Wicked Good Books

I had the pleasure of visiting this hopping little book and toy store for my boyfriend's birthday in December. We both fell in love and immediately said "Whoa!" when we burst in through the door (it was COLD outside that day!) This was the perfect place to spend some time warming up. There was every book you could imagine on the shelves, gorgeous stationary and leather bound journals, board games from past and present, and a whole slew of toys that would please any kid. This store also has a large number of autographed copies as well, which (as a book lover) we all know is a huge plus for book stores. It was voted one of the best book stores in Salem and I can see the charm that earned it that title. You can't miss the cat on the sign, so be sure to duck in from the elements like we did and check them out.

Cute little place that's half books, half toys. I got a beautiful set of note cards here for a reasonable price.

We walked into this bookshop on a whim because it looked cozy and inviting, and it definitely was. I didn't buy any books during my visit, but I did buy about $20 in fun fridge magnets and stickers🤣 I regret nothing! That said, the gentleman who was at the register was really nice. I really liked this store a whole lot and would frequently stop in if we lived in the area. Please note that my photo has other fun stickers and magnets i purchased during my trip, so I circled the ones purchased here in red.

Wicked Good Books on Essex Street has become a favorite stop for both locals and visitors who stumble across its welcoming storefront. Reviewers often describe it as a charming little shop where it’s easy to browse for far longer than expected, thanks to shelves filled with surprises and thoughtful displays. Shoppers mention how the staff makes the experience even better, describing them as friendly and helpful without being overbearing. One reviewer summed it up perfectly: "I just love this little book shop! It has a little bit of everything." Others note the balance between new and used titles, along with extras like bookmarks and local interest books that tie in with Salem’s history. In a city best known for its witch lore and historic tours, Wicked Good Books offers a quieter retreat. Independent bookstores like this thrive on personal connection, offering more than just books—they provide community and conversation. With reasonable prices and a cozy feel, it’s a spot where the love of reading is alive and well. #salemma #independentbookstore #essexstreet #northshorema #newengland

Nice book & toy shop. Small but good selection at great prices. Purchased both books and toys for my grandkids. Great stuff for adults too! Nice staff. Very helpful

For a bookstore where half of the product are geared toward children and families, the staff on the floor and door are very rude and dismissive towards children. I noticed this too last year when I came without my kids and was hoping it was just a one time thing. Nope. I think if staff members don’t like children then maybe don’t work at a bookstore that sells so many toys and children’s books. The sign says inside "see it here. Buy it here. Keep us here" but with bad hospitality then why would want to buy here. I would have spent more money in the store had my children been shown more kindness. Adding after the reply from the bookstore: My children did not block the door. They weren’t standing in the door. we had hands on their shoulders or hands the whole time. My son bent down to look at something on the bottom shelf on one knee and she was rude to him about sitting on the floor. There’s no signs anywhere that children can’t kneel down on floor to look at books. To lie about the behavior of children just further proves my point!

I was sad to hear about one young person’s experience at this bookstore today. A local college age student inquired if they were hiring. The student was told by staff (or the owner?) not to come back and that it wasn’t professional to inquire in person. The student was told it would be more professional to send in their resume. I was shocked and disappointed that the staff there would be so unkind to anyone in the local community.