Why people recommend it
The Bookshop by Evan Friss is a historical exploration of the American bookstore. MJ Franklin appeared on The Book Review to discuss the enduring appeal of brick-and-mortar retail spaces in an episode titled Why We Can’t Resist a Great Bookstore, which aired on August 21, 2026. During the conversation, Franklin explicitly highlighted Evan Friss's volume as a key recommendation for readers interested in the subject, pointing to it as a comprehensive history documenting the cultural and physical spaces of American bookstores. The recommendation served to emphasize why physical literary shops continue to hold a powerful grip on readers' imaginations and why society struggles to resist their distinct charm. By bringing attention to Friss's work on the podcast, Franklin underscored the significance of preserving the history of these community hubs, framing the book as an essential resource for anyone curious about the evolution, struggles, and enduring legacy of independent and chain bookstores across the United States. The endorsement highlighted the book's value in charting how these retail institutions adapted to economic shifts, changing consumer habits, and the rise of digital commerce over the decades, making it a compelling read for bibliophiles everywhere.
Who recommended it
- MJ Franklin Recommended
MJ Franklin — 1 mention
“And that recommendation is The Bookshop, a history of the American bookstore by Evan Friss.”