Warwick's

James Janssen

A friendly fountain pen department at this fine bookstore. While vacationing in San Diego I decided to see if there were any fountain pen shops down here. While there is not a whole store (other than the Mont Blanc store), the fountain pen area of the Warwick's bookstore had a decent selection of Pilot, Sailor, Lamy pens, and inks including Iroshisuku and Noodlers! But this review is in favor of the kindness and patience of a relatively new employee James. This young man allowed me to try a Pilot Custom 74 in fine and medium so I could make a decision down the road, and a Sailor Pro Gear Slim (I get the love of the gentle feedback of the 585 gold nib) . I had also wanted to see and feel a Lamy 2000 and see if what they say is true, that though it looks almost like a cheap felt pen from a distance, to handle it, is a different experience. The number places do this kind of thing are getting few and far between. If your from LA there is Vroman's in Pasadena, and Flax Pen to Paper in downtown (there used to be Fred Krinke's shop in Monrovia... sadness). So it was great to be able to go to Warwick's and dip a pen into some Ama-iro and try it on my own paper. Back to the store clerk James. He is early in his fountain pen hobby, but clearly interested. I asked him what his favorite ink was. He grinned wide and said Noodler's Tiananmen. He explained that he first used a fountain pen in China where he grew up. I knew then that I needed to buy that ink. And every time I use it I will think of James and the bold slogan on the label: "One day, China will be free!". And the store should know, that even though I didn't plan on purchasing anything that day, because of James I walked away with a small purchase and a high view of the bookstore. Well done.

Beth Van Leeuwen

Magical and fantastic local book shop in La Jolla! So many books and recommendations to browse through. We stopped by to pick up some book “souvenirs” for our trip and found ourselves staying for a while just browsing. A darling childrens area—so many board books, picture books and graphic novels that I hadn’t seen before. My kids loved it, I loved it, and my husband who Carrie’s our books around loved it too. The staff was so friendly as well—and approachable. A must stop for book lovers.

Mark Burns

Really incredible store. I could have browsed for an hour. Books, gifts, office supplies, handbags, - so many unique and cool items. Only four stars due to the prices - many items were just too much. Might be back before Christmas - great place for a special gift.

Peach Perrychute

We love the fun selections here. We have counted on coming here for over ten years for books, office accessories, cards, small gifts. We especially love the organized and super fun kids section for books and character stuffed animals.