About us

Welcome to Tides of Wonder Books!

We’re an independent children’s bookstore nurturing curiosity, connection, and a lifelong love of reading.

Behind Our Name

Inspired by the California coastline, our name comes from the rhythm of the tides. As the tide recedes, it reveals hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. We believe childhood learning unfolds in the same way, through unhurried moments of wonder that ebb and flow with children's interests.

Our seasonal books, loose parts, and activities invite families to slow down, connect, and wonder about the world around them.

What We Believe

Inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, we see children as capable, curious researchers. Learning isn’t a race or a checklist. It grows through play, discovery, and the freedom to follow their own questions.

Every book and material we choose reflects this belief, supporting children’s development and emotional growth while inviting families to:

  • Discover nature through stories that encourage children to notice, respect, and connect with the world around them.
  • Make room for wonder by turning everyday moments into open-ended play and gentle discovery.
  • Connect through stories that spark conversation, imagination, and shared joy.

Meet the Curators:

  • Brittany- Educator, former Reggio-inspired preschool administrator, and mom. Passionate about protecting room for unstructured play, honoring children as capable learners, and intentionally curating books and materials that spark lifelong wonder. Seeing the magic that unfolds when our own children are given the time and space to just play and wonder is what inspires everything in this shop.
  • Matt- Nurse, trail runner, avid reader and dad. Passionate about active family living, and finding stories with immersive magical worlds and doing all the character voices that turn story time into an unforgettable shared adventure.

Thank YOU:

Thank you for being here, for supporting independent bookselling and for sharing in this journey with us. Thank you for letting us be a small part of the stories, play, discoveries and the magical moments created in your home. 

Welcome to the Tides of Wonder community!