{pages} : A Book Lover’s Stop in Manhattan Beach

There’s something about walking into a real bookstore. You can pick up a book, read the first few pages and discover something you weren’t looking for. You might pop in for a gift and leave with a novel for yourself, too. We fully support that sort of shopping.

At {pages} a bookstore in downtown Manhattan Beach, browsing is part of the pleasure. Take your time with the latest titles, find a cozy corner to read and ask the knowledgeable staff what they’re enjoying. Sometimes the best book recommendation comes from a conversation.

This women-owned, independent bookstore is a lovely stop whether you’re shopping for someone else, looking for your next book club read or spending an afternoon exploring Manhattan Beach.

A Local Business Built Around a Love of Books

Founded in 2010 by three local book lovers: Patty, Linda, and Margot, {pages} brought their shared enthusiasm for reading to the South Bay.

Today, the shelves offer a carefully chosen mix of fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, cookbooks, surf titles, coffee table books and bestsellers. There’s plenty to browse, whether your idea of a good read is a thriller, a new recipe, or someone’s memoir. And if you’re unsure where to start, ask. The staff can help match a reader with a book, which is particularly useful when your gift-shopping.

A Lovely Place to Shop for Gifts

If you’re looking for gifts in Manhattan Beach, {pages} is a good place to begin.

A cookbook for the friend who always hosts. A beautiful coffee table book for someone’s new home. A story to share with a grandchild. Or a novel you can give with the words, “I thought you’d love this.”

Books feel personal, and having someone help you choose makes the process easier. Complimentary gift wrapping means you can leave with your present ready to give. There are also gift cards for readers who enjoy choosing their own next adventure.

Author Events, Signings and Conversations

The books are only part of what makes {pages} special. The store also hosts author events and book signings, weekly story times, and monthly book clubs, giving readers plenty of reasons to come back.

Hearing an author talk about their book adds something to the reading experience. You get to learn where the story began, what inspired it, and how it found its way onto the page.

One upcoming evening we’re looking forward to brings a little holiday spirit to Manhattan Beach.

Meet Lara Scott on November 12

On Thursday, November 12, 2026, {pages} will welcome Lara Scott, co-author of Main Street and Mistletoe, for an author conversation moderated by Laura Stotland of Local Anchor. Lara has been a Los Angeles radio host since 2000, so her voice may already be familiar. This is her first novel with Cori, written as a love letter to Los Angeles following the 2025 wildfires.

The evening begins with mixing and mingling from 5:30 to 6 p.m., followed by Lara’s presentation at 6 p.m. The event runs until 7 p.m. If you enjoy holiday novels with humor, second chances, and familiar Los Angeles settings, this sounds like one to add to your list.

Bring a friend and make an evening of it.

Make Time for a Browse

Next time you’re downtown, stop into {pages}. Ask for a recommendation, pick up something for a friend or give yourself a few minutes to browse without rushing. Supporting a local, women-owned business is even more enjoyable when you leave with a good book tucked under your arm.

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