I ❤️ used books
I love second hand book stores so much and I seriously scored at my favorite ones this weekend.
l've been wanting to start collecting all my classics in the penguin classic cover so I will be swapping out my other copy of "haunt of hill house" by Shirley Jackson for this beaut.
I'm also collected a bunch of the "banned books" so I can read them in 2026 (and my kiddo is getting older so I know they read some of these so it's nice to have on hand), I've never read "slaughter house five" by Kurt vonnegut so I'm excited for this one.
"The memory police" by Yoko Ogawa is one of the most recommended books I see on my booktok FYP so l've been wanting to read it but recently there was some concern on whether or not she was a Zionist so I felt it best to just get a used copy to read so money isn't going directly to her just in case. But because of what I do on the podcast I still think it's important to read book like this so I can probably critique them when and if necessary to provide the best literary analysis I can and offer alternative reads with similar themes or writing styles.
Getting a hard copy of "land of milk and honey" by C Pam Zhang is such a win. I've heard good things and maybe this will get a review on the podcast in the future.
And lastly "after the revolution" by Robert Evan's is my bookclub read of the month so I was really excited to find this.
Review coming soon.
Also yes I did post this over on Instagram, and totally didn’t forget to cross post it 😅 whoops #usedbooks #booktok #thriftedbooks #books #book
Secondhand bookstores hold a special charm for many readers and collectors alike, offering a unique way to find rare and beloved titles without paying full price. Collecting classics, such as Penguin Classics editions, is a popular trend because it creates a uniform and beautiful collection that feels both personal and prestigious. For instance, swapping out an older copy of "The Haunting of Hill House" by Shirley Jackson for a Penguin Classic edition not only refreshes your bookshelf but also enhances the reading experience with carefully curated introductions and design. Additionally, collecting banned books has gained attention as readers seek to explore controversial or censored works. Reading them in the future, like in 2026, can provide valuable insights into cultural and political themes through time. Titles like "Slaughterhouse-Five" by Kurt Vonnegut hold a special place in literary history for their impact and storytelling. Popular books on social platforms, including "The Memory Police" by Yoko Ogawa, often inspire diverse reading lists. It’s understandable to opt for used copies when there are ethical concerns about the author, while still valuing the critical analysis such works can prompt. This approach encourages nuanced discussions and alternative recommendations for readers seeking similar themes or styles. Hard copies of contemporary works like "Land of Milk and Honey" by C Pam Zhang provide a tactile reading experience that digital versions can’t match. These books often spark conversation on podcasts and book clubs, adding depth to literary communities. Lastly, finding a current book club pick, such as "After the Revolution" by Robert Evans, at a secondhand store is an exciting win. It’s a wonderful way to engage with an active reading group while supporting sustainable book buying practices. Overall, secondhand bookstores offer a treasure trove of stories, history, and discovery. Whether you’re building a collection, searching for banned books, or exploring BookTok recommendations, the thrill of the hunt makes every visit a rewarding journey for any book lover.
