A new bookstore in Somerville is all about sharing a love of books, art, and community. Whether it’s a playful gift for a friend, a puzzle for a rainy day, or a handcrafted item that adds a personal touch to any space, Monty & Milo wants to brighten the world in both big and little ways.
Owner Brittany Liou-Young describes the shop as “eclectic and cozy.” At its core, Monty & Milo is about sharing good books (including picture and chapter ones). Brittany stocks the shelves with well-loved used books and some hand-picked, new releases. The idea is to create a cozy space where guests can relax, read, and connect with others.
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Books & Beyond
In addition to books, Monty & Milo curates a selection of puzzles, kids’ toys, and stuffed animals. Art items for kids include playdough, finger paints, coloring scrolls, sticker books, erasers, and pens. Likewise, adults will enjoy shopping for home items, planters, and custom Asian-inspired merchandise.
In particular, Brittany’s favorite item at the shop is Japanese stationery. Their stock includes hand-painted and letter originals, plus specially designed and printed cards on both kraft and cream cardstock. Each card comes with a wax seal sticker and matching envelope, with custom design options available. Brittany says Monty & Milo tries to offers custom products whenever possible. “Each item is thoughtfully curated, and we strive to create as much as we can ourselves—from designs to gifts.”
Future plans include hosting book-themed nights and community gatherings. They’ve already hosted a book swap, book readings, and signings by local authors. Other previous events include craft workshops about Chinese knotting and Chinese calligraphy.
About Monty & Milo
Brittany and her husband, Daniel, came to Somerville after getting married in 2023. “We loved the downtown area, so we wanted to see how we could contribute to the community,” she says. “I’ve been enjoying getting to know the community and working with other local businesses.”
The name Monty & Milo comes from the names of their rascal cats. In fact, the shop was inspired by the cats’ playful, eclectic, and cozy nature. Brittany credits their cats with teaching them to appreciate the quirks that make life special. They hope guests will find a little of that magic at the store, too.
Visit Monty and Milo at 4 Division St in Somerville. Look for them online to learn more.
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All Photos: © Brittany Liou-Young / Monty & Milo
