This is a fantastic independent bookstore—with used and new titles—with locations in Lake Forest Park, Ravenna, and Seward Park. The bulk of their author readings (featuring both local and visiting writers) happen at their Lake Forest Park location, which is about 40 minutes north of downtown. The strip mall setting might seem off-putting at first, but give it a chance: the tens of thousands of books will probably win you over, and if they don’t, it’s a very short walk to a cute view of the north end of Lake Washington. (JULIA RABAN)