Northshire Bookstore, Manchester

This bookstore is surprisingly large and a real Class Act. First of all they have a Gourmet Cafe located within the building. I mean good food and drink. Second the building is beautiful. Just go in to visit the staircase that leads up to the children's section. A metal staircase that is truly remarkable. The first floor contains all the adult sections you're used to and a used book section. The upstairs contains a huge section for children. They even have games and audio books and toys. Finally they have a section for children that looks like a little balcony. It holds two kids who can quietly read separately. I think my daughter would have stayed up there forever if she had the option. If in Manchester, give it a stop.

Northshire is a magical castle among Indie bookstores, all of which are magical in some way. The selection here is amazing and even the non-book items are varied and terrific - basically a toy store on the top section and some great apparel, crafts and bags on the floor below. Most of all, for a geek like me they have great science fiction and fantasy selections and a solid actual science section. Warm and helpful people run the joint. Good food at the cafeteria. Go see it for yourself.