The Novel Neighbor

Edit to add that there’s a lot to love about this bookstore-the layout and selection is top tier. I love the wall of staff recs and that they have blurbs posted around the store for more staff recs. Shelby is amazing! I always go to them for recommendations and they are genuinely passionate about their job. They’ve spent a lot of time with me helping pick out what to read next. They even went over my review in person and took the time to listen to what I had to say. I will always support indie bookstores and for that reason have updated the review to 5 stars. I am still leaving my original concerns below but will update accordingly over time. -Some of the staff here is so great and then other times it is so off putting. I just called to get thriller recs to come in and pick up and the person was very disinterested/ cold & when I asked if they read thrillers they said, “no, I don’t.” no suggesting a co worker who does or giving any other input. It has happened multiple times.

Whenever I am in Webster I make it my excuse to stop by the Novel Neighbor. I cannot adequately express my love for this bookstore. Of course there are all kinds of books to choose from, but also great kids gifts ranging from activity books and kits to card and board games. The atmosphere is just what you would hope to find in a small, locally owned bookstore - bright, joyful, inspiring, and full of book enthusiasts (both the workers and the shoppers). I never seem to have enough time to spend there because I could probably get lost thumbing through books for an entire day day.

My daughter has been begging me to bring her here. I now know why. Great atmosphere, knowledgable and helpful staff. All wrapped with a bow around the love of reading.

I’ve been coming to The Novel Neighbor for a few months now. It has become my absolute favorite place to buy books now. From the incredibly helpful staff (shout out to Shelby and Nichole), to a selection of books that allow me to feel seen in my queer and poly self, to just an incredibly welcoming atmosphere. Every time I come in, I’m reminded why I love this place. I cannot wait to come back again.

Super cute bookstore. Friendly sales people and great deals. Perfect stop for this holiday season!

This store is so cute and well stocked. I loved how large the romance and fantasy sections were and they had more than just the latest books. I found books that I’ve never found at big box stores. I wish we lived closer, cannot wait to come back!

Had a great time checking out The Novel Neighbor. They were utterly packed two days before Christmas, and the store is a narrow labyrinthine place, so it was a bit claustrophobic. Their selection is wonderful, and they have a ton of non-book items, from tea to dishtowels, board games to soaps. I picked up some enamel pins for my bookbag and an item for a white elephant gift exchange. The staff were just wonderful, so personable, taking the time to visit with each person and help anyone who needed it.

This book store is why I love bookstores. The Novel Neighbor makes buying a book an adventure. Each genre is separated with clear signage and every section is filled with employee reviews. I love that the kids section has reviews and written by age appropriate readers! I could waste an afternoon just basking in this ambiance. Excellent small book store!

I always feel like going to a bookstore is such a treat, and Novel Neighbor always blows it out of the water. I get a lot of books from the library, so when I'm on the hunt to buy, it's my go to spot! I always park on the side streets off of Lockwood, but there is a lot behind the building. This specific visit brought me in looking for a thriller novel, and I found many in the fiction/ mystery section. They're organized by author alphabetically, so it was easy to scope out some of my favorite authors. They have a wide variety of genres, all with a great selection. Their back room has recently been transformed to Open Door Romance which is a room solely dedicated to romance novels. I'm not a romance novel lover myself, but this would be THE SPOT to come if I was. The staff is wonderful, they're always open and welcoming. It's such a great spot!

A great little store! Full of recent releases and there's a whole front room for romance if that's your thing. My section was in the back (Sci-fi/Fantasy). Huge kids section. All in all a great store! I didn't see any sales going on or deals and I assume the books are the price on the cover. Same if you'd went to Barnes and noble. Treat yourself and shop local and shop small business instead.

I love The Novel Neighbor! Every time I go there the staff give me great book rec based on what I tell them I'm looking for. They always help me find great gifts and books. I love that they have lots of local St. Louis items for sale by women and locally owned businesses. I also enjoy going to the used book sales to get great deals on good books. The used book sales benefit their charity work.

I had a wonderful time at the Beto O'Rourke event that The Novel Neighbor hosted. It was very well organized, and all the staff were so friendly! I didn't need to buy a book, but those who were were able to do so easily. I had some time to poke around the store beforehand and got a few goodies. Filled to the brim with books, and also fun gifts and stickers and things. Their Taylor Swift section is top notch!! Easily my favorite local bookstore in STL, I wish I lived closer.

HELLO, VISITING HERE WAS A DREAM COME TRUE! I live in Chicago and I've been a fan/follower on IG for quite a while. I had to drive thru StLouis for a little road trip, and I made a point to stop here. TNN initially looks small, but it just keeps going and going and going. They have an extensive collection of many genres, especially contemporary fiction and recent publications. Surprisingly, one of my highlights was the children's section. There were so many stuffed animals as companions for picture books and I found the perfect gift for a friend's baby :) I could spend all day here. Looking forward to the day I can return here. But, per their IG, they also know how to use the mail, so they can ship books too :)

This is my absolute go-to bookstore! While they don't have the giant selection of a Barnes & Noble, their curated collection is fantastic, and I always find great reads. As a romance book enthusiast, I appreciate that their romance section is more extensive and thoughtfully chosen compared to larger chains. Every time I walk in, I know exactly where to find my favorite genres, and I always leave with a great book in hand. The staff here is amazing and very helpful. They're always ready with great recommendations and genuinely care about finding the perfect book for you. Their passion for books and excellent customer service make every visit a delightful experience.

This was my first time to this cute eclectic bookstore. Actually got the recommendation from my doctor as a great place to get away and loose yourself. Bookshelves are categorized by unique subjects. Lots of little rooms to explore and chairs to sit down with a book. Plus, fun and interesting gift items and novelties throughout the store. Main entrance is on Big Bend. Plenty of parking in the back with a back entrance as well. Ross was very helpful helping me find the book I was looking at and also told me about their website.

This is a beautiful small business located in an old building in Webster groves with rooms and rooms of books and Knick knacks. The books are arranged in sections with recommendations . The selection is exhaustive and competitively priced .The book store is much larger than it appears from outside and is warm and inviting . They have a ton of book clubs in house . Notable amongst those is a dinner book club in collaboration with perennial on Lockwood. They also collaborate with the stl girl gang for their book club books . Walking into this store was inspirational and I intend to visit again when I'm in the neighborhood. Small businesses are the best and deserve our support !

I found this bookstore because they offered a coupon for a book currently being read by my book club. This is the kind of bookstore in which I can lose an entire day. Creaky wood floors, overcrowded bookshelves lined with reviews and book seller recommendations. This bookstore is a mood. I found myself exploring new genres based upon the awesome handwritten notes throughout the store. I love that the young adult and kids books had reviews written by age appropriate readers! Staff was the perfect blend of attentive while still allowing me room to roam. The novel neighbor facilitates in-store book clubs, hosts book-themed birthday parties, summer camps, cocktail classes and they offer two distinctive spaces for event rental. They are known for their personalized Mystery Boxes, as well as their subscription service. In line with their values, The Noble Neighbor, seeks to amplify historically marginalized voices and engage with equity and inclusion work in the St. Louis area and beyond.

Simply outstanding!!! We took a group of girls between the ages of 9 and 11. They were in enamored with all of the selections and the adorable little rooms filled from floor to ceiling with books. I pretty sure our one little reader liked the Novel Neighbor better than an amusement park. They all loved it! We even had a moment to talk to the business owner Holland and it was like we were talking to an old friend! Please check out the Novel Neighbor! You won't be disappointed.

The cutest book store!! Has a large books, games, puzzles selection. The staff if always there to help. Has a large number of signed books which is awesome. They have a Harry Styles section which won me over. Also have these "mystery" bags if you're feeling adventurous for a new read.

I honestly love this book! I went there for a Yelp event, and I have since gone there twice to buy some gifts. I have a children's book and a couple of candles as a gift to friends. You can find gifts for anyone, especially for book lovers! I love their candle selection and great variety to pick from!

New obsession with this place. Has many aisles you can walk through and browse with shelves filled with books, gifts, and some random funny items (sarcastic and some kinda vulgar which i love). There's a cute kids area for the little ones to sit down and read. The shop can get pretty tight feeling if there's a large crowd inside but overall i think the quaint, intimate feel and creaky wood floors is what makes this shop special.

The staff at The Novel Neighbor are so friendly and knowledgeable. I set out looking for a gift for someone who has every book known to man and they had the perfect suggestion! They know the store inside and out and have amazing recommendations. I had to use a lot of self control to not buy everything in site. Not only do they have a huge selection of books, they also have book themed items such as candles, games, pins, socks, mugs, etc. If you are a reader this place is for you! And if you know someone who is a reader I guarantee they can help you pick something perfect out for them.

Such a CUTE bookstore. And even if you're not looking for a book, they have puzzles, games, vinyl stickers, fun tea towels, cards for all occasions... and the associates who work there are very helpful and accommodating. If you love a good bookstore, try this one out!

Yesterday was Read Across America day, and although I'm a day late to the party, I'd love to share a review about an independent bookseller I love! Literacy is a topic that's very important to me. I've always loved reading and getting lost in stories. From fantasy to biographies, I've always consumed books. Although I'm a slow reader, I get so excited going to shop at small bookstores like the Novel Neighbor! Driving up to the Novel Neighbor I was very nervous about parking. They are located on a pretty busy street in the heart of Webster Groves, and I still have new car anxiety. THANKFULLY, there's a full parking lot behind the store. Accessing the store from the lot is super easy as well as there is a dedicated entrance. The Novel Neighbor isn't just a book shop. I was amazed at all the novelty items they offered as well. I've recently been trying to unwind at the end of the day with adult coloring books, and they had a huge selection. I was especially fond of the Disney villains spiralgraph coloring book. Never saw something like this before. The store also offers a lot of great items for those quarantine weekends. Puzzles. Crochet how-to guides. Tons of stuff to keep you busy while social distancing. I was incredibly impressed by the massive selection offered by the Novel Neighbor. At first, I thought the store appeared small, but they sure pack the titles on their shelves. I have been excited to read a book by a trans author, Kacen Callender. Truly did not think I'd be able to find it at the Novel Neighbor as it's not a "New York Times Best Seller." But I stand corrected. They had a copy! In the front of the store there is an entire section devoted to employee favorites. I was pleased to find a book there that sounded really interesting. It's always such a great way to connect a store with shoppers by giving personal recommendations (kind of like I'm doing right now!)

So cute! Great selection or books and gifts. Candles galore. A much much much better experience than Amazon!

My absolute favorite bookstore!! They have an amazing selection, with something for everyone, from local authors to big names, classics to graphic novels (may I add an amazing kids section)! I love the vibe inside & there are multiple cozy spots to sit with a book. They have lots of community oriented events which are always fun to check out & the staff are always very helpful. Prices are very reasonable and it is always a treat to go in!

If you're looking for a fantastic local bookstore to support, this is the one! The shop is super cute, and run by a friendly and knowledgeable staff. I love that it's women owned and operated, and how they support so many local artists and businesses. Plus, if you're really plugged into the book scene, they have tons of events. Book clubs, author evening, etc. Its incredible how many of my favorite authors I've met just in the last six months through The Novel Neighbor. They do a great job of making the events fun and the signing lines manageable, too.

This is a book lover's dream! I had passed the store multiple times while out and about but never stopped in. During COVID stay-at-home orders, I started following their Facebook page and have enjoyed updates from Holland on book recommendations, etc. Today, I finally made the trek there and went in to shop. I'm in love. This is a lovely classic book store. It is larger than it appears and has a wide selection of books and merchandise for the book nerd in your life.

I love this local, independent book store! It has everything you need including cute, functional paper goods (journals and cards), gifts (funny socks, candles, pins, etc.), and obviously an amazing book selection. They have a reading nook for kids your kids will love. The puzzle selection here is also the best I've seen...truly! They also have an event area that can be rented, book clubs, monthly book subscriptions, and more. I appreciate an independent book store that is community oriented. Please go out and support them!

They have such a diverse collection and author events frequently. As an educator and a mother, I feel so fortunate this place is in our community. They also supported a local school event by donating books and prizes. So grateful for this business!

I had a wonderful experience at novel neighborhood. The atmosphere was lovely. I enjoyed talking to Britane at checkout. I attended one of the book clubs and had a great experience! I will be coming back!

The novel neighbor is a LOT bigger than I thought it would be. All the books are new. There are lots of book-related gift items, too. The store has author events every so often, so they may have autographed copies in stock when you visit. My friends and is spent an hour here the other day. A young boy -- maybe 10 years old -- was "working" there for an afternoon as a reward for some sort of reading or school accomplishment or something. He had a shelf of his "picks" that he showed me and he checked my friends out at the register. Pretty cool that The Novel Neighbor did something like that. Great place to shop for gifts... Or for yourself.

I stopped in here last week to look for a gift for a friend's baby shower. Someone recommended it because not only do they have children's books, but they have toys and a small selection of onezies. The Novel Neighbor is primarily a book store and they really do have a pretty great selection of books. In addition to their literature they have local and non local crafts, prints, coffee mugs, puzzles, and other creative things. It's a great place to buy gifts for people. I enjoyed their feminist book selection. They have a cozy area in the back where you can read. I took advantage of that, even in the midst of errand running...It was too cute to pass up a couple minutes of relaxation. I left without purchasing anything, because they didn't have quite what I was looking for, but I am really glad I stopped in to see what they're all about.

Politics aside, seemed like a nice, if cramped into older buildings, bookstore. Large range of topics available

I can ALWAYS find that unique gift or the perfect book! Lots to look at so plan on spending some time...and if you need to order anything, they are happy to help you! Every time I go here...I NEVER walk out empty handed!

Regretfully, my first trip to The Novel Neighbor happened on Small Business Saturday last weekend. I only say this because I couldn't believe I had never been until recently. This warm, quirky, carefully curated bookstore will impress you with all of its offerings. From the moment I stepped inside, the staff greeted us, then proceeded to offer a complimentary beverage of choice--beer, wine, or spiked cider! They also consistently (but not annoyingly) approached us to see if we needed any assistance with smiles. The personalized service and knowledgeable staff prove to be why there seemed to be so many repeat customers, and I will become one of them. I could easily spend hours, perusing the assortment of books, along with some creative candles, artsy jewelry, sassy socks, and political pins among other deliciously odd items. The Novel Neighbor made shopping for my friend's birthday gift into an adventure. I already cannot wait to return. If you sign up for free, you earn a $5 reward for every $100 spent. Plus, you can order books on their website and have them shipped to the store or your home. While it might be more expensive than ordering your books on Amazon, I feel it's best to support the success of our local small businesses instead of contributing to Jeff Bezos' empire of greed and unethical practices. Anyway, where else can I get such customized and personalized services for my book purchases? Not Barnes & Noble or Amazon. They also hold book events in the space next door, which happened to be where I entered a raffle to win a $100 gift card to The Novel Neighbor, of course. Even if I don't win, I know I will be back to buy books and treasures that touch my heart and speak to my mind.

The novel neighbor is a lovely spot, especially for gift shopping!

Incredible book store! I saw them on TikTok talking about an author signing that was coming up. I live on the West Coast so wouldn't be able to go in person so I reached out asking if I could order a signed book. They were very friendly and didn't even charge extra for the signing and personalization from the author!

I visited this bookstore for the first time today. Loved it! There is a good selection of books, cards and unique items great for gifts. The staff was friendly and helpful. The atmosphere was very positive and happy! This book lover will return. I will totally recommend this bookstore to others!!

This bookstore in Webster Groves is adorable! It was my first time in I had won a gift card in a raffle basket I was looking to use. It's rare to see independent bookstores that are successful these days and The Novel Neighbor is a great mix of books, games, and gifts that meet everyone's needs. It looked like they host some events there as well that were listed on a flyer by the register. I got a book for myself and a fold out book for my daughter to enjoy. They got me signed up for their rewards program as well. The only thing that's a little difficult is the set up. Everything is divided by subject but the sections themselves I found hard to find navigate to find what I needed. But it was kind of part of the eclectic feel of the business so I didn't mind too much. Will definitely be back!

This place is great. There are plenty of options and the newest and greatest pieces from new and up and coming authors. They have different gifts available as well. It's a great place!

In the days pre-Covid, I attended author programs at the St. Louis County Library at which The Novel Neighbor was often the bookseller. I was not overly familiar with the store, but appreciated their partnership with the library (not to mention their cute, perfectly paperback-sized bookmarks). Fast forward to last fall when everything was closed, or at least restricted in operations. I knew that I wanted to support a local bookstore when it came time to shop for my mother's birthday gift, rather than my usual knee-jerk reaction to hop on Barnes & Noble or Amazon.com. The Novel Neighbor had the title I was looking for in stock, and it was super easy to order the book online , have it shipped to my mother who lives in the suburbs of St. Louis, and include a personalized message to boot. I have enjoyed receiving the book recommendations and email updates from Holland and The Novel Neighbor in my inbox. Being able to support a business that is deeply rooted in its community and has been so good about teaming up with the library is a bonus.

This is my go-to place for gifts, books or other "gifty"-type things. I just think it's the best bookstore in St. Louis! Not only do they have a great selection of books for all ages, but they generally have a really good selection of other items that would round out a gift bag nicely. I can spend hours just looking around the store - the building has so much character, it's perfect for a bookstore. The staff is great, the events are good, and I think the mystery box is a wonderful idea.

The store looks deceptively small from the outside but feels roomy with books on the inside. There are crafts from local vendors and candles inspired by classical literature. The perfect place to get away from it all, to find a book, or to take that special someone who loves books out on a date. *There is parking in the back, almost hidden.

Best local bookstore in the Lou! Great selection of books and also lots of gift items. Staff is very helpful and can always recommend the perfect book for someone! If you haven't been to this store, check it out! You will not be disappointed!!

Small in size but well-stocked. I had been disappointed to find my 'area of interest' reduced to three shelves at the big-box book store, so I tried here. It was a lucky day! Five shelves, no dupes, and some great surprises. And that was just the first section I visited. It was a pricey, rewarding trip. I'll be back! (Well, not this week-really well stocked up now!). Thanks

First time coming in here and I can promise you I will be back. This is such a welcoming store, from the staff to the atmosphere, and their selection of books is fantastic. I am so glad I discovered this place!

Ordered a book to pick up and had the chance to explore the store too--this is where I'm doing all of my Christmas shopping. So much larger than it looks on the outside. Unique books, games, activities for all ages. Everyone was wearing a mask and it felt very cozy and safe.

I love The Novel Neighbor. Driving past it multiple times over the last year that it's been open, I never really noticed it until I went to Stratton's Café for lunch. When I saw it as I drove past it, I decided that when I was done with lunch, I was going to The Novel Neighbor. I'm so glad that I did. Not only is it a bookstore, it's a gift shop, too, with many items made by local artisans who make jewelry, and prints from local photographers. They have a lot of things in there that are very nice and would make great gifts for all sorts of occasions. However, I went there looking for books, and they have plenty to buy and read. There is a really good children's section, so if you have children, you should check it out. There are all sorts of books that the little ones would most likely want to look at and read. The adult sections are loosely divided into subjects like a fiction and non-fiction section, mystery section, history and the merchandise is all new merchandise. They are not a used bookstore or second hand trade type of bookstore. The workers there were friendly and helpful. It was fun looking at the merchandise and talking with them. And an added plus, they had the book that I wanted plus more that I thought were interesting. If I want or need something as far as books go, I'm going there. Check it out. You just might like it and become a regular.

The perfect local bookstore to satisfy all the desires of the heart. They have a great selection of all different kinds of reads, fair prices, and extra friendly and helpful staff. I'm excited to have joined their book club and can't wait to become a regular of this wonderful shop. I definitely recommend to any, especially those seeking a superior kids' section.

Sister Spectacular Apparently I can't post this until it's longer So it's sister fun sister scurry sister snatched sister salty sister scary sister spooky sister smart sister seranada!

I should be honest about this review, I originally had only wanted to come visit this shop because the girlfriend of my cousin had posted about obtaining a lithograph of novels into pictures. I have wanted one for so long and to know that there was a shop close that sold them made me want to come visit. I wish I had known about this place before this however because I have to say the moment I entered the place I knew I had found a new favorite place to spend some of my hard earned money! Not only do they have some very good selections of books, but some of the most interesting Jewelry and other odds and ends that you don't always see at other places. The staff are friendly and helpful if you do indeed need help.

Awesome independent book store. I'm a huge book lover, real BOOKS (not of the electronic version) and I like to spend money on them. I also have a large collection of kids books that I've acquired for my children. This little shop is small but has a huge selection. They also carry several gift type items. There is an area that's closed off for kids and my son enjoyed playing there and looking at books while I made my selections. There was one book they didn't have but were able to get it for me within a day or two. They also have a party room here where they have lots of events and you can also rent out for birthday parties, showers, etc. I definitely plan on supporting this shop with my purchases in the future.

I love this store! I have missed having a cute little bookstore in Webster Groves ever since Pudd'n Head closed. This store is the answer. The children's area is an adorable little nook. The back area has fiction, biographies and young adult along with an awesome antique stove near the cooking books. There are plenty of awesome gifts. I bought a Dr. Who themed candle but there were plenty of other literature & pop culture scented candles. Very cute store. The owner was there and mentioned that they'll be doing art classes and birthday parties.

This is currently my favorite bookstore to visit in the St. Louis area. When you want to purchase every single thing that is displayed then you know they are doing something right! :-) One example of why you should buy a book here - I went to get the new Young Frankenstein Movie book for a gift, and the salesperson told me they had free Young Frankenstein T-shirts that came in with the books! How cool! They have fun magnets, coloring books, bags, cards etc too.

This place is so great! I especially love that you can purchase "mystery boxes" to be sent as gifts. You simply give a few details (age, gender, and interests) and they curate the perfect gift of books and merchandise. I've sent 3 mystery boxes and the recipients loved them!

such a cute store! of course being a local bookstore things are going to be priced higher than amazon, but such a great selection and the girl working was very friendly. They have a small clearance section too, and by no means was anything ridiculously overpriced.