Sleepy Cat Books

Going to sleepy cat always brings me so much comfort and joy! The owner Jeff and his cat Lyla are incredibly lovely. I also appreciate the wide selection of Asian authors and literature they carry. They always give you a cute cat bookmark with every book you buy 🙂

They KNOW great books here. Super well-curated book store, great staff recommendations table if you are browsing. A hidden gem in Berkeley. Must get me a tote next time.

I would’ve loved to leave another good review for this bookstore, but unfortunately my experience didn’t warrant it. I was already having a terrible day, and this truly added to it. I was so excited to visit the infamous cat bookstore in town and enjoy the good vibes. However, when I politely asked if I could pet the cat, the owner instantly said no and made me feel very uncomfortable. I was extremely polite and kind, yet I received such harsh responses.nnI knew the cat was extremely social, so I made sure to ask kindly. When I then asked if I could take a photo of the adorable cat, he responded by saying the cat was “camera shy.” Honestly, the whole interaction left me feeling awkward, sad, and unwelcome—just for asking to pet a seemingly friendly cat. Also, this bookstore's whole Instagram acc is pictures of the cat :((( I guess the owner just didn't want me taking any pictures unlike any other customer.nnSo if you’re like me, hoping for a chill time and maybe a chance to pet the cat, you may only find books about cats and an unfriendly owner instead.nn10/10 recommend the bookstore across the street for much friendlier and more welcoming staff.

Sleepy Cat Books is a must-stop for any book or cat lover! I was thoroughly excited by the assortment of books, postcards, and “staff picks” tables. Due to the chic layout of the store, I was surprised when most of the titles were used! The owner does an excellent job in variety and I found many historical fiction novels I was interested in. Most of all, the customer service is outstanding, as Jeff and Lyla are so so sweet! True to the shop’s name, Lyla was sleeping.nIf you’re looking for a charming book shop, be sure to make this a stop when you’re in the area.

What makes an excellent Indie bookstore? It's in the name. Sleepy Cat Books was something I happened upon while adventuring in Berkeley. You should adventure too.nnHappily I found a copy of the international bestseller, The Travelling Cat Chronicles. I finished it yesterday. If you have not read it, do! For me it was as if I was revisiting my time in Japan.nnIt's as if the bookshelves know what you are looking for and provide the answer. It is important for me to spend dollars when I am in another city. How fortunate I feel to be introduced to this shop.