Spoke & Word Books — Attraction in Milwaukie

You know those charming bookstores you see in movies? Spoke & Word is the real deal. This place is exactly what an indie bookstore should be – cozy, welcoming, and packed with personality.

The book selection is fantastic, with something for everyone. But what really makes this place special is how it feels like the heart of the community. They're always hosting events, from author talks to Sip & Stitch, and there's always something fun happening on weekends.

The staff here is incredible (looking at you, Cierra, Bonnie, and Amy!). They really know their stuff and somehow always manage to recommend the perfect book. Seriously, tell them what you like, and they'll work their magic. Cierra and Bonnie’s picks are always spot-on, and Amy is basically a walking book encyclopedia and always helps me find my next favorite book.

If you're tired of algorithm-based recommendations and miss the magic of real bookstores, you really need to check...

OMG... just about the most perfect little local bookshop! The space is bright and open, there are comfy chairs to sit and read in. The owner is AMAZING and so kind and just as excited about all that is happening in this space as her customers are to be there. Her excitement and enthusiasm just adds to the brightness of the place. Owww... annnnnnnd... they are just next door to an amazing little tea cafe and one the other side of them is a chocolate shop. It really just couldn't get much better. AND YET... they also have an awesome selection of new and used books, fun bookish themed gifts, candles, cards, etc. And they've paired up with a lovely florist so you can buy the prettiest little bouquets of flowers while you are picking up your new weekend reads. I could not be more thrilled to have this place in our neighborhood! It really just rounds out downtown Milwaukie so perfectly.

When my best friend gave me a gift card, I was a little skeptical that I’d ever drive all the way down here again after I’d used it…and now I find an excuse to visit a few times a month. Everyone is so welcoming, kind, and knowledgeable.The used books are priced very well, and I always seem to find something “new” (hardbacks published in the last year or two) for a steal. Their selection is well-curated, and no, not anything and everything you’re looking for will be there (it’s a small shop), but they will happily order whatever you’re after. I won’t lie, I can’t completely give up the convenience of overnight can opener delivery from Amazon, but I can order my books from an incredible little shop! The selection of fun stuff—kid’s toys, stickers, art prints, and journals—is excellent, too, and much of it is different from what I seem to see on repeat in gift...