Philosophers & Fools

Serving up stories by  the spine and the glass

This cozy neighborhood bookstore bar, located on Bogard St., was founded by husband-and-wife team, Michael Bourke and Jenny Ferrara in 2024. They carry new books across all genres from bestsellers to fantasy, thriller to science fiction, history, science, philosophy and more! The perfect spot to gather, read, chat, sip a sustainably sourced wine or craft beer, and nibble on snacks.

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Favorite recommendations:

“Vigil” by George Saunders
“A surreal and often hilarious exploration of death, regret, and climate change. This book was impossible to put down. I only wish it was longer so that I could keep reading!” — Michael

“Heart the Lover” by Lily King
“What’s not to love? A book about friendships, relationships, communication, the choices you make and where those choices take you, not to mention an ending that had me sobbing. It might be one of my favorite books this year.” —Jenny 

“The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune
“A staff and customer favorite for both fantasy and non-fantasy readers. The story follows Linus, a case worker for magical children, who gets sent to the Marsyas Island Orphanage to observe the children. A story about found family, overcoming fear, finding your voice, and embracing love. This book has the biggest heart!” —Jenny

“Marriage at Sea” by Sophie Elmhirst
“What an amazing story about survival; it’s hard to believe it actually happened. In 1972, Maurice & Maralyn take off to sail around the world. While deep in the Pacific, a whale hits and sinks their boat. They survive for four months on a tiny rubber raft. Makes you think: ‘what would I have done?’” —Michael

“Decagon House” by Yukito Ayatsuji, translated by Ho-Ling Wong
“Written in 1987, this sparked a resurgence in Japanese mystery writing. A fun whodunnit based on the general plot of Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None” and packed with homages to various western mystery novelists, this book follows seven college students who travel to a remote island only to be murdered one by one until the survivors can figure out who the killer is. A fun read.” —Michael

“Salt: A World History” by Mark Kurlansky
“An in-depth history book about —you guessed it—salt! As vital as water, salt has created fortunes, provoked revolutions, directed economies, and enlivened our recipes. There are so many interesting facts. Great for those interested in history, foodways or general knowledge that may help with trivia or to impress your friends!” —Jenny