Books / Bookshops
‘Escapist’ bookshop opens
A new independent bookshop that is encouraging its customers to “slow down and dream” has recently been opened.
Lost in the Reads is promising to offer more than a quick browse and a bestseller.
The new bookshop, founded by Antoinette Forbes, has introduced itself as a place to slow down, put phones aside and spend time with a book to “read, retreat and reconnect”.
Located in Kings Chase Shopping Centre, the shop combines books with a small co-working space, with offerings of coffee and brownies.
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Forbes, who is managing director of Eto & Flo, previously supported other small businesses through strategy and branding.
She said she wanted to create a space rooted in the local community rather than focused on fast transactions.
“I’ve always believed bookshops are sanctuaries, not just shops,” she said.
“I wanted to build something that genuinely gives back.”
The new bookshop, founded by Antoinette Forbes, has introduced itself as a place to slow down, put phones aside and spend time with a book to “read, retreat and reconnect”
The stock ranges from children’s books and fantasy to fiction and non-fiction, with special emphasis given to Bristol authors and independent publishers.
The team is also planning author readings, workshops and partnerships with local schools.
Designed to be calm and accessible, Lost in the Reads offers a place to browse, read or work without pressure of purchase.
Forbes said she wants visitors to leave “feeling calm, seen and inspired — like a small exhale in the middle of the day”.
The new bookshop is encouraging its customers to “slow down and dream”
The shop also supports Book Aid International and is launching a crowdfunding campaign to provide local care workers with free books and access to quiet space between shifts.
All photos: Andrea Bristol
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