The best book, hobby & craft shops in Essex County

“Part bookstore, part family hangout, The Chatterbox Books curates educational toys and cozy reads, hosts engaging storytimes and weekend activities, and throws kid-approved birthday parties for ages 1–9 with private space and themes like Enchanted Kingdom or Unicorn Magic, drawing South Orange, Maplewood, and West…”

From the North Jersey newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Magnus Comics is New Jersey’s new spot for comics and collectibles, packed with unique and vintage finds. Drop in for an appraisal, trade in that mystery box from your attic, and maybe walk out with cash... then stick around to hunt for more unique and vintage finds.”

“Whether you crave contemporary, character-driven love stories or later-in-life second chances, Platinum Chocolate Romance & Universe delivers award-winning, emotionally rich reads by LongTemple, plus handy book club guides and magazine features.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, October 1, 2026

“com/) is the kind of neighborhood shop where wandering the stacks pays off, new releases sit next to surprising finds, and you leave with a read you’re excited to start tonight, not someday when life slows down... which, let’s be honest, never happens.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, October 8, 2026

“New World Manga is the spot for trading card fans, with singles for Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, and Yu-Gi-Oh plus a weekly slate of events. Expect HeroClix, One Piece, Commander nights, Pokémon League, Modern, Edison and Advanced formats, and plenty of booster drafts to keep your deck evolving.”

From the Staten Island newsletter, October 4, 2026

“Bookseller chain stocking housebrand eReader, plus a broad selection of titles for adults & kids.”

“East Side Mags is the kind of shop where your pull list never misses, new releases sit alongside graphic novels, and shelves tempt you with statues and collectibles. They host signings, Dungeons & Dragons, drawing classes and a Saturday Morning Cartoon Club... a legit hangout for local readers.”

From the North Jersey newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Whether you're hunting new releases, gently used gems, or flipping through the vinyl bins, Montclair Book Center is the kind of place you wander and accidentally find your next favorite thing. Friendly staff picks, events, and serious browse energy make it a go-to close to home.”

From the West Orange newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Just Kidding Around is an independent toy shop with legit taste, from Jellycat plush and Maileg minis to LEGO, Magna-Tiles, science kits, and outdoor fun. Swing by this week for arts-and-crafts fixes and smart games that zap boredom, plus staff picks perfect for last-minute gifts.”

From the West Orange newsletter, August 26, 2026

“From pro-grade paints and paper to kid-friendly sketchbooks and colorful pens, A Paper Hat Art + Design Supply is the neighborhood spot that actually makes you want to start a project. Established in 2016, they curate global makers, stellar stationery, and giftable finds you didn’t know you needed.”

From the Parsippany newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Need a rainy-day backup or a group project win? EconoCrafts stocks DIY kits and supplies for kids and adults, from wooden and STEAM crafts to seasonal projects and even bulk sets for camp or after-school, and they’ve been making their own clever stuff since 1956.”

From the Newark newsletter, October 8, 2026

“Retail chain offering musical instruments, audio gear & accessories, plus rental & repair services.”