My books-to-read list never seems to get shorter, and visiting the newly opened BookXcess stores at The Gardens Mall obviously didn’t help. But that’s the thing about books. The moment you read the first page, the story lures you in and you’re lost!
It took a while before I figured out where to find the BookXcess stores – yes, there are two! – but it was worth the effort. On the very rooftop of The Gardens Mall, two pavilions await your visit. Where the largest space is dedicated to books for adults and teenagers, the other slightly smaller store, harbours books for kids. The stores sell English language books only. It’s exciting to explore these artistically enticing places, with scenic views of Kuala Lumpur in the background.
The world of kids’ books
Entering the pavilion for young readers, I was amused by the set up: a large winding staircase takes you up and up until you are at the very top. Each turn shows books for the next level of reading, starting with very young readers, up till more advanced book worms. You won’t find just books at the store, the place is also filled with games, puzzles, and origami books.
Tall parents: please do mind your head if you decide to follow your children on this winding journey, since some ceilings are quite low. There are a lot of places to sit and read, and I loved the round playroom / kids library in the middle of the store.
Due to the steps, the walkway leading upstairs is not stroller-friendly, but of course you can leave your pram downstairs, while you take your little one to explore. With little reading nooks everywhere, it is a joy to pick up a book, sit down and get lost in the world of stories and fairy tales.
I noticed very affordable prices labeled on books, you can buy great books starting at only RM10! It reflects the BookXcess’ motto: to make reading accessible for everyone.
From bestsellers to literary classics
The other pavilion filled with books for adults is larger, and there are books as far as the eye can see. Also here, a winding road leads you along all kind of different books, categorised by different genres. Everywhere, there are little nooks and corners where you can sit down and read through sample books. Such a nice space to relax!
At the end of the staircase, next to the entrance, is a restaurant within the bookstore called Red Red Botak Head. If you are lucky enough to meet the chef of this place, you will find out why this restaurant has earned its name! The menu features ‘twisted’ Malaysian recipes and the samples I tried were super tasty. It’s a great place to have nice food, enjoy your book and admire the amazing rooftop views from here.
In 2024 two more experiential outlets of the BookXcess stores will open at SQ Mall and Merdeka 188, so keep an eye out for them on the FB page of the store.
Have a look here at our review for another great BookXcess store, at REXKL.
Useful Info
BookXcess The Rooftop is located at level 6, The Gardens Mall. Best to park at the U parking zone at the mall and take the lift or the elevator up to level 6. Open from 10am till 10pm, Monday to Sunday.
We were invited by BookXcess. As always, our opinion is honest and our own.
