Children's books literally come alive at this store. If you have children or if you are a child at heart, come visit this institution of Willow Glen, which offers a plethora of literature for all ages. It kinda reminds me of the store from "The Shop Around the Corner" movie which was later redone with Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks into "You've Got Mail". I was first introduced to this store when I moved to the area and was teaching in SJUSD. The staff is quite knowledgeable and even make suggestions based on literature that you like or are purchasing. For me, there are two reasons to patronize this place over any other establishment. First, the store is a mecca for celebrity authors to come and do readings and book signings. I have several copies of autographed David Shannon books, I remember Rhea Pearlman came once and there is wall of fame to the rear of the store where autographs of other notable authors and illustrators adorn the wall. CHECK THE WEBSITE OFTEN TO FIND OUT WHO WILL BE VISITING THE STORE. Secondly, the store specializes in hard to find or limited edition items. For example, I've seen hard cover early editions of the Velveteen Rabbit. Kids will love coming to the store and seeing furnishings or items from the pages of their favorite books (a stuffed Hungry Caterpillar doll, the mouse from If You Take A Mouse To The Movies, and as one reviewer noted the cupboard from The Indian In The Cupboard). While the kids are ogling the selection, don't forget that there are a ton of adult literature as well. In fact, the last gag gift I picked up there was the Porn For Women Of A Certain Age. Don't worry it is tongue in cheek board book for ladies. Set aside time to peruse the aisles. There are so many things there, I would hate for something significant be to overlooked. Just as a last note - the place is wheelchair accessible, however I caution people because it can be tight at times for those with larger wheelchairs or walkers. read more

Hicklebee's - Bookstores Near Me - San Jose, California

Closed for inventory on a Sunday. We made a special trip to Willow Glen. Needless to say we were disappointed. We weren't the only ones. As I stood there eyeballing the sign, three different families unsuccessfully tried the door. I've worked jobs where we inventoried at midnight. Now Hicklebees will be out of rotation for a while. read more

This bookstore is far from my home but because bookstores are sadly becoming extinct I took a field trip here. My goal was to buy a birthday gift for my niece. 4 stars for this independent bookstore for staying alive in this economy and offering a large selection of children's books for all ages. Such a delight! They don't have a super selection like you might find at Barnes & Noble but it has a joyful selection and I simply love the "bookstore next door" feel. In addition to books they had toys and activities to gift or reward the kids with. And the sales people were clearly passionate about their work and being a part of an indie store. They were helpful and kind. I'll come back. read more

Great local bookstore. Unfortunately, there aren't too many of these left. We love visiting Hicklebee's after dining in downtown Willow Glen. Good selection of kid's books. They have a sale section in the back and an autographed book section in the front. The employees are helpful and knowledgable. We were looking for a children's book about coins and the gentleman working found a great book. Located a few shops left of Pizza My Heart. read more

I love walking through here and always leave with a unique book for my little one that I don't think I would have found otherwise. Check out the back section behind the register for sale items! read more

Fun fun fun. This bookstore is great for gift shooping they have it all. nice selection of children books and toys. Whenever i visit i just feel like a kid again and i love coming here great customer service and an amazing atmosphere and on top of that they offer grate prices which is always a plus. read more

I like that they have a lot of variety of toys or little gadgets- I actually was surprised by this. You can get small gift or knick knacks - and they do have variety of kid'a books. One of sales ladies was really nice and accommodating while the other one was grumpy and almost like didn't wanna serve me. Geez - this is a customer service job maybe she shouldn't be in this field especially these are mostly for kids. Not much books older kids or adults. I would have given it 4 starts but the sales lady who served me was kinda rude to be honest. read more

They act like the parking spots are just for them when the businesses near them share them acting like they own it I work for a company next to them and we get told we can park there because we never find parking it's in our company lease and they threaten to tow our cars a bunch of ride people you go into their location and they are always rude read more

Very nice and unique collection of children books, STEAM toys, and puzzles for all age groups. Finding parking can be a bit tricky but then again it's in the ever buzzing Willow Glen downtown area. But honestly speaking, I don't mind parking far and walking up to this charming little place. It can motivate any kid to be a life long reader. read more

Do you remember building forts as a kid; creating a secluded (or so you thought) hide-away that was in some corner, tucked away from the rest of the world? Your fantasy land--your secret place with toys and trinkets you toted inside with you. I didn't bring in many toys, but I did line the floors with my various Madeline and Berenstain Bears paperbacks--tattered from constant use. Hicklebee's reminds me of the best fort ever. read more

I have been in here twice in the last few months, and I won't be going back. Overall, I was not impressed. The first time I came in I was just looking for a few books for my niece's birthday. I had my son with me in his stroller, and I found the store to be very hard to navigate (small spaces between rows of books). Plus, I found the employees to be less than thrilled to help me. When I asked to have the books wrapped, the woman made a production of it (rolled her eyes, and took forever). I decided to give it another try (this time without my son) and I was looking for children's books about adoption or transracial families. The employee told me they only had one book about adoption (dog adoption). I asked if they had any books where the main character was African/African-American or had a dark complexion (my son is adopted transracially). She said she couldn't think of anything. I'd love nothing more to give my money to an independent book store and shop locally, but since they don't carry books which feature characters who look like my son, I don't think I'll be back. read more

I wanted SO BADLY to like this store. I am all about supporting local businesses and I constantly purchase books for my son. Pros: I loved their book selection. Cons: Omg the staff is soooooooo rude, like undeniably R U D E . They act like they can't be bothered with questions or requests for info on upcoming books. I felt so uncomfortable in there, as did my friend. The staff were scoffing at us and giving us dirty looks and we thought it was maybe because we had our kids in strollers. So, during the WG Halloween Trick or Treat walk during the day we stopped by again (and I'm thinking, "Ok, last time was probably just a bad day, I mean, people who run a privately owned children's book store are too smart to have consistently bad customer service."). Nope! We go by and there was a teenage girl handing out candy and she was sulking like she had just been grounded for a year, we all said hi, happy halloween, yada yada ya, and she never made eye contact, never even said hello back just thrust out the lollipops and kept a really sour look on her face. She acted like she was being punished. We won't be back. Barnes and Noble has much better customer service. read more

I absolutely love this children's bookstore. They do one thing and they do it excellently: sell the highest quality children's books in a warm and welcoming environment. I've popped into this store regularly since I had my first child 8 years ago. I don't think I've ever left empty-handed or disappointed. As my children get older, it is nice to be able to come here and get good recommendations from the staff as to new selections that are age/interest/ability appropriate. You just don't get this sort of assistance at the large chain bookstores. Sure, you may pay a little more, but it is well worth it given the excellent customer service you will enjoy at this store. read more

The Very Hungry Caterpillar. 2009 Pop-up Special Edition. I found this bookstore on Yelp when I was thinking of buying pop-up books for my 14 month old son. He has been fascinated with them ever since I brought one home! When I went to Barnes and Noble or Borders, I was always disappointed with their selection and uniqueness. When I went to the store website, I found all sorts of pop-up titles, and quickly bookmarked it. I wasn't disappointed when I looked around. The pop-up book section had simple pop-ups all the way to the elaborate ones that are almost too fancy for an adult to handle the pages. The ladies were very helpful, which makes the shopping experience all the better. Hicklebee's gets bonus points for allowing me to have my first date here! Ha! Maybe 5 stars because I love their selection, or maybe just because I have fond memories now of Walter P getting so excited over Where The Wild Things Are and setting the tone for the rest of the day!! When back in the area, I will definitely stop by, or order online!! read more

Since moving back to the South Bay, this is where I've been getting books/gifts for the kids in my life. I like the selection of kids' books available, & trying to pick out books transports me back to my childhood, as I was a voracious reader. So, I do tend to pick out books that I enjoyed as a kid to give as gifts. I still like reading books, but it doesn't happen quite as frequently. It is predominantly kids books & items, but there is a section of books for adults. A few times that I've checked, they tend to carry a few copies of local restaurants'/chefs' cookbooks when they first come out, but I usually get those online or at an event/talk. They offer free gift wrapping, which I take advantage of, because I am lazy when it comes to that, so left to my own devices, the gifts would be placed in a gift bag. Parking: there is a lot behind the building, otherwise street parking, or other lots along Lincoln Ave. Located on the east side of Lincoln, a few storefronts north of Minnesota. read more

This is what all bookstores should be, unfortunately big corporations such as Borders and Barnes and Nobles are putting little quaint shops like this out of business. The decor inside is very unique and whimsical, when you step foot inside, you're magically transported back to the age when you were off making up games in your backyard and reminded of all the different images you came up in your head as a kid while you were reading books. They cater to children, obviously, however they can and will special order books for you that they don't carry. The staff here is friendly and caring, and they have tons and tons of children's events from story telling to author meetings. It can get pretty crowded here, but it makes things cozy instead of that paranoid fire hazard feeling. If you haven't been here and you have the opportunity to, do it, just do it. read more

If you love books or have kids who love books or have kids that you want to love books, this is the place for you to come. It has so many cool classics as well as new issues. They also have a lot of toys and children-friendly fun things to keep them interested and busy. No chain book stores here, this is a family-run operation and it shows. Hopefully, they will be able to fend off the big chains and to make it they will have to do it with service. But service is a big plus at Hicklebee's. The prices are competitive but the selection is just not as great as the Barnes and Nobles stores so it might be tough to hang on. Anyway, stick with this store. Go to the book signings, meet the authors, feed your kid's heads while they are young. They will appreciate it for all of their lives. read more

Wow, this store has an amazing selection of GREAT books. Sure Borders and Barnes and Noble have a lot of books, but the selection at Hicklebees is so unique (as well as having the kids classics). They have some neat toys too, though not many. They also keep a well-stocked sale section, which is nice. Two downfalls: 1) The return policy sucks 2) The staff is horrible. I have been here well over 20 times (I'm sure) and have NEVER, not once had a positive experience with the staff. I have seen one male working here who is ok, but the rest of the staff is bitter, sour, prissy old women who should not be around children. They belong sitting around sipping tea and perusing priceless first edition books. I actually don't buy anything here anymore because of these two downfalls. I'll stop in sometimes to look if I'm in the area, but I've had multiple negative experiences and don't want to give them my business. read more

What an amazing store! And everyone is so nice and pleasant. Grace and Cathy helped me pick out a present for my nephew. They were awesome! Highly recommend if you need a gift! read more

This place has been the go to book store for children since I was a kid. Recently, I realized they have an adult section, as well as a spot for teachers- so again it's a go to. I love how they have staff picks next to books! read more

Hicklebee's - Bookstores Near Me - San Jose, California

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I can't gush enough about Hicklebee's! It's a child's dream come true. I take my little cousins here and you should see how happy they get. The place is just awesome, with a great selection and a cool and helpful staff. Plus, the place has CHARM and character you won't find anywhere else! They have lots of artsy paintings of book characters and fun 'artifacts' from books like 'The Indian in the Cupboard' and Beverly Cleary's The Mouse and the Motorcycle. They have lots of author events. All the big names have been there. Teachers get a discount. Then there's the independent bookstore factor, and the shop-local factor. You'll feel virtuous spending your money here. It's just a fabulous place to be. Even as an adult I get a kick out of looking around and they've got a special "staff recommends" section of books that grown-up people can enjoy- and there are some pretty cool finds there that I would never have come across at B&N or amazon. Or, if you were deprived of great picture books as a child this is a great opportunity to discover the magic... or if you're like me and you have fond memories of this or that story or author, you can have a blast just browsing around. It's easy to find wonderful gifts here that any child would be tickled pink to receive... they've got all the tie-in toys and dolls, arts supplies, do-dads for that extra coolness factor, science stuff. Plus, they have really fun, colorful wrapping paper and seriously know how to make a present look sexy. Maybe that sounds like a small thing, but it makes a difference, especially if you're stopping by the morning before a birthday party. Oh, and FYI "Pizza My Heart" is just two stores down and it makes a great ending to any kid's Hicklebee's visit. I just can't gush enough. Absolutely LOVE this place! If you live in the south bay and you haven't discovered Hicklebee's yet, it's just criminal. You've got to check this place out. read more

So, I did end up returning with my child's other grandmother and had an acceptable experience. No one asked us if we needed help but no one outright ignored us either. The store was practically empty at the time so maybe that helped. I'm raising my review one star for that and bc my child is drawn to this place. I hope that maybe after a while I'll experience five star visits like others. Especially since I am a total bookworm and want to support businesses like this!!! ***** Amazing, magical store. Surprisingly bad customer service experience! :( We just moved to the area and my in laws were visiting. Grandma wanted to spoil her grandson with lots of books and toys, but was ignored at checkout for several minutes while others were served ahead of her before she walked away and didn't purchase a thing in her pile. My husband experienced some of the same but made his purchases anyway. I doubt both of them made up separate yet identical experiences... (We were all in willow glen but shopping somewhat separately) apparently they were nice to my son though, so at least there is that? I want to give them another chance simply because I love books, but they certainly are living up to their word of mouth reputation of being snooty. I guess we aren't their "type"...I don't know how I can excuse or justify two bad experiences in the same day. Too bad. Doesn't look like they're hurting for business so I doubt this review will mean much to them. read more

It's no secret that Hicklebee's is just downright cute - even the name is whimsical and it really paints a picture that this is strictly a bookstore for kids (another clue is that it's called Hicklebee's CHILDREN'S Book Store). I think because of this, in the past I always felt that there was never really an occasion for me to stop by, until my 7-year-old niece was in town for a weekend visit and I was definitely proven wrong. Not only do they have a deceptively deep salesfloor and the most wonderful selection of children's books and educational toys, but they boast a surprisingly comprehensive section of adult bestsellers as well. I took note of a few things my niece may want for Christmas or her birthday, and I definitely have a lot to choose from when it comes time to buy; everything was so appealing and I definitely wouldn't feel bad about buying her a toy from Hicklebee's because I'm one of those weird aunts who likes to get her "smarty pants gifts" because I want her to be a well-rounded person - like seriously, what the hell is a Shopkins? Now that I know they carry books for folks of all ages, I am definitely more inclined to stop by again in the future. I can't speak to their level of service because we were mostly left to browse on our own, but that may be the perfect scenario for someone who doesn't require much interaction to get what they need and have an overall pleasant experience. read more

Absolutely, hands down, the best children's book store I have ever been to. I have been going here since I was a child and I get an immense joy out of bringing my 21 month old son there now. It is nice to see my love of books come out in him as well. The store is wonderful for kids to shop in. It is very hands on, there is even a special area in the back to the left that has a Brio train table and an old time bathtub full of pillows to relax in and read. My son loves this area! They also have a special part of the store that is full of author signed books, which are not at an extra cost. If you are really into authors, the back hallway, certain parts of the store, and ALL of the bathroom ar covered in sketches and signatures from visiting authors. (My favorites were David Shannon and Mo Williems.) The shop owners are also incredibly helpful. I was looking for a lesser known Dr. Seuss book and they didn't carry it but ordered it for me, didn't charge me until I picked it up, and didn't charge me a fee for ordering it! There is a back hallway that has special clearance priced books (one of them was a Harry Potter SIGNED by JK Rowling for $35!) and even books from the Campbell School District (I have purchased Charlottes Web, The Indian in the Cupboard Series, Judy Blume books, and Stone Fox and have spent less than $10 total on all of it.) This is truly a special store. When you take your kids, give yourselves time to roam and enjoy all the small treasures this store has to offer. read more

This store makes me smile every time I come in. Love the variety and customer service is always great! My go-to for children's books

I went to this store twice in two days (during and then after the American Booksellers Association's Winter Institute in San Jose). This is one of the most creative, inspirational places I've ever been. I could have spent hours inspecting the walls, which are covered in artifacts from books, illustrators' sketches, cartoons, signed books, and more. When I opened the cupboard modeled after the one in Lynne Reid Banks's THE INDIAN IN THE CUPBOARD, I got the chills. No joke. You need not have your own children to enjoy this store. It's certainly fun to shop with someone in mind, but the real joy for me was to see beautiful reminders of books that meant so much to me as a kid. The events sound great--wish I could've been there for one. Run, don't walk! read more

This place is so cute! I wish I lived in the neighborhood and I'd walk there everyday and probably spend every penny I have on books ( I guess that's what the library is for huh?) This place is a teacher's dream where you can find picture books that you wouldn't find at Borders, for all those thematic units. They also have a large selection of board books for kids who like to make a snack out of their literature. This place is a must when trying to find a unique children's gift. They also have a selection of books signed by the author for a special touch. Hicklebee's also offers a book of the month program and a baby registry. I do wish this store was open till at least 7pm on the weekdays so I wouldn't have to rush after work to visit. Still wonderful store. read more

This is easily the best children's book store I've ever set foot in. HB's is our "go-to" spot for Christmas gifts for our little nieces and nephews. The selection is wonderful, and what they don't have, they will get for you with ease. The folks who work there are extremely polite and make you truly feel like a customer and not "just another sale." Love 'em! read more

I feel so lucky to have one of the nation's best children's book stores a short walk away! I don't have kids, but I'm a librarian who works with families, and I have a strong appreciation for children's literature. Children's book writers / publishers I meet at conferences are always familiar with my neighborhood because of Hicklebee's fame. Highlights: -Atmosphere! They have a great selection of books and toys and a whimsical way of displaying things. -Author visits. Hicklebee's attracts the biggest names in the industry. -Gifts. They stock a good selection of cards, they'll recommend gift books, and they'll even wrap everything up if you ask nicely. -Hicklebee's has recently added a small, but intriguing selection of books for adult readers, as well. -Librarian and educator nights. For a small fee, they'll give you the low-down on upcoming releases, invite local authors to speak, provide free refreshments and schwag, and give you a deep discount coupon. When Borders goes under completely, hightail it to Hicklebee's! Or... just go now and avoid the rush. read more

There should be more children's/independent bookstores. This place is uber cute, and the people there really enjoy themselves. I went there while they were hosting an author reading so there were kids and adults everywhere, but everyone was really enjoying themselves, and the place was full of happy kids laughing. Great place if you are looking for children's books or gifts. Support independent bookstores. =) read more

This bookstore is amazing! It's pretty small but they got a great collection of kids books and toys. There's also beautiful artwork everywhere based on kids books, like a clock with children's books characters (not for sale - I asked). For a kids bookstore it is a bit hard to maneuver a stroller around - but...who cares! It's awesome :D read more

I adore this store and go here for all of my children's books. It might be cheaper online, but they offer personalized service that cannot be matched. I don't have kids so it's hard to keep track with what books are cool (though I usually go with the classics) . They carry a large selection of board books and even large format board books, which is great for the little kids. They always have on point recommendations that are specific to the child you are shopping for (for example, I recently emailed asking for "book recommendations for a strong, animal loving 2 year old (to encourage independent and courageous thinking, and which are not related to consumeristic characters / traditional princesses)" and I know they will come through! My mom and I split an annual book club (where they mail a new book every month) for my niece and they are PERFECT. The books are wrapped beautifully, they sometimes have personal inscriptions from the authors / illustrators, and my niece loves getting her special gift every month! read more

This is probably the best children's book store ever. Its pretty much children's book heaven. The staff is sooo helpful! If you come in to the store with a specific need, but are not sure what book to get, they will always make great recommendations. If you go into the bathroom they have autographs of so many famous children's authors. I love love love it here! read more

I have only been here once, but I plan to go again soon. Always been a bookworm, so for my birthday I would always get lots of Barnes&Noble giftcards, but then on my like 10th birthday maybe? my Uncle Jonogot me a giftcard for this place and I just remember being AMAZED. He must have yelped it or something because he lives all the way in Washington, did yelp exist back then..? Haha Giftcards make a GREAT gift. read more

I grew up living and breathing the stories I read in books. Hicklebee's brings back all the memories and magic for me. Every town's "Main Street" should have this type of store -- not just books, but helpful staff and a welcoming atmosphere. It's a warm place every child should have in their lives to enjoy while starting out in the world and to remember when they have children of their own! [I'm dedicating this review to the precious lives lost today; with respect and prayers on this day, RIP Newtown.] read more

This place brings me back to my childhood! I can't say enough good things about this place. My mother would take me here every Sunday from preschool till fifth grade. It's one of those bookstores where you go in looking for one thing and find a million other amazing fantastic books you didn't even know existed. I remember my first time walking in I felt like I was in some other world; there's a huge mural of a sky on the ceiling, fairies and other stuffed animals galore and tons of cute little lights all over making it look like stars. I always loved looking at the window displays as well. I remember they used to have readings there once a month and I saw shell silverstien at least 3 times. I also LOVED when Eric Carle came (the very hungry Caterpillar book and such). One of my most favorite moments while growing up in Willow Glen! I also loved this little nook they had on the right side once you walked in, they had one in the front of the store and the back. The one up front had a big tree and you walked up these steps like you were in a big tree house and there were huge pillows where you could sit and just hide away and read books for hours. Loves it! read more

Great place with an extremely knowledgable staff. I've consistantly found new and wonderful books for my kids here that I would have otherwise never been aware of. A couple years ago, I was fortunate enough to see one of the owners give a presentation on children's books and it completely revolutionized the way I thought of reading with and for my kids. I can't say enough about what a difference it made in our enjoyment of books. AWESOME. This is also a great place for stocking stuffers....I mean....if there wasn't a santa, which there most certainly is, parents could probably find a lot of little goodies here for their kids. read more

I heart books. I heart bookstores. I really heart independent bookstores. Hicklebee's kicks butt. Even when I don't have a kid to buy for I like going in there and finding good stuff. If I had a place like this to go to when I was a kid (and if my folks had been into buying books and could have afforded it) I would have been in HEAVEN to visit a place like Hicklebee's. Like everyone else I'm addicted to the internet. But there is no substitute for the tactile joy of a good book. Do check this place out, people. By the way they do have a limited selection of toys, greeting cards, and music CDs. And a small selection of books for grown ups. And they will help you find age appropriate stuff if you can't figure it out yourself. So you really do not have any excuse not to try it. read more

Hicklebees is phenomenal!!!! I would give them 10 stars if I could!! They put on great author signing events and it is so inspiring to my kids and I. We've been to 2 this year and looking at the 3rd-Supreme Court Justice Sotomayor and Dav Pilkey! I am so glad that they are around since our closest Barnes and Noble closed. They have a great autographed book section. I feel so blessed we got the chance to see the authors since it seems like they don't do school visits as much. The staff is wonderful too, friendly when we visit the store and helpful at the events. We are so blessed to have them as a resource in the community to help the children develop a love for reading! They accommodated our class with an impromptu story time when our field trip next door was double booked. I'm so glad our kinder teacher introduced us to Hicklebees! read more

Hicklebee's has brought children the joy of reading for the past 29 years and shows no hint of slowing down. The store is packed full of classic children's books, as well as the latest releases for all levels of reading. You'll also want to pay attention to the store's events schedule for special visits from top children's authors. A must if you have children! read more