Ursina's Shelf - A Zurich walk for book lovers
Issue 84
Dear readers,
I am delighted to share three new book shop discoveries in Zurich, all along an easy 1 km walk in the Wiedikon and Stauffacher neighborhoods.
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Pile of Books (Zentralstrasse 16)
Description: This English-language bookshop tucked away in a quiet side street already invites you in with its airy window display. Inside English fiction and non-fiction books are sold in three rooms.
My take: I love the staff picks and the big table with a curated selection of books, where I came across a few known works but mostly discovered several intriguing books. It was hard to only pick one.
Bought here: The List by Yomi Adegoke.
Head to coffee: at Bros Beans & Beats where I frequently meet my friend Christina for life catch-ups over coffee or juice.
Paranoia City Buch & Wein (Ankerstrasse 12)
Description: This feminist and queer bookshop had a great selection of non-fiction books, children’s books, and books for educators. There is also an English shelf (pictured below), organized by fiction, feminism, LGBTQIA+, anti-ableism, and more.
My take: Great vibes and I’ll be back for more mind-expanding books.
Bought here: Hood Feminism by Mikki Kendall (double check spelling)
Across the street: check out HUM records, with a great selection of Hip Hop, Funk and Soul records. It’s worth a peek in for the walls decorated in art drawn on vinyl sleeves.
Mille et deux feuilles (Glasmallergasse 6)
Description: This small store feels like taking off point for a Mediterranean adventure. The store is organized like Daunt in London (add link)—by countries—with a focus on the Mediterranean region. Books are available in German, French, English, and the local languages of the countries.
My take: While there are many non-fiction books, this mostly felt like the perfect spot to pick up a serious vacation novel.
Bought here: 22 Bahnen by Caroline Wahl.
On the way here: stop for Bubble Tea at Beasteas on Strassburgtrasse for my favorite Bubble Tea in town.
Stop for lunch: around the corner, at Ikoo, our favorite Ramen spot with options for carnivores and vegans.
I hope you have enjoyed this stroll through Zurich. Enjoy your stay.
Currently reading: The List by Yomi Adegoke
What is your favorite bookshop? Let me know in the comments!
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