Nestled in the heart of London, Persephone Books is not just a bookstore but a sanctuary for book lovers. Specialising in rediscovering and reprinting neglected works by mid-20th century (mostly female) authors, this unique independent bookstore is a haven for those seeking literary gems that have been unjustly forgotten. In this edition of our “Bookstore Spotlight” series, we delve into the charm and history of Persephone Books, exploring what makes it a must-visit destination for bibliophiles in London.
A Brief History of Persephone Books
Founded in 1999 by Nicola Beauman, Persephone Books began with a mission to bring back into print overlooked books by female writers, many of which had fallen out of circulation. The name “Persephone” comes from the Greek goddess who spent part of the year in the underworld and part in the living world, symbolising the reawakening of these neglected works. The bookstore originally started in a small space in Clerkenwell before moving to its current location on Lamb’s Conduit Street in Bloomsbury, an area steeped in literary history.
The Persephone Collection: A Curated Selection of Literary Treasures
Persephone Books is known for its distinctive grey covers, which evoke a sense of timeless elegance. Each book in their collection features beautiful endpapers based on fabrics and prints from the era in which the book was originally published, along with matching bookmarks. The content of the books is as thoughtfully curated as their design, encompassing novels, short stories, memoirs, diaries, and cookbooks.
Some of their most popular titles include:
- “Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day” by Winifred Watson – A delightful, Cinderella-like tale of a governess whose life is transformed in a single day.
- “The Home-Maker” by Dorothy Canfield Fisher – A pioneering exploration of gender roles and domestic life.
- “The Wise Virgins” by Leonard Woolf – A semi-autobiographical novel offering a glimpse into the Bloomsbury Group, of which Woolf and his wife, Virginia, were prominent members.
Why Persephone Books Stands Out
Persephone Books isn’t just a bookstore; it’s a literary institution dedicated to celebrating and reviving forgotten voices. Here’s what makes it truly special:
- Focus on Female Authors: Persephone shines a spotlight on female writers whose works were often undervalued in their time, offering readers a unique opportunity to discover historically significant literature that might otherwise have remained buried.
- Beautiful Editions: The aesthetic appeal of Persephone Books is undeniable. The uniform grey covers and unique endpapers make their books not only a joy to read but also a delight to collect.
- A Personal Touch: The staff at Persephone are passionate about the books they sell and are always eager to offer recommendations and share the stories behind each title. It’s this personal touch that makes visiting the store a memorable experience.
Visiting Persephone Books
Persephone Books is located on Lamb’s Conduit Street, a charming area filled with independent shops, cafes, and a palpable sense of history. The bookstore itself is a quiet, welcoming space with a nostalgic, almost museum-like atmosphere. The shelves are filled with their beautifully produced editions, and the knowledgeable staff are always on hand to guide you through their collection.
Address:
59 Lamb’s Conduit Street,
Bloomsbury, London,
WC1N 3NB, UK
Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 11 am – 6 pm
Saturday: 12 pm – 5 pm
Closed on Sundays
Supporting Persephone Books
In addition to visiting the physical store, you can support Persephone Books by purchasing directly from their website. They offer a subscription service where you can receive a new Persephone title each month – an excellent gift idea for the literature lover in your life!
Website: Persephone Books
Social Media: Follow them on Twitter and Instagram for updates on new releases and events.
Why You Should Visit Persephone Books
For readers passionate about discovering hidden literary gems, Persephone Books is a true treasure trove. Whether you’re looking for a thought-provoking novel, a beautifully crafted edition for your collection, or simply a peaceful place to browse and be inspired, Persephone Books offers an experience that is both enriching and unique.
As part of our Bookstore Spotlight series, we highly recommend making a trip to Persephone Books the next time you’re in London. With its dedication to reviving forgotten voices and its beautiful, lovingly curated collection, it’s a place that celebrates the enduring power of literature in the most charming and intimate of ways.
Happy reading, and don’t forget to share your favourite finds with us after your visit!
Leave a Reply