Crazy Story Books is a wonderful addition to the downtown Red Bank storefronts. I'm so delighted to…read morehave a local indie bookstore within easy driving distance. I've been here three times so far and have never walked away empty-handed. They have a wide variety of books, including poetry, speculative fiction, cookbooks, art books, and a large children's and YA section. So far they've also spotlighted translated fiction for Women in Translation Month, American history for July, and LGTBQ+ literature for June. They also have many cute knick-knacks like novelty vases, gift bags, reusable totes, and stickers. And they host quite a lot of community events (like a monthly book club and a mini book fair for kids featuring local authors) and collabs/joint discounts with other local businesses. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic. If they don't have what you're looking for, they're happy to order it for you or pass feedback directly on to the owner. For instance, my friend asked if they were planning to add to their current manga and graphic novel section, and the staff asked her if she'd be willing to write a list of titles or series she was interested in because the owner isn't personally familiar with those mediums and wanted customer recommendations to expand the selection. The owner and booksellers all really care about their work, listening to their customers, and serving the Red Bank community as much as possible. I HIGHLY recommend this store and am very much looking forward to future visits!

Very pleased to have a good bookstore in town. Knowledgable and helpful owner. Special kids section…read moreand area of the story. Well-decorated, light-filled space on the prime first block of Monmouth Street. I already ordered a book, which came quite fast.

Love, Love, Love This Little Gem of a Bookstore! If you're…read moreanywhere near Manasquan, do yourself a favor and pop into this lovely little bookstore. I found books I absolutely love--some I discovered on my own and others that were personally recommended by the store's fabulous curator, and owner Peter. When I mentioned a book I had recently read and loved--Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin--Peter immediately jumped up, went straight to the bottom shelf, and pointed it out. There was even a handwritten staff recommendation and summary attached to the book. Many of the books throughout the store have these thoughtful mini-reviews, which made browsing feel so personal and engaging. I love the overall vibe of this shop. The selection of gifts is just right: a charming mix of journals, candles, book-themed merchandise, and a few toys--including stuffed animals. I fell in love with a stuffed bear and now I'll have to go back because I didn't purchase him (regret!). If you have the time, I highly recommend setting some aside to slowly explore the shelves, stacks, and cozy nooks of this beautifully curated bookstore. It's an absolute delight

Booktowne is such a gem. It's not only a gorgeous shop filled with amazing books, but also a…read moretreasure trove of unique gifts that make it the perfect place to shop for readers and nonreaders alike. What really sets them apart, though, is their kindness. My son, who has special needs, needed help with a project, and the staff at Booktowne volunteered their time to work with him. They were so kind and patient--we'll never forget it. This is the kind of business our community needs. So stop clicking "Buy Now" on Amazon and head to Booktowne Manasquan instead. You'll walk out with something great and know your money is supporting a generous, caring local business.

A home run over the rafters. Very nice staff, great book selection, it's just right in every sense…read more Even the location works well. Near the train station, near town, short walk to the beach. Thank you.

A cozy little bookshop right on Cookman! I've stopped in here before when in town and love browsing…read morethe $2 used book section. They didn't have the specific book I was looking for on my last visit but I still left with a mystery "Blind Date with a Book" book! Wrapped up and only giving me a tease of what it's about and only $5. Very excited to add this to my book-loving mom's gifts this year. The store has a variety of books, some new and some classics. I also love checking out their book club section on the far right wall for some recs for future reading. The team that was working that day let me know that almost everyone you see in store is a volunteer & that they host lots of events over the course of the year.

River Road bookstore is so welcoming! Karen, the owner, recommended a few books for me after…read moresharing my preferences. Thank you! I look forward to another visit!

Support your local independent bookseller! Please contribute and support your neighborhood shops,…read moreas they support local kids and other businesses.

Amazing bookstore in Asbury Park!! The interior is very cozy and has plenty of charm. It's so hard…read moreto find a small bookstore that stands by so many good things and practices what they preach. I love the selection of curated books specific to all of those that are usually forgotten or hard to come by. Makes it easier for me to feel good about my purchases here! They also stock so many goodies from other small businesses and artists that you really will not be able to leave without buying something or another! The owner is exceptionally delightful and strikes up meaningful conversation with every customer so all in all, I highly recommend checking out this small but mighty bookstore!

I found this place online, and I'm so glad I went: -…read morefriendly staff - VAST book selection! it was so hard not to buy everything. I am coming back for more in the future! - i love the section with smaller zines, cards, and stickers. beautiful section by smaller known artists :) left with a sticker, cards, book, and a new reusable bag (holographic )

Independent book stores are few and far between. Thunder Road Books recently opened their newly…read morerenovated location in the heart of Spring Lake. The store has a nice selection of best sellers, kids books, and event offerings. The staff and manager are friendly and happy to be there. I was recently introduced to Thunder Road when they sponsored an event for one of my favorite authors. Take a look at their website for upcoming events.

SPRING LAKE: an independent book shop right near the lake, Thunder Road Books has a nice selection…read moreof best sellers and kids books, gifts, and events, all managed by a friendly staff who are excited to help you find your next read. Friendly and leashed dogs are allowed to shop with you and there is a doggie water bowl out front of the store. It was fun to browse the shelves and Brie really enjoyed the Science Fiction section. Check out their website and social media for upcoming events.

If you love meditation inscents crystals and stuff this is the place for you. Its in a huge…read moreshopping area. I come here for my bracelets and necklaces. Usually I only see one or two people working. But they are so warm and friendly and will answer any question you have on stones crystals potions etc etc. If your hungry there are many great restaurants to eat at. Especially shopping. They are in a prime location to just enjoy the day

I really enjoyed coming into Earth Spirit Metaphysical Books. The store is large and has many zen…read moreitems. You could spend a long time perusing and you'll have able and willing staff members, to assist and/or answer your questions.  Enjoy your journey through this highly recommended shop and your well deserved merchandise.

POINT PLEASANT: Book…read moreshop Coffee shop Gift shop Event space Dog friendly! The Little Point Bookshop truly does it all. This independent bookstore and community hub is a warm, inviting space filled with thoughtfully curated books, special collections, and fun book-themed finds. The shop is full of character too, with cool touches like an old-school Pac-Man console and even a piano. Grab a comfy chair, flip through a new read, and sip on a drink from The 2nd Cup Cafe tucked in the back. As we wandered through the shop, there was an unmistakable sense of calm and happiness in the air. Leashed and friendly dogs are welcome inside, making it a perfect stop for book lovers and their pups.

Cute little book shop but horrible coffee. We ordered a latte and the steamer was screeching. Very…read morethin milk frothing and way too hot.