The Book Jewel although it has been open since last year I first learned of it yesterday afternoon. I walked into the store- and as soon as I entered I was greeted and welcomed very warmly! This for me was quite refreshing esp amidst the world wide Pandemic etc. !! The decor and the furnishings amidst quite an array of diverse literature - is really beautiful and for me sets a mood and a vibe- for want of a different term- which enhanced my initial browsing... And during my browsing I had the pleasure of meeting a few of the assocs; a Ms. Karen Ms.Emma and a Mr. Valentin'. all of whom were very friendly and knowledgeable esp with some of my inquiries. The Book Jewel also sells sundry other items- greeting cards- etc and although I didn't make a purchase initially I will return as well as my wife to make a purchase. In conclusion; Online shopping as one might know has seemingly been eclipsing in store purchases and even electronic reading of diverse literature? ! However; I still prefer to be a hardcopy in my hands kind of guy! And what with so many former well known book chains- Barnes & Noble- and others who have closed - I applaude the courage of Ms. Karen and her associates in opening their store!!! And what better way - and esp as women to even celebrate the International month of Women!!!! I encourage all who love to read and all who also believe:" Intelligent lives Matter too!" to come to The Book Jewel in Westchester, Ca!!...
Read moreDidn’t get to roam the store and potentially purchase a book… Because as I entered with my (calm kind) dog, I was approached by an employee who warned me about an aggressive cat that “it’s her place” who has a history of attacking dogs and kids. So apparently costumers with either are warned about it and I was ‘politely’ told in so many words I shouldn’t go in with my dog. So I left. If a store’s pet is nice that’s great, would be very cute to have them around, but if she’s aggressive and tends to attack, not sure why they would choose to chase away costumers who aren’t aggressive to clear the way for one who is. It would make more sense (and decency) to have the cat be in a separate room instead. When I stepped out I jokingly remarked that it’s a “colonial cat”, and in turn that employs responded sarcastically with “I guess they’re everywhere”. That is one of many modern blood libels against Jews, and given I was wearing a Star of David, this felt very antisemitic. I left in shock. Honestly a very weird experience that then turned morbid. Even if his remark was innocent (which I doubt) I was still turned away for no fault of my own, to accommodate for an...
Read moreAfter I left Staples in Westchester, I stumbled upon this gem of a store. I saw the books in the window and the signs and the Christmas tree and I knew that I had to see if this place was open. To my delight, it was! Upon entering, I felt the coziness and warm spirit of a good book store and I was fortunate to meet Emma, who greeted me. Also, the owner Karen had just arrived and I told her how this place had brought me joy as I had always wanted a good bookstore closer to home. Emma gave me a thorough tour and Karen gave me kind words. ( I lost my sister just before Thanksgiving and she always loved books. So this was indeed a comforting experience and a beautiful place.) Emma showed me, “the Artist’s Way” which I purchased and I shall be a loyal customer as long as this store exists. This store has something for anyone who loves to read and gifts too. Therefore, I highly recommend The Book Jewel In...
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