10 Indie Retailers You Should Support

10 Indie Retailers You Should Support

By Lali@Lulu / November 20, 2019

Holidays, birthdays, or just some stress buying; where are you shopping? If the first thing you think of is a river in South America, you're probably like all of us. But there are other options! In fact, there are thousands of indie retailers out there with unique, handmade, and just amazing toys and books you could be shopping!

Today we have just a few of the indie retailers selling books and toys in the U.S. that we would love for you to consider. And of course, all of our featured retailers carry Lulu Junior My Comic Book and IlluStory Kits!

Buy A Lulu Junior Kit Block


Are You Game Logo

Describing themselves as 'a cornucopia of fun for everyone', Are You Game is your one stop shop for games online

Visit Are You Game


Fat Brain Toys Logo

From humble beginnings in a garage in Nebraska, Fat Brain Toys is the very definition of an indie retailer, growing into a hub for fun and educational toys.

Visit Fat Brain Toys


Lakeshore Learning Logo

With stores in 30 states (and curbside pickup!), Lakeshore Learning offers the best in educational toys and games. Also, check out their free lessons, activities, and craft resources here.

Visit Lakeshore Learning

Juilliard Store Logo

Shop the gift and bookstore powered by one of the most prestigious performing arts schools in the world. Features a variety of amazing books and gifts for kids of all ages!

Visit The Juilliard Store

Vermont Country Store Logo

So much more than just a toy store, the Vermont Country Store is the perfect place for crafted gifts for the entire family. And they have an amazing selection of fun and educational toys!

Visit The Vermont Country Store

Rainbow Resource Center Logo

If you haven't heard about Rainbow Resource Center (RRC) from their annual Summer Book Contest, they are a dedicated online resource for homeschoolers, parents, and teachers. RRC has an amazing selection of educational toys and craft kits for kids in grades PK-12.

Visit The Rainbow Resource Center

Quail Ridge Books Logo

Right down the road from the Lulu Junior office in Raleigh, NC, Quail Ridge Books features an array of amazing books and gifts for readers and crafters of all ages!


Imagination Toys Logo

Specializing in toys that educate and drive creativity, Imagination Toys is sure to have something for the creative kids in your life.

Visit Imagination Toys

Buttonwood Books and Toys Logo

Located in Cohasset, MA, Buttonwood Books has books, gifts, and toys for everyone on your list this year!

Visit Buttonwood Books and Toys

Read With Me Logo

Focusing on reading with your kids, Read With Me in Raleigh, NC was also featured as a past Lulu Junior Retailer of the Month!

Visit Read With Me


We know it's easy to just open a chain store app with one-click ordering. But don't forget that shopping local and supporting indie businesses helps your community.

Our indie retailers have thoughtfully selected their products with the mission to educate, inspire, and entertain kids. They are passionate about helping customers find the perfect gift for kids and provide a unique and personalized shopping experience. We hope you find this list helpful as you're looking for the perfect gift for your kids!

What are some of your favorite indie bookstores and toy stores? Let us know in the comments below!

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