Gathered Nettles: Two Sisters Obsessing over YA Lit

Forbidden Planet in NYC

Almost as legend as the magnificent graphic novels, comic books and fiction that graces its shelves, Forbidden Planet is a shelter for fantasy and sci-fi nerds located in New York City. Settled on the corner of 13th and Broadway a stone’s throw away from Union Square and tantalizingly close to the Strand (NYC’s behemoth independently owned book store), Forbidden Planet is the world’s largest supplier of science fiction, graphic novels, toys and all things fantasy.

When you enter the glass doors centered between multiple full window displays of unique merchandise, there’s little telling from the street, what will greet your eyes and stir your imagination. A hive of activity, fans of all ages mill contentedly side by side as they peruse the aisles of books, walls of ironic t-shirts, and cases upon cases of amazingly accurate figures from various sagas, that creates a secret world bursting with color and personality. I love how at ease everyone is in Forbidden Planet; the energy is contagious, it’s a feeling of instantly coming home knowing that you’re surrounded by your peers who defend and fight for the same pursuit and celebration of all these wonderful alternate worlds and stories that you do.

On my most recent trip, I picked up a true gem: Darth Vader and Son by Jeffrey Brown, which imagines a world in which Darth Vader was able to raise Luke as a little boy. It’s charming, witty, funny, and had me smiling on every page. No wonder Clary Fray of Cassandra Clare’s The Mortal Instrument Series, loves hanging out at Forbidden Planet. It’s definitely a haven for all fantasy, and sci-fi lovers, including demon hunters.

KH