A living, vivid recollection, filled with vivid images and amusing anecdotes, from a descendant of the founder of London's Foyles bookshop, recounts the history of his family and the family business, along with remarkable observations about the book trade—a field that 'defies commercial logic.' Anyone who, following in the footsteps of kings and presidents, scientists and writers, film stars, and, of course, ordinary visitors, visits this amazing bookstore on Charing Cross Road—whether in reality or through this book—will have a rewarding and enjoyable experience, as moments of magic and discovery so often occur in bookshops.
'The number of bookshops has halved since the turn of the century. Fortunately, this trend has reversed in the last few years, and their number in the UK has begun to gradually increase again.' Most of those that have survived the upheaval and managed to rebuild are thriving, and I am convinced that Foyles will too and once again become one of the most attractive places for book lovers the world over, with an unrivalled selection and staff who know their stuff. - Bill Samuel
More about the book
'For me, the name Foyles will always symbolise everything that is best about the wonderful world of books. Humour, courage, independence and the incalculable treasures that the printed word gives to humanity.' - Peter James

'In the maelstrom of algorithms, cookies, metadata and SEO, Foyles just keeps doing what it always does so well - introducing readers young and old to great books. Long may it continue.' - Claire Mackintosh

'There are many bookshops in the world, but Foyles is something else.' - Jasper Fforde