Books Are Magic
Brooklyn
Books Are Magic is a beloved independent bookstore in Brooklyn co-founded by author Emma Straub, celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere, curated book selections, and walls lined with handwritten staff recommendation cards. A major highlight is its vintage-style Inciardi mini-print vending machine, which dispenses surprise literary, Richard Scarry, and NYC-themed miniature art prints for a dollar. Visitors also flock to the shop for its vibrant exterior mural, signed editions, and strong community feel.
Commenters show immense enthusiasm for the shop and frequently save it as a must-visit destination on NYC bookstore crawls. Many express excitement specifically about collecting the mini art prints to use as bookmarks, refrigerator magnets, or journal decorations. Discussions often center on practical logistics, including pricing, payment methods, and sharing additional stops on the mini-print scavenger hunt.
- Don't miss the $1 Inciardi vending machine for surprise literary and NYC-themed mini art prints.
- Browse the shelves for signed copies and handwritten staff recommendation cards.
- Use the mini prints creatively as bookmarks, fridge decor, or junk journaling elements.
- Snap a photo in front of the store's vibrant, iconic exterior mural on Smith Street.
- Pair your visit with other neighborhood indie bookshops for a Cobble Hill literary crawl.
Summaries are created based on reviews, notes, and social media posts.
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