The Raven Book Store

Get Your Mystery On Yesterday, during my discovery day in Lawrence, I found the nicest little book store full of mystery, fiction, history, children's books and more. The Raven, with its two resident cats, is a cozy spot to hangout in. The space consists of two large rooms that are well organized so that you don’t feel crowded. The moment I stepped through the doors, the staff welcomed me with big smiles and asked if they could help me with anything. It would have been so easy to snuggle up in a chair with a cozy read and call it a day. The Raven offers other items like T shirts, journals, totes, items for children and fun things like the ever-popular enamel pins that have been popping up around town. I added to my purchase, the very bright yellow logo mug that caught my eye when I walked in. The other thing that was a step away from the usual were the Poems machine for fifty cents. Instead of candy, you pop open the white and purple plastic case to find a few thoughtful words typed on a slip of paper. All proceeds are donated to a different charity every month. For March, The Sexual Trauma & Abuse Care Center is featured. Overall: In this busy college town, make The Raven one of your stops for all things mystery and more. This is an edited version of the first review. Overall I still feel the same about the book store overall but found disappointment with the manager when I tried to share some information with him regarding the feedback I received because of my review of his store. He made me feel as though I was bothering him with such trivial news. I'm glad the rest of his staff were more welcoming and excited than he was otherwise the above review would be very different.
3 7 years ago (03-04-2018)

This is the best bookstore in town and possibly the region. Danny, the owner, has taken the reigns and run with it. The author events he brings to town are great. He's not bringing John Grisham or Stephen King, but he's bringing authors who have something to say and are super relevant. Don't miss out on these events. Oh yeah, and there's the books. Everything is in the perfect place, nothing extraneous, little else desired. A poet's sense of design for a wonderful place to spend an hour every week.
5 7 years ago (16-01-2018)

Great employees. Large selection of new releases and classics. Even better cat selection. Love the rewards program. I don't think they have sales, so this makes up for it. Also cool collection of print/non literary materials.
5 8 years ago (31-12-2017)

Excellent staff, fairly extensive selection, comfy places to read. They have two cats in-store, so if you are allergic, maybe call ahead so you can be in and out. Will order books for, and if a book you want is damaged, and it's their only copy, they are willing to discount it somewhat. A great local bookstore!
4 7 years ago (25-02-2018)

Lovely local bookstore. Friendly and helpful staff. Nice variety and selection.
5 7 years ago (04-05-2018)