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Children's bookshop in Brentwood.

It's quite small inside, but the walls are packed with books. All the stock is new, though there are a couple of "bargain baskets" containing low-priced options. One notable display contains a series of London guidebooks aimed at showing children some of the more unusual aspects of the capital.

Kake visited on a Friday afternoon in September 2015. The staff member on duty was happy to help me choose a gift for a four-year-old of my acquaintance, giving age-appropriate suggestions and not trying to force me into anything gendered. She also shared her experience of some of the books I'd been looking at, which was very helpful.

They hold regular and one-off events such as storytelling sessions, creative writing sessions, writing competitions, and meet-the-author events, all listed on their website.

Accessibility: Two large steps to get in, with a sturdy handrail on one side. A sign on the door states that prams are welcomed and that the staff are happy to help get these inside.

See also:

• Books Are My Bag interview
• Bookshop Around The Corner article
• Brilliant Bookshops interview
• Essex Lowdown article