I love a good bookshop and the Constant Reader ticks all the boxes. From the interesting window…read moredisplays, that are worth looking at when walking pass with a gelato on an evening stroll, to the walls of enticing recent releases in the front of the shop, to a fairly extensive collection in the back, including a good children's section. I've always found something to buy, whether for myself or as a gift. There's even some fancy wrapping paper and cards (although I usually skip in favour of the discount shops). Don't expect to find discounted stock (such as the % off sales as David Jones), but a good quality local book shop. Don't also miss looking for the quirky books at the counter, such as adult versions of children books and interesting gift type books. It's hard to not buy something extra!

Terrible book shop, really rude and unhelpful staff and take forever to get copies of books in I've…read moreordered in the past. Wont be giving them anymore business . Total unprofessionals.

I usually end up in here by default... whilst waiting for my mocha from Bertoni's a few doors up…read more Gotta love a good independent bookshop, plus it's a calm and soothing escape from the Balmain bustle on the streets. I'm generally simply peering in the front window and lured in by the beautiful hard covers on pride of display. And if you don't see it, they'll order anything in for you. The problem is, once inside, it's very hard to ever want to leave this tranquil setting - a far cry from any other inner city retail environment. So more often than not, I manage to lose a little too much time and emerge to find a luke warm coffee awaiting up the road. Can't think of the perfect gift to buy your mate... ? If you can't find a book for them in The Hill of Content, then you may as well give up.

Step aside Kindle and iPad, there is absolutely no replacing the feel and smell of an actual book…read more That woody, inky aroma is in full effect inside Brays Books. In fact, it kind of comes over you like a cloud when you waltz through the shop's doors. I found Brays to be a very curious little bookshop indeed. From what I could tell, they have three sections in their bag. If you're looking for a cookbook, any kind of culinary almanac at all, you can likely find it here. And what about travel books? With atlases, travel guides and travel related fiction and non-fiction at your fingertips, I recommend you pop in here before you next step on an airplane. And if you happen to be under the age of 10, or know someone who is, Brays delivers in the children's department as well. They have picture book classics and fiction for those readers who are stepping into the land of more words than pics. But, wait a second, what if I am looking for some good old fashioned adult fiction? With a rinky dink little case along one side of Brays, I had a hard time believing their selection was anywhere near complete. But I guess I can't be too hard on an independent bookshop. As they die out like orchids in the garden of retail, I'm sure Brays can use all the support it can get.

A boutique bookstore on Darling street, Balmain. I love these places. Each one has its own feel and…read morevibe, and there's no place like a good bookstore. Theres some good variety among the shelves, so you know theres no hidden agenda behind the store, just a bunch of popular books for sale. The place is colourful and inviting, the staff are great, and helpful when you're trying to find something, although if you're on a mission, I guess a boutique bookstore isn't where you'd go. But still, a great place to browse and get into the reading zone.