Written by Kirstin Hawthorne (February 2024)
Reading a good book can transport you to a different world, ignite your imagination, and evoke a range of emotions. Whether it’s the thrill of an adventure, the warmth of a well-told story, or the satisfaction of gaining new knowledge, reading offers a unique and personal escape. With the turn of each page, we find ourselves immersed in narratives that captivate and connect, making the simple act of reading a source of enduring joy.
As we navigate our fast-paced lives, finding a moment to unwind becomes essential. Local bookstores provide not just an array of books but also a retreat for the mind. Here are some local spots to pick up a new (or new to you) book to bring home or to curl up in one of the inviting chairs with a mug of steaming coffee or tea and begin your journey:
- Bards Alley – 110 Church Street NW, Vienna
- Barnes & Noble – Multiple locations (Alexandria, Arlington, Ashburn, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, McLean, Reston, Springfield, Woodbridge)
- Birch Tree Bookstore – 11 W. Market Street, Leesburg
- Fonts Books & Gifts – 6262 Old Dominion Drive, McLean
- Hooray for Books! – 1555 King Street, Alexandria
- McKay Used Books – 8345 Sudley Road, Manassas
- Old Towne Books – 130 S. Royal Street, Alexandria
- One More Page Books – 2200 N. Westmoreland Street, Arlington
- Reston’s Used Book Shop – 1623 Washington Plaza, Reston
- Scrawl Books – 11911 Freedom Drive, Reston
- Second Chapter Books – 929 W. Broad Street, Falls Church
Team Picks
As the chill of winter settles in, we hope you are able to lose yourself within the pages of a good book. Need a recommendation? Here are our team’s latest picks. No fluff, no hype—just straightforward suggestions based on what’s currently captivating us. Whether you’re into suspenseful tales or introspective narratives, here’s a list of favorites that won’t disappoint:
- Atomic Habits (Latoria) – James Clear’s “Atomic Habits” is a must-read for anyone looking to boost productivity. This simple guide lays the groundwork for building good habits and easily breaking free from bad ones permanently.
- Beneath a Scarlet Sky (Sharon) – Mark Sullivan’s “Beneath a Scarlet Sky” is an epic tale based on a true story, showcasing the extraordinary courage and resilience of a young man during one of history’s darkest hours.
- Hotel at the Corner of Bitter and Sweet (Kirstin) – Jamie Ford’s “Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet” narrates the forbidden friendship between Chinese-American boy Henry Lee and Japanese-American girl Keiko Okabe during World War II.
- The Comfort Crisis (Tracey) – In a gripping investigation, journalist Michael Easter explores the life-enhancing secrets of living outside the comfort zone by seeking out off-the-grid visionaries and disruptive researchers.
- The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell (Maura) – Robert Dugoni follows Sam from age 3 to his forties. Born with ocular albinism and red eyes, Sam’s mother, a devout Catholic, believes his unique eyes promise an extraordinary life.
- The Last Green Valley (Doreen) – Mark Sullivan’s gripping narrative follows the Martel family’s relentless journey through war, trials, and aspirations of immigration to the West—a powerful story of love, faith, and unwavering determination that triumphs against all odds.
- The Rose Code (Lynn) – Kate Quinn’s novel unfolds around the royal wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip, reigniting the past for three estranged friends through a mysterious letter and a betrayal that led to one being confined to an asylum.
- Winds of War (Ingrid) – Herman Wouk’s book vividly portrays the sweeping events and personal stories of World War II through the lens of a single American family.
