Rainy season is here and with it the perfect excuse to stretch out on the sofa and do nothing but get lost in a story.
Whether gripping mysteries, sordid dramas, thrilling sci-fi, inspirational magazines or giant coffee table art books, all can be found within reach, ready to pick up and read without having to wait for shipping from some internet monopoly.
It couldn’t be easier: Here are some second-hand booksellers within walking distance from public transportation, whether you’re living it up downtown (MRT Sukhumvit/BTS Phrom Phong) or bargain-hunting at Chatuchak market (MRT Kamphaeng Phet/BTS Mo Chit).
FOUND DOWNTOWN: With its high-end eateries and entertainment, Sukhumvit Road may not seem an obvious place to find cheap reads, but shops can be found selling covers for less than dinner, starting from THB19.
Book slaves are shackled to the shelves of Dasa Book Cafe.
Located on Sukhumvit Road between sois 26-28, Dasa Book Cafe is the most well-organized second-hand bookshop in Bangkok with a cozy atmosphere. The three-story townhouse is dedicated to book dasas (a Pali word for slaves) of all genres. Most books are in English, with some selections available in other languages such as Italian, German and French. If you’re not in Bangkok, Dasa takes orders from their frequently updated website. The staff is friendly and helpful. Book slaves can enjoy a cup of coffee on the first floor while browsing for their next favorite book. Returning books to the ecosystem is encouraged – Dasa offers up to 50 percent store credit for books purchased their.
10am – 8pm, every day
02-661-2993
For almost two decades, 3/6 BOOK has been hidden away down Sukhumvit Soi 24. Most books are in English and Japanese, but other languages can be found on the shelves as well, such as French, German, Italian and even some Viking tongues. 3/6 is heavy on nonfiction works from politics to religion. They’re not buying any more books; however, interesting titles are welcome for exchange.
1pm – 9pm, every day
087-501-5638, 02-259-6400
Some English fiction stocked but mostly works from the land of the rising: Sun Book Store (Sukhumvit 33/1 branch)
Dive into deep fiction at Sun Book Store, which also features an eclectic pile of exam preparation books such as GMAT and GRE. All the rest is in Japanese.
9:30am – 7:30pm
081-751-2659
Just up Sukhumvit 39 is another branch called Sun Books with a section of used books in English. Still you’re more likely to find your happiness here if you’re looking for Japanese books. This location is also open later, until 9pm.
Chatuchak market
TOME RAIDERS: Tucked away in the labyrinth of Chatuchak Market, readers can find just about anything among its massive piles of used books; but first they’ll have to find it. The good news is the book market is open week days (though most close Monday and Tuesday), so book hunters need not squeeze in among the massive weekend crowds. Books start from THB10.
Totally deluxe selection at Dilok Books
Dilok Book is the biggest seller of used, English books at Chatuchak. Here one can find fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, encyclopedias, guidebooks and more. Many uncommon treasures can be found here, and its friendly owner and staff are happy to help.
10am – 6pm, Wednesday – Friday
10am – 6:30pm, Saturday and Sunday
081-375-7539
They’ve got your’s at Number 18
Magazines, art books and chick-lit are available at Number 18 bookstand, starting from THB10.
10am – 5pm, Wednesday – Friday
10am – 6:30pm, Saturday and Sunday
081-375-7539
‘55 Bookstore’ should be called 55,000 Bookstore
Getting fatigued from big piles of used books? Magazines are easily spotted in the front of 55 Bookstore while sets of “Lonely Planet” travel bibles are displayed on the left. From huge art books to small fiction titles, there’s a lot to discover here.
9am – 5:30pm
02-272-5042
Bookstand Number 33
International magazine titles from around the world about fashion, cars and news are offered usually at half price or even less. THB20 can buy copies of Time or Newsweek.
Noone – 6pm, Monday – Friday (might be closed on Monday)
8am – 6pm, Saturday and Sunday
081-665-2495 (Nuch), 083-785-6137 (Lek)
Enjoy the stories and help keep books alive!
