RAVEN USED BOOKS (1156 Mass. Ave.)
Opened just two weeks ago, this used bookstore specializes in scholarly used books. Most books are brand-new remainders being sold at one-third of the cover prices, so you can finally pick up that Bukowski you’ve been meaning to read for a mere $6.95. On your way out, don’t forget to pick up a free complimentary Thelonious Monk or Isabelle Eberhardt bookmark.
PANDEMONIUM BOOKS (36 John F. Kennedy St.)
If you’re the last person who hasn’t read the Lord of the Rings trilogy, you can buy the set at this science-fiction bookstore for $3.50. Or if newer fiction is what you’re looking for, Pandemonium offers such choice picks as Carpe Demon: Adventures of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom.
COMMONWEALTH BOOKS (134 Boylston st., facing Boston Common)
Listen to the soft sounds of classical music as you peruse many first editions in their original leather bindings. Check out Commonwealth’s selection of used history books, many in the original French, Spanish, or Italian, or its extensive used cookbook section (useful when HUDS gets to be too much).
GROLIER POETRY SHOP (6 Plympton st.)
Louisa Solano has owned this Square landmark for over 31 years. Its mixture of new and used books features poetry in English, German, Israeli, French, and many other languages. The store also boasts free Toscaninni’s coffee from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on Saturdays.
