Books of Wonder: A New York City Institution
Books of Wonder, established in 1980 by Peter Glassman and James Carey, stands as a testament to the enduring magic of children’s literature. More than just a bookstore, it’s a cultural landmark, a cherished destination for generations of young readers and their families, and a testament to the power of storytelling. This article delves into the history, evolution, and enduring impact of this unique New York City institution, exploring its multifaceted role in the world of children’s books and its contributions to the broader literary landscape.
A History Steeped in Literary Charm
The initial Books of Wonder store, a modest 150-square-foot space on Hudson Street in Greenwich Village, opened its doors in 1980. Peter Glassman, recently having left Brown University, initially envisioned a venue to sell his collection of antique children’s books to discerning collectors. However, the available space proved more expansive than anticipated, leading to the serendipitous inclusion of classic and contemporary children’s titles alongside Glassman’s treasured antiques. The store’s strategic location, near numerous schools and frequented by commuters from New Jersey, significantly contributed to its early success, generating approximately US$78,000 in its inaugural year, a feat that spurred a move to a larger location in 1982.
From Bookstore to Publisher: A Publishing Imprint Emerges
Books of Wonder’s journey transcended simple retail. In 1984, at an American Booksellers Association conference, Glassman and Carey connected with David Reuther, then editor-in-chief of Morrow Junior Books. This meeting ignited a collaboration that would redefine the landscape of classic children’s literature. Glassman proposed reissuing L. Frank Baum’s Oz books, complete with their original, full-color illustrations – a project perfectly aligned with Reuther’s vision and made economically feasible by expired copyrights. This collaboration resulted in the establishment of a publishing imprint under William Morrow and Company, initially named Books of Wonder Classics.
The imprint’s success expanded beyond the Oz series. Books of Wonder Classics commissioned artists to illustrate and color classic children’s books that lacked visual accompaniment, including Mark Twain’s A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court. The commitment to visual artistry elevated these classics, making them more accessible and appealing to a new generation of young readers. Further solidifying their publishing presence, Books of Wonder launched Emerald City Press in 1988, enabling them to publish their own books directly through the store and via mail order. This expansion solidified Books of Wonder’s dual identity as both a purveyor of children’s literature and a significant contributor to its creative output.
Expansion and Adaptation: Navigating Change and Maintaining Relevance
Books of Wonder’s growth continued with the opening of a larger store on Seventh Avenue in Chelsea in 1986. A Beverly Hills branch followed in 1991, supported in part by Les Charles and James Burrows, co-creators of the popular television series Cheers. This location even incorporated an art gallery showcasing original illustrations from prominent children’s book illustrators, further intertwining the visual and literary aspects of the enterprise.
However, the 1990s presented challenges. Road repairs in Greenwich Village hampered foot and vehicle traffic to the original Hudson Street store, and the Beverly Hills location suffered setbacks due to the 1992 Los Angeles riots, flooding, and an earthquake. Consequently, the Hudson Street store closed in 1993, followed by the Beverly Hills location in 1994.
Despite these setbacks, Books of Wonder demonstrated resilience and adaptability. In 2017, Glassman announced the opening of a new store on the Upper West Side, recognizing the value of having a second location as a contingency against potential lease issues. The 2,600-square-foot space, previously occupied by a Gymboree, proved ideal, offering ample room to accommodate families with strollers. Glassman’s strategic choice reflected his keen understanding of the demographics and family-friendly nature of the Upper West Side neighborhood.
This new store opened in September 2017, but experienced a temporary closure between March and July 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It reopened in August 2020, only to face another closure in 2021 when the building changed ownership. This highlights both the vulnerability of independent businesses and their capacity to navigate significant disruptions.
More Than a Bookstore: A Community Hub
Books of Wonder is not merely a retail space; it’s a vibrant community hub. Its influence extends beyond sales figures; it shapes young lives, fostering a love of reading that often endures into adulthood.
The “Books of Wonder Mafia”: Nurturing Literary Talent
The store has played an instrumental role in the careers of numerous children’s authors and illustrators. Many prominent figures began their journeys as sellers at Books of Wonder before achieving publishing success. Editor Neal Porter famously dubbed this group the “Books of Wonder mafia,” highlighting the store’s unique ability to nurture and launch literary talent. This underscores the bookstore’s role as more than a retail location; it is a breeding ground for creative talent, fostering the next generation of children’s literature authors and illustrators.
A Legacy of Literary Influence and Cultural Impact
Books of Wonder’s legacy extends beyond the individuals it has nurtured. Its curated selection, commitment to both classic and contemporary literature, and unique approach to publishing have had a lasting impact on the broader literary landscape. The carefully chosen collection of books, combined with events such as readings by acclaimed authors, creates an environment that nourishes a love for reading in children.
The store’s focus on rare and collectible books also contributes to its legacy. The careful preservation and curation of these items highlight the value of storytelling across generations. Moreover, the store’s events and author appearances provide a platform for literary discourse and engagement. This ensures the store’s continued relevance in a world increasingly dominated by digital media.
The Enduring Appeal: A Place of Wonder
Books of Wonder stands as a powerful testament to the enduring appeal of physical bookstores and the importance of fostering a love for reading. The store’s unique blend of antique and contemporary books, its commitment to quality and community, and its role in shaping the careers of countless authors have cemented its status as a New York City institution. The stories of its evolution, from a small shop on Hudson Street to its current presence, reflect the ever-changing nature of the publishing industry while showcasing the timeless appeal of engaging narratives. Books of Wonder remains a place where the magic of stories comes alive, sparking imaginations and nurturing a lifelong love of reading.