About Books of Wonder Shop - Our Story and Mission

Our Heritage in Children's Literature

Books of Wonder Shop emerged from a deep appreciation for the unique role that independent children's booksellers play in literary culture. Since 2013, we have been dedicated to the proposition that children deserve access to the very best books, carefully selected by people who understand both literature and child development.

Our roots trace to New York City's rich tradition of independent bookstores that served as community gathering places, literary salons, and trusted guides for generations of families. That heritage informs everything we do, from our careful curation to our commitment to literary excellence.

Our Mission: Connecting Children with Exceptional Books

We believe that the right book at the right time can fundamentally shape a child's life. Our mission is threefold:

Curate with Care

Every book we offer is selected based on literary merit, illustration quality, and the potential to engage young minds. We read widely, consult professional reviews from sources like The Horn Book Magazine and Kirkus Reviews, and stay informed about trends in children's publishing while maintaining high standards.

Provide Expert Guidance

Choosing books for children requires understanding developmental stages, reading levels, and individual interests. Our recommendations reflect expertise in children's literature and pedagogy, helping parents, educators, and gift-givers make informed decisions.

Preserve Literary Heritage

Children's literature has a rich history that deserves celebration and preservation. Our collection includes not only contemporary titles but also rare editions, first printings, and collectible volumes that represent important moments in publishing history.

What Makes Us Different

Specialization in Children's Literature

Unlike general booksellers, we focus exclusively on books for young readers. This specialization allows us to develop deep expertise in our field. We understand the distinctions between early readers and beginning chapter books, know which illustrators are pushing boundaries in picture books, and can identify the middle-grade novels that will captivate reluctant readers.

The World of Oz Expertise

We maintain one of the most comprehensive collections related to L. Frank Baum's Oz series and its many adaptations. From first editions of the original books to modern illustrated versions, from scholarly analyses to theatrical adaptations, our Oz collection reflects decades of passionate collecting and expertise. The Oz books represent a unique American contribution to children's fantasy literature, and we're proud to be specialists in this field.

Explore Oz Collection

Rare and First Editions

For collectors and those seeking truly special gifts, we offer rare children's books, first editions, and signed copies. Children's book collecting is a sophisticated field with its own standards and valuations. We work with established authentication practices and draw on expertise in children's book history to verify provenance and condition.

View Rare Books

Age-Appropriate Collections

We organize our collection by age ranges that reflect developmental stages, helping busy parents and educators quickly find appropriate books.

Ages 0-2: Board books, touch-and-feel books, and simple picture books perfect for babies and toddlers
Ages 3-5: Picture books with rich vocabulary, early concept books, and read-aloud favorites
Ages 6-8: Beginning readers, early chapter books, and picture books with sophisticated themes
Ages 9-12: Middle-grade fiction, non-fiction for curious minds, and series that build reading stamina
Ages 13+: Young adult literature tackling complex themes with literary sophistication

Browse Books by Age

Our Standards for Selection

Not every published book earns a place in our collection. We apply rigorous standards:

Literary Quality

We seek books with strong writing, rich vocabulary, and sophisticated storytelling that respects young readers' intelligence.

Illustration Excellence

Picture books must demonstrate artistic merit, whether through classic techniques or innovative approaches.

Cultural Authenticity

We prioritize books that represent diverse experiences with authenticity, consulting resources like the Cooperative Children's Book Center for guidance on inclusive literature.

Educational Value

While we celebrate pure entertainment, we also seek books that teach, inspire curiosity, and broaden perspectives.

Enduring Appeal

Whether classics or new releases, we choose books with staying power—titles that reward re-reading and remain relevant over time.

Community Trusted

Our selections reflect feedback from parents, educators, librarians, and most importantly, young readers themselves.

Our Commitment to the Reading Community

Books of Wonder Shop serves multiple constituencies within the children's literature community:

Parents and Families

We help build home libraries that grow with children, offering recommendations tailored to individual reading levels and interests.

Learn More

Educators and Librarians

We support classroom libraries and school reading programs with carefully curated collections aligned with educational goals.

Collectors

We provide access to rare editions, signed books, and collectible volumes for serious children's book collectors.

View Rare Books

Gift-Givers

We help grandparents, godparents, and friends find meaningful, lasting gifts that show thoughtfulness and care.

Gift Guide

Looking Forward

Children's literature continues to evolve, with new voices, diverse perspectives, and innovative formats expanding what books can be and do. We're committed to staying at the forefront of these developments while maintaining our connection to the classics that have defined the field.

As we look to the future, our commitment remains constant: to connect young readers with exceptional books that inspire, educate, and delight. We believe in the power of reading to change lives, and we're honored to play a role in that transformation.

"Thank you for trusting Books of Wonder Shop as your guide to the wonderful world of children's literature."

Get in Touch Explore Collections