This is such an awesome book store, somewhat organized (alphabetical/genre), but also not so much, a bit of randomness to it. Shelves and piles of books everywhere, it took us a while to explore both levels, finding some really funny and unique content, as well as classic novels, and playful gift items too. The staff was patient and helpful, answering our many questions to help us make our selections. Our picks for the day... some russian literature (Yevgeny Zamyatin), and of course, Disapproving Rabbits! For purchases, visitors need to pay at the comic book shop next door (the Escapist). Cool bookstore, not your typical mainstream stuff. read more

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It's hard to describe the experience of walking inside and being so surrounded and swallowed by floor-to-ceiling books. It's something you would think only exists on a film set because it is the ultimate fantasy of old bookstores which inspire films, television, and our own imaginations. Definitely a place that everyone must visit at least twice. Locating something specific might be tricky, so just pick anything that grabs your attention and enjoy! read more

Dark Carnival - Inside - Bookstores Near Me - Berkeley, California

I love Dark Carnival despite the surly dismissiveness I received from the guy at the front (though when I went to pay for my books, the lady who later assisted me was more than excited to chat about Ann Leckie, Martha Wells, and others). However, I ultimately don't patronize bookstores for the social aspect. Dark Carnival has an amazing selection of sci fi and fantasy books, including many rare copies, boxed collections, and anthologies. I was able to locate books I couldn't find at multiple used bookstores, and as I prefer to patronize local businesses, I was happy to finally add them to my collection. It was difficult to find specific books, as the store is stuffed to the ceiling, but the claustrophobic layout only adds to the charm, especially when happening upon treasures you didn't even know you were looking for. read more

Amazing that this place is still open. Been shopping here since 2001. Got a paperback edition of a book that I read once in 2014. Some of favorite novels have been purchased here. read more

This is a very unique used bookstore with a great selection of fantasy/horror/sci-fi. The place is completely packed with books. I've been visiting for years whenever I'm in the area, but I think I think I'm going to space out my visits. The cranky guy behind the counter can barely bring himself to say two words to you. He's there every time I visit, and his customer service is non-existent at best, and he almost has some weird quiet hostility about him. Not a fan. read more

what a wild and weird rabbithole into the 20th century that i miss so much! books are stacked from floor to ceiling but are well organized- I was so impressed by the depth of the election. Plenty of mainstream trade paperbacks but also a good selection by authors of color, queer authors and other alt fare. special shout out to the best inclusion sign i have ever seen at the cash register - it reads something along the lines of "MY PRONOUNS ARE SHE/HERS - USE THEM OR GET SHE/HURT!" read more

Dark Carnival - cash register sign - Bookstores Near Me - Berkeley, California

And they ship!!! Very convenient. Join me in patronizing this excellent independent bookstore!

Absolutely love this place. Such a gem in Berkeley. And the comic book store two stores down is also amazing. You could spend half a day, easily, in either! read more

Vast selection of every sci fi book you could think of - from any area you can think of. Staff was extremely helpful and books were in pristine condition read more

I love bookstores. In the days of Kindle it is so refreshing to find a solid bookstore. Dark Carnival Books has been open for 43 years! Super cool bookstore filled with Science Fiction Books. Science Fiction isn't my genre that's why am giving it four stars yet if it is you love Science Fiction the Dark Carnival is a 5 star bookstore as you will be in heaven. Tons of books & staff that can direct you to help you find what you are looking for. They are open every day 10:30am to 7pm. Check out darkcarnival.com for more info. read more

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This has been my favorite bookstore in the world since I was around 11, and I'm 30 now. I got my first deck of tarot cards here as a 14 year old even (and later became a professional tarot reader). It's an amazing store with great sci-fi, mystery, fantasy etc books. My favorite section is the metaphysical/spirituality section. They have some great books on the Grail mythos. This store has a magical energy to it, and some of the books I've bought here have legitimately changed my life. I'll always love this place. read more

I've been going to Dark Carnival since it opened, over 40 years ago (I'm a third-generation Berkeley native). All I can say - which has already been said repeatedly, here - is that, if you're looking for SF, Fantasy, Horror, or Mystery books, this place has a better selection of these genres (and, in Jack Rems, a more knowledgeable operator) than Any Other Bookstore in America (possibly, on the entire planet). I am Not exaggerating - the only place that I'm aware of, that could be considered as a true alternative, is Powell's City of Books, in Portland OR. I don't know of anyplace else that's even close, really... The owner, Jack Rems, doesn't suffer fools gladly (in today's entitled culture, you hear complaints about his "...lack of 'people' skills..."), so if you're going to frequent the place, bring your 'A' game. That's all you need - pay attention, and ask intelligent questions - and you'll be just fine. read more

Tons of fantasy and science fiction books. If those are your genres and you like used bookstores at all, this place is a must see. One of my favorite stores. read more

This is a good throwback ancient/vintage styled book store, it's great to find a resource like this which I think also has rare and out of print books. It's not like a Barnes & Noble that's organized and well lit with an area to loiter, it's a functional bookstore you can rummage through to find a lot of sci-fi / fantasy type books. Parking in the area isn't too bad either it's tucked away from the main retail area of the neighborhood. read more

Dark Carnival - Superman flies through the air - Bookstores Near Me - Berkeley, California

Dark Carnival has that quirky ancient bookstore feel, full of fantasy and science fiction titles, both current and obscure. The proprietor who sits at the front generally minds his own business, but will help you if you have questions. Personally, I like walking through here and even though it is a small bookstore, it's stacked floor-to-ceiling with piles of books that gets even more crammed in the back. There is a set of stairs that leads to a second floor that has windows (so natural light coming in) and plenty of large and heavy artbooks to peruse through. Sure, it's not organized the way a Barnes and Nobles would be, but you're not here looking for that. ;) If you're seeking comics, Dark Carnival's sister store, Escapist, is right next door! read more

This is my first review.. I walked into this store last week and who I assumed was the owner (or whoever was basically laying behind the register) didn't acknowledge me upon walking in. I came up to the register and asked politely if they had a particular section for religious books, and the owner said "No.... no." in a condescending manner and turned around. Only 2 words he spoke. I understand not everyone may have the same beliefs, but you run a BOOK store in one of the most diverse areas in the world, catering to all who are interested in books (except my people). I walked right out. I can tell by the reviews this kind of interaction is a common occurence. read more

Just happened by this place on the weekend...was a little pressed for time but holy FUCK this place is amazing...i could spend hours in here. If you are a fan of sci fi...fantasy...this is your spot. Books, Comics, Posters, Tshirts, Toys....everything a geek could want! Pure Magic....great for kids... read more

I get so excited every time we come here and always leave with a big stack of books. They've got a great selection if you're into thrillers, mysteries, sci-fi , fantasy... You feel like a kid in a candy shop. It's a place where you can get lost picking around the shelves. Don't expect a neat and tidy experience but that's half the fun! Barnes and Noble it is not. read more

Great selection of books, but awful customer service. I ask the same two questions I ask in any bookstore, only to get a rude and condescending response. The guy behind the desk needs to get out and work on his people skills. I'll stick to the usual Half Price and Moe's. read more

One of my happy places I love both the book and comic book stores. Especially the comic book store and the way it's organized. read more

This small stretch of Claremont Avenue almost has it all - 3 book places, Furniture, Star Grocery, Semifreddi's, a neat flower/gift shop, and a recently relocated Scout "Hardware" Store. I got to see it all again last Sunday during street-wide sidewalk sale. Parking is fairly easy, but watch out for the traffic. As for the book places, all 3 have elements of fantasy. Afikomen Judaica has a dybbuk (or 2), The Escapist will provide Comic Relief, and Dark Carnival will "Beam You Up" to an extensive world of sci-fi. Dark Carnival also packed with books in the rafters, on the floor, and almost every space in between. This place could easily stage it's own SyFy series - Nerdy Hero goes inside, starts reading far back in the stacks, loses track of time, finally gets hungry of a Semifreddi's scone, and wanders out to find himself in the far future where everything has changed..... read more

Dark Carnival ( despite what the internet rumor mill has put forward ) is still open for business! I just bought an armful of books there last week. Please continue to go and support this wonderful independent bookstore ( and it's sister comic book store a couple doors down the block ) so we can keep those rumors from becoming reality. read more

Fantastic independent bookstore. It's crammed with books, goodies and calendars. We each bought a calendar (seems like we always forget) and were delighted they were 50% off. My hubby found an out of print Iain Banks book which made him super happy. Daughter was delighted to buy some Doctor Who novels. Looking forward to going back! read more

Charming bookstore with such a large selection of fantasy/sci fi books. I find myself reading a lot more to stay occupied during shelter in place. Speaking of which, they're still open during the pandemic and now is the time -- more than ever-- to help our local businesses! read more

Wonderful store, more books than one could possibly want, old, new, mystery,scifi, comics and little gag thingamajigs. You will know the store from the Giant inflated toys outside. read more

Dark Carnival is one last of its kind! Small local shop crammed with amazing stuff. Please check them out!

Another wonderful bookstore going out of business Dark Carnival is one of those bookstores that one gets the feeling will be open forever!!! Sadly, forever is ending. I started going here so many years ago that I've forgotten the exact year. The original store was on Telegraph Avenue, a block or so from Dwight Way. It was a very tiny location. I was so happy when Jack Rems [the owner] moved to Claremont Ave. Many Happy Fridays were spent at Dark Carnival, going to numerous book signings. I got to meet many wonderful authors - Robert Silverberg and his wife, and Dean Koontz, just to name a few. I loved the cramped feel of the bookstore -- so many books - a book lovers dream. I love you Dark Carnival, and mourn your passing. read more

I could not recommend this shop more. It feels like it is out of a fantasy story itself! It is worth a visit just to see. Fantastic inventory and specialized staff, a must visit read more

Dark Carnival is absolutely my go to place when looking for new books! Have gone over the years to pick up D&D books as well as other Fantasy/ Sci-Fy books. They are so knowledgeable ive asked them for recommendations based on books ive liked and they nail it every time read more

This has to be the craziest bookstore I know -- it does feel like I'm stepping through through a magic mirror from the workaday stretch of Claremont to someone's "5,000 Fingers of Dr. T" dream. Every year I swear that for Christmas shopping, I'll choose just one store and get every gift for everyone on my list just there. Dark Carnival could be just the store -- it has an amazing selection of fiction, mystery, fantasy & science fiction, horror, non-fiction... and tons of macabre and maudlin tschotchkes that I know would delight my friends. They also carry a lot of fantasy game stuff -- cards, figures, etc., as well as some esoteric brouhaha. Jack, the guy who runs it and is responsible for the inventory is an evil genius. Why "evil"? Because by stocking all these books that I love, I always end up spending way way more than I intended to! I can either blame him or thank him for more than half the books on my shelves. read more

Holy crap. I'm almost shocked into saying that, and nothing more. What I really like about this bookstore is that they carry 1) old titles, 2) older titles, 3) out-of-print titles, and 4) small press titles! Especially the small press titles. Oh come here, you Golden Gryphon press titles, you. Some Small Beer press titles? Why sure! I love the immediate gratification of holding them, cradling them in my arms, and walking them up to the register without having to wait a week or two to have them shipped to me. I drive over an hour to get there, and I'd do it again. (I would not, however, like to repeat the experience of having those jerks throw stuff at my car and make fun of me while I attempted to parallel park. That part sucked.) I can't walk out of here without buying more books, and given the pile awaiting my attention at home, the sad alternative is to avoid going. My only complaints about this place: some of the books are holding shelves up, so you really can't remove said books. Also, they don't carry issues of any of the big - or not so big - zines. Then again, no one really does. read more

Amazing selection and atmosphere, a true gem. One of my favorite bookstores ever. We lost ourselves in all of the books here and it felt like magic. read more

I walked into this bookstore and I started giggling with mad glee. I've had tons of geek friends who have dreamt about opening up bookstores, myself included. This truly is the place we've been dreaming about. Geekery was EVERYWHERE. Toys! Books! Madness! Fun! Neil Gaimen!! (Okay, just his books but still!!) I loved this place. If you're looking for a scifi/mystery book, this is *the* place to go for it. You will not be able to leave the store without buying *something*, I assure you. I will so be back. Soon too. This place rocks the kasbah. read more

I used to work at this quirky bookstore in the college days, and I say now and forever I am spoiled rotten because of it. Why? Because this bookstore has everything in way of SciFi, Fantasy, Mystery and horror. Oh yeah and then lets throw in for kicks: film, comics, kids books (HUGE selection for the not-reading-yet level to the teens in your life and everything in between), religion, science (how's the Science of Star Trek hitcha?), and how-to-write guides. And then there's the toys. Th toys, man. You have NO. IDEA. There is every conceivable plastic piece of fun and a couple you never quite thought could exist. This place is stocked to the BRIM with plastic crap that makes the collector in my squeal with glee: highfalootin action figure (Monty python and the holy Grail figures, dark crystal figures), Buffy/Angle/TV Show action figures, plastic lizards and snakes, flying pigs, and devil duckies up the wazoo! And then there are the dolls. Like the toys, an amazing almost overwhelming array of plushies to choose from. And yes, you can get plush Cthulhu in every size shape and color, as well as dressed as Elvis. Basically, this store rocks. The owner can be a grump, but don't let it bother you - he's grumpy with everyone, you aren't special. Get over it, since he has forgotten more about science fiction that you will ever know. And his recommendations are SPOT. ON. When he hands me a book to read, I KNOW I'm going to adore it. read more

Dark Carnival has the deep weirdness. Best SF bookstore I've found. Especially good for hard to find stuff like UK edition Iain Banks hardcovers or independent press printings of the weirder cyberpunks (e.g. John Shirley). Lots of mystery and horror too. And, of course, a riot of jokey fannish plastic and rubber novelties! Fnord! read more

Dark is right! It's a firetrap in this store. Every nook and cranny is filled with awesome books. I found old Buffy the Vampire Slayer action figures, a guide to the creatures of middle earth, and "Pirates! And the Communists Adventures." There were even plushy alien face suckers that I considered buying for a baby shower for a nerdy mom to be. It's highly disorganized but at least you can ask for help to find what you're looking for. I did hear the attendant in front rebuff a potential customer who was looking for a very specific Dr. Who/Star Trek crossover to make an eleven-year-old a very happy girl. The eleven year old me died inside when the attendant didn't even want to check or ask. And just said "no". Minus one star for crushing an eleven year old's dreams of crossover happiness. read more

Okay, mystery lovers, listen up. Not only is Dark Carnival a great SciFi/Fantasy book store, it is a great mystery bookshop as well. In 2000, after we were invited to no longer meet at Barnes and Noble, Jack Rems, owner of Dark Carnival, kindly gave us a home for our monthly meetings. The store reminds one of the Quiddich World Cup tent in Harry Potter; it looks tiny from the out side yet goes back and up and on inside and filled with all kinds of wonderful, weird items--toys, tarot cards, creatures and books, books books. Yes, it is predominately SciFi/Fantasy, but the entire right side of the main first floor is mysteries. As a collector I love when I discover an author and want their entire back list. Jack will either have it or be able to get it for me. This is a wonderful independent book store. Go on in and explore. read more

It smelled funny. There were piles of junk in every corner, and the carpet looked like it had never seen a vacuum. Also, the man working there seemed like a real, real, strange one. And not in that sexy and mysterious way. That said, I dropped $86 on books I'd have trouble finding anywhere else, and I'll be back. I kind of want to go back right now, actually. Great selection of Octavia Butler books, as well as many novelties to bring out the pimply 14 year old within. I'm definitely telling all my gamer friends about this place. read more

Highly recommended Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Horror/Mystery book store. It is a gem. Sure, it's somewhat cluttered, but that is completely part of the charm of it. There are literally books everywhere. On the floor, on the shelves, holding the shelves up, etc. There are also awesome novelty items hanging on almost every inch of wall space not taken up by, you guessed it, books! The collection is staggering. The out-of-print offerings are impressive. The hard to find tomes are accessible. I only spent about 30 minutes here (they were closing). I'd likely spend days if I had the time. Ray Bradbury is my favorite author. With this place being named in honor of him, him having visited the store on multiple occasions, and they having a comprehensive Bradbury section --I'll be baaaack. read more

I try and avoid this place because you can seriously clean out your wallet here. If you like Sci Fi, Fantasy , Mystery, signed books, ect, you are in for a treat. I am a fan of Lovecraft and Horror so I'm always happy with my finds here. That said the owner and waitstaff are very socially retarded. Try and keep your distance and don't look them in the eye. read more