Books & Music
As a buyer for the Phoenix Shop, I carry books that I hope reflect the beauty and magic of Big Sur, as well as the wonderful diversity of people who visit us here.
We carry the largest selection of
local-interest books in Big Sur, from the purely
artistic to the historical and technical. You will
find gorgeous coastal, wildflower, and wildlife
photography. Guides to regional plants, animals, and
hiking trails are available for those who wish to
delve deeper into the nature and ecology that make
the area so unique. Many books have been written on
the history of Big Sur, from the indigenous Esselen
and Ohlone peoples who were the original inhabitants
of this coast, to the hardy pioneers when the area
was still part of Mexico, through the beat scene of
the 1950s, and finally including the current
attractions of Highway 1, the nation’s first
official Scenic Highway. Many well-known authors and
poets have roots here, including Henry Miller, Jack
Kerouac, John Steinbeck, Robinson Jeffers, and
Robert Louis Stevenson. Kaffe Fassett, the
internationally known textile artist, grew up here
and we always have his books in stock. The Central
Coast is also graced by many talented chefs, and
cookbooks from Esalen, Tassajara, Sierra Mar, and of
course our own incredible Nepenthe are some of our
most popular items.
The Phoenix bookstore also includes a
wide selection of bestsellers, classics,
prize-winners and other excellent literature for
summer and all seasons. From Jane Austen and Anthony
Burgess to Kurt Vonnegut and Alice Walker, there’s
something perfect for every reader. And if you are
looking for a gift, we always have plenty of
beautiful “coffee-table” books on topics as diverse
as the life of Marilyn Monroe, the art of Alex Grey,
and the cultural phenomenon of the Airstream
trailer. We can also special order any book in
print.
In our metaphysics and religion
section, I try to stay true to the expansive and
inclusive vision of our founder Lolly Fassett, with
books on the many ancient worldwide religious
traditions, as well as newer philosophical and
spiritual thought by authors as diverse as Eckhart
Tolle, Don Miguel Ruiz, Ram Dass, and the Dalai
Lama.
We also have DVDs on a wide variety
of topics, especially spiritual and local subjects.
The music department is not only stocked with
current and classic pop artists, but includes a wide
variety of jazz, meditation, lounge, and world
music, as well as the offerings of local musicians.
So, I invite you to browse the
amazing array the book and music sections offer. You
will be surprised and delighted by the unexpected
titles that you will find. Settle into a reading
chair and get to know a new author, or find the
classic that you “missed” reading in high school.
Listen to a hot new singer/songwriter, or pick up a
copy of that CD you grew up loving. Most of all, I
hope you have fun!
Ivy Lavelle, Book Buyer |
