New York, New York

We actually got on a cross country flight and went to New York City for a week. Our favorite young friends were graduating from NYU and they really wanted us there to celebrate. We’ve known these sisters since they were born, have been a part of their lives ever since, and even instilled a love of books and reading…so how could we say no? Did, however, make us feel ancient to see them so grown up.

And, yes, as you may have heard, Taylor Swift gave the commencement address – it was all over the media and internet. She was wonderful, heartfelt, and real. In case you missed it, HERE is the video of the speech.

Other than two days of graduation ceremonies, we did lots of sightseeing and exploring – it’s been years since either Husband or I have been to New York City. I won’t bore you with our exploits other than the book-related sites – because, once again folks, this is, after all, Book Barmy.

New York Public Library

We booked a docent-led tour of the library – free, run by volunteers, and well worth doing if you’re in the city. Here’s some photo evidence of this grand dame of libraries.

The Rose Reading Room took my breath away, if I lived here I would come to stare at the ceiling and perhaps try to do some reading. The last photo is from Google as I had to show you how the lions wore masks during the pandemic.

The Strand

Another day Husband faithfully went with me to the famous Strand Bookstore with its proclaimed “18 miles of books” (however they now house over “23 miles” of books). We didn’t stay long – had other non-bookish things to see (I know!) and I must admit it was overwhelming. Four floors of books but the old wooden floors creaked appropriately and it smelled like a great old bookstore should do – as it’s been there since 1927.

Someone at the Strand likes to color arrange the books…always a struggle for me.

The Mysterious Bookshop

Our final Book Barmy destination was the Mysterious Bookshop owned by the famous Otto Penzler, whose great Christmas book is a prized possession of mine. He is known for his Mysterious Press imprint and is a well-known collector of rare and highly valued mystery books.

Now this smaller bookstore, much more my speed…but – but – just look the books crammed into this tiny Tribeca store front.

I did some purchasing here. First these tiny little ‘biblio-mysteries’ – small enough to fit in a jacket pocket. They are all short mysteries stories themed or set in bookstores, libraries, or just involving books. How could I resist – really?

And then, in a weak moment I spent a fair amount on Mr. Penzler’s own journal of his mystery book collection which he sold. But before he did he recorded the best of his collection.

As you can see, there are color plates throughout and a treasured souvenir of our trip to New York City.

The city is starting to come back to life after the pandemic. Restaurants were open, cafes had customers. Not as crowded as in the past, but those who were on the streets seemed happy to be out and about. As a result, it was a kinder, gentler atmosphere. Masks were still being worn (including us) so we felt safe and comfortable, even on the subway.

Husband’s FitBit recorded that we walked 41 miles throughout the city, but it never felt like it – so much to see – every neighborhood is different and unique.

And the people watching — always the best in NYC.