As a career writer, I may be biased, but there's just something magical about books and local bookshops. Books have the power to transport you to faraway lands, putting distance between the stressors of reality and your personal world of solace. Local bookshops have a similar sort of magic... once you step through the doors, you're in a comforting world scented by bibliosmia and shielded by thousands of pages. The best bookstores near Cleveland each have their own vibe, attracting different sorts of readers with their various genres and offerings. I hope you have an ample supply of bookmarks ready, because these cool Greater Cleveland bookstores just might have you stocking up.

1. Black Cat Books & Oddities

As soon as Black Cat Books & Oddities opened its doors in Medina, I was getting texts telling me that I had to visit. And once you step inside, you'll understand the appeal. With two buildings just barely south of Medina Public Square, this cool bookstore and oddity shop has no shortage of selections. From local authors to indies and classics and everything in between, there's something here for every type of reader... including kids! You'll love the tastefully curated themes throughout each room, and don't forget to grab a few sticker packs to go. (I got a Shakespeare sticker pack for $2.50, and I swear that "Will power" one on my computer gets me through some tedious work days.)

2. Loganberry Books

Loganberry Books is absolutely a contender for the prettiest bookshop in Cleveland, and it's easily one of my favorites. Since 1994, this cool independent bookstore has carried some of the more unusual titles in Cleveland, and with more than 100,000 titles, there's something for everyone on their shelves. I've personally expanded my Easton Press classics collection here, and the kitty cat staff members offer service that'll make you smile. If you're planning a visit in the summer months, it doesn't hurt to coincide with Author Alley!

3. Goodwill Bookstore & Donation Center

Whenever I'm at Crocker Park, I always have to make a trip down the road to the local Goodwill Bookstore & Donation Center. This place is truly a bargain hunter's dream... I never leave without a full haul. Unlike most Goodwill shops, this one specializes almost exclusively in books. The store is filled with shelves categorized by genre, and you'll find everything from antique and vintage books to recent releases, all for a price you won't believe. Honestly, this is one of the few bookstores where you really don't need to set a budget before visiting... I think I spent around $30 on six or seven books last time I visited, and I only stopped shopping because I couldn't carry anymore.

4. Horizontal Books

Over in Ohio City, you'll find one busy little bookstore that won't break the bank. Horizontal Books is an overstock shop, so you'll find dozens of new and recent releases offered at less than full price. Plus, a regular cadence of additional discounts means the savings really add up. And as the stock is continually selling, growing, and changing, you really never know what you'll find... every visit is a treasure hunt! Personally, I love stopping in after swinging by the West Side Market.

5. Book Brothers

Locals know Lakewood as a haven for specialty shops, and the same is true when it comes to local bookstores. Book Brothers is nothing short of a hidden gem, located just down the street from the Malley's Chocolates ice cream shop. Visiting these two spots in the same day is a real sweet treat! From books to movies to games and records, this depository of knowledge is yours for the picking. And it's perfect for the hungry bookworm... you can sell your old items to them to get a bit of extra cash for your shopping spree! (Personally, I've never done that... I have a bad habit of hoarding books.) Cozy and quaint, this shop is one of the best kept secrets in Lakewood.

6. Visible Voice Books

Part bookstore, part bar, part local history. That's Visible Voice Books in Tremont. The old building used to house a funeral home, but it's now home to a pizza shop and the bookstore. If that's not enough to pique your curiosity, perhaps the frequent lineup of live entertainment and music will draw you in. Truly, this spot is an entertainment center for the average literature lover. It's relaxed, laid back, quiet, and filled to the brim with books. Don't forget to ask the staff for their current suggestions... their reads just might help you find your next favorite book!

7. Appletree Books

Out in Cleveland Heights, the Cedar Fairmount neighborhood is another spot known for its specialty shops, and Appletree Books is one of its shining stars. This independent bookstore is delightfully cozy, offering journals, puzzles, candles, and, of course, dozens of fantastic titles. Since 1975, this coveted local bookstore has delighted visitors with its selection of gifts and books. They don't sell used, so this is the best place to stock up on shiny new releases from the biggest publishers in the literary game.

These seven spots are among the very best bookstores near Cleveland, but any reader knows that this is only a small taste of the adventure bookshops offer. Are there any other local bookstores you'd add to this list? Let us know in the comments!

If you're a bookworm, you'll also want to add the Eastman Reading Garden to your local bucket list. It's at the Cleveland Public Library downtown, but it's like stepping into another world.