Westsiders, rejoice! Your favorite children’s bookstore and cookie shop that closed back in May has found a new lease on life. Chudney Ross’ delightful shop that brings together kids two favorite treats has found an even better spot (right across the street from the old one) and the new space was worth the wait. So belly up to the cookie bar to welcome back a joint that is also worth the drive, even if this isn’t your usual hood.
The Great Outdoors
In addition to the two hundred square feet of indoor play space, the biggest wow-factor in the new location is the new six hundred square feet outdoor area for kids to stretch their legs and enjoy the ocean breeze. The artificial grass and shade canopies make it feel like you’re in a decked out backyard, and kids love climbing on the new wooden structure, playing dress up, reading books in a teepee and building with blocks. Saturday morning concerts are held out here Woodstock-style. Admission to the area is $7, and you can stay for as long as you like.
Sit Down and Read Up
There are plenty of bright, cheerful spots to spend time with your budding reader. Books are displayed for easy shopping so you can take your tot’s faves home. You’ll also find unique puppets and educational toys around the store. The whole room, which features soft colors and whimsical animal decor, has a welcoming, peaceful, cozy vibe, making it a lovely escape from the busy city life outside.
Activities Galore
All the classes and activities you loved at the old Books and Cookies location are back! Classes are $10 each at the door and include all-ages story times (some include dance, scavenger hunts, and bubbles with reading – yes!), baby play times that encourage development and sensory skills, all-ages music classes, yoga for toddlers and craft classes that keep glitter glue off of your couch. With every class also you have the chance to meet and socialize with other nice parents in your community. Birthday parties can still be hosted here and start at $650.
A Bonus Dose of Happy
One downside – while cookies are (obviously) still a highlight, there’s no cafe in this location. But don’t worry, after you’ve enjoyed play time, story time, or concert time at Books and Cookies, hop across the street to Shoop’s Deli for a midday heap of to-die-for caramelized banana pancakes and coffee.
“I loved the old location – it was so hard to close – but this place has a much better flow for what we need. I’m really excited to be open again to the community. And I’m happy to see parents and kids here having fun and learning!” said Chudney, just before she greeted all the kids at the grand re-opening party with a song. (And, in case you’re wondering, yes, the daughter of Diana Ross inherited her Mom’s gorgeous voice.)
In her new location, she has created a bright world filled with heart and imagination, literature, sweets and fun, and now you can visit that world any time.
Books and Cookies
2309 Main St.
Santa Monica
Phone: 310-452-1301
Online: booksandcookiesla.com
-Shannon Guyton
photo credit: booksandcookiesla.com, Shannon Guyton
