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Categories: Comic Books, Bookstores [Edit]
Neighborhood: Brooklyn/Williamsburg - South SideMetropolitan Ave-Lorimer St (G, L)
Neighborhood: Manhattan/Greenwich Village
"When I think of bookstores and NYC, Strand comes to mind first. Cheap, wonderful selection, very much book focused (unlike other bookstores…" read more »
Really nice and friendly space, great collection of graphic novels, serials and mini-comics and zines; with many great finds on their spinny racks of handmade concoctions.
I have enjoyed their in-store events, and plan to keep my eye out for more. What's better than to come home with an issue of Lucky with your portrait drawn by Gabrielle Bell inside?
Not for the superhero crowd, which in my mind is what makes this little store a gem. I also adore the signage outside :)
When I first walked into Desert Island I was thrilled to see that they had runs of alternative comics and zines. They seem to be the only ones in this game on this side of Brooklyn. If you are looking for mainstream, you should hop a train to the other borough, but if you are looking for a playful jaunt into colorful runs of artistic genius, this is the place to go. The service is friendly and helpful and they are willing to order stuff for you. I have to say I couldn't have been more excited when I picked up a couple of reprints of Ed the Happy Clown. Who could ask for more from and alternative comic store? Plus they carry a whole line of novelties and jokes.
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Desert Island is an oasis of comics, zines, and a whole array of items that you aren't likely to find many other places. The atmosphere is relaxed and I always feel welcome to spend as much time as I want looking through the selection. It's a rare occurrence that I leave the store without at least something. It's well laid out and spacious yet manages to pack in a whole lot of interesting items without looking crowded.
I recently attended the Gabrielle Bell release/signing event and it was an evening of good conversation and great art!
I'm thrilled to have a store such as this so nearby and I go as often as I can since there's always something new to discover. Keep up the good work!
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Desert Island is more than just a comic store it's a brain child for excitement and explosions. My first visit included having Johnny Ryan sign a book for my Dad for Fathers Day...(a completely successful present!) It's a relaxed environment with comics that balance mainstream and unique. (my fav Optic Nerve) For people that either know a lot or are somewhat new to it, I was welcomed with open arms and I plan to check out their upcoming events.
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Hemmed into Metropolitan Avenue beneath a sign that reads "Sparacinos Bakery" is Williamsburg's first comic shop, Desert Island. Opened up in February, the small, yet seemingly roomy space boasts an impressive inventory ranging from outsider art rarities and local zines to popular serial comics like "Optic Nerve" and "Berlin." With a record always playing and a smrgsbord of visual treats to feast upon, Desert Island is easy spot for any comic connoisseur to get lost in.
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Seems to be a pretty bad business model, honestly. Catering towards the privileged, entitled hipsters that never spend any money on anything. The joint feels more like a vanity pet project than a store. Yeah, they've got some good stuff, but this is NYC. It's not hard to fine. With truly great comic shops close on various trains, I don't see why I need to come in here and smell the customers.
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