Book Revue and Beyond: How I Found My Vintage Book Treasures in Huntington, NY

Before there was Etsy, before eBay took off, there was a little piece of book-lover heaven tucked away in Huntington, New York. In the late 1990s, my version of a perfect weekend included browsing the aisles of a legendary independent bookstore: Book Revue (yes, spelled just like that).

It was more than just a shop, it was my temple. Floor to ceiling with books both new and old, rare and well-read, and best of all, lovingly curated and incredibly well-organized. That’s where I found so many of my vintage first editions, bought firsthand when they were still lining the shelves for under $30.

I wasn’t just collecting spines, I was collecting moments. One of my most vivid? In 1996, I waited in line for four hours to meet the gothic queen herself, Anne Rice. Decked out in head-to-toe black and velvet lace (as was only fitting), I finally got to the front of the line and handed her my book. She signed it with grace, mystery, and just the right touch of theatrical flair. That autograph still gives me chills.

Years later, I got to meet Neil Gaiman on his American Gods tour, also at Book Revue. Not only did he sign my well-worn copy of Mr. Punch, but he also drew a quick cartoon of the puppet on the title page. That doodle turned a great book into a one-of-a-kind keepsake.

Beyond Book Revue, Huntington in the '90s was a hidden treasure map of used bookstores and consignment shops. I picked up forgotten cookbooks, art deco design manuals, and out-of-print oddities that still feel like little miracles on my shelf. Huntington had a quiet magic then—a true book town, before that was a thing.

Now, years later, I’m offering a few of these gems to fellow collectors and readers through my Etsy shop. Every book has a story. Some of them even begin with me, standing in line in lace and velvet, dreaming of vampires and fairy tales.