Being obsessed with books means that bookstores draw me in like a moth to a bright light. It doesn't matter whether it is a chain store or local, new or used. It also doesn't matter if it is an children's bookstore while I am an adult (even though I don't have children!). Heck, I'm hard-pressed to resist a Christian Science Reading Room merely because it has 'reading' in the title! Once Upon A Time is a children's bookstore (the oldest in the nation, it claims); located in the Montrose Shopping Park. Naturally, I was pulled inside with a force beyond my strength to resist... Once Upon A Time is a quaint, charming, local shop which exudes fresh white energy and a sort of cottage-type feel. Instead of bombarding children and parents with overdone whimsical animals or characters; Once Upon A Time feels more mature like a gift shop foregoing the Fischer-Price mold. This allows patrons of any age to feel comfortable throughout the store. What does Once Upon A Time offer? Naturally the main focus are books and Once Upon A Time divides the stock per age group from picture books to Young Adult. Within these delineations; shelves are further compartmentalized based on topic (such as mystery, science, poetry, etc). There aren't any large signs, however, so it is best to just browse and look around to find what you seek. In addition to books, Once Upon A Time sells journals, sketchbooks, book marks, erasers, stuffed animals (characters from specific books), dolls, and other child-inspired tidbits. Watch the prices though: they are a little bit high. The coolest addition? In the back of the store, there is a USPS-official display selling parcel boxes and packages. You can buy a book, stuffed animal, AND a box to ship it in, at Once Upon A Time! Sadly, customer service is Once Upon A Time's biggest pitfall. Perhaps it was just my visit as the shop seems to have positive reviews; but I did not feel welcome. There was one male on duty and he did not welcome us into the store or ask if we needed help (was it because we didn't have children with us and we were two adults?). I went to look at the revolving bookmark display on the counter and his fast-food container was blocking it (unprofessional). Granted, he moved it but still did not strike up a conversation until we were walking out the door and THEN asked if we were looking for anything in particular. Too little, too late, buddy! Definitely not the type of local, neighborhood customer service one would expect. Once Upon A Time supplements store products by holding multiple store events and author signings per month. Although I have not attended one so I can not vouch for them; the website's calendar appears to be packed so it is something worth checking out if your child is into that sort of thing. Once Upon A Time is unique in that it caters specifically to children and preteens in a friendly but not overly-dummied down environment. The shop is worth visiting when searching for a book and small gift but I would definitely suggest a lesson in customer service for the staff. Once Upon a Time is not bad but also won't blow you away. read more

Cute as a button children's bookstore, with very nice service! I overheard this bookstore is over 45 years old, the oldest children's bookstore in the country. If true, wow. Great little street it's on, too...with nice restaurants, outdoor seating, and other shops to peak into, or do some damage to your wallet. read more

What a great, little children's book store. This place is so welcoming to children and adults alike. This place is cozy and warm... it truly makes you want to read forever. Once you walk in, you are never rushed and you are always greeted with smile and by folks that equally want to help you or your child find that special book. Service is outstanding, always friendly and always inviting. We attended a book signing and reading with David Shannon and wouldn't you know it, my kids were not disappointed- it was so much fun. read more

Once Upon A Time - Bookstores Near Me - Montrose, California

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I've been going here since I was 3 years old back in the 80's Back then the store was owned but this nice older woman (forgot her name) and the store was across the street I believe. Honolulu was a different time of course and sadly this store has fallen victim the the pandemic that I like to call "mean people" people who are just rude and mean for no reason. Common courtesy and kindness seems to be a thing if the past ever since mask mandates and quarantines swept in. I now go to this store with my mother and my own daughter to buy her special books and trinkets and although we always make a purchase of at least $80 every visit we are treated unfairly and with extreme rudeness and discrimination. My sister and I walked in a couple weeks ago and my sister didn't have a mask (which the mask mandate is over but we will still wear on in the store upon request) the lady offered my sister a mask and she took it and wore it through the store. My mom and myself already had masks. A free min later an older white couple walked in without masks and nothing was said to them about it at all. Not once was it requested that they wear one and we also noticed the couple was not followed around the store as we were. I have a 4 month old with a stroller and It was quite obvious that we were not welcome. My poor mom happened to sneeze under her mask due to her allergies and the woman who worked there came up to her and told her that sneezing was illegal and that she needed to leave the store. My mom was so humiliated that she went ahead and left the store. I was left to purchase our books and as I'm getting ready to make my purchase the women behind the counter stood there talking about how rid my mom was to sneeze inside the store. As if my mom could help it plus like I said, she was wearing a mask. Also the time before this (same woman) I had visited a couple weeks prior and again was picking books to purchase and once again had my stroller with me and sad the three books on top of my stroller since my hands were occupied and the woman came up to me and told me I was not allowed to walk around the store with books in my stroller and needed to set everything down on the counter. Again the books were on top of my stroller in plain site and having made most likely more purchases in this store than any person residing in all of Glendale, I was pretty offended. Yet I obliged and purchased my books. I don't know who this woman is but she is horrendous. I've never been made to feel like a criminal more in my life. I had no idea pushing a stroller made you a suspect in a childrens books store. Reluctantly we have taken our business to Barns and Noble where we can shop in peace read more

I love this bookstore. Maureen and her daughter is Isabelle are warm, open, friendly people who love to read. In fact everyone who works there are "book people" so you can always get help picking the perfect tone. We have had some of my best book experiences with volumes they have recommended to me. Additionally, Maureen is very active in the school community, hosting book fairs at schools all paver Glendale, as well as hosting author signings and readings with popular children's book authors both at the store and at local elementary schools. If there's a volume you wish to read that isn't in the bookstore they will happily order it for you. If you join their frequent buyers club you receive a $20 credit at the store every time you spend $200. Anytime you get your $20 credit they ring a big gong in the store- it's one of my very favorite sounds. In addition to books, they also have all kinds of little gifts and knickknacks and ornaments to top a book as a gift or give as a gift itself. I cannot recommend the store highly enough- it is absolutely worth a trip to the oldest children's bookstore in United States. read more

Amazing Childrens bookstore that always has the best and appropriate book suggestions for my 8 year old voracious reader and wonderful picture books for my 4 year old! Also really appreciate how they keep everyone's health a top priority. Support local and visit this gem! You won't be disappointed! read more

Support your local bookstores! Once Upon A Time is a small, welcoming children's bookstore. The staff is helpful and know children's literature. I always enjoy browsing around and when I am at a loss for what my kids would like, they always have suggestions. They host wonderful author events for families. Just spent a small fortune on David Shannon books last month. You can also order online and pick up. read more

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Once Upon A Time has easily become my favorite bookstore, ever! I live in Orange County and I made a more than an hour away trip to Montrose just because of the amazing things I've heard about the children's section! I did not leave disappointed but I did leave with a rather large box and 2 bags of books. After an hour of perusing through their children's section, I left with more than $600 worth of children's books. Crazy? Probably. But honestly, you don't find these types of children's books at Barnes and Nobles! I mean, I suppose you can on Amazon, but it's not the same experience with your child. I was specifically interested in multicultural, inspirational, motivational and easy read type of books for children. I was so damn impressed with their selection that I honestly could not help myself! Ignorantly brainwashed by all the commercialized stories, I didn't know these books for children existed in abundance. If only I lived closer, I would be here pretty often with my daughter. They have such amazing customer service and I'm so grateful for Morgan's help while I was there! They also have a frequent buyer's reward program & for every $200 you spend, you get a $20 credit towards your next purchase! And Morgan informed me that they are also the oldest children's bookstore around! read more

Small children's (family) Bookstore in Montrose on the North side of Honolulu Ave just west of Verdugo Rd. (Between zeke's and rocky cola cafe). This little book shop is very family friendly, it has lots of children's books and toys but it also has (to your left as you enter the store) many books adults would enjoy which I was surprised to see. The number of children's books here is very large though some what difficult to look threw. But overall its a pretty decent place to browse if you live in the area. The only problem I had with the store is not the store's fault its the general lack of parking in the area near by, its mostly metered street parking. read more

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I love Once Upon A Time! The staff is so friendly and helpful and makes AMAZING book recommendations! If they don't have a book you are looking for they work to get it to you as quick as possible and the communication is consistent, helpful, and friendly. Any time a friend has a baby I love gifting them with a pile of children's book and a soft jellycat animal! Come check this place out, you will not be sorry!! read more

This is such a sweet and lovely shop. I buy books for the kids in my life and the staff always has recommendations that the kids LOVE!

Here's the deal; if you love books and intelligent people who read them, then this store is for you! Mother-daughter team of Maureen and Jessica are nice, kind and know all the latest about new books! Great cards too. Keep this wonderful independent bookstore alive! Buy a gift certificate if you want! They gift wrap beautifully, and will send the books out as well via USPS. The best ever! read more

My favorite local book store. They don't have a super extensive selection but can easily order things you want or need and you don't need to pay ahead of time. I've recently been reading some news sci-fi stuff and is my go to Spot. Folks are friendly. read more

I love this little book store. They have great selections and recommendations for all ages. I also RESPECT that they still require masks because the majority of patrons are kids who can not get vaccinated yet. Definitely makes me more comfortable to bring my 7 year old in. Please support this great book store. read more

Awesome children's bookstore! I am in LA visiting my granddaughter and decided to take a drive to the bookstore based on reviews and the good things I had heard about the store. Easy drive, well worth it. If you prefer sterile and streamlined this is not the store for you. It is perfect. Warm and inviting. Jessica helped with interesting books for my granddaughter and gave me recommendations for my other grandchildren. Fun gift ideas, very cute new "piggy" banks, bright and colorful different animals. Maureen was lovely to talk with and very helpful. Interesting new diorama in front window. Also a bookstore cat! I appreciate the help and personal knowledge, it is very hard on Amazon even reading reviews to know what you are getting. Definitely recommend. read more

Once Upon A Time is a wonderful local bookstore and always worth a visit. They have a great selection of children's and adult books as well as unique cards and gifts. Staff is super friendly and helpful too. Always worth paying a visit! read more

Well this is my first official review for 2015!! I know.. i KNOW... yikes! But there is no better way I could think of starting off this new year than giving a shout out to the cutest childrens bookstore Ive ever seen! So my home was recently getting some construction done and the noise was was too loud for the little one so I decided to pack him up and take him out on a day trip to Descano Gardens! When we took a lunch break, I wanted to hit up a bookstore for a nice change of scenery and thanks to my trusty YELP app, I came upon this darling store. Located in a strip mall in charming Montrose Village, you'll swear you've stepped back in time.. There are so many mom-and-pop stores it was actually quite refreshing! As soon as I walked in- I was warmly greeted by the staff and lead to the board book section for babies. And I was even given a few great recommendations!! I just love how they welcome customers to relax, pull up a chair and actually read the books. Sure, the same would be said of bigger bookstores but I love supporting local businesses so this place was perfect! Should you ever find yourself to be in montrose, do yourself a favor and check this place out! Five stars. read more

Absolutely incredible bookstore! They have a wonderful selection and booksellers that are always ready to recommend a good book to you! I've been coming to this bookstore for more than 15 years and have never had a unpleasant visit. read more

Store manager really helpful!! Tons of children's books and things...

Loved all the whimsical things in the store. Enjoyed the people and the knowledge they had on the books. I was ecstatic that they had several signed copies of several books we had been looking for. My daughter is a collector and reader of David Shannon. We were so lucky to find this quaint store, and it's store cat. Also saw that they have many events. read more

Great family bookstore. Mostly for kids, but they have some interesting books for adults as well. They host book signings and special events as well. I went to the Harry Potter book 7 release party. (NERD ALERT!) They decorated the bookstore like Daigon Alley. It has all the classic little kid books (that I like to read, lol) It would have 5 stars, but the selection isn't huge and if I take my stroller in, I block everybody from escaping. Then I get dirty looks as to why I would bring a stroller into a kids bookstore. wtf. read more

On a hot, Sunday afternoon, my two-year-old twins and I sought refuge in this bookstore and found it! They have a pretty decent supply of children's books and toys, but I would recommend coming to this place for browsing and exploring, and not necessarily to seek out a specific book. The shelves weren't sorted in an intuitive manner, and I am a huge reader and bookstore/library fiend, so that made it difficult for me to find something to purchase. Since my twins were running around towing toys along, I didn't have time to really settle in and browse, but during the times I looked it was kind of hard to find the classics that I wanted to add to their collection. However, the store employees and all the customers were very permissive of my children running around and playing with the display toys and board books. They loved roaming through the shelves and looking at things here and there. They aren't destructive, but sometimes they like to grab and inspect new things, and even touching is looked down upon at retailers. I didn't get that feeling in the slightest here. Caveat: I don't really know what prices are like here since I didn't purchase anything, and I also did not have time to investigate that, so you should see other reviews for that detail. read more

I am in love with this bookstore! Tonight when I walked in for the first time, just to browse, I was greeted by the shopowner (I assume) along with people who work/volunteer there. They welcomed my friend and I in like we were all old friends, and their kindness and cheerfulness was infectious. We were asked to stay for storytime so we did. A young woman played guitar and read childrens' books, and I have to say the experience was magical. When I left the store, I felt like I was floating on this cloud of both nostalgia and happiness and I loved it. The experience reminded me of what it felt like to read books and go to the bookstore when I was a kid. It's a great feeling. I was honestly charmed by this place, and I cannot wait to go back. Support independent bookstores! They amaze you and surprise you ;) read more

Everything a small privately owned indeoebdant book store should be! Great selection, excellent customer service, funky merchandise - great! If you're not a reader you should be - so check out this place! read more

A great, little, family-owned and family oriented bookstore in the center of Montrose. For those of you not familiar with Montrose, it is a small area in Glendale (near where the 2 and 210 meet). Honolulu Street is the backbone of the community. Along Honolulu you'll find restaurants, boutiques, dance studios, butchers, a bowling alley, antique stores and so on. I imagine it looks a lot like it did 50 years ago. Once Upon a Time fits this street perfectly. It is quaint and friendly. You own't find stacks of bestsellers here, but rather thoughtfully chosen books, and related items, suited for family use. read more

Wow, what an amazing bookstore! It's hard to find places like this today. Great selection of kids and adult books, including many signed copies. Nice selection of games, puzzles and other gift-type stuff. I was very impressed with how friendly, helpful and knowledgeable the staff was. Really looking forward to coming back here for author readings and signings and to stock up on gifts. read more

An amazing childrens bookstore. This place is a wonderful place to pick up a present for little ones, hear a cool author speak, or just see super cute stuffed animals (I want the spotted pig!) It oozes quaint charm, and is a must do on your trip to Montrose. read more

I suppose anything's better than Borders kids section, or even Barnes and Noble anymore. But the sad fact is, it is difficult to find ANY children's book store (I believe there are only a handful left anyway) that contain a strong selection of classic children's literature. I understand everyone needs to make a dollar. Maybe there ought to be a 'collectible classics' section at each of these stores, where used hardcover editions of classics are sold. I think one of these stores used to do something like that - maybe that westside one. There is a market for this stuff, and not one of these childrens book stores seems to be catering to it. This place is no bargain,by the way, but I think you know that going into any kids store these days. Check out Tom's Toys while you're up here, it's down the block. Very nice selection of Playmobil, puzzles, etc. read more

Fantastic bookstore! Coming here definitely beats browsing on Crapazon or going to Craps and Noble. The staff here are friendly and super knowledgeable. They never steer me wrong with a recommendation. A+++ read more

this bookstore is so cute. i wish i was a little kid again, looking for a nice, quiet, non commercial or non conglomerate bookstore where i can go to find a good book. not spacious enough to sit and chill, but still cozy and homey with nice people working there. read more

Walked in for the first time today, cute little Children's bookstore. Spoke with Maddie and Sarah. Very personable staff and they talked to my children as well. They are more than just a bookstore. They have toys, totes, notebooks, art supplies, greeting cards and little trinkets. We'll be back! read more

I really love all the things this bookstore has to offer. Knowledgeable salespeople, great selection of books (not just for kids!), unique gifts, beautifully hand made items, cool puppets, and at Christmastime, WOW. This place is like a dream come true for even us grown-up kids. I like the fact that I can get advice on books for every age group and interest, and when I have to buy a gift for someone who is hard to shop for, I know this is the place to go. Did you know that this shop is the oldest privately-owned children's bookstore in the country? The owner also makes an effort to give jobs to local high school and college kids. I like that. I believe in supporting local businesses, even if I have to pay a little more for the convenience. That money is well-spent in the personal attention I get and I will continue to support this store and others in this wonderful little place called Montrose. read more

I really want to love our neighborhood children's bookstore but I've been in here twice (years apart) and each time makes me feel like I never want to come back. Both times were due to the cashier girl having an attitude/unwelcoming/being unhelpful/seemingly bothered etc. I have a baby and could easily become a regular here, but instead I'm just buying on amazon or going all the way to vroman's in Pasadena which has a great and large kids section. read more

We absolutely LOVE the Once Upon a Time staff! Thank you for being our go to for books and always being patient and having great recommendations! If you haven't checked out this bookstore you're missing out! read more

Very sweet! My daughter needed a book to take to school Monday morning and didn't mention it until almost 6 PM on Sunday. I called them at Once Upon at Time to see when they close and if have a copy of the book. Even though they had already technically closed for the day the lady was nice enough to wait for me to go in to pick up the book. It is so refreshing to get that personal touch. The store is beautiful and has so many wonderful books. I had forgotten how much nicer it is to actually touch and lead through a book than to buy it on Amazon! read more

Best store ever! Took the the kids to a very inspirational book signing with author William Joyce. Love the merchandise and the staff and owner are all very sweet. read more

Charming little bookstore. Wish there were more of them around. Small selection of books for the adult. Additionally, i think employees wearing a pink pussy hat is a bit over the top. Just as wearing a MAGA would be. That's just my opinion from someone who dislikes Trump as much as I dislike all divisiveness such as the Resist movement. I'll take my business elsewhere where they welcome all people. read more

Once upon a time when customers were king and stores gave customers things they wanted... oh wait! There is ONE such store I know of - Once Upon a Time Bookstore comes to mind! What an absolutely wonderful place to visit. My wife and I walk every day and on the weekends we visit this bookstore. What a treat! We find something new every time we visit. I know how difficult a time independent bookstores have had over the years and to show my support for this wonderful store I order all my books from them! Since they are local I know I'm helping to support my local businesses (and hopefully keep out the big box stores). We love the nick-nacks that abound in this captivating store. Browsing here is fantastic (we almost always find something for our home) and they have the best cards anywhere! Great kids books but there are gems for grownups too! I've been re-reading many of the classics, finding a new appreciation for them and Once Upon a Time certainly has many of them. My appetite for current affairs both fiction and non-fiction can be quenched here as well. I've been ordering books, having them delivered to the store and then picking them up usually in just a couple of days. Gives me a chance to come and look for fun new things... thanks Once Upon a Time for giving us a truly old time customer experience that you just can't find in today's corporatized stores! read more

I grew up at Once Upon A Time literally. It is the place where I learned to love books as a source of information, pleasure, education and relaxation. The original owner Jane saw me grow up and always greeted me by name when I would enter her store. It was better than home. I always felt that I entered a magical world when I entered Once Upon A Time. The world has changed. There is Amazon, and truly Once Upon A Time is primarily a children's bookstore. At a time when there was no Yelp and when Jane, the original owner, greeted me as if I were her own daughter and introduced me to wonderful books, I would have given Once Upon A Time 10 stars. Last night I visited looking for an adult cozy mystery, mentioned I was a lifetime customer to the (relatively) new owner, and she helped me. However, I think I bothered her or something. It's still a special store and I applaud the second owner for keeping it going, but I no longer have a special place of refuge, like I once did, at Once Upon A Time. It may be because of Amazon, and for that I plead guilty as a customer. Amazon must be a thorn in the side of all independent booksellers. I will still buy books there though. It's just not the same. read more

I love this little book store they have so many cute children's books here. They also carry great gifts to buy and they have been there for many years. It is very well organized and has many classic books that you might not find at the larger book stores and there is outdoor seating too which is nice. There are also a few restaurants all along the side of the street and you can walk further down to the other shops and you will find many things to do in this nice shopping district. read more