Where the Wild Things Are – A magical bookshop for children in Brisbane

Where the Wild Things Are is a magical mischievous name for a bookshop with books for every child from chamomile calm to wickedly wild.

Dedicated to children’s books, this bookshop has everything from board books (for little ones interested in chewing on books), junior fiction and novelty books to the latest thrilling Young Adult book series.

High quality children’s books from local and international authors

There is a wide choice of books by local and other Australian authors, the best children’s books published overseas as well as the classics in children’s literature and a great selection of non-fiction books. There are books with mesmerising illustrations, books to make your children think and books to entertain and relax with before bedtime.

A pair of book stores to cater to the whole family

Where the Wild Things Are sidles up next to its big sister, Avid Reader, a literary bookshop of fiction and non-fiction for grown-ups since 1997. When the children’s section in Avid Reader outgrew its surroundings, the books started their wild rumpus to next door in 2015.

The Where the Wild Things Are bookshop experience

As you enter Where the Wild Things Are, a large picture book shelf hugs the wall with the gorgeous covers looking out at you and your children, if books had puppy dog eyes, these would be pleading you to take them home. The plethora of excellent YA books are towards the back and the gorgeous doodads and got-to-haves novelties are circling the counter and hiding between books on the bright shelves.

Distinct areas have been created within, such as a cosy spot inside a large tree and comfortable pillows to curl up with your latest book and a large wooden kitchen cupboard stocked with books for older readers and a collection of the classics.

Great advice and regular author visits

The staff are knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. My 5-year-old is entranced with trying to understand the science of evolution, and the staff helped me find a book to perfectly explain the concept at a five-year-old level.

The bookshop is also a favourite spot for local and visiting children’s authors and illustrators to launch their new books, or to talk about and read their new books or hold events such as workshops.

Free storytelling sessions

There are free storytelling sessions and bookclubs for every age at Where the Wild Things Are –

Treehouse Bookclub

For seven to ten-year-olds. Every second Friday of the month from 4.00 to 5.00pm. 10% discount on bookclub titles.

The Wonder Club

For 10 to 13-year olds. Every first Friday of the month from 4.00 to 5.00pm. 10% discount on bookclub titles.

Young at Heart Bookclub

For grown-ups reading YA books. Every second Sunday of the month from 9.30am to 10.30am.

The First Review Bookclub

For 14+ wanting to read YA books before they are released. Every second Sunday of the month.

Wild Story Time

For the under-five every Monday at 10am.

Coffee for Mum and Dad

After you have finished shopping, you can relax at the coffee shop located at the back of Avid Reader next door. The hanging garden wall is a great place to play I-Spy and find fairies and dinosaurs among the plants and, of course, to get to know your new books.

Where to find Where the Wild Things Are bookshop in West End

Where the Wild Things Are Children’s Bookshop is located at 191 Boundary St, West End. Open 7 days. There is plenty of on-street parking nearby in the West End area (with parking meters), and easy access to public transport. To find out more, visit www.wherethewildthingsare.com.au, or phone 3255 3987.