BookWorks
667 Lighthouse Ave., Pacific Grove (831) 372-2242, bookworkspg.com
This is a true family business, co-owned by mother-daughter team Margot Tegtmeier and Nell Carlson, both former employees. Carlson orders books multiple times weekly, keeping up with global best-sellers as well as local authors. You’ll see local interests reflected in the 4,000-some titles on the shelves, with an abundance of marine science and foreign language books, plus an excellent children’s section. “We know what our customers want,” Tegtmeier says. “We order more specifically than a big-box store. That’s our advantage for a small bookstore.” Carlson also oversees a tempting pastry and coffee selection in the store’s inviting cafe. If you’re going into orbit, you’ll need to bring good reading and strong java. Stock up.