wonderful sales people, they have an unmatched selection of Books on on revolution, art, literature, fiction, women, history, science, LGBTQ, which go up against the status quo censorship, and MAGA world view. read more

I stopped in here today on a whim. The employee repeatedly brought up fascism and claimed we are living under a dictatorship, insisting that I take flyers about the current political climate. The irony is that a bookstore like this--framing itself as "revolutionary" and openly promoting ideas about dictatorship, fascism, LGBTQ issues, and modern-day slavery--would not exist under an actual fascist regime. In such systems, only books that praise or reinforce the ruling ideology are permitted. That contradiction made the messaging feel more like extreme leftist propaganda than serious critique, to the point of being almost comical. I still purchased a gift for a friend, but the anti-Trump rhetoric was truly over the top. I'm just a normie trying to buy a book. read more

Wonderful selection of books and the staff was extremely helpful and kind! Highly recommend this hidden gem of a store!

Nice little book store with a variety of different books I saw some bilingual Spanish/English books for children Some controversial topic books Some books covering Chicano issues as well as other ethnic issues Customer service is friendly and very informative Prices are very reasonable Student discount given Street parking only No private parking lot Store is behind the flower shop in a little alley way read more

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Such knowledgable and helpful staff. They went out of their way to tell is about the latest diverse books on their shelves. They are so well informed on banned books and helpful in ensuring you pick diverse books for your home or, in my case, school library. Educator discount available. read more

Revolution Books - Quality merch and carefully selected books to promote diversity in either a home or school library. - Bookstores Near Me - Berkeley, California

I have mixed reviews. The books are beautiful, diverse and offer a wide selection of political and socially aware titles from children's to adult. Unfortunately, I have to throw in a caution as they will try to convince you to get involved in the works of their "leader." if the bookstore itself did not have cult undertones it would be a great space. read more

This is a true independent bookstore and I love coming here. I've been there with my husband as we look for books. I often find myself in a seat reading. My husband never reads without a book. They also have some wonderful events. I went to one event for an "unthanksgiving" my term. It celebrated the release of of movie about the indigenous occupation of Alcatraz. There was a second event, I forget why we went, but we had some of the best Mediterranean food, catered by a local family. I also went back for a book sale. They also had a preview of the Summer of Soul movie virtually! I love coming here and think that they have a fantastic selection of books, especially for kids. And the people who work there are really nice. read more

I love this bookstore! The staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Lots of great books here, covering a fairly wide variety of topics. I think this store alone is worth traveling to Berkeley for. Thank you all for making this possible! read more

So, new location calls for new reviews. It's a small, quirky, indie bookstore, but that's what you get with a book that specializes not only in Communist literature, but also with all kinds of social justice, ethnic/gender/sexuality studies, and environmental issues, among many other topics. The store is run by volunteers, and while I appreciate friendly staff at any establishment, I like to browse book selections in peace, not have people come up to me trying to strike up conversation about Mao and modern day socialism, interrupting my thoughts and relaxation time of browsing books in silence. I had to nod and go, "Mm-hmm" countless times, trying to give a hint that I want to be left to my introverted devices. I appreciate the fiction section, and the used book cart that sits outside the store has some sweet deals ranging $2-9. I found an old edition of "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" and books by Gail Tsukiyama. While this doesn't offer the wide range of books you can find at Moe's down the street, or even at Barnes and Noble for a much bigger selection, this quirky, tiny bookstore is unique to Berkeley. In fact, probably one of the few establishments left in today's gentrification takeover that gives Berkeley its Beserk-eley charm. read more

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I love Revolution Books bookstore, they have all the classics in all areas of politics and even some literature classics. It's a small store so they don't have piles of books but you can stay there reading for a while on one of the chairs. Bookstores like this are what are keeping some people from slipping into complete complicity, stupidity complacently, and total subservience to "authority". read more

Revolution Books - Bookstores Near Me - Berkeley, California

8/28/22 - visited revolution books ( @revolutionbksb ) and felt like i could browse in there for HOURS ! the way that all of the books were separated according to the various genres they fit under was so easy to navigate and was overall nice :) unfortunately, i had set a limit of how many books i could buy or else i would have filled my bags ! i think it is so important to support not only independent bookstores but also bookstores like this one with a purpose ! they describe themselves as "a bookstore about the world and for a whole new world!" personally, i love this because all of the books they sell are picked for a reason. they are books written by people who deserve to have their voice heard because they have important things to say in a world where sometimes people refuse to listen ! i am happy that i was able to contribute to and support a place who offers a safe space for writers and readers that want to create change :) if you haven't visited this bookstore, then you need to run over there right now ! or maybe tomorrow when they're open :) as the banner on the front of their store says "support & sustain this unique bookstore & buy a gift that matters!" read more

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Berkeley has a reputation for being one of the most radically left areas of the nation. No better sign of the city's politics can be found than in Revolution Books. The people who run this store profess to be communists. As such, going to this bookstore was a mixed bag. This bookstore specializes in selling academic literature, communist paraphernalia, and secularised children's books (you won't find any Bernstein Bears in here). The store is quite smaller than what I thought it would be but nonetheless they have a fine selection of literature. The clerk at the counter is more than happy to talk about the virtues of Avakian and Marx. Normally I would be glad to get into such discussions with people but I had to cut it short as I had to head out for a concert. I came in to congratulate them for repelling the fascists in March...then taking this opportunity to produce propaganda of the event for their personal benefit. No doubt the fascists were ignorant and misinformed, but this could be one of the best things to happen to the bookstore, because it's basically free self-promotion and makes them look like the good guys in this scenario. So they persuaded me to come and they got my money as they should have. A moment's discomfort can turn into six months profits if you play your cards right. read more

The bookstore itself is really great, I love the books they feature and the fact that I found something perfect for me within two minutes of entering the store. If you're someone that enjoys reading about politics, sexism, and other modern topics and how both past and present actions have affected us today, definitively worth visiting. The lack of 5 stars though is for signing up for their newsletter/subscription. After putting my phone number down for it, I have gotten nothing but rude texts from the store. Telling me to come in for movies and speakers and such, but in a way that reminds me of your boss scolding you for missing a shift. When I mentioned I couldn't go to an event earlier in the year, I was told to come into the store so we could get a chance to talk about it. Ever since then every text has just been a link with the phrase "Watch this now." These messages have definitely made me not wanna come back. Overall, good bookstore, as long as you say no to signing up for anything. The texts have made it awkward for me to want to return so I will likely not come back. read more

I feel tempted to give this a full five stars to counted the bad faith reviews that are laughably easy to spot ("ANTI-FASCISTS ARE THE REAL FASCISTS!" Yeah, okay dude.) I love that all the right people hate it and are trying to lower its review score. Sometimes you can judge a place by its enemies and in this case, I would love this store indeed. But I probably won't be back. They absolutely do seem to have a cultish devotion to Bob Avakian. I find him and his party to be really up their own ass, implying their party is the One True. And his books and pictures were EVERYWHERE. The selection of books was quite impressive. I came in to find Revolutionary Suicide, and found it immediately. But as they only had pristine new copies, I didn't have the $18 to buy it. I don't know what I was expecting. Perhaps to search through a selection of used books and chance upon a copy I could afford? No dice. Except for he carts in front of the store they're all pristine volumes. Which is great if money isn't an issue, but if you're but a lowly prole, this is quite ironically not going to be for you. I was hoping, too, there would be a selection of zines and self-published materials. But for the fliers for their party's events, no dice. If you have the money it's great and you're likely to find the book you want. Otherwise, roll the dice that you'll find it in a used book shop. tl;dr? Proletarian revolution for bourgeois kids seems to be the order of the day at Revolution Books. read more

I really love this place. I got a copy of Carl Sagans Pale Blue Dot and also a book on Hegel. Spent 4$. Can't beat that. Plus the dudes who work here are very interesting and knowledgeable. It's fun to go in there and pick their brains about various academic subjects. They are very laid back. Also another huge plus is they do lectures and film screenings in the store. I haven't been to one, but I've heard good things. Great place. Edit: after looking into their political beliefs, I am now less inclined to support this business further . :/ read more

I'd been here once before when I was in college (and ironically a UC Santa Cruz student visiting Berkeley) and I loved it. Coming back now, I'm an adult I can appreciate it more. They had all kinds of books about social justice, inequalities, environmental issues and lots of ethnic/gender/sexuality studies-type books. Hell, they even had books for kids. I almost walked out with 'Heather Has Two Mommies' in anticipation for when I have kids. Naturally, the store is very supported (and probably funded by) commies. No, really. But besides trying to push their communist agenda, I think the whole idea of the store is to inspire and embrace the idea of change. Preferably in the radical sense. Still, this idea is supported by some of the books they have. I was almost surprised to see 'Harry Potter' on the shelves, but if you think about it Harry is the leader of a rebellion in the wizarding world. The books themselves have been banned in many places. Also there were old books published by women writers from a time when women weren't supposed to have brains. All in all, they provide resources for people to think outside of the Fox News junk and mainstream media that people are so readily willing to swallow. Even if you're not a communist but care about social justice, you'll find something for you. read more

This review has nothing to do with their political beliefs. Just the very kind man working at the front desk today, 2/9/2013, around 2:30. My boyfriend and I both needed to use the bathroom. There was someone in the women's bathroom of the parking garage smoking crack or heroin. I'm not even kidding, every time they flicked their lighter, they flushed the toilet. After waiting ten minutes, we left. I asked the man sitting at the front desk of the bookstore if he knew the closest place other than the bathroom I just came from. He grabbed his own (employee) bathroom key and led me to a locked hallway and told me to go to the second door on the left. I thought this was extremely kind considering Telegraph businesses are notoriously stingy with their bathrooms, understandably. read more

Whether you agree with the points of view presented in the materials sold here you have to agree that they provide an important service by making these things available. RB stocks what some refer to as "left wing", "Marxist", "liberal", etc., books and other materials which are difficult or impossible to find elsewhere. And isn't this a support of the first amendment? In addition to that they sponsor speakers and seminars supporting these points of view and making room for discussion. They are sort of a grass roots local forum for intellectual discourse as well as social action. I enjoy browsing their stock and they keep me informed of their events by e-mail. This is a vital part of the economic and intellectual infrastructure of the East Bay and Berkeley in particular. Come in, browse, attend a talk, meet and talk to people here and buy something that catches your interest. You will enrich your community and yourself. read more

Please keep up the fight. You deserve more than 5 stars. I'll be visiting you next time I'm in Berkeley.

Someone rated 1 star because she insulted a man who threatened to burn down her store with something that's probably true? Eh.

I think since I've began my life as an adult. I've went through about 10 different political philosophies. From being a hot headed liberal in college to revolutionary to against Obama, tea party, then for Obama. Last I checked, I was campaigning for Saturn. I found that this store meets all of them. I used to love going to places like this when I was in my early 20s. I suppose it was the ghosts of the counterculture that haunt Telegraph avenue. But it was a great escape from the suburban culture I had been exposed to.\ They have a great selection of books here. A lot of it addressing the many faults in capitalism and consumerism. Ironic that the consumerism they criticize is what they make their money off it. Just an observation, considering many of the people who attend this store probably come from a wealthy background. Not Union City in the middle of multiculture land. But great selection of books, even if the stuff is biased read more

Good store. I had a bad experience the first time I went, but all proceeding times were very good. Now I am a Marxist, but NOT a Maoist so I don't agree with the people who volunteer there on a lot of issues. But whether you are looking for a book that's hard to find at another store, or a deep conversation, it's a good place. Generally I stick to their selection of posters though. ...And the people there do not support smashing small buisiness owners. I've spoke to them, and I'm sure I will continue to speak to them about the role of petty-capitalist\small buisiness owners. If you don't believe me go to the store and ask. 'Be open minded' Hm, to note on Preston T's response, apparently his wife and he are not Oakland residents either, but are from "Alamo, CA." read more

I've been dropping in at Revolution Books for years, since I first moved to Berkeley. I hate that I have to say this, but just to preface, I'm not a Communist, Marxist, Maoist, whatever; I'm a business owner, and I bet the folks who work there would figure I'm pretty implicated in the capitalist system. That's ok. That's precisely why I like them--they expand my mind, and help me better understand my own politics by contrast. Revolution Books carries political work, nonfiction, t-shirts, and a surprisingly decent collection of international fiction. I've bought books, magazines, and CDs here over the years, and have been consistently impressed. Some of my fave finds here include small press translated South Indian fiction and the first CD from I Was Born With Two Tongues (a pioneering Asian-American spoken word group). I've been meaning to buy one of their "Atheist" t-shirts, designed to look like an Oakland Athletics logo. I'm uncomfortable with some of the politics (Mao?), but like the fact that I can talk to them about it; the staff are respectful, good listeners, and willing to engage if you want to. They're exactly the kind of quirky local booksellers that make Berkeley a good book town. read more

I've been going to Revolution Books for years. Great selection of anti-imperialist, communist, anarchist, socialist books and also various cultural books. They also wide variety of selection of buttons like "revolution is the solution" and "power to the peaceful" and bumper stickers, which truly makes a statement. Every time I go to this place it re-ignites the activist in me. I'm glad it is still around. read more

For me, Revolution books inspires and encourages intellectual thought and critcal review on the topics of the day. This includes: the many different books to choose from on the shelves, to excellent programs at the store throughout the week, to the acclaimed writing found in their Revolution Newspaper and the opportunity to debate, with other human thinkers, subjects that affect us and our loved ones. I haven't found this combination anywhere else. I commend them and give my support. For me, it was a lucky day when I happened upon Revolution Books off Telegraph Ave on Channing Way. read more

One of my favorite bookstores in the Bay Area......although relatively small in size, they still have a large selection of revolutionary and socialist books, bumper stickers, publications/pamphlets and t-shirts. They also carry about 3-4 of my designs there.....thank you Fred! read more

I love Berkeley for many reasons, one of those reasons being the numerous independent bookstores that can be found around town and campus. It is pretty typical for me to wake up and decide to peruse bookshelves on any given day, but this particular day I woke up feeling a little adventurous and ventured down to Revolution Books. My first thought upon seeing the Revolution Books sign was, "It's in an f'-ing shopping plaza? That's not very revolutionary." But I put aside my expectations of a guerilla bookshop run out of the lower level of a left wing Berkeley commune house and stepped inside. I noticed upon entering that Revolution Books holds Bob Avakian (Chairman of the U.S. Revolutionary Community Party) in high esteem. What?!? You don't know who Bob Avakian is? Don't worry... you will. You will see his face on the wall in a stencil graffiti style and you will hear his voice broadcast throughout the store as he expounds upon the virtues of a communist revolution in the United States. If you ask who that chubby guy on the wall is, the gentleman running the counter will be more than happy to tell you. Just know that it will be on you to disengage from the conversation! As I waited to buy a book, the man behind the counter was oblivious to my existence while he talked to the customer in front of me about the Revolution newspaper that could be bought for just $1. When it was my turn at the counter he ignored a customer waiting behind me as he tried (unsuccessfully) to convince me that the United States needed a Mao-ist style communist revolution. If you are looking to debate, or engage in, extreme political views then get on down there! Now, eager communists aside, the book selection is the highlight of Revolution Books. Specifically, one is able to find books and publications that would be difficult to find at most independent or chain book stores. The books are not limited to communist/socialist writings and there are healthy sections providing critical analyses and information on: the United States prison system , the war on drugs, the military/industrial complex, United States government ineptitudes, some literature from Latin America, Africa, and Asia, some used textbooks bins, and other writings that are in some way criticisms of, or alternatives to, the status quo United States government and economy. I left Revolution Books with: 1) A great piece of muckraker journalism on the drug violence in Mexico, 2) The knowledge that the Revolutionary Communist Party actually exists in the U.S., 3) A curious desire to return someday for a longer conversation with the counter-guy, 4) John Lennon stuck in my head,"If you go carrying pictures of Chairman Mao, you ain't gonna make it with anyone anyhow."..... All in all, it was an interesting book buying experience and a fun use of half an hour. read more

Great bookstore. Great staff. Some of who are volunteers from the community. Even though they are known for carrying books on politics they also have a wide selection of books including childrens books. The store itself is as Berkeley as you can get. Rich, Diverse and Open. read more

Revolution Books is a great bookstore, with lots of informative and interesting reading material. It's an excellent and refreshing source of alternative points of view that challenge the worn out capitalist/imperiaist dogma constantly spewed by the corporate media. It's also a place to go if you like listening to interesting guest speakers talk about diverse subjects. Recently I listened to talks given by a journalist researching the Vietnam war and a physicist. Both talks were excellent. read more

truly revolutionary! It is a place where the spirit of revolution would start to spread. Also, every member of this oasis in the desert of ignorance is truly revolutionary and has strong faith in the future movement, backed up by science and passion. read more

GO REVOLUTION BOOKS! Prices are low. Political selection is unparalleled. Parking is convienient. BART .5 miles. UC Berkeley neighborhood is groovy and academic. People helping are brilliant and enthusiastic. Atmosphere is revolutionary. Profit is non. This is an all volunteer operation!!! There used to be many Revolutionary book stores in the Bay Area. This is the only one left and it's going strong; thanks to the Revolutionary Communist Party, USA! If you are looking for a multi-national corporate store with comfortable seating that serves coffee, go to Starbucks. For the most radical(the root) selection of books - and to find the cutting edge of liberating political thought and academia, political ideology and the political aspect of the sciences in books, media, arts, political forums and political meet-ups GO REVOLUTION BOOKS! If you want to know, grow, get involved and do something about it - hook up with the movement, the revolution, the hip, the evolved, the bold and the well-informed, just GO REVOLUTION BOOKS! This place is a 'fount of knowledge'. It is amazing to me that I can walk in this place and ask ill-informed, brilliant or complex political questions and not only get as much answer as I have time for but get engaged and involved in it. Just go in there and ask the difference between socialism and communism, why there is nothing like the black panthers today, where are the battles being fought successfully against the prison system in the US or where in the world do you find youth involved in fighting the power, you can get down to answering these and the most important questions of our time... GO REVOLUTION BOOKS! The reason they can do this is because Revolutionary Communism works to tie together and make a unity of all the central people's struggles of our time and gets to the root of the central problem; the economic system of capitalism built on it's pulpit of bones. How can they say we can actually abolish capitalism and it's symptoms: racism and the inequality of women, the prison system, hunger and all inequality? Revolutionary Communism has a record of doing this in Russia and China in spite of the challenges they were up against. Capitalism has had hundreds of years and is no closer...whether you think this democracy is real or not. REVOLUTION BOOKS is the cutting edge of making positive transformation in this world today. These Revolutionary Communists make the bold assertion that they are the 'Liberators of Humanity'. At the very least, they 'Fight The Power and Prepare The People for Revolution'. The more time I spend at REVOLUTION BOOKS, the more I begin to believe in and can envision the liberation of all oppressed and unjustly mistreated people. If you care about this and want to study and learn more about how we can change the world for the better... GO REVOLUTION BOOKS! This is not pie in the sky. REVOLUTION BOOKS will speak for itself. Just go. read more

Revolution Bookstore is a great place to find Books on Philosophy, History, Art, and Politics. The staff is ALL VOLUNTEER! Which is great, and they are good to talk to. Super knowledgeable about events and history and good reads to meet your needs. The store hosts political discussions each week which range through all areas of society and bring a communist analysis to the events of the day- including the one mentioned here by so many other reviewers: the Oakland Uprising. I think, you are either for the people getting free, or your against them. And Revolution Books is courageously for the people. Come by the discussions on Tuesday nights, and check their website for other events. read more

Revolution Books - Berkeley, CA - Really cool atmosphere, with a "Mom and Pop store" feel. The 'all volunteer' staff listen and care about what I am looking for and are often able to steer me toward what I didn't know I was looking for. But what I like most about Revolution Books is the community involvement, the willingness and ability to organize an appropriate response to government and police outrages. Your government is shooting men in the back and abandoning people in the wake of Katrina. RESIST OR DIE! read more

So if you're looking for a political tract or some criticism of an institution you don't like I guess this place is for you. Unfortunately, if you're looking for something worth reading it is not. Go to the library bookstore across the street. read more

This bookstore kicks ass. There is every kind of subversive and convention-breaking literature and non-fiction here you can imagine, including and highlighting the new synthesis of communism, developed by Bob Avakian. This is a place for deep questions, radical ideas, and revolutionary aspirations. Revolution Books is a place where revolutionary theory lives, where argument and debate, critical thinking and discourse, leading to real action, are the order of the day. Debate, disagreement, and REAL substantial arguments - all of which are way too rare - are welcome here, and it is a headquarters for all kinds of collective digging into the biggest questions facing humanity today. Every week there are events and discussions that are provocative, involving artists and authors and professors and revolutionaries and others, working together from different angles with what is happening in the world today, why, and what is to be done about it. When I moved to the Bay Area 10 years ago I had some favorite bookstores in the area, but they honestly don't hold a candle to Revolution Books. I go there for film screenings, to buy books, to read, to participate in discussions about incredibly important things where I often learn a lot from someone very different from me, and to meet up with other people. WARNING: if you really like the way the world is right now, and find that to be perfectly comfortable, this place can make you uncomfortable for sure. Meaning, stay away if the theories and implications of Marx, Mao, and Avakian make you more uncomfortable than the reality for billions under imperialism: super-exploitation of the people and the planet, wars for empire, Black kids gunned down in the streets, women being bought and sold, the planet itself in peril, record deportations and criminalization of immigrants. Many of the books in this little store challenge the things that "everybody knows" -- while that conventional wisdom that "everybody knows" (a.k.a. has been told) has always been a powerful tool for keeping things the way they are. BUT IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A PLACE where books tell truths that shift paradigms... Where diverse ideas fly wild, held together by a hatred of oppression and love for the oppressed... Where no topic is off limit in the service of ending exploitation everywhere... Where people of all ages and backgrounds are joining in the conversation based on whatever they understand about the world, to fight for a better one... Where you can get a kid's book that doesn't teach awful gender roles and terrible morality... Where an actual strategy and method for an actual revolution is being interrogated and acted on... THEN you are looking for Revolution Books in Berkeley! Investigate that sh**. read more

Friendly customer service. Good selection of thought-provoking books. Support this local bookstore, Bay Area book lovers!

Here's the deal, kids: This bookstore leans to the left. What does that mean? Well, it means that they believe in equal rights, LGBT, women's rights, black lives matter, and pretty much anything that your president doesn't believe in. Okay? "Oh, well I just don't like having stuff crammed down my little throat." Well, too bad. That would be like walking into a religious bookstore and complaining because the employees are trying to sell you bibles and religious literature. I mean, you're an adult. Come on. You're fully capable of NOT going to this store if its contents truly offend you. "Well, they believe in communism and other bad history types stuffs." And obviously, you are one of the millions of people living in this country who has only an 8th-grade education. See, the point of having a college education is that it TEACHES you to think critically. In order to THINK CRITICALLY you have to observe ALL ANGLES of a historical event. Yes, kids, that means you have to learn A LOT about Hitler and all those other bad guys you heard about briefly as you skimmed past the History Channel to get to Cartoon Network or NASCAR. You have to fully immerse yourself in all areas of any given issue you are writing about. Well, geeze, how do I do that? I don't know anything about Hitter? It's "Hitler" and you do that by COMING TO THIS STORE AND GETTING THE BOOK! OKAY. So hold your bricks, hold your tongues, and take this lesson to heart. Educate yourself. God please, PLEASE, educate yourself. Because I am really getting sick and tired of having to give you under-educated, irrationally angry Americans this damn lecture. The only heavy object you should be throwing is a book into your cart. Read.A.Book! read more

Today I discovered this great, great alternative bookstore. I found books I would not find elsewhere, at very inexpensive prices. The people are all volunteers and extremely nice and helpful. Even if you do not agree with their point of view it is worth a drop in just to learn about the other side. If you do agree you will have found Mecca. I live about 60 miles away and, when time permits, I plan on volunteering myself. Thank you so much Revolutionary Books. read more

Besides being a one-of-a-kind Revolutionary bookstore, Revolution Books has a surprising and much appreciated selection of children's books that cater to secular critical thinking, science, cultures, and the environment. They also have a good selection of graphic novels for youth. read more

Great book store, nice folks. I stopped by while on vacation. They have books here you can't get anywhere else. And this is the place to come if you want to talk politics. read more