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Mac's Backs Books

4.3 (60 reviews)
ModerateBookstores
Closed 11:00 am - 8:00 pm

Mac's Backs Books Books, Mags, Music & Video Photos

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Staci W.

Nice, large bookstore in Coventry. They have a main floor, upstairs and basement. They had a nice selection of new and used- there weren't any price tags listed. The staff greeted us and they strongly prefer you to wear a mask which they provide. We didn't get anything but they had plenty of options

Inside
Arlene M.

My husband and I stopped over here since we had time to kill before our table was ready at Tommy's next door. Masks are still required in this store and if you don't have one then they will provide you with one. The have a vast assortment of books both used and news. Book interest sections are marked but you will find many books stacked together. I happened to find a book on Abe Lincoln which I had never seen before that I knew my husband would like. He told me he never saw that book before and with it being used and in good condition the price was right. You can find signed editions in this shop but you have to hunt for them. There is also a set of stairs leading upstairs to more books but it is pretty narrow walking up and around up there. I didn't bother going downstairs to the basement. I was intrigued with the some of the totes they carry. They were different and the price tag reminded of an old library card. I picked one up that had "little women" on it because it was so unique. I told the sales lady I hadn't seen totes this good since I was at the Strand bookstore in NYC. She told me special company does their totes. There is no sitting area but a good place to browse if you like reading and have time on your hands. They are a small business and an independent company.

Lazy Sunday local bookshop strolling with the fam'.
Tara K.

My bibliophile husband and I adore a good used bookstore. We have some beloved shops at home in Buffalo NY, and love to stop into independent book sellers when we're traveling too. On a recent Sunday afternoon while visiting Cleveland for a Cav's game overnight stay, we ended up in the Cleveland Heights Coventry Village area on a whim. We were tickled to stumble upon Mac's Backs. Mac's is everything we love about local bookshops. It is kitsch-cute from top to bottom. And it does have a top and bottom, with sci-fi, fantasy, comics and graphic novels up in the loft, mostly new books and gifts on the main floor with some used mixed in, and more sections of used books in the basement. Mac's has an eclectic assortment of all genres to explore, all well organized by category/author. Both my husband and I, and our kids all left with something. I grabbed a used Vonnegut paperback I didn't have, and a Bullfinch Mythology paperback, both just three bucks. Our daughter got a markdown zodiac calendar. Our son got a new book, a collection of mythology compiled for juvenile readers, it was under eight bucks. My husband went a little hog-wild. He's an author himself, and an academic scholar, and found a couple new Zizek books he didn't have. His Zizek finds excited him, but not as much as another fun fact about Mac's. My husband loves the film 'American Splendor' the early 2000's bio-pic about the underground comic author Harvey Pekar (played by Paul Giamatti), who was from Cleveland. The hubbs has read his comics too, which we borrowed from our library. We noticed a few 'American Splendor' posters, a couple signed by Pekar, and the hubbs asked the staff about it. As it turns out, Harvey Pekar lived in Coventry Heights, and much of the 'American Splendor' movie was filmed nearby. AND the bookstore staffer (we think it was Mac himself??) knew Pekar, and he was also actually in the movie! My 'American Splendor' fanboy-husband was STOKED. In a second he was able to place Mac in the film, "Oh yeah, you're the guy with the mattress! Average is dumb!" And he was! Mac (we think) explained that Pekar's books are hard to find, because his wife (Joyce Brabner, also depicted in the film), has clamped down on publication, and has held back on posthumously releasing Pekar's remaining unpublished works. Mac didn't think he had any Pekar in stock, but we serendipitously came across an anthology collection of 'American Splendor' upstairs in the used graphic novel section! So of course my husband added that to his pile of purchases, to have his very own 'American Splendor' comics now. And we took pics of him with his Pekar collection outside of Mac's, trying to look like a gloomy guy, as Harvey would have appreciated. ;-) We had a really nice chat with Mac, and found some truly nice treasures in his shop. When we're back in the Cleveland area, Mac's Backs Books is definitely a re-visit destination for us, such a gem! :-D

They don't even sell mac's and cheese. False advertising.
Fox E.

Mac's doesn't even sell Mac's make up. False advertising! Really great bookstore and long live the independent bookstore in general. I'm a big fan. However, considering the prices on some of these books, and the fact that their selection seems large but is often somewhat limited, I think it averages out to 4 stars. Still, a really great part of Cleveland Heights/Coventry.

Christina P.

I love books and I love bookstores. If I could spend my life just reading I would, with some food adventuring thrown in of course. The thing is Mac's is a strange bird so it's a bit of a challenge to rate. The Pros -There's three floors of books - three very very packed floors. This means a lot of books, a lot of different books from a multitude of genres. -The staff is very friendly and very helpful. -In what seems like every nook and cranny, you can find bookish things. By this I mean literature themed toats, socks, etc. There's also lovely cards and stationary - very nice if you want something less generic. The Cons -Despite this store being three floors, those floors are not large my friend so it makes browsing tricky if there are people there and overwhelming since everything is so close together. -It breaks my heart but I have to say the books. The thing is, Mac's is a mix of old and new books. So it's not like I expect there to be a greater number of one or the other. I also don't expect them to have every book under the sun. My problem is the pricing. I have to say some of the books seem overpriced. I'm not talking about pricing compared to Amazon because that would be ridiculous. This is a locally owned brick and mortar store so I'm not expecting door busting deals. I am confused, however, when a used paper back is priced at the same price if not a dollar or two higher than its new counterpart when it's not signed or a particular edition. It's still used and I can see the flaws that result from that use. I've seen this sort of pricing on more than one occassion. So while I do love to come back, despite how daunting it is to browse, I can't say I've left with a book very frequently. Come check it out yourself, maybe you'll have better luck than me,

Will W.

Great book store with wonderful selection of all types of literature. Really love the layout although the books are a little disorganized. Found a Georges Sorel book that I haven't seen anywhere off the internet, so there are some great finds to be made here. Some books are arbitrarily overpriced, but I will definitely be returning.

Kori M.

There's a huge selection of science fiction upstairs, and I recommend all readers check out the shelf under the stairsvwhere there are free publishers advanced copies (free with any purchase), which is a great way to preview gebres or authors you wouldn't otherwise try or hear about.

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Awesome little bookstore in the heart of once of the coolest neighborhoods in The Land!

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Ask the Community - Mac's Backs Books

Review Highlights - Mac's Backs Books

This is one of only a few stores in Coventry that you do not have to be 18 or with a parent to go into!

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Loganberry Books - Saturday, 14 February 2026

Loganberry Books

4.8(97 reviews)
1.7 mi
$$

Not a fan of their hours but so happy to have finally made it here! This place definitely qualifies…read moreas a hidden gem or a less-traveled CLE shop. I could easily spend hours here, and did, last Sunday! What gorgeous decor, layout, vibes and selection they have! Workers were really friendly as well. The prices of books were high though--no discount at all for new books. Fine to support local but this is why the library will still always be my favorite. What I was confused about is how the books are organized because it is not by author nor by used/new. I'm pretty sure new books were placed right next to pre-owned ones on the same shelf... I did enjoy all the gift and merchandise displays. They were all set up in a way that looked irresistible to buy! My BF bought this photography coffee table book he was really excited about and I got a children's novel illustrated by Jon Klassen (big fans!).

Whether you are a book lover or not, there's something for everyone in this wonderful place. Today…read morewas my first time stopping in, and I enjoyed myself so much looking around at all of the books, trinkets and little doodads. The people working there were very knowledgeable and friendly. The book collection alone is incredible. There is multiple room rooms and the sanctuary holds very old and important books and is definitely interesting to look around in. They also have a cute gift shop that has very cool gifts and handmade items as well. Totally a great find if you are looking for something fun to do, or just looking for a few books.

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Loganberry Books - Nice displays

Nice displays

Loganberry Books - The aesthetics are very pleasing to the eyes

The aesthetics are very pleasing to the eyes

Loganberry Books - Book selection is massive

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Book selection is massive

Appletree Books

Appletree Books

4.4(21 reviews)
0.9 mi
$$

Appletree Books has been part of Cleveland Heights Community and local independent bookstore scene…read moresince 1975! This bookstore is charming (inside and out). Lovely customer service. Amazing all around. It is well-stocked and well-curated with items such as books, vintage accessories, bookmarks, journals, and more. You'll find every genre at this bookstore. Unfortunately after 50 year, the owner is retiring. Appletree Books will close its doors on May 31, 2025. It's a very sad moment for the community and readers. Things to know before they close: -Sales: There are currently big sales ongoing on furniture, vintage items, and fixtures for the next two weeks. The items on sale are on the second floor and in the basement. The prices are very good! I purchased 3 amazing refurbished furniture pieces for $70 (table, shelf, and side table). You can pick up some items that are not in use when you purchase. The items in use will be scheduled for pickup after store closure. I highly recommend checking out everything they have! Most pieces are sold but very good items remain! -Books: There is still a lot of inventory, many good reads. There is a sale on books right now (20% off). Check out ARC's in the back (first floor) for free books (2 per person). -Gift Cards: Be sure to use your gift cards before closure or send them in for redemption. Contact the store or get on their email list for more details. -Points: If you have points with this store, use them! -Events: The store has three remaining events: Books in the Bar (at Parnell's), Shakespeare Reading, and Fairwell Party. The Fairwell Party is scheduled on June 13. Follow their social media or join their email list to check these events out! -Community Impact: The store is currently accepting book donations (or books purchased in the store) for kids' little libraries. I will be so very sad to see this store go! The displays were always so lovely! They always made my day! I look forward to the remaining events and hope to shop here more before they close!

CLOSED NOW, as of June 2025. But, a new bookstore has taken Appletree Books place. The new…read morebookstore is called The Checkered Shelf Bookshop and they kept a similar layout inside the bookstore as Appletree Books. I visited Appletree Books on Friday evening, 13 June 2025 for their closing party. They had a live 3-person band perform and they gave out free food and drinks. The evening was an overall great atmosphere. I previously visited this bookstore for the first time on Saturday, 24 May 2025 where I bought books and 3 small tea cups which came with saucers. The cute teacups and saucers sets were on sale for $2 a piece which was a great deal. BOOKS -- Plenty to choose from. During my first visit in May 2025, I bought 2 books: A Midsummer Night's Dream and The Catcher in the Rye. I still have to read them but I can't wait until I do as these are classic books. OTHER ITEMS -- They sold other home decor items. In my May 2025 visit, I bought 3 little decorative teacups that cost $2 each. They were a great find. While it may be sad that this longtime bookstore has now closed, a new owner has now been found and she is a lovely woman. Be sure to check out the new bookstore called The Checkered Bookshelf. **** GOAL of 250 reviews in 2026 - 51/250 total reviews in 2026 - 892 total Yelp reviews - Reviewed on 26 April 2026

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Appletree Books
Appletree Books - Local Interest Books

Local Interest Books

Appletree Books - Stairs to the Loft area

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Stairs to the Loft area

Attenson's Coventry Antiques & Books - Here's me with the described coat and bag, along with a friend! (In a different store lol)

Attenson's Coventry Antiques & Books

3.9(15 reviews)
0.1 mi
$$

After a lunch at Pacific East I was wandering down Coventry and found that Attenson's Antiques was…read moreopen and since I have walked by any number of times I figured I would check it out. Inside is incredible, two storefronts and a full basement full of an eclectic assortment all scattered about with only a vague kind of organization. Among the broad categories of items were artwork, books, clothing, cowboy boots, decor and just about anything else you could imagine. I was looking for wooden masks since I have a large collection; of course I really didn't want to find anything to buy, I was just shopping. Scattered about the store were quite a few different masks and other carvings. I finally noticed two masks hanging on the wall behind the main counter, a very detailed Balinese mask and a smaller Japanese Tengu Mask. The owner seemed knowledgeable about the masks, which was welcome and a bit surprising. The Tengu Mask just talked to me and the price was affordable, plus it was small enough that I didn't have to do a major redistribution of my collection. After a short negotiation we came to a reasonable price and the Tengu mask is now hanging in my home. A great cool spot to just browse around and see what hits your interest. There are surprises scattered all over, prices seemed reasonable. The owners were friendly and helpful. Stop in and see what happens.

This antique shop is a hidden gem in Cleveland Heights. The…read morestaff are pleasant. There is always something different & unique to be found. Reasonable prices.

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Attenson's Coventry Antiques & Books - Oh the pretty things!

Oh the pretty things!

Attenson's Coventry Antiques & Books - Storefront

Storefront

Attenson's Coventry Antiques & Books

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Visible Voice Books - BODEGA CAT ($9) sandwich with egg, applewood smoked bacon, cheddar cheese (light), hot pepper jam on an English muffin - on 10 January 2026

Visible Voice Books

4.5(34 reviews)
7.5 miDetroit-Shoreway
$$

Visible Voice Books new location is absolutely beautiful! As a bookworm that has visited many…read morebookstores in Cleveland and around the world this is one of the most beautiful. Currently super busy as it just opened but definitely worth the hype. They offer food and coffee and have a full list of events!

Visible Voice is a great addition to the Ohio City area. This bookstore is a fun place to meet…read morefriends for a coffee or a cocktail. I have been twice in the last week and both times were very satisfying. The staff were friendly and our drinks were made well. To be honest I could stroll around looking at books all afternoon. The books are arranged and each section is clearly marked. You do have to be aware used books are mixed in with new books. Overall it is a well curated selection. They have a calendar on the wall and host a variety of events. Everything from book clubs to concerts. It appears the stage is refurbished and seems the perfect size for an intimate concert or book reading. They even incorporated some old pews into the seating. Both times I visited it was difficult to find a seat. They have very comfortable seating on a second floor balcony but it was completely occupied. Parking is primarily street parking, either directly on Lorain or there are side streets close.

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Visible Voice Books - On Friday, 9 January 2026 at the new Visible Voice Books (bookstore) in Lorain Ave. (the old and former location closed in late 2025)

On Friday, 9 January 2026 at the new Visible Voice Books (bookstore) in Lorain Ave. (the old and former location closed in late 2025)

Visible Voice Books - Event/performance stage

Event/performance stage

Visible Voice Books - BODEGA CAT ($9) sandwich with egg, applewood smoked bacon, cheddar cheese (light), hot pepper jam on an English muffin - on 10 January 2026

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BODEGA CAT ($9) sandwich with egg, applewood smoked bacon, cheddar cheese (light), hot pepper jam on an English muffin - on 10 January 2026

Clevo Books

Clevo Books

5.0(3 reviews)
5.5 miGateway District

Clevo Books is a unique downtown destination. It's the only store in Cleveland that offers books…read morethat can be described as translated global literature (second in the wider Cleveland area). The owner opened the store after spending some of her career as a translator (German-English). It feels important that all of us become more globally minded, so I deeply appreciate that this store is part of our literary city culture. AMBIANCE: The bookstore has simple and clean aesthetic. One open space and cozy reading nook toward the back of the store. The store is located in a historic building so you'll enjoy years of architecture. The interior is pleasantly modern despite historical surroundings. INVENTORY: The inventory is continuously growing. The bookstore focuses on adding the classics to the shelves and books published within the last few years. Accessories include cards, puzzles, and other souvenirs. Inventory is conveniently organized by country. Original languages include Russian German, French, Norwegian, Portuguese, Polish, Persian, Farsi, Finnish, Catalan, Czech Slovak, Chinese, Japanese, Estonian, Finnish, and more. All inventory is translated and is in English. You won't find books in your native language. There are also nooks by genre - graphic novels, speculative fiction, mystery, crime, poetry, early reader, and more. It's easy to find whatever your TBR contains. I purchased Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment for $20. It's my favorite Russian literary classic. Books vary in price, some are even $5-10, which is so budget friendly! I'm an avid international literature reader as a hobby and as a member of international reads book club. We read books in translation. It's always hard to find non-depressing literature (not war, not political crisis, and historical heavy content). This store has lighter literature from various countries so you can read for entertainment. That's very hard to achieve! SERVICE: The owner of the store is very friendly. What I love the most if her drive and ideas to improve the store, which I learned about during my brief visit. That and she's very open to recommending books and genres. Ask her about your next read, she's phenomenal at recommendations. EVENTS: The store hosts periodic events for the community such as readings and book clubs. Check them out especially if you live downtown! You can also host your own events in this space! MEMBERSHIPS: The bookstore offers memberships that can be purchased at a price of $5 to $50 per month. I attached a photo with all the tiers. They offer access to events, opportunity to host your own events, Clevo Books swag, and community feel. I enjoyed my first visit to Clevo Books! I love international literature so it's nice to find a place in the city that caters to this passion. I don't have to support big retailers any longer, can just shop local for global books! Not all cities have this option, we should feel so lucky. Whether you're a downtown resident, visitor from the suburbs or out of town, you'll find your next interesting read here. Stop in!

There are so many unique selections within this book store!! They specialize in translated works,…read moreand the staff was very kind and helpful. A wonderful place to stop into and find a unique book of choice!

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Clevo Books
Clevo Books
Clevo Books

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Mac's Backs Books - bookstores - Updated May 2026

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