East West Books & Gifts — Local services in Edmonds

Went here to browse and casually look for a book that was recommended to me, but had proved difficult to locate unless I ordered from Amazon.

When they informed me that they didn't carry it, I thanked them and began walking out the door intending to buy from Amazon. The employee I spoke with asked me to wait a minute while she looked into ordering it. My initial (and mostly internal) reaction was to politely decline as I didn't want to wait for a long time. Sad, as I try not to be a part of the immediate gratification culture but alas am guilty.

Looking at the warehouse they order from she informed me that they could order it and that it would be there in 4 days AND that it would be almost $10 less than Amazon AND that I didn't have to pay until I picked it up.

SOLD!

I left feeling very happy, walked to Starbucks, grabbed a coffee and immediately returned to ask about another book. They had it in stock and as it turns out I had been looking at the wrong book altogether (Amazon) which was much more expensive. Even B&N quoted me a higher price telling me the book was print-to-order. Nope!

If I could give East West Bookshop 6 stars I would. Thank you!

Update: when I went to pick up my book, it had the correct title but was from a different author. Obviously this would frustrate anybody, especially after I said the author's name and made it clear that it was a hard book to find and that I had only found it on Amazon. The girl who helped me felt bad and said something along the lines of "maybe it's not the right time for you to find this book." I appreciated the gesture, however it's important to listen to all details when somebody gives them to you. That said, I'm not going to change the 5 star review. I will however make sure to double check all information if I order another book from here and would recommend the...

I have been a customer for over 10-years. This place has been a sanctuary for me and I was saddened when they closed during the pandemic. I have purchased some of my favorite books from their location and the staff is very helpful and friendly. The shop throws events with big names. I was able to meet Yasmin Boland who authored the "Moonology" book and oracle series, and they've had Julia Cameron and Don Miguel Ruiz Jr. there as well. The shop is highly curated, and has conscious media - with a lot of intention put into the arrangement and the utilization of space in the store. They have everything from tarot, to journals, greeting cards, crystals, natural products, and beautiful keepsakes for your altar. If you are spiritually inclined and love to support local, small businesses - this is...

I'm not sure what to say about this place. I'm sure for some it's fine; they provide a focused catalog of books and supplies for most things metaphysics and spirituality. But it's a limited selection. I'm curious if the intention here is to use the space more for workshops and events rather than retail. Having been a regular customer at the original location (as far as I know) in Roosevelt, this incarnation is disappointing, even more than their second location in Roosevelt Square's upper level. The energy as well as selection are missing for me; they were once my go-to for so many things, my own needs as well as gifts. Just my opinion; some people may love this. While driving time is about the same for me, I won't make a special trip, unlike their...