During my days in NYC, I was often lingering and perusing titles at many of the bookstores in Manhattan.

Here is a sample of a few of my most treasured rendezvous with the written word,

1) The Corner Bookstore on the UES: I have made many small trips to this incandescent gem, on a quiet part of the UES, with an impressive and well curated selection of fiction and children’s books, I especially enjoyed the special events and readings of new books, the ambiance and vibe remains with you after your visit.

2) The McNally Jackson Bookstore in Soho: A quintessential NY bookstore, with unique categories of books, I was astounded to find a Canadian and a South Asian literature section among others. McNally Jackson has very special events for writers, readers, thinkers and bohemians in the vibrant and energetic Soho neighborhood. 

3) The St Marks Bookstore in Greenwich Village: A liberal, free thinking, hippie vibe pervades this bookstore at the famous St Marks Place, a few stools always lay about encouraging reading while the hectic world spins away.

4) The Strand at Union Square: A large bookstore, known for its massive selection and non-trendy, authentic, second hand vibe.

5) The Barnes and Nobles at Union Square: A huge bookstore, though corporate, has an inviting and welcoming edge that many New Yorkers savors.

6) The Barnes and Nobles at UES at 86th street: I spent many hours at the Starbucks café, people watching, prep school children, nannies, socialites, matrons, oligarchs, punks, med students and more, only slightly less compelling then its literary offerings.