BOOKSTOR-IES [EPISODE ONE]: Boneshaker Books (Minneapolis, MN)
“Wherever I go, bookstores are still the closest thing to a town square.”
― Gloria Steinem, My Life on the Road
Don’t you sometimes wish your bookstore was a little more revolutionary? Tucked away behind a vine covered facade in the notoriously left-leaning Seward Neighborhood of Minneapolis is Boneshaker Books. A small, volunteer run bookstore looking to be just that.
It felt only right that for my first installment of Bookstor-ies (reviews of my favorite bookstores!) I highlight the bookshop that is, quite literally, in my backyard. Boneshaker Books is located on 2002 23rd Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55404.
Here it is in their own words:
“Boneshaker Books is a community supported, collectively organized, and volunteer run bookstore. Our mission is to provide a welcoming space that promotes social justice and movements through books, education, and activism. We offer progressive and radical literature and a place to spark conversation, inform, and inspire.”
It’s true that Boneshaker is not the first of its kind in the thriving book community of the Twin Cities. The stick-it-to-the-man 70′s era of literary activism led to more than a few (think: Mayday books on West Bank [ 301 Cedar Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55454]). That’s part of what makes Boneshaker so unique to me, however. At only six years old they stand as proof that books are inter-generational and ever important fodder in the world of Social Justice.
A few of my favorite things about Boneshaker include:
The HUGE wall of local Zines! There’s nothing more Minneapolis than walking out of a bookstore with nothing but hand folded pamphlets covered in art and confessional poetry.
They take particular care to highlight books from local, LGBTQ, and POC authors.
There is a wide selection of classic to new radical literature in all genres.
They also have a prolific section of graphic novels and comics. Cult Favorites, new releases, and the bizarre are all represented!
Unlike most “political” bookshops they also have a kids section, which is both adorable and educational.
Boneshaker Books is always looking for volunteers and if you are so inclined you should follow this link to sign up!
Stay tuned for more Bookstor-ies!
