Three Great Independent Bookstores in the Detroit Area

I love going to just about any bookstore, big or small, but I love to browse and shop the independently owned shops. I feel good supporting an area business, and I enjoy their unique flavor and personality. Here are three of my favorite bookstores in the metro Detroit area.

The Book Beat, Oak Park, Mich. You really have to see this place to believe it. It's jam-packed with books. If you want a best-seller, they'll have it, but if you're looking for something by an obscure poet or a lesser-known artist, they'll likely have that for you, too. Otherwise, they can get it. They have film and photography books. art books, children's books, local and world history, sale books and much more. They also have fantastic calendars and amazing cards and stationery. And if you're looking for Edward Gorey books or souvenirs or literary action figures, put Book Beat on your shopping destination list. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. If there is a template for a bibliophile's paradise, this place is it. Check out their website for upcoming events. They have authors, book groups, the occasional art exhibit and more. Located at: 26010 Greenfield Avenue, Oak Park, MI. 248-968-1190. www.thebookbeat.com

New Horizons Book Shop, Roseville, Mich. The first time I happened upon New Horizons I thought it would be one of those new age bookstores that sold a lot of books about dream interpretations and healing crystals, the shop perfumed with patchouli incense. Not so. It's a great little bookstore. It houses an amazing magazine selection, lining almost two full walls. Looking for something unique and rare or this week's issue of People? They'll have it. They also have a fabulous and eclectic book selection, both used and new. Mysteries, humor, current events, fiction, biography, and on and on. A lot of their books are on sale, 10, 20, 30 percent off or more. They also have great deals on remaindered books. Often you can find a book that normally sells for $15 going for $3 to $5. Return often and check out what's new and on sale. The staff is friendly and helpful without being pushy. You can sign up for e-newsletters in store to get coupons, or go online. They sell some adult materials, too, and they rent out some books as well. Located at: 20757 13 Mile Road. Roseville, MI. 586-296-1560. www.newhorizonsbooks.com

Second Story Used Books, Eastpointe, Mich. I happened upon this place when I was looking to sell some used books. I pocketed a few dollars and found a new place to shop. They have a good selection of everything. Classics. Mass-market horror, science fiction, fantasy, mystery, westerns and more. Art books. Trade paperbacks. Hardcovers. DVDs. Name a category and they'll have something in it. If you're looking for something, ask an employee. They'll try and help you find the book you seek. The prices are decent, often more than half the list price. They have rock-bottom deals as well, with some books being corralled on long tables and marked down low. It's a good place to kill a couple hours browsing and you can walk out with a couple good books without breaking your bank. Located at 17920 East 10 Mile Road, Eastpointe, MI. 586-773-6440.