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Bodhi Tree Bookstore - CLOSED
Category: Shopping Books, Mags, Music and Video Bookstores Bookstores [Edit]
8585 Melrose AveWest Hollywood, CA 90069
Neighborhood: West Hollywood
(310) 659-1733
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
126 reviews for Bodhi Tree Bookstore
Review Highlights
126 reviews in English
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Review from Reza B.
Los Angeles, CA
1/1/2012 2 Check-ins Here
We live in interesting times. The rate of change and, by extension, growth, accelerates every day; so much so that in just ten years, we will all live in a world we would scarcely recognize today.
Bodhi Tree, is just one of many examples of this "new reality" we all live in--it closed on December 31, 2011. To say I'm sad to see it go is an understatement. I feel like what I'm writing is a Requiem more than it is a Review.
Bodhi Tree represented a community focal point and and a refuge that celebrated the full spectrum of the Human Experience. If you walked in there on any given day you could read books ranging from Physics and Politics to Theosophism and Astral Projection. This isn't to say the same cannot be accomplished at other brick-and-mortar book stores, or even online, but the truth is that Bodhi Tree exposed these topics with a grace and sincerity that I have never encountered at any of the larger book stores out there and certainly not on the Internet.
I would take my dog in with me and the staff would gush over her and give her treats. There was always a complimentary pot of tea brewing and the place always smelled like... enlightenment.
Bodhi Tree was more than just a store, it was an anchor within a community. People congregated there to learn, to share, and to expand their nature. As the world changes there is so much to celebrate and infinite reasons for optimism, but all of this doesn't change the fact that I will miss the Bodhi Tree Book Store.
I hope that the 21st Century brings us back to the things that matter the most and that the pace of change is tempered with the pace of life... -
Review from Sam L.
1/20/2012
Really? I had no idea this place was closed.
I've been several times... mostly for my philosophy classes... and this place has always been bizarre.
I have a jewelry box from here... made from some sort of wood... with carvings...
I don't know. This place was interesting... a bit too "out there" for my taste... but something worth experiencing...
I don't really know what else to say about this place.
The tea always was odd. I'll just leave it at that. -
Review from Ceaser F.
Santa Monica, CA
12/5/2011
Yes I give this place 5 stars, its an amazing book store.All sorts of new age, and enlightenment books, many OSH and Bagwan books, where else can you find these genre of books ? Thanks for the wonderful books store.
update: I didn't know that it closed, thats too bad, where is another bookstore like it ? -
Review from Katie S.
11/28/2011
I fell in love with this bookstore when I was a ten year old. I remember my uncle taking my here and talking about, what were then, foreign concepts for a Catholic school girl. He loaded my hands with books about spirituality, metaphysics, and psychology. The place smells rich, of love and books.
Later, I came to The Bodhi Tree for readings, books, and Buddhas. I have been there countless times and have yet to be disappointed. As Andrea L. says, "The energy in this place is amazing. You can feel it". I totally agree. This is what bookstores is meant to be: a place of learning and discovery. In this era of newness, there is something so wonderful and decadent about The Bodhi Tree.
This is a great bookstore to expand your horizons and experience something very "LA". -
Review from Philip C.
Los Angeles, CA
1/1/2012
Sadly, now closed
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Review from Eduard G.
Los Angeles, CA
9/23/2011
This place has the largest selection of spiritual books i have ever seen.
They are the primo store about spiritual books and mumbo jumbo, I am not into spirituality but my girlfriend is and she has been trying to introduce me too it (kind of succeeding) =D
I will defiantly be back. -
Review from Leonard A.
West Hollywood, CA
Updated - 8/12/2011
THE BODHI TREE GOES ON!
Just received this email:
===============================
To Bodhi Tree Bookstore Friends,
Some good news, we have received and accepted a "Letter of Intent to Purchase Assets of Business" from Karuana Gatimu and Lori Cutler. The Bodhi Tree has been interviewing different groups and individuals about purchasing and continuing the business to take it to the next paradigm of knowledge and service for the community of seekers. We feel that Karuana and Lori's hearts are in the right place and we are very optimistic that this new relationship will be in the best interest to continue the legacy of the past 41 years.
Their intention is to enhance, expand, and energize the mission of the Bodhi Tree with 21st century technology and tools. Karuana and Lori are dedicated to continue to provide a comprehensive selection of books, educational events and holistic services to people of any and all spiritual paths.
As details of a new location and design come into being, we will keep you informed.
During this transition please continue your patronage and let your friends know in everyway you can that the Bodhi Tree is moving on without missing a beat.
Stan and Phil
8-10-2011Listed in: Culture, Education, Service…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/4/2008
NAME: Bodhi Tree Bookstore
TYPE OF PRODUCT OR SERVICE: The city's preeminent bookstore on… Read more »
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Review from Sila L.
Los Angeles, CA
7/28/2011
I love Bodhi Tree Bookstore. I enjoy reading very much, and I real a lot of books to my kids too, so we all go there together and choose new books every now and then.
The staff is helpful, and there's a good vibe altogether. -
Review from Mike C.
6/23/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Having been to over 100 metaphysical book stores and even owning one myself a few years ago, Bodhi Tree beats them all, hands down.
This place has everything in our genre and an amazing environment (nice smell of incense, hot tea, scattered chairs and benches throughout) to pick a few items off the shelves, relax, read a little, and decide on what you want to purchase.
They also offer a VIP 10% discount card, which for me, has paid for itself many times over.
Aside from a gigantic book selection, their magazine rack is kept current, you'll find incense, yoga mats, meditation tools, crystals, decks, self-improvement courses on audio and DVD, and much more.
I've been coming here for 2 years and hope they manage to stay open, or relocate. Apparently, they have a deal in the works to sell the building and it's unknown as to whether or not the new owners would be willing to lease it out to whoever bought the Bodhi Tree.
I just can't imagine this place closing or even relocating under new ownership. The current management/ownership has it nailed down. This place is unique and will never be the same otherwise, but let's at least hope someone comes along to make an attempt. Amazon/Barnes & Nobles will never cater to this audience and provide the atmosphere the Bodhi Tree does. -
Review from Candice G.
Mid Wilshire, Los Angeles, CA
9/1/2011
This place is a bit dingy for me. I don't mind my books being old but not that old.
I loved the variety they.
Only went that one time and have been back since but I think it is worth a visit. -
Review from Sharr K.
6/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
Oh how I love you Bodhi Tree. It has been a while since my last visit cause I overheard they were closed. But then I stopped by last week and that place don't look like it's going nowhere. I love everything in that store. I'm a book junkie and it takes me several hours to make it from one corner to the other. I love the ceramic incense holder in their bathroom....and I got me the same one that day, lol!
Those who read my reviews know that I get a bit cranky with parking in general.....and I dished out $5 for a valet. Bodhi Tree reimbursed the money back....how cool is that?!?! The best part....is stopping by Urth Caffe down the street, after.Listed in: In and around WeHo...
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Review from Stephanie K.
Upland, CA
6/7/2011
I've been hearing about the Bodhi Tree bookstore for many years, but had never driven over to West L.A. to check it out until recently.
I wish I hadn't waited so long. This place has everything that any avid spiritual/religious/New Age/esoteric reader would want. They also have really cool and creative gifts, such as crystals, pendants, statues, wind chimes, bracelets, Native American dream catchers, and more.
I also wish it wasn't so far from me. If it were much closer, I'd be there all the time, literally. -
Review from DeCarlo B.
Los Angeles, CA
2/25/2011
I never really considered myself a nerd so to speak but given the fact that this bookstore is one of my favorite stores in L.A. says a lot. I think since I was first introduced to this store in 2006 I was literally hooked. Anyone I met who had the slightest of curiosity in spirituality I would always ask if they have been here. I remember having this feeling of gratitude for the friend who showed it to me and I always wanted to share that gift with other people.
Just the concept of having so much concentrated knowledge in one store turns me on. I can remember on many occasion just walking in there with a question on my mind and being lead to the perfect book. I don't know if the Angels and unseen beings in that store get paid for leading people to the book they want but they should put out a tip jar.
Ok so beyond that just the entire decore of it. I love that they have complimentary tea that they put out, it really sets the mood for me. And they always have some great soothing meditation type music playing. It's such a great place to have the ambiance of higher learning. In addition to the great classes and free seminars that they have as well. I have heard some really great lectures at the Bodhi tree.
If you are a lover of spiritual books and perifanelia I highly suggest you go to the Bodhi tree. I hope the new location they pick for it is still in L.A. I think wherever they go will most likely be better and lets hope they actually have PARKING.
KEEP THE BODHI TREE ALIVE! -
Review from randy d.
Los Angeles, CA
4/12/2011
This place is amazing. It looks tiny outside but its pretty big. amazing selection of books and helpful staff. Maybe too helpful...?
The guy at the register was having a full convo about a book to his customer and one woman in line cut him off. "Heller? Like my car is on a meter"...
Free valet over 15 bucks fyi
Bought an amazing book called Art and Soul... and some incense..
Dope -
Review from Jackie B.
Los Angeles, CA
4/9/2011
One of my favorite bookstores. They have cool lectures. And a great selection on spirituality and metaphysical items.
They have the used book section in the back - for those who want to spend less. I don't know what's the new status of their TRANSITION. But man a store like this needs to stay nearby! Well we'll find out this fall.
And if you need a caffeine or tea fix - walk over to urth! love it! -
Review from Jennifer S.
North Hollywood, CA
12/16/2011
Hey all: Sad news! Was at the Bodhi Tree today and saw the sign on the outside: closing December 31st! Apparently, from what I could gather, the building has been sold and if the bookstore is to continue on, it will be at a different location. I heard a few other things while walking around the shop, but since it seems very hush hush, and all unconfirmed, it wouldn't really be appropriate to print them here. However, there is information on their website about their transition so if you're a fan, it's something you might want to look into ASAP! I didn't go to the Bodhi Tree all that often as an adult but as a teen I went there quite often and it was just such a cool place. Right now they have a 30% off sale for those who want to shop. I was sad to see the sign outside and really hope that they are able to find a brick-and-mortar place to move into soon.
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Review from Barry W.
Updated - 12/10/2010 1 photo
*** Hmm why all the rumors that Bodhi Tree moved? ***
I dunno, but Mini-me and I stopped by for a visit yesterday.
It remains in tact and as serene as always. I bought some
incense and a motivational book. Mini-me gotta hardback on
ghosts, his latest fascination these days. A cool kid's section.
*** Bodhi Tree, I hope you never move ... you're an anchor. ***Listed in: Shop Spots
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/15/2009
*** This review is dedicated to Angella S ... ;) ***
Ever feel like your good karma is slipping away?… Read more »
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Review from Leah D.
9/2/2011
I have always loved the Bodhi Tree bookstore. It's quiet, clean, serene, and loaded with books and assorted knick-knacks relating to a vast array of spiritual traditions. There will be things here that enlighten you , that challenge you, that go right over your head, things that are not aimed at you and things that may seem like crackpottery to you. But odds are in some little nook or other you will find something that speaks to you, be it a book or a sculpture or an art object. Great place to look for a gift for a fellow seeker. I was sad to hear they might be closing; now it sounds like they will stay open, and I'm thrilled.
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Review from Andrea L.
6/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
The energy in this space is amazing. You can feel it. There is peace here. This is not just a book store, its a haven for the heart, body and soul. Sadly, despite it being my latest treasure find in West Hollywood, its closing soon. Unable to compete with the Internet and large chain corporations, I'm sure it will likely be replaced by a shallow boutique featuring the latest fashions for anorexics... sigh. Come and experience this special place for yourself before it becomes part of Melrose Ave. history. Namaste.
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Review from brenda t.
Los Angeles, CA
9/22/2011
My escape place in the heart of the city. I LOVE THIS STORE!!! I can and have spent hours here just tucked away in corners reading books from the shelves. Best selection of new age, alternative anything. Where else can you pick up a deck of Angel Healing Oracle cards, Rosicrucian teachings, Past life hypnotherapy audio cd's and some sage sticks?
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Review from christine y.
Los Angeles, CA
11/30/2011
I am so sad that the Bodhi Tree is no more! This bookstore rocked my world for the last 12 years. I bought so much stuff here and I appreciate the fact that they always allowed me to bring my pets. I will always treasure the gift objects that I bought here which are not always easy to find.
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Review from Jenifer J.
Los Angeles, CA
8/6/2010
4 things you will never (gratefully so) encounter at the Bodhi Tree Bookstore:
1) My sister.
She's into organized religion. Be glad you won't bump into her there, otherwise she would be chasing you around with a watchtower magazine.
2) Cafe Mochas
You don't get them here. You get tea and you be grateful. Herbal tea in a paper cup, which you pour yourself. People come from miles around and go crazy for this tea. How do I know this? The pot is always empty by the time I show up.
3) Ninjas
The floors in The Bodhi Tree are wooden and creaky and more awesome than anything you will ever encounter. Which is why you will also never encounter a ninja in The Bodhi Tree, there is no way for them to sneak up on you...
4) Oprah's Book List Groupies
You're not on the lookout for Deepak's latest book, or what's on Oprah's to read list? Me either, in fact if you are, don't come to the Bodhi, we don't want you here. Stay somewhere that is most likely a sad chain store with no character where middle aged men think it's cool to look for someone to pick up on in the self help aisle. Ever run to the lesbian book aisle just to escape those people? ME TOO.
4 things you will without a doubt run into at the Bodhi:
1) The Bodhi Tree Cat: Pet him, he loves you. It's a cat in a bookstore, walking around greeting guests..for decades the Bodhi Tree Bookstore cats have been gracing our presence and we are thankful for you Bodhi Tree Cat.
2) The smell of incense: It's everywhere. It smells delicious. You will buy 6 packages of assorted incense trying to recreate that scent in your own home and you will never get it right. Never. Deal with it, it's the magic of the store.
3) Awesome people possibly wearing crystals and flowing skirts: Not a hippie? Me either. But you will love these people because they are genuine real deal, not some hipster chick who went to Forever 21 for the lastest BoHo look. This is some serious crystal pendant wearing sister of the light who loves you. Accept her smile. Bring the cat to her to pet, maybe get her some tea.
4) Me- Somewhere over the decades this place keeps me coming back...and now I find out it's going away..and in a world where things, unique magical places are torn down to make way for the newest Apple store or a Target, it breaks your heart. Where will we all go to nourish our soul, to read books while sipping tea and petting cats? I don't know, but it won't be Borders, I know that.
This store has always been the most calming perfect jewel on Melrose where you find something new, something different and always, something original. -
Review from Denise D.
8/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
A recent great discovery! Bodhi tree bookstore is so unique and extraordinary. The range of books they have are endless. Expect to find new and old books with enriching facts or fictions. I really enjoy the cosiness of this place in the midst of hectic Melrose Ave. Parking was a pain to find but if you valet and buy above a certain amount you get valet for free (:
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Review from Michael B.
Miami, FL
10/20/2010 7 Check-ins Here
Bodhi Tree is just an absolute favorite of mine. Such a chill atmosphere and such a great, quiet little place to sit and read and feel good energy.
They've got all the cool hippie stuff you could need. Himalayan pink salt rocks, yep! Delicious free tea, yep! Nag Champa incense, yep! Miniature buddhas...you betcha!
Check it out right away and keep this place alive, this is just the type of place we need to keep going strong here in LA. -
Review from Billy P.
Los Angeles, CA
11/16/2011
I hate doing this but after a lifetime of great service and amazing products and with their eminent closing just around the corner, this LA landmark has gone to hell in a hand basket. The counter staff is no longer helpful or courteous. In fact expect aggressive and exceptionally rude staff with complacent and defeated management. This is a good relationship gone horribly bad. Time to move on. Respect to the Bodhi Tree of yesteryear, adios to the ashes of what used to be.
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Review from Eric D.
Los Angeles, CA
The bodhi tree is a great bookstore and overall great experience. They have rare books compared to a Barnes & Nobles. Asides from great spiritual books they have a lot of funky incense as well as FREE TEA! lol GO HERE!
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Review from Kevin J.
Santa Monica, CA
4/28/2011
amazon etc did it in......................
get there while you can....its closing soon. -
Review from Laura P.
12/6/2010
I stumbled upon this book store as I was wandering around West Hollywood and I am so glad I did! This store has a huge selection of spiritual and new age books and the largest selection of tarot and fortune telling cards I have ever seen in one place.
They also have used books and like a said before a huge selection so it is definitely worth checking out if you are interested in that sort of thing. -
Review from Angela T.
Torrance, CA
3/7/2008 ROTD 8/21/2008
My metaphysic timeline:
Elementary school--I was terrified of Bloody Mary killing me and too scared to use the bathroom at night. Grandma resolved my issue by locking herself in the bathroom and chanting Mary's name into a mirror. She's still alive. (Thank, god!)
Middle School--I Ouija boarded with my little cousins. I couldn't spell well, and they were really young--who was movin' the pointer with Scrabble like precision? Very creeeepy.
High School--I met my "soulmate." Our, like, spirits, were like, sooo totally intertwined it was, like, unbelievable! My soulmate would totally call me and be like "Dude, what's wrong?" and I'd be like, "OMG, I can totally think of something that might be wrong! You're so in my head!"
College--My H.S. soulmate cheated on me, so I rebounded with a hippie, and became a Women's Studies Major. My hippie smelt like patchouli and took reiki classes. I felt at one with shrubbery and maple trees. One time a reiki master told me I taught her many spiritual lessons in a past life. It was sooo great to finally be appreciated.
Post-college--My rainbow is dead. More soulmates have (like totally) come and gone; I hate the smell of patchouli; I blame my early feminism for my inability to cook, and the only thing I reiki is the front lawn. Still no need for night lights. Still can't spell well. Still no Ouija explanation.
Had I found this store before my rainbow died, I would have gone gaga over all the rocks with powers, future telling playing cards, tree-spirit affirming text, and 'I am woman hear me roar' greeting cards. My house would have also been decorated with its many bells, beads, wind chimes, Tibetan flags and white sage bundles. Now when I go in I'm completely uninspired. It's sad really. I'm naked without an aura, and all the gurus in training know it. Sometimes I'll try to fit in by drinking the free tea, and I wonder if it will have the same effect as Davidian Kool-Aid; It doesn't. Humph, I guess my pixie days are over, and the only people here who leave clapping are the ones who truly believe.Listed in: WeHo Women
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Review from Tal F.
West Hollywood, CA
9/3/2010
I love this place. I grew up nearby, and the Bodhi Tree has been a haven for me since I was a kid. I go there with either the objective of buying something, or if I just need to get out of the house and be somewhere comforting. I've spent hours at a time there.
There's always complimentary herbal tea (there are always at least two varieties available). It smells lovely because of the huge selection of incense. And the old wood floor creaks with every step you take. There are scattered chairs to sit and read in.
You'll find everything from common literature to peculiar books about the oddest things. All are intriguing nonetheless.
Just to name a few non-literary items they sell: trinkets from the Unemployed Philosophers Guild (if you haven't heard of them, Google them, they're great), jewelery, mala, essential oils, tarot cards, gem stones, candles, and so many other things.
The staff is friendly and very knowledgeable. Their customers are like the items they sell: diverse, quirky, and always interesting. It's nice to walk through and hear tidbits from conversations going on throughout.
Also, I've found some real treasure in the Used Bookstore section (behind the main store). I suggest going there first if you're looking for a particular book.
I always walk out of there feeling more enlightened than before. There's something about this place that makes it like nowhere else in Los Angeles. It's truly a gem.
And just to clarify: the store is open as is until the Fall of 2011. After that, it will likely be relocated. -
Review from William S.
Santa Clarita, CA
6/28/2008
Ahh, the Bodhi Tree.
Why do I feel so privileged to be reviewing a bookstore? Actually, I know why. And this is the reason why I searched for it so that I could do a write-up. I love this bookstore.
For the past couple of years, I've been more metaphysically-minded in expanding my awareness. Any ol' bookstore will have a section for you to check out. The section is usually called "Spiritual" or "Metaphysical" or "New Age"....sometimes "Occult." (I dislike that word.) Well, a good portion of the Bodhi Tree store carries stuff like that -- from esoteric acupuncture, acupressure, in depth-astrology, comparative religion/theosophy/theology, Ayurvedic medicine, Chinese herbs, etc...
Walking in here is like stepping into a soul bath. I feel refreshed, new, and all cuddly inside once I take a whiff of their incense section. (I love incense and anything for aromatic purposes.)
The staff, and employees behind the counter, are prone towards grumpiness. For such an enlightened and positive bookstore, there's certainly an odd choice of employees. If you seriously don't like working there, I'll do your job for free.
I usually walk away spending $25 to $40 whenever I visit. And then I'll head on out to Urth Cafe and read the goods I just bought. They also host a ton of free magazines that are actually good reads. So even if you don't feel like spending anything, you can walk away with a few mags located right in the entrance/exit way.
I'd love....LOVE...to give this 5 stars, but usually the employees (the younger ones anyway) come off pretty snobbish. If I could give this place 4 1/2 stars, I think I actually would. As I write this right now, I immediately recall a lady who totally helped me out when I went to see Jonathon Goldman lecture about his latest book, dealing with the healing power of sound. Apparently, if you spent $35 or over, you get a free gift bag. I had spent $34 and some change, and when I walked back up 20 minutes later, after my friend notified me of the goodies bag, I showed them my receipt. I asked if there was anything cheap enough I could buy to go over. She looked at the receipt and said, oh that won't be a problem and gave me a gift bag.
The gift bag was awesome. Not only was it a bag made of organic material, it contained nutrition bars, a nice book, a dvd, some coffee powder, and loads of other stuff.
They had two different bag designs, though. And I sheepishly went up there after the lecture was over to see if I can switch to the other, much cooler-looking bag, She said she agreed with me and made the switch without a fuss.
How cool is that. I don't use the bag much, but it's the principle that counts. And after this review, I think I'm going to go and dig it up now and...do something with it. Like put stuff and carry it. Maybe. Perhaps some day later. Not right now.
4 stars for this place, plus an extra 1/2 for the awesome gift bag.Listed in: Zen Spots
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Review from Matt C.
Los Angeles, CA
9/24/2011
What a great shop! The atmosphere is very inviting, and the staff was very friendly. I'll definitely be shopping there more often!!
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Review from Tracy C.
Los Angeles, CA
3/5/2007
Only one store in LA of its kind! Self-help, astrology, witchcraft/magic, buddhism, homeopathy, meditation, tarot, recovery, whatever spiritual topic rocks your boat, you'll find it here. They also have a great magazine section with magazines like body+soul, natural living, all those great mags promoting eco-friendliness, holistic beauty, organic food, spirituality, etc. Can't forget the cds; they've got your yoga, meditation, and relaxation music along with trance for your Enigma lovers. Btw, if you need a wind chime, this is the place to go. =)
They have an ongoing calendar of events with booksignings, psychic readings, meditation classes, and motivational speakers. Fyi, I think I read that a psychic reading is like $30 for 15 min.
Free tea while you're browsing the store. Crappy parking. Open till 11pm. -
Review from Nancy Y.
Los Angeles, CA
Updated - 3/15/2010
Go now to experience this place before it closes for good.
Bodhi Tree Bookstore Is Closing: Bad News for Buddhists
http://blogs.laweekly....Listed in: Five Stars in HellA, City of Angels, Shopping - This & That, Books
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/13/2007
A super cool shop that sells new and used books on topics that are not always credible to the… Read more »
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Review from Shazie P.
Marina del Rey, CA
10/24/2007
Thank God..Or shall I say...
Thank Shiva..Krishna..Parusha...Buddha...The Divine mother...Baby Jesus (sounded good?)....The Dalai Lama...Kali Ma... Sai Babba...Amma Gee...and Mother Earth....for this book store!!!! Finally a place of sanity and answers On Melrose! I go here often and always check the used books first... as my motto goes, "bargains first!"... Not really my motto, but you get the point! Lots of fascinating books on topics that make me know for certain what my life's purpose is. Amazing talks....The topics are intellectual and I can spend hours here... Maybe, if we could get everyone in this bookstore just once to read books we would have a more peaceful, loving and compassionate experience on earth! -
Review from Mandy H.
Glendale, CA
11/4/2011
I love the Bodhi Tree Bookstore. Especially the old bookstore in the back. I have read hundreds of their books. And I love that you get to drink their tea and just hang out and read there. The cat is a nice touch too. Best bookstore I have ever been in.
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Review from Katherine N.
Santa Monica, CA
7/30/2008
I love this store. It feeds your craving for SPIRITUALITY AND I LOVE IT!!! although its trendy location next to Urth Cafe makes it a bit hard to find parking.
Their incense and home accesories are great.
Their books create a great library to choose from. And author appearances are good too!
Oh and did I mention they're open late? -
Review from Ani P.
11/7/2007
I absolutely love the free tea. The tea is actually quite good and I was shocked to find out it was Celestial Seasons.
The bookstore is huge and has tons of very "alternative" books. Very cool. I didn't buy any books b/c I'm more a library girl. I was tempted though!
The men are seedy. Maybe these alternative older (much older) guys are really into brown girls, makes them feel cultured??? I had lots of older men (let's say interesting men to be kind) come up and hit on me. I was trying to just read my book and sip on some damn free tea. I think the toothless guy who approached me got a dose of too much self-confidence from the self help books. -
Review from Beth T.
Los Angeles, CA
12/15/2008
This is the closest alterna-lifestyle bookstore/gift store that I have found to my beloved Elysian Fields back home.
It's packed with books on all types of spirituality, great candles and medallions, tapes, good incense...well, pretty much everything if you have the curiosity to learn about other beliefs and ideas or just want to buy a pretty gift.
...Oh, and by packed I mean it can be a bit overwhelming with everything in there. It's essentially three rooms of library-style books with nooks of gifts here and there. I do love walking around on the wood floors and the customer service is quite good. My mother came out to visit and had this place on her list but she left with nothing and was un-impressed. I mean it's LA right? One would think it would have a leg up over a store in a small town in Florida.
So the prices aren't great and while it's a decent substitute, I am spoiled with my store from back home. But since you know no better I would say check it out if you are in the area. I bet you will find the inspiration you are looking for and maybe open your mind to something new. -
Review from Andrea Z.
Los Angeles, CA
6/2/2008
Your one stop bookstore for anything spiritual.
From Buddhism to Witchcraft, Christianity, and everything else there is!!
Awesome books, candles, tarot cards, pendants, incense, postcards, tea, etc, etc, etc!!!
Bought myself a copy of "Be Here Now" by Ram Dass.
