Books & Books @ The Studios of Key West — Local services in Key West

Not Family Friendly!! Depressing!!

We have gone to this bookstore over the years, because we want to support non profit independent bookstores and encourage our three children to read. We like the art supplies there and usually can find something positive if we dig.

This year, the content was overwhelmingly negative, like a dark cloud was hanging over the store! We went in to the store after church to get inspired, uplifted, and feel positive, and we left feeling honestly depressed!! Every book title made me cringe….and the curse words on the book titles (for kids!) were in poor taste.

Towards the front, there was a huge marijuana cookbook section, by the counter was an occult section for KIDS, and witchcraft, spells, etc.

I spoke to the man at the counter and inquired why these books are being aimed at children, he said “this is the world we live in”. I do not agree. As a small, Independently owned bookstore, this co op should decide what vibe they create, and make the world a better place! They have deliberately veered away from uplifting, family friendly, positive values. At least Barnes and Noble still has A SECTION on good Christian content and positive...

During my childhood, I developed a deep appreciation for Judy Blume's books. Recently, I began exploring her adult novels and found them equally captivating. Following a difficult breakup, I purchased her book "Wifey," which played a significant role in lifting me out of my depression. Despite being gay, I found a strong connection with the character Sandy.

On a recent cruise to Key West, I was thrilled at the prospect of visiting Judy Blume's store and possibly meeting her in person. Unfortunately, my experience was disappointing. Upon her arrival at the store, Judy immediately went to the employees-only room without greeting any customers. When we inquired if Judy could sign a book for my partner's daughter, an employee informed us that "Judy doesn't sign paperback books." This response seemed particularly unusual given that the request was for a young girl.

Although I did purchase several of Judy's books that day, I left the store feeling disheartened. I had envisioned Judy as a warm and welcoming individual, but my experience suggested otherwise. Perhaps she was simply...

Great selection of books in a nice location. Staff were very unpleasant. As someone who grew up reading Judy Blume books, I was very excited when an employee stated that Judy would sign her books if purchased. The employee stated that Judy was on a lunch break but if we left the books at the counter, she would sign them while we left to go shopping and could come back to pick them up. Very disappointed when we waited 3 hours for a signature from Judy, only to be told that the books won’t be signed due to “Judy getting ready to leave the store.” We noticed Judy was still in the back employee room and was never asked about the signatures. Judy never acknowledged us as a customer. Seemed as though the employees advertise the incentive of a signature from Judy Blume to encourage a sale. With the store being a non-profit, it was disappointing to experience such poor customer service. Would probably not return based on the experience alone.

From other reviews, seems like poor customer service is a trend at this store. Again, very unfortunate since this is...