Meet Paul and Inge from City Books in Hove!

When did you first open the doors?
May 1986!

Do you remember the first book you sold?
'Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats' by TS Eliot.

What has never gone out of stock because it’s so beloved?
There are the universal classics like 'Origin of Species' by Charles Darwin, 'Handmaid’s Tale' by Margaret Atwood and 'Pride & Prejudice' by Jane Austen. Perhaps a little more unique to us and our particular location is 'Brighton Rock' by Graham Greene. And of course, since publication, Damian Barr’s 'Maggie & Me'!

Is there a book you’d refuse to sell?
We are curators and do not stock books that spread hatred or cause harm, but we are lucky enough to have customers with good taste and high standards.

Do you have a bookshop pet?
We have a stuffed toy cat called Mr Bigglesworth. We lure other people’s dogs in with dog biscuits but so far none have agreed to stay!

What are you reading right now?
Paul: 'Crudo' by Olivia Laing
Inge: 'Notes on a Nervous Planet' by Matt Haig
Suzanne: 'Transcription' by Kate Atkinson
Elizabeth: The Family Tabor by Cherise Wolas

You are able to give one book to every child. Which title do you choose?
Inge’s choice is 'The Story of the Little Mole: who knew it was none of his business' by Werner Holzwarth. Suzanne’s is 'Holes' by Louis Sachar, Elizabeth’s is 'Love That Dog' by Sharon Creech, and Paul’s is 'Winnie the Pooh' by AA Milne.

Best thing overheard in your bookshop?
‘I’d love to have a bookshop so I can sit and read all day!’

 www.city-books.co.uk