All For Kids Books & Music

I finally discovered All for Kids when my youngest turned two. That was two years too late. I love the wise and friendly staff, and I do all my b-day present shopping there. And, who can argue with supporting an indie book seller? They have AWESOME suggestions if you aren't sure what to buy. more

The minute you step in the door of All for Kids, it's like your childhood--only much, much better--is being revisited. There are colorful displays from the walls to the floor, huge collections of books on tape/CDs, three racks of hand puppets (three racks!) and more rolls of stickers than your average stationery store. What the store specializes in, though, (besides keeping kids and grown-ups alike amused) is books. Books, books, as far as the eye can see. Staff and reader recommendations abound (looking for the perfect bedtime book for your five-year-old? Look no farther), as well as places to cozy up to. The benches and forts that space out the store are nearly irresistible. (In our case, it was irresistible. See the photo: http://images.judysbook.com//53/64/00/1006453_orig.jpg ) All for Kids is sheer delight. All for Kids also has an event room, decorated with writings all over the walls. The list of visiting authors would leave some national bookstore chains green with envy. It's clear that the All for Kids is interested in fostering readership. I love All for Kids. I don't have kids, but I love this store. I could come here to look for gifts, but I think any occasion I have to stop by this store (located right behind the UVillage) will be one that I take. All for Kids is all for fun-loving grown-ups, too. more

When I was younger my mother used to take me to All for Kid's Books and Music several times a month to let me loose amongst the shelves and shelves of books. I really appreciate my mother for instilling the importance of reading in my life and All for Kid's was a great tool for doing so. The bookstore is chock full of new classics (Harry Potter displays included), yet still stocked with old classics and series (Nancy Drew, Boxcar Children, Goosebumps!). They organize the store well and it is easy to find an age/reading level appropriate book. All for Kid's is independently owned, no big chain logos here, and therefore the store actually has a bit of personality and class to it. Great childhood experience! more

Every time I go into All For Kids with my kids, we leave with armloads of books. We go there because I know that they will have that unique gift or just the right book to answer a need or interest in my family (when my daughter wanted to know more about anatomy, for example - try explaining that to a 3 year-old without an age appropriate book!). The service is wonderful. They are happy to help you find just the right book for that special situation. And while we are there looking for a specific book, we find many other treasures that we won't find in any of the big book stores. more

I love to support the independent bookstores, and this one is worth the trip. The staff is so helpful and knowledgeable. A great place for kids' books, music, and toys. They also have story hour for preschool-age kids on Tuesdays at 10:30. Yippee! more

All For Kids Books is an inviting shop near University Village. There are very few bookstores that cater exclusively to children, and this one does it extremely well. All For Kids hosts some of the top children's authors and illustrators from around the world. The walls of the book talk room are covered with quotes, signatures, and doodles from many of these great authors and illustrators. After an author or illustrator has visited, they will sign additional copies of their books. There are often autographed copies of books on the shelves here! This is a great, local independent and I strongly encourage everyone to visit this store! more

i like this bookstore because of the warm and homey feel it has, unlike many national-chain bookstores today. it may not me as big as your typical barnes & noble, but it basically has any book I've ever wanted, and then some. I'd say that the selection of music is about 50/50 cassete tapes and CD's, and mostly geared toward kids who are newborn to 7 years old or so. it has a playhouse for keeping more active kids busy, and of course books for the more focused ones. major authors often come to do author talks, and among others, I've heard Jack Perlutsky (pardon the last name spelling) (author of several Shel Silverstein style books of poetry, such as A Pizza In The Sky) and Avi (author of many young adult novels such as Poppy & Rye). they have a room designated for these talks, and any author who comes signes one of the formerly plain white walls, creating a unique effect. I would definately go here if you can! more

Children’s books aren’t just for children! The best books appeal to people of all ages on different levels, and Shauni Hazelitt of All For Kids just might be one of the subgenre’s biggest fans. This independently owned bookstore offers a variety of resources: a good range of current releases with tried-and-true backlist items, the full line of Folkmanis puppets, music, character-themed trinkets, and more. Authors love to do book signings here, and the Seattle Storyteller’s Guild meets at the store on a regular basis. Sometimes there is original art by renowned illustrators to admire. Parking is limited, but I’ve never had trouble finding a space. more

If you're in the market for any wooden puzzles from Melissa & Doug (and you should be because they are absolutely the BEST) this is the *only* place to go. I've never seen so many choices! This store also has a plethora of wonderful CDs and lots of musical instruments for kids. The books are for both kids, young adults and adults and there is a very nice selection. Once again, this isn't your typical mall toy store and is definitely worth a stop. more