As it marks its 50th year, this place is still free of the “ism”s (elitism, hipsterism) that characterize too many independent booksellers. Instead, it continues to keep the focus on books and the people who love them with its balanced mix of bestsellers, staff picks, and bargain tomes—plus a star-studded author series.

Brookline Booksmith | 279 Harvard St., Brookline, MA | 617-566-6660 | http://brooklinebooksmith.com/