Pretty Good Books
Ashtabula County's Independent Bookstore
(Me at Pretty Good Books, trying to decide which book to take home.)
Writers are readers. I don’t know one who doesn’t enjoy a variety of genres. My favorites are mysteries, history books and cookbooks. And, while I’m a big fan of e-books, there’s just something magical about unhurriedly browsing the stacks in an independent bookstore.
Ashtabula County is a little lean on bookstores, but one great place to browse and buy your next good read is Pretty Good Books on Main Street in downtown Ashtabula. This storefront book emporium, owned by Joe and his wife, Sarah, is also the only independent bookstore left in Ashtabula County.
The store’s hardwood floors speak of hundreds of years of commerce. The ceilings are molded tin and evoke the intricate craftsmanship of turn-of-the-20th century Ohio. The shelves are wooden and not only line the walls, but create narrow passages throughout the two-room store.
I admit, this isn’t a place to browse if you’re in a hurry. The filing system here is unique and often includes Joe calling his wife for a little guidance. Still, the prices are low and the likelihood is good that you’ll find that out-of-print tome you need to complete your favorite author collection. They even have a couple of (signed) copies of my “Cleveland’s Little Italy” book.
Pretty Good Books supports local independent authors and sponsors periodic signing events. Looking for a unique spot for your next book club meeting? Ask Joe about that, too.
In short, Pretty Good Books is a place for book lovers. Could the shelves use a light dusting? Could the store benefit from asking someone versed in library science to shelve the books? Sure. However, the haphazard, random nature of the store might just be part of its charm.
Pretty Good Books doesn’t keep regular hours, but they usually post when they are going to be open on their Facebook page. If you’re driving from very far, it’s a good idea to call first (440 858-1420).