Books Of Wonder - Since 1980

On September 2, 1980, the enchanting tale of Books of Wonder began, unfolding in a tiny, 200-square-foot, hole-in-the-wall shop. Founded by 20-year-old Peter Glassman and his partner James Carey, the bookshelves were lovingly hand-built to house antique children's booksa concept that soon evolved. As Peter realized he lacked sufficient antique books to fill the shelves, he swiftly made the decision to expand the collection to include a section of new children's books as well. Nestled at 444 Hudson Street in New York's Greenwich Village, the store later shifted to 464 Hudson in 1982, gaining slightly larger quarters but still maintaining its intimate charm at just 400 square feet.

In 1985, a new chapter unfolded as Books of Wonder ventured into publishing by establishing a joint imprint with William Morrow and Company. What began with one title per season blossomed into a collection of over 60 titles. Although some Books of Wonder Classics titles faced discontinuation after HarperCollins Publishers acquired Morrow in 1999, a crowning achievement stands tall. The store proudly reissued all 14 of L. Frank Baum's classic Oz books, preserving their original full-color illustrations as Baum and his artists envisioned them. This project, initiated nearly 30 years ago, remains a testament to success, with all 14 titles still in printa lasting legacy of Books of Wonder's dedication to preserving literary treasures.