Interludes

THE HANGOVER REPORT – Michael Walek’s THE BOOKSTORE is a gentle and wise homage to books, New York City, and chosen families

• By drediman
• February 3, 2026
• No Comments

If you’re looking to cozy up to a piece of theater this frigid winter, I’d recommend that you consider making your way to 59E59 Theaters to catch New Jersey Repertory Company’s production of The Bookstore by Michael Walek. As the unassuming title suggests, the play takes place in a small, privately-owed bookstore in Greenwich Village, chronicling a year in the lives of its aging owner (Carey) and her two younger employees (Abby and Brittany), each aspiring writers with divergent philosophies regarding how to approach life. Throw into the mix a moor-less, fresh-faced amateur actor (Spencer), and you get what starts amounting to an appealing motley crew straight out of a sitcom.

In essence, The Bookstore is a lovely and easy going homage to books, New York City, and chosen families. Warmhearted and accessible, there’s nothing jarring about Walek’s thoughtful and endearing drama, which ultimately turns out to be a gentle ghost story of sorts (nothing frightening here, just the bittersweetness of life). Its matter-of-fact wisdom is neither cloying nor didactic, striking just the right tone so as to make it go down easily, successfully nudging audiences to tune into the play’s underlying message of nurturing community (particularly as it relates to inter-generational mentorship) and living with grace. In fact, The Bookstore is a stark departure from the pointed flights of fancy that characterizes Walek’s latest play Have You Met Jane Goodall and Her Mother? The play benefits from the lack of antagonists; its concern is to depict a story of humans simply proceeding through life together, in the process basking in the joys of companionship and shared passions. Additionally, avid readers and literary fans — as well as longtime New York residents — will likely feast on the ample but unobtrusive name-dropping throughout.

The playwright has concocted a small set of very likable and believable characters, complete with their fair share of strengths and flaws. Although none of the acting is notably spectacular, each role is portrayed with warmth, honesty, and generosity. Unsurprisingly, the finest performance belongs to Janet Zarish, who plays the worldly yet grounded Carey, the matriarch of the play. Hers is an understated, clear-eyed performance that dares you to scoff at the predictability of character’s journey (no spoilers here). As directed by William Carden on Jessica Parks’ inviting set, The Bookstore does somewhat the same thing, instead daring jaded theatergoers to scoff at the well-made play.

RECOMMENDED

THE BOOKSTORE
Off-Broadway, Play
New Jersey Repertory Company at 59E59 Theaters
2 hours, 10 minutes (including an intermission)
Through February 15