This is the first small, independent bookstore I have set foot in in a long, long time. Not because I don’t go to bookstores, but because there aren’t a lot of them around. You have to be lucky to live a reasonable drive away. I haven’t been lucky for a long time. Anyway, I say that to partially explain why I had such a good experience. I went in with a particular need and I didn’t want to spend hours combing through reviews on Goodreads or Amazon. I went on a Saturday and the place was jumping! Lots of people looking for something good to read. Great vibe. Really helpful staff. One gave me some great recommendations and she brought in another staff member just to check that she wasn’t missing something. I left with three books, and they turned out to be exactly what I needed. The store has other products that appeal to readers and writers. Sign up for the newsletters as they are great!! They sponsor at least a couple of book groups and lots of events. Folks, remember what I said about what recommendations from people who know books? There are many good things about the store, this alone is reason to go to Blue Willow (and other similar stores). Have you checked out book reviews lately on Good Reads and Amazon? Or on Book Instagram? Many reviewers are turning reviewing into some kind of Performative art. Are the reviews real of do the reviewers want likes? Instead of combing endlessly thru web, go to Blue Willow.

I cannot say enough about how much I love this bookshop. It is chock-full of fabulous books, has an incredible selection, and offers some super fun little things-you-don’t-need-but-must-buy-anyway, like notebooks, mugs, bags, games, bookmarks, and stickers. Everyone I have ever interacted with that works in this shop is so friendly, accommodating, and helpful. I love them all so much. I also have been to many of their events when they host authors, and they are always so great. It is actually remarkable how many events they host, and they create such a warm, inviting space for readers to interact with and listen to authors. Additionally, I have ordered from their website for a gift to be sent to a friend. I did say in my notes that this was a gift for her, but I don’t think I asked for it to be gift-wrapped. Regardless, they wrapped it so beautifully and my friend was so touched by this gesture. They also have a teacher discount, AND a frequent buyer program where you get money off of your purchases after spending a certain amount. Through both of these I have gotten to support a local business that I love and save money, a win-win! I just absolutely adore this shop. It is so important that we support our local bookstores—now more than ever!

The shop is cute and the employees are kind and helpful! My biggest issue is the selection. As someone who likes fantasy series, this is not a great place to shop. Much of the time they only have the most recent entry in a series. I can’t tell you how many times I was interested in a book only to discover it was a later book in the series and the shop doesn’t have the first one. They offer to order it... but I admit at that point I would just order it myself and save a bit of money and time. I like the feeling of finding a new series in a bookstore, but not being able to actually start that series makes me really disappointed. I usually leave the shop with a list of series I’ll purchase elsewhere. That makes me sad, because I want to shop local, but I understand books take up a lot of space and they are going to display what’s is “hot” even if it’s the last book in a series they don’t have. Because of this, I probably will not want to return to Blue Willow. That being said, if you’re a fan of non-series bestsellers, you can get them here.

Lovely little shop, with a wide selection and cute bookish gifts. I only had a couple small issues while there. The organization of the books could be a little better. There’s no fantasy/ sci-fi or horror section. Everything is just in fiction. Having some separate sections for different genres would be extremely helpful to finding the book you’re looking for. I was also feeling slightly uncomfortable with how a few of the staff were speaking to another staff member. Two of the ladies working were speaking to one of the newer staff in a very unprofessional manner. He was asking them questions and they were very rude with their responses. It honestly made me not want to ask them for assistance because I was afraid they were going to treat me the same. You should try helping your new employees and supporting them rather than embarrassing them in front of customers. I want to go back the next time I’m in town but hopefully some other staff will be there.

I contacted this store on behalf of my wife, regarding doing a potential author/reading/book signing event. My wife was a local Houston author and has published five books on Amazon. Her first book has over 104 ratings on Amazon. I got a reply from Cathy Burner rejecting the idea of an event stating: "As we move forward with both virtual and in person events, we must carefully consider each one with a judicious eye to what our staff can manage and that will result in a worthwhile event for author, publisher and bookstore. At this time, we don't think this would be a good fit for us and we appreciate your consideration." Rejection is fine, it is part of the "game", but I never got to the point of even mentioning my wife's name, nor any of the books that she has written. She was rejected before even being given a chance. Not a cool way to treat a local independent author. At least ask about her work first.

Close your eyes and imagine the perfect bookshop. Open the door to Blue Willow and you are there! This is a book lover's dream, cozy, well-stocked, and staffed by charming people who really care about the books they sell. Can you buy things cheaper online at you-know-where? Maybe, but computer generated algorithms can't provide the joy of browsing or the thrill of actually talking to fellow bibliophiles about books (remember when we actually had conversations?!?). We need to support the places we love. The store is an hour's drive from my house but every time I visit, I swear I will make the drive more often! If you are lucky enough to live nearby, don't miss it. If you live a little farther away, plan a road trip! This destination is a little haven of book magic that will refresh a reader's soul.

This is a very friendly and accessible community bookshop. When I entered through the front door, I was flooded by that beautiful smell of books and pages waiting to be open and read. I haven't smelled that particular smell for a very long time since the COVID outbreak. I was able to spend an entire hour browsing their bookstore. I found half of what I was looking for, and some good finds not on my shopping list. For those books that weren't on their shelves, I was able to order them at the cash register. After completing my order, the cashier offered to gift wrap them at no additional charge. The gift wrapping was beautifully done, and she put a sticky note on each of them so I knew which gift-wrapped booksones were which. Amazing service, amazing staff, amazing local bookstore all around.

Blue Willow would get a million stars from me if I could award that! From the moment we entered we were welcomed with a smile! One of the employees said "we are sorry if there is any spacing that isn't accessible for you, let us know how we can move anything". My husband is in a wheelchair and it is so rare to find small or large stores that care about their disabled customers. Just the cherry on top. I would absolutely one hundred percent say visit this bookstore if you haven't! Everyone was super helpful and thoughtful. Most wonderful experience I've ever had at any bookstore I've ever visited. Do yourself a favor and support this rad shop! Bonus, there's a cute shop dog!

Staff seemed nice enough; but when I asked them to take a look at a signed 1st edition I just picked up, & told them I’m not very well versed in the area, they refused to even look at the book. Just asked for some simple friendly advice, & I was told, “ we don’t know anything about that stuff.” I’m not a fan of these kinds of reviews; but the way I was treated, & the lack of regard & blatant refusal to even attempt to help me makes me feel that this review is justified. Not recommended, find somewhere else for your book needs. Amazon & 1/2 price books is pretty much all you need, seeing as how their staff is unwilling/unable to offer anything further than a Google search.

As we went in to cash in a gift card, I was reminded what a beautiful layout this is. I wondered out loud " How has this survived Amazon?". The quick answer from the person helping us find books, "We have very loyal customers". Indeed they do. As I sat in one of their big comfy chairs, I overheard a lady come in and talk about how she saw this book shop in Facebook and just had to come from across the city and how she was not disappointed. It is a quaint locally owned place that's been in the same spot for more than a decade. Find them online, but make sure you step inside it's brick and mortar store front and ask "What do you recommend?"

I made my way here for the first time this past Saturday, and the employees made me feel very welcome when I was trying to find a gift for my partner. I was originally looking for one type of book, but while an employee and I were brainstorming on what would be a good substitute in case we couldn't find what I initially wanted, they found me the perfect book, and the gift was a success!! This was a better book than what I was originally thinking for a gift, too. I will definitely be getting more books from here more often, what a great first impression!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As Groucho Marx said, "Outside of a dog, a book is man's best friend. Inside of a dog, it's too dark to read." Blue Willow Bookshop is my absolute favorite shop for books on dogs, comedians, or any other subject. The staff is friendly and helpful, and if they don't have the book you're looking for, they will happily order it. They have great special events like visits by authors, are a great place to get a gift - which they will giftwrap for free, and overall are an enriching cultural asset to our community.

Such a small place to have so much content, bustle, and passion! My first time in this lovely shop that has been serving the community for 25 years. It definitely will not be my last. The staff was attentive but not pushy, knowledgeable, and eager to help find the titles that fit you. In just my short time there, it was clear why they've developed a strong community following. The also do author visits on a regular basis and partner with school districts.

Here stands the beauteous Blue Willow Bookshop, one of the finest shops I have visited in ages. I was just in to buy a copy of The Toll. The building itself seems to encompass an aura of tranquility and conviviality, smelling faintly of coffee and cinnamon. The staff are incredibly amiable, patient and easy to talk to. They have a wide variety of books from every genre making it easy to find the perfect book for adults and children alike.

My friend and I visited this bookstore and had a charming time! They had a great selection of books, especially considering their petite size, with a lot of new paperbacks, alongside their puzzle and games collection. I walked in with the intention to buy one book and left with two and a bookish pin. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable - and gave me a new author recommendation to follow! Highly recommend!

The store has friendly, knowledgeable and helpful staff. They have a great selection of books in all genres. Would never give a book as a gift without the advice of the staff. Great selection of children’s books. They care about readers and want everyone to have a great reading experience. If one asks for a book that they don’t have in stock, they can get it in just a few days. I love that store.

We were greeted as soon as we went inside. The book store is cute, small but updated with current books. I personally liked that the new releases were up in front of the check out desk. Nothing that I wanted right now but love the set up. The employees didn’t float or hover and I heard them talking to the other customers giving them updates about inventory and ordering. Very quiet and calm. ❤️

Blue Willow Bookshop is the rare and special kind of place where you can find the books you are looking for along with incredible extras. From pencils to toys to puzzles, they have a great selection of items that make your visit special. I went on Independent Bookstore Day and it was a wonderful experience. I highly recommend this store. It truly is a 5 star Plus location. A Houston treasure.

The most adorable and kid friendly little book store! The staff is so sweet and professional and the store is so clean and set so beautifully! I appreciate the fact that they are patient with little kids and they host story time on some days! They also have a cute little table with mini chairs for the little babes so they can enjoy a book! Definitely returning as a customer! ❤

A gorgeously organized and decorated haven for all book enthusiasts. The workers are very warm and welcoming. It takes me back to the days of looking forward to going to the bookstore as a child. I loved every minute and would have bought a boon from every section if I could have. I guess I'll just have to keep going back! Please check it out and support a small local Houston business!

I’ve been going to this book store since i was a toddler. It’s such and cute and welcoming environment. I love how kind the staff is and how there are always a great variety of books. It makes me happy to support a small business. I really appreciate how they take covid safety guidelines seriously because most if my generation isn’t vaccinated so keeping everyone safe is important <3

Blue Willow is my go-to book shop in Houston. In a strip mall near an Auto Zone, it still feels exactly like a New Orleans uptown neighborhood store. Charming and well read staff treat me like a sister whenever I pick up my orders or just wander in. There's a bakery in the same mall, so you can grab a quick read and go settle down with a hot latte and tart on any given afternoon.

I always like to stop by any bookstore and browse. Had seen this place when in the area the other day and was around here again today and decided to check it out. Selection of titles in different genres is nice, especially non-fiction. We were greeted warmly on entering by the staffers and we were delighted to also be greeted by a cute little dog named Jackie. Glad we stopped by!

This is a super cute shop. I ordered a few books online and then came to pick them up. I just called and they brought them out to my car. And they are currently making appointments to come in and browse. They had several jigsaw puzzles in the window that looked great and I will definitely make an appointment to come back for. Really nice staff.

Such a cute little bookstore with a fabulous staff! They are so friendly and helpful, you feel like you're in your own personal library. We went for a book signing and chatted with the staff and customers the whole time we were waiting, and it didn't even feel like we were waiting! It was so fun. We would definitely return.

This is definitely one of my favorite local bookstores. They always have the latest titles and it's so easy to order if they don't have something you're looking for. My favorite part is browsing because they carry so many things such as journals, notepads, puzzles, and games. There are definitely some unique finds as well.

Such a lovely experience in this shop! My kids were mesmerized by the wall of children's books. I had ordered a book weeks ago and was incredibly appreciative that it was still there waiting to be picked up instead of sent back to be reorded. I didn't take a look at the full selection, but can't wait to explore more!

I go here for all my books. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. If they don't have a book in stock, they order it for me and it's always been a quick turnaround time for that. I'd highly recommend it to anyone, but especially for those with children. It's my favorite local book shop on the West side.

I recently attended the book signing of The Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond at this adorable bookstore. The event was beyond organized, the staff friendly, helpful and very interactive with all of us both outside waiting in line and inside for the signing. I can't wait to go back and get some shopping done.

This place is great! It's not large, but it has a bit of a cozy feel to it. Good selection of books, and a very helpful staff to help you pick yhe right one if you'd like! They even offer complimentary gift wrapping! So if you're looking to get a gift for a bookworm in your life, check out Blue Willow!

This shop is the best bookstore in town. THE BEST. It's worth the drive to the West side. It's a little like visiting your cool sister who reads everything AND knows what you will like to read, too. ♥️and now: cool new shirts and coffee mugs! Women of grace, intellect, and power. Still the best!

You can't beat Blue Willow for books and gifts for any age! I love having this shop in the neighborhood, and often attend their special events with friends. Great place to find that book you're after, or get suggestions for your next read from the helpful and knowledgeable staff.

Cute little bookshop with the most helpful staff! They were so nice and knowledgeable, offering many recommendations. Sounds like they have a bunch of fun author events as well. A great selection of children's, adolescents and adult genres, and they offer discounts to educators!

This is such an adorable gem. So quaint, neat, and a calm environment. The ladies are book savvy like no other I've personally seen, absolute book worms. A person close to me loves this shop, it's their absolute favorite, but it's a top 5 in the area, well worth a visit.

Cozy escape nook getaway from the maddness and noise of Houston. Staff are friendly, personable and knowledgeable. Informational newsletter with great book recommendations , book clubs and more! Nurture yourself with the gift of peace and knowledge and visit this gem!

A great neighborhood bookstore with helpful and knowledgeable staff. They'll order things they don't have in stock. Store is half kids and half adult. Lots of gift items also. The owner goes out of her way to support book clubs and two book clubs are offered on site.

This bookshop is so quaint and absolutely adorable! The staff are so knowledgeable and friendly, which makes your visit even better! I happened to visit with my book club when Abbi Waxman was visiting and I will definitely return for future events and literary needs!

Delightful, small independent bookshop. I've found my place! Their selection is eclectic & plentiful. The novels are new. The ladies offering assistance were super helpful & friendly. I can't wait to get through the two YA novels I purchased to visit the shop again!

Haven't been to the physical store because I don't live in TX but bought through them for The Anthropocene Reviewed book tour. They were very prompt and sweet about ticket/book shipping updates. The book was wrapped really well and came with a cute little bookmark.

Super cute place. For such a small place they have so many choices. The women are all very friendly and they even have a rewards program. Although I didn’t have an appointment to browse I was still able to look around and find some fun things.

Please open a Blue Willow in Fort Worth. What a gem of a bookstore this is! A great balance of books, stationery, and tchotchkes ( very few really thus the balance ). And they have authors coming in regularly! And they have book clubs. Join

I live in DFW and have ordered two separate gifts for friends in the Houston area through this shop and I am so glad I did. The lastest purchase was a birthday gift. It arrived to my friend beautifully wrapped even though I hadn't asked or

Staff with short brown hair was very rude and short-spoken with my wife. Was here for book signing with author, bought 2 books at almost $50 and seemed unappreciative. I normally love indie bookstores and I want to support, but get better

This is my favorite gem in Houston I’ve taken friends & love to share about this place . A picture from my latest adventure check out there social media ! The staff is always so kind I rave about them on my bookstagram - busybrunettereads

Cute place, super friendly staff! There were a lot of people so I couldn't use my wheelchair, but they had seating so I could browse at my leisure. Lots of cool kids stuff and they can order things they don't have in stock.

Love this bookstore! Staff is awesome and I love that they always have great book suggestions my 5 year old will enjoy. Not to mention he loves going to this bookstore too! Makes building excitement for reading so easy!

Love blue Willow. I always order from here before buying from some big, nameless brand. Blue willow has many authors there for signings. They had the Harry Potter parties which my kids enjoyed. Shop here first!

Small, but Nice and cozy. Plenty of areas to sit. Friendly staff. Good selection of books adult, YA, and children's. Has an activity table to keep the little ones busy while you shop. Lots of parking.

The bookstore was quaint and cozy. The ladies were friendly, kind, and extremely helpful. They were wonderful and had amazing recommendations for me. I will definitely be back to visit again soon.

A darling little bookshop with friendly staff, local authors, and obviously all the top sellers / classics. Such a sweet little bookstore. Found some adorable books for our daughter!

I’ve quickly fallen in love with this bookshop after a friend brought me there. The shop is charming, the book selection well curated, and the staff incredibly helpful and friendly.

The BEST bookship in Houston! It's quaint and cozy, and everyone is friendly and helpful. If you love books and haven't been there, do yourself a favor and check it out!

Hide gem! I’d been driving by here for a decade and had no idea this cute little shop was here! Got some unique gifts for my book loving daughter.

Best Bookshop in Houston. Staff is friendly & knowledgeable. Always ready to help find new books or order them. Love the author events they host!

Wow! This shop is just amazing. So cute and well organized, and the ladies working couldn't have been nicer. I will most definitely be back soon!

Lovely staff, willing to order anything. Knowledgeable and just fun people to chat with. Also has a nice supply of puzzle options to buy.

Wonderful book store. Staff are very kind, friendly, & knowledgeable. Blue Willow has many different books from many diverse authors.

We really enjoyed our time here for an author visit. Very well stocked independent bookshop. Was well worth the hour long drive!

Great bookstore nestled off Memorial Drive. Feels like a small town store in the middle of the city. Will definitely be back!

I'm loving Blue Willow Bookshop so much!! The events, the books, the clubs, the ppl, the atmosphere ❤️ everything! …

This is by far one of my favorite bookstores. Wish they were bigger but it's the quaintness that adds a bit of charm.

Love this bookshop! Very welcoming, fun recommendations, and love the ordering for pickup option!

Great book shop. Went with grandkids to see one of their favorite authors. Staff was awesome!

Wonderful little bookstore with a magical touch! Storytime on thursdays are super fun.

Great bookstore, friendly staff, and a variety of offerings (genres and events).

Very helpful and knowledgeable staff. Super fun and friendly atmosphere

Friendly staff. If they don’t have something they can usually order it.

Great bookstore. On the cutting edge of democracy.

The most beautiful book store I have ever been to

Wonderful local bookstore. Give them a visit!