young adult and grown-up titles are available too! Browse through classic children’s authors such as Michael Morpurgo, Julia Donaldson, Philip Pullman and more. Order books for delivery or collection from the shop. Free delivery in York.
Read from a York-based author: Notes on a Nervous Planet by Matt Haig (Matt Haig now lives in Brighton, but he previously lived in York for several years.)
My recommendations: Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness, The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo
The Little Apple Bookshop
books@littleapplebookshop.co.uk
An independent bookshop that stocks all sorts from fiction to children’s books to signed editions to bookish gifts! Their website was set up in 2020 to supply books during lockdown. UK-wide delivery and collection available 10-3 Mon-Sat for click and collect and pre-paid purchases.
Read from a York-based author: Exit Management by Naomi Booth
My recommendations: Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams, On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong, My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite
The Portal Bookshop
portalbookshop@gmail.com
An independent bookshop that specialises in LGBTQIA+, sci-fi, and fantasy books. The online store continues to grow, with an ever expanding inventory. Delivery available.
Read from a York-based author: Tell it to the Bees by Fiona Shaw
My recommendations: I Will Not Be Erased by gal-dem, The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang, Rainbow Milk by Paul Mendez