It’s hard to believe, I’ve lived in Massachusetts almost 10 years now. As a children’s book writer and editor, I’ve always loved visiting children’s bookstores. Now as a mother, I’m seeing these wonderful shops with new eyes. Of course, I care about what books each store has. That matters a lot. But parking, snacks, and fun surprises are all part of the experience, especially when you’re with kids, so I’ve taken those details into account too. Below are my favorite places to buy children’s books in Massachusetts.

An Unlikely Story in Plainsville, Massachusetts

Owned by bestselling Wimpy Kid author Jeff Kinney, and staffed by a warm crew of writers, this bookstore shimmers with possibility. There’s lots to look at. There are even books flying above you. But it’s not too crowded, and there’s a good selection for all kinds of book lovers. The children’s section is expertly curated, and there’s a solid early-reader section, which is often overlooked. A top-notch café encourages visitors to linger. Parking and bathrooms are family friendly.  

High Five Books in Florence, Massachusetts

A small space with a big heart, this gem is worth the drive. The shelves are totally devoted to children’s books. The hot picks are spot on, and I declare this THE place to go if you’re looking for a book that’s different but sure to please. The staff is in favor of snacks, which makes it easier for everyone to relax and browse a while! Part bookstore, part art school, High Five often hosts events, and it’s a nice place to connect with other likeminded families. You can also make an appointment for private shopping, if you prefer.

Little Bee Bookshop in Ayer, Massachusetts

With mostly used books on the shelves, and a cozy, crafty vibe, walking into this store feels like a bit like browsing in someone’s living room. There are bean bag chairs, twinkly lights, and friendly hellos. Perfect for browsing with small children. This probably isn’t a place you want to go if you just want to buy the latest bestsellers. But fun surprises are built into the experience, and this tiny store feels like an important part of the community.

The Silver Unicorn in Acton, Massachusetts

This bookstore is about half and half adults and kids, with lots of games, trinkets, and pretty things mixed in too. A miniature door invites kids into the children’s section. There’s a solid selection of picture books and board books. YA gets its own little section, away from the little kids. And local authors often stop by to sign and read their work. This is a cozy place to pop in when it’s raining and you’re looking for a treat.

Hummingbird Books in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts

This store is a beautiful mix of coffee-table books, novels, and children’s books. There are long walls of books face out, dark bookshelves, velvet couches and handsome armchairs.  And somehow a great oak tree fits right in. Built into the back of the store, kids can crawl through the trunk or attend story time below the branches. In other words, this store blends the worlds of adult and children’s books in a uniquely elegant way.

Word on the Street, in Marlborough, Massachusetts

Opened by a librarian, teacher, and mom during the pandemic, this store feels thoughtfully curated and inviting. If you tend to look to Horn Book and School Library Journal for advice on what to buy next, this is the place to go. There’s also a good mix of toys and novelty books. The parking is easy, and the layout makes it easy to keep track of everyone while you browse. There’s a tiny shelf of bestsellers for adults, but this is really a place for kids to discover their new favorites.

Beacon Hill Books & Café in Boston, Massachusetts

In all fairness, this bookstore isn’t a good fit for my son. But it might be perfect for your kids. It’s magical during the holidays, when there are twinkle lights and big pine boughs over the doorway. There are little nooks with elfish surprises, and a train circles the bookshelves. There’s a good mix of adult and children’s titles, and each room is devoted to a different genre. But it can be terribly crowded, parking is rough, and it would be easy to get overwhelmed and feel like this was a wasted trip. If your kids would appreciate tea at the Plaza, this is a fun outing. If not, maybe save this one for when you’re by yourself.

The Carle Bookshop in Amherst, Massachusetts

Part of The Carle Museum, this is bookstore feels more like college bookstore than a shop around the corner, but for children’s book lovers that’s a wonderful thing. This is a rich resource for anyone interested in the craft of writing and illustrating, and it’s a place any reader can dive deep into the classics, old and new. If you’re visiting the exhibits, be sure to leave time for a long visit to the bookstore. It’s probably impossible not to buy something here. (There’s also a café, child-friendly bathrooms, an orchard for getting the wiggles out, and easy parking outside.)