


We’ve reviewed Rakuten’s Kobo devices, which are another good way to read books without Amazon.While choosing an independent bookstore over a big box store is always better, you shouldn’t feel guilty about browsing their shelves. While Barnes & Noble and similar big box stores have long been seen as bad guys (thanks, in part, to You’ve Got Mail) - this article lays out a compelling and complicated argument in favor of Barnes & Noble.Books-A-Million is often included as a good place to buy books, but after being named one of America’s worst companies to work for (and only marginally improving since then), we do not feel comfortable recommending them.

Oh - and it turns out that Amazon also owns Book Depository, ComiXology, Brilliance Audio, Booksurge, and Shelfari.While Abe Books is included in many ‘Amazon alternatives’ lists - it’s actually owned by Amazon.It’s worth it to know that a writer or indie publishing house you love can keep doing the work they love because you chose to spend a few extra dollars.Ĭhoosing ethical and sustainable alternatives is a choice that thousands of people are intentionally making, in an effort to support other booksellers.īy the way, some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase after clicking a link, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. However, many smaller booksellers offer incredible exclusive products (signed copies, merch, and more), or even intimate events with your favorite authors. It’s a radical act to choose to buy books from a more ethical marketplace, knowing that you may be paying more than you’d pay with Amazon. (RIP Barnes & Noble or your favorite local book shop.)

They’re able to slash prices (sometimes to a point of losing money) to ensure they have the lowest price - in the hopes of making the money back from other purchases and means. Jeff Bezos initially founded Amazon as a bookselling empire, ultimately putting many physical bookstores out of business.Īmazon is able to leverage its massive scale to sell books for incredibly cheap. This article is a part of our ongoing series on Amazon Alternatives
