To borrow the words of Tennessee Williams, treasured American writer, the Atlanta Book Exchange is “a world within the world.”  Located across from Manuel’s Tavern, near the intersection of North and North Highland Avenues, the newer location of this Atlanta fixture boasts more space but less foot traffic than the beloved cottage in Virginia Highlands.

Admittedly there was something charming about that old location, where longtime employee, the late Jim Degnan lived as well as worked, but the perk of the new one is the cozy seating nested amongst the numerous quiet nooks.  Though the community mourns the loss of Degnan, his spirit still remains memorialized alongside other black and white portraits of fellow greats hanging on the store’s esteemed walls: Henry Miller, Samuel Beckett, Sylvia Plath, and D.H. Lawrence are amongst those who keep his company.

The crux of the Atlanta Book Exchange’s allure winds within the intimate catacombs of its shelves.  It’s range of used, out-of-print, as well as new books are all intriguing and classic finds.  Their variety is unparalleled.

From David Cordingly’s Under the Black Flag: The Romance and Reality of Life Among the Pirates, including a chapter on “Women Pirates and Pirate’s Women,” to The Art of Queen: The Eye, the making of the CD-ROM based on and with backup music by Queen, the Atlanta Book Exchange consistently impresses with a choice assortment.

The character of this bookstore is that of a soothsayer, a seer and revealer of much, spanning thus far time and the ages, weaved through story upon story.  Peruse the “Foreign Authors in Translation” section: there is Gogol.  There is Borges.  If you dare, available for browsing is “Molecular Biology.”  “Sociology” bares Jeffrey Rosen’s Unwanted Gaze: Destruction of Privacy in America that only grows more applicable as the 21^st century advances.

“Asian History,” “African History,” an entire section dedicated to Theodore Roosevelt, as well as Fidel Castro’s autobiography, My Life, can all be found in the house on North Highland Ave. next door to Buddy’s.

Comic books, arty books, nude arty books, a book of short stories entitled, The Night My Mother Met Bruce Lee: Observations On Not Fitting In, by Paisley Rekdal await.  The “Self-Help” section implies a “whatever works” approach, boasting both How Alcoholics Anonymous Failed Me, by Marianne Gilliam as well as the 4^th edition of Alcoholics Anonymous in its collection.

So the next time you’re at Manny’s for a beer, or stuck in traffic on North Highland Avenue, stop in and ruminate a while, because this merely grazes the surface of what the Atlanta Book Exchange means when their sign outside says “BOOKS.”

The Red Light Café presents the Atomic Rockets and Psycho Devilles
(21^st at 8:00pm)
Located on Amsterdam Avenue, the café is full of art work from locals, giving it an artsy feel. Both bands are in the rockabilly genre. Grab an after dinner drink at The Red Light, and spread your musical horizon wings a little farther.
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The Soul Shakers playing at Blind Willie’s
(22^nd at 9pm)
In Virginia Highlands there is a Cajun restaurant by the name of Blind Willie’s. They have been infamous for years for being one of the best blues clubs around. The Soul Shakers are a rhythm and soul rock and roll band. They are very influenced by the 50’s and 60’s. Come get some Cajun food and listen to The Soul Shakers for $5.
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Cavalia in Atlantic Station
(22^nd at 8:00pm; 23^rd at 3:00pm & 8:00pm; 26^th at 3:00pm & 8:00pm; 27^th at 2:00pm and 7:00pm)
Cavalia is not something to miss in your lifetime. It takes place in the huge white tent you may see in your peripheral view while driving on the highway. Come be amazed by the strong and magical bonds that are held between these acrobats, dancers, and the 60 beautiful horses.
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Day Before Christmas Eve Jam at The Five Spot
(23^rd at 9:00pm Doors Open)
The Five Spot is very diverse, on other nights they feature live art, animations, and many genres of musicians playing. The jam will be featuring Uprise, Charlie P, and EP3 PA Set. If you can make it before 10:00pm, you’re free!
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Halo Lounge holds the Matzo Ball
(24^th at 8:00pm)
This will be a high-energy night full of matchmaking and networking. The Society of Young Jewish Professors has been presenting this ball for 23 years now. They encourage Jewish singles to come out, but all nationalities are welcome! It is surely to be a crazy night full of partying at the magical Halo Lounge.
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Ice Skating at Centennial Park
(24^th at 10:00am – 5:00pm; 25^th at 5:00pm – 10:00pm)
Atlanta’s only outdoor ice skating rink is in the middle of Centennial Park! It’s the thirteenth year of their holiday tradition, which includes their extended holiday hours. At only $7, this is definitely a fantastic holiday event.
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The Laughing Skull Lounge presents comedian Dan Mengini
(26^th at 8:00pm & 10:00pm; 27^th at 7:00pm & 9:00pm)
In the back of the Vortex Bar and Grill is where the Laughing Skull Lounge settles. They are the smallest full-time comedy venue in the world, but bring some of the bigger names in. Dan has been on Adult Swim, One Tree Hill, and has over 35 television appearances. This is a great chance to experience both great comedy and an atmospheric restaurant in the heart of Little 5 Points.
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Atlanta Botanical Gardens presents Holiday Nights
(26^th - 30^th at 5:00pm – 10:00pm)
Take a relaxing walk through the magical gardens full of lights and take a look at the model trains chugging along. Take advantage of their extended hours! There will be holiday music accompanying you through your journeys, along with a cash bar!
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