WHO'S AFRAID OF THE BIG BAD, Independently owned and operated, used book store?!?
As a traveler passing through a few of the sleepy Cape Towns on the off-season, I stumbled across Greg's while walking Orleans' main street where I encountered a sign propped up against a brick wall bearing a stylized image of Medusa's Mean Mug and reading "Greg's Used Books Around Back". Undeterred and unturned to stone, my buddy and I made a left 'round the building and then a quick right where we saw the entrance to Greg's shop.
The entry way was a staircase that lead us down to what we soon learned was considered to be by the political pearl clutchers in the area, Orleans' own underworld. Perhaps they were right, in a sense, given that a book about the blues bearing Robert Johnson's image was the first thing my eyes caught in the enclosed glass case of books near the entrance. Were we about to make a faustian deal of our own?
Having descended down below, my buddy and I soon found ourselves in a relatively small yet incredibly well and interestingly stocked book store with posters of Jim Morrison and the Doors decorating the walls, amongst other things. We looked around for a bit and came across not only books, but also true relics from the 80's and 90's, including vhs tapes, boxed super famicom games with beautiful box art, etc.
We were eventually greeted not by a Gorgon, but Greg himself, who was really a character and in the best sense of the term. Our conversation with him ran the gamut from owning and operating a business like his to politics, philosophy, and literature. He was a really cool, well versed, interesting, and friendly guy and without any pretense. For that, I respect him and his shop, which I gladly supported with my business.
All in all, my experience at Greg's was Good. Everything was reasonably and fairly priced and it turns out that it isn't the underworld that some in town have made it out to be.
In fact, perhaps in a world of confusion and inversion, a descent down into Greg's used book store is...
Read moreGreg’s Used Books in Orleans is a welcoming stop for anyone who loves to browse through shelves in search of a good find. Tucked away but easy to reach, the shop offers a relaxed atmosphere that feels both personal and inviting.
Inside, the variety is impressive for the size—well-chosen titles sit alongside unexpected surprises, making it easy to spend more time looking than planned. From classic novels to offbeat gems, the mix reflects the kind of place where each visit can turn up something new.
Regulars often mention how much they enjoy chatting with Greg, whose knowledge and friendliness add to the charm of the shop. With fair prices and a collection that feels carefully curated, Greg’s Used Books has become a favorite spot in Orleans for readers who appreciate a store with personality. #orleansma #capecod #usedbooks...
Read moreSomeone behind the counter was talking about wanting to strangle Marxists because they’re all bitter young people. There were also some negative remarks about the poor. I should’ve known when I saw the Rand Paul and gun books on display, but I was hopeful that it was just a display. Sadly I couldn’t keep digging through the vintage fantasy and sci-fi once I heard that person wanted to hurt people with...
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