• Visit Us

    We love welcoming readers into the shop.

    Whether you are searching for your next favorite book, browsing special editions, or simply want to experience the atmosphere of a cozy, independent bookshop, you are always welcome to stop by.

    Our shop is small, personal, and community-driven — and every visitor matters to us.

  • Current opening hours

    Wednesday: 13:00 – 16:00
    Thursday: 18:30 – 21:00
    Saturday: 13:00 – 17:30

    Before you visit

    Opening hours may occasionally change due to:

    • conventions and book fairs
    • special events
    • holidays
    • school vacations

    For the most up-to-date information, we recommend checking our google page or Events page before visiting.

    We look forward to welcoming you.

Why this shop exists

This bookshop started from something very personal.

I have always been a passionate reader of English-language books, but time and time again I found myself walking into larger chain stores and leaving empty-handed. The stories I loved, especially fantasy, were simply hard to find locally.

Here in the Hoeksche Waard, there was a clear gap. English-language books deserved a place on the shelves, and readers deserved a shop that truly understood their interests.

So I decided to create that place.

A love for fantasy

Fantasy has always held a special place in my heart.

It is more than escapism. It sparks imagination, encourages creativity, and allows readers to explore complex themes and real-life situations through stories. Fantasy helps young readers dream bigger, think deeper, and see the world from new perspectives.

To me, fantasy is not just entertaining.

It is powerful.

And, quite simply: fantasy is fantastic.

Reading starts at home

Another important reason for starting this shop was my own family.

I want my son to grow up surrounded by books and stories. I want him to see reading as something normal, enjoyable, and exciting - not something forced or distant.

Children learn by example.

What they see at home shapes what they value later in life.

If we show them that reading matters, they will carry that habit with them.

As the saying goes:

What is shown early, is learned for life.

Female-owned and community-driven

Once Upon a Bookshop is proudly a female-owned independent business.

Building this shop has been about more than selling books. It has been about creating a space where readers feel welcome, supported, and inspired — and where women-led businesses are visible and celebrated.

We believe in:

  • supporting independent creators
  • uplifting women in business
  • building strong local and online communities
  • creating a safe and welcoming space for every reader

Our mission

This shop exists to make English-language books accessible, visible, and celebrated in our community.

As a female-owned independent bookshop, we are committed to building a place where readers of all ages can discover stories that inspire imagination, confidence, and connection.

Because stories matter.

And every reader deserves a place to find them.