Books and Cookies Opens in Santa Monica!

In a world dominated by Amazon.com, it's nice to see a homegrown bookstore have the courage to step up and be counted -- on tiny fingers at that.

Welcome, Books and Cookies, a children's bookstore that just set up shop in Santa Monica.

CC and I visited the pre-opening party for Books and Cookies just over a week ago, and we were both very impressed. But, seriously, how can you go wrong with a wealth of readables and yummy snacks to boot?

Founded by Chudney Ross (daughter of Diana Ross), Books and Cookies is a stylish and welcoming answer to online ordering or even the few cramped aisles at other local bookstores.

Bright white, sunny and wide open, with little nooks (and a teepee!) for exploring, the shop also offers a colorful activity room for parties or enrichment activities, as well as a small cafe.

At the party, Ross read "The Very Busy Spider" by Eric Carle and "The Doorbell Rang" by Pat Hutchins during storytime. CC also had the chance to decorate her own cookies and get her face painted by a visiting fairy.

We also picked up a couple of books and donated one to a local children's organization.

Books and Cookies offers lots to do for little ones, including play groups, storytime and cookie decorating. Ross -- who is also a writer, teacher and TV host -- has the right idea when it comes to a children's bookstore. Books and Cookies is a fun and comfortable place to enjoy just plopping down with a good book.

CC and I will definitely be going back.

Books and Cookies
2230 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-362-3103