Centuries & Sleuths Book Store

II think I just walked through a portal in time, back to the antebellum south. Rows and rows of books marked «Anglo American Authors,» and a Confederate Flag on a shelf in the back. Not spending money here; one of the few times I’d rather give money to the multinational than to a local business in my community.
#Disgusted

Just popped in on a random Sunday with my mom. We just took a stroll around the store which has great décor and ambiance. The owner or whoever was working was very helpful. He suggested novels and also mentiond the various groups that meet in the bookstore. We grabbed a bundle for 5 bucks and enjoyed the rest of our day. I’m not local but if I was I’d come to this book store much more and probably would even join a club or two.

For many years, I have driven past Centuries and Sleuths saying, «I really have to check that place out». Finally I did and it was well worth the trip. As the name suggests, the store specializes in history and mystery books. You will find history books from all periods and both classic and modern mysteries. This is such a fun place to visit. In terms of books, some of the highlights include the Sherlock Holmes and G.K. Chesterton collections. In fact, there is even a G.K. Chesterton book club group that meets here.
The history books range from ancient to modern and cover many different countries. In the back of the store, there is a rack of local history books too. You can find information on Oak Park, Forest Park, Midway Airport, the cemeteries, haunted places, and other local landmarks. I think teachers might enjoy this place. There are tons of Dover coloring books covering many historical periods.
In addition to the books, there are lots of intriguing models and figures on top of the bookcases. When I visited, I saw castles, ships, and other figurines. My guess is these trinkets are decorations only and not for sale. Last but not least, Centuries and Sleuths even has a fake morgue! I think that’s fitting for a place so focused on dead authors and the distant past.

Why am I just finding out about Centuries and Sleuths now? This place is super-​cool! Augie, the proprietor is way knowledgeable about books, skilled at hosting discussion groups and if that was not enough, Centuries and Slueths brings in great authors like Erik Larson and John Connelly for signings and discussion.
The kids section is not large but it ihas a lot of unique stuff. There is the possibility that this place has just the title you are looking for that may just make the perfect gift for someone. And you never know, you may just find an author-​signed copy sitting right on the shelf. Oh and, there are lots of hard bound books specially priced at $ 7.00 — $ 10.00 and bundles of paperbacks for $ 5.00.
If you have not stopped here before, do so. It is a great neighborhood place. Lots of character and personality.

I agree with Nancy K. They bring in many authors, both local and out-​of-​town, for meet-​and-​greets. Several book discussion groups keep the shop lively. Augie really knows his material and is very helpful when you are looking for a particular book. It’s sad to see small bookstores on the wane, and I’m so happy that this one is faring decently well. Give them a try!

Not really what I was expecting in this neighborhood… A book store?!? Not saying that people in this area don’t read but because there are about 40 bars along this strip of Madison and all I’ve ever seen in this area are drunks. Then again this has always been at night.
Centuries & Sleuths it’s not just any book store, it’s dedicated to nothing but biographies, histories, and mysteries. That’s exactly what you’ll find and maybe a few fictions tossed in here and there for good measure. The store book lady was polite and after asking me if I needed anything left me alone to peruse the selections. After my purchase she proceed to tell about the book discussion they have pretty regularly and then sent me off with a smile. Prices can be a little steep but how do you expect
Though none of these are particular genres that I get into but I did walk away with an unlikely find (to which even the bookstore clerk was surprised they had it), it was Pride and Prejudice and Zombies in a comic book form. How cool is that! I’d go back again, you never know what you’ll find in some places.

I don’t care for «mysteries» all that much, but do enjoy «histories». Smallish and comfortable, with a nice quiet selection to browse.
Look for the historical coloring books and paper dolls in the back!

I love this store. Every time I go in, I feel like it should be arainy day with a fire going and a nice mystery book to relax you.
Who needs Watson when you have Centuries & Sleuths?