Wednesday, April 20, 2005

Borders in KL

Yesterday was the opening of the long awaited biggest bookstore in Malaysia, Borders in the Berjaya Times Square in KL. We went, of course, after having been told the news by a friend (also a book lover) on the phone... we don't usually buy the daily newspapers.

"Mom, can we go crazy now?," Elliot asked, as we approached the entrance with heightening anticipation and excitement. The boys and I could hardly contain ourselves: two floors of shelves and shelves of unwrapped books nicely arranged with wide aisles and occasional benches and sofas for readers. There were also sections for music and movies, CD's and DVD's, Starbucks and another cafe and decorative items and knick-knacks. The prices seem to be about the same or higher than the other bookshops, except for the bargain buys that are displayed on tables in the open areas.

David joined us later from the office and we bought 2 cookbooks and a historical novel by Umberto Eco, all from the bargain buys. After a quick dinner, I drove back to the church for my line dancing class while the guys stayed back to browse some more and then to catch the movie "Robots" at the IMAX theatre.

"Is KL joining the civilised world at last?" David asked. I hope so, I hope people take care of the books and not mistreat them. I did see one book pushed into the shelf with its cover jutting out and had to put it back properly. It's sad. Kinokuniya in KLCC started out with unwrapped books but now every book there is tightly wrapped with plastic. There may be one open for browsing or you'll have to ask the staff to unwrap one for you to check it.

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