Best of Boston

Even with so many local book shops sadly fallen victim to the megachains and the Internet, we still are blessed with two independents, very different from each other, that deserve the label “best.” Booksmith’s great speaker series and quirky newsletter complement its comfortable store, where customers are encouraged to spend quality time with the merchandise. The New England Mobile Book fair is an endless warehouse seemingly full of any book in print, and a knowledgeable staff that can find any title—and has probably read it. Staff recommendations are 20 percent off, and new hardcovers are discounted 10 percent.