The Garden State Plaza welcomes it's first bookstore since Borders: Amazon Books. It is one of eight stores of its kind open in the country. The GSP location opened just days ago and is already garnering a readership. Any book-lover will agree that Borders was a unique store that had shoes even Barnes and Noble couldn't fill. These same book-lovers will instantly see where Amazon Books excels over your typical bookstore.
Upon entering, it feels as though you've left the mob and crazies of the mall far behind and entered a new world entirely. You are in good company. Besides the books, the friendly, informative staff will be happy explain the features of the store and answer any questions you may have. The vibe is very welcoming and you really feel like you can take your time and explore. Now, you can escape the garnish light of your laptop as this physical extension of Amazon makes it much more exciting to review.
As soon as you enter, you will notice each book is presented face-out and has a review card with the rating and a customer review. You'll get authentic insight to the book in your hand and unlike your typical bookstore, you don't have to thrift through books you're only remotely interested in to find the winner.
The selection is currated of only the top pics of the website based upon customer rating, pre-orders, popularity, and other factors to present really fantastic pics. Each item has won many awards and has been rated 4 stars or above to earn its place on the shelves. It gets even easier to find a book you like with a full section of, “If you like...You'll Love.” With efficient organization and specialized sections, you are sure to find something to take home.
The organization of the store, in terms of layout has a fine touch. There is a ramp to give accessiblity for handicapped people. Many, many places do not have this type of inclusion. It's something that you don't notice until you look for it or lose the accessibility in which you typically have. Upon seeing this anywhere, I am appreciative of their consideration to allow all to conveniently participate in the experience. After all, the graphic novel section is up the ramp. It would be a shame if anyone missed out.
I admit, I was a little bit worried about if there would be a manga and graphic novel section. As a pre-teen frequent in Borders, the manga section is a huge part of my nostalgia associated with the store. It's where I spent much of my time when the store was around, and they're something I still love to read. But, of course, they're books too. Why wouldn't they be in the new bookstore? My worries were put to rest when I found many titles that I recognize and a few that a didn't, which were delightful finds.
Clearly, I am in love with this store, but this review will make all of the stops. Since this is not your typical bookstore, some qualities were lost in the transformation. Most noticeably, I noticed that there will not be “squaters.” By that I mean, people who hang out, drink coffee, and read a book that they may or may not buy. The store is too small and seating is very limited. It really pressures you to make a purchase as many titles are quite tempting.
Speaking of purchases, don't even think about making the payment in cash. Each purchase must be made with a card and you will need an account with Amazon. Prime members are especially at an advantage, as their perks apply and books will be the same price as found on Amazon.com. The prices aren't necessarily the cheapest. You are making the purchase for convenience. The book is in your hands and you would have to drive elsewhere or wait until your package arrives, in order to get the book cheaper, which may not always work in your favor.
The fact that the selection is condensed to what is considered the best-of-the-best, eliminates the possibility of finding a rare gem that you love. It sets less well-known authors at a disadvantage. I hate to use the word “mainstream,” but those are essentially the titles which will be viewed and will continue to gain popularity. Additionally, graphic novels will typically have only the first few volumes. This assists the site in keeping your purchases within the brand. Well-played Amazon, well-played.
The store has the vibe of a coffee shop as its soundtrack is that of blended thoughtful discussion mixed with your own thoughts as you indulge. It just feels like it should have a coffee shop built in. Perhaps if the chain gains momentum as more locations open across the country, the store will relocate in the mall to a larger location with a cafe inclusion. It would be a great financial gain for Amazon to partner with another company, and customers would surely enjoy it.
The pro's of the store heavily outweigh the con's, from my perspective. I'm escatic that the GSP made this addition, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that it knocked my expectations out of the park. The store is still very young, and I am excited to see how it grows.
