Best of Rhode Island 2008 Editors' Picks

The chain bookstores may entice with their shiny rewards cards and in-store coffeehouses, but when it comes to programming, they often leave much to be desired. Smallish, independently owned Books on the Square boasts nine monthly book clubs that cover topics ranging from whole health to politics, queer issues to contemporary fiction. Literally no one is left out here--the shop also holds story times for babies, toddlers and preschoolers each week, plus regular book signings with local luminaries such as Lincoln Chafee and Ann Hood. Thanks for nothing, Barnes & Noble.