Tucked away in the basement of Beauty World Centre is Grassland Book Store, an unassuming tenant at the mall that has quietly stood the test of time. Throughout the years, this old-school shop has seen generations of students, parents, and regulars walk through its doors – all in search of affordable stationery and everyday essentials.
So apart from the good food and other things to do near Beauty World MRT, it’s worth setting aside a bit of time to browse this nostalgic bookstore.
Note: Prices are accurate at the time of writing, but are subject to change.
Image credit: Stacy Chew
Serving generations from its humble space, Grassland Book Store has remained a favourite since the 70s, largely because of its competitive pricing. The owners stock practical items at wallet-friendly rates, making the store a go-to for students preparing for the new term and families picking up small necessities.
Despite its compact size, the shop is filled wall-to-wall with shelves almost overflowing, and browsing through them feels like stepping into one of those neighbourhood hardware stores.
Screenshot from: Reddit
Most of us can agree that the nostalgia factor hits hard here – some Redditors have even joked that they can smell photos of Grassland Book Store. Maybe it’s the familiar scent of foolscap paper and freshly opened stationery that fills the space, a smell that instantly brings to mind mama shops around Singapore.
Screenshot from: Reddit
Another Redditor recounted their memories of visiting the bookstore back in the day, saying they’ve since brought their own children along just so they can see this gem for themselves.
Image credit: Grassland BookStore via Facebook
But here’s the kicker: Grassland Book Store wasn’t always located at the Beauty World Centre we know today. It was previously at the old Beauty World Market in Bukit Timah, before multiple fire outbreaks caused the place to stop all operations. The site was eventually demolished in 1984.
Image credit: Stacy Chew
Compared to larger retail chains, many of the items here are priced lower, particularly for basic stationery and art materials. Even small differences add up when you’re buying multiple pieces for school projects or office use.
Image adapted from: Stacy Chew
Stationery remains the store’s main draw. You’ll find writing materials like PENTEL Wow Ball Pens starting from just $0.40/pc, highlighters at $2.50/3 pcs, and whiteboard markers from $1.50/pc, making it easy to stock up without thinking twice.
For comparison, the PENTEL Wow Ball Pens at Popular bookstore cost about $1.90/pc, so you’re saving a good $1.50 here.
Image credit: Stacy Chew
There are also OG rectangular pencil cases that go from $3.90, while sticky notes start at $1 for those who love organising their planners or desks.
Image adapted from: Stacy Chew
Beyond writing supplies, the shop also carries a mix of small lifestyle and gift items. Decorations for celebratory occasions start from $2, birthday cards starting from $0.70, and card games like Monopoly Deal and Uno from $3.90.
Image adapted from: Stacy Chew
If you’re shopping for children or looking for something to relive your childhood, playdough sets are available from $2, and prices for slime start from $2.50. There are even Transformers toys priced from $3.90.
Image adapted from: Stacy Chew
For something a little more creative, mini painting canvases start from $5.20, and paint brushes start from $1.40.
Image credit: Stacy Chew
They even sell nostalgic drawing boards for $4.90. We used to rave over this as kids, and maybe it was our past time copium.
Image credit: Stacy Chew
You’d be surprised to even find medical supplies here, like disinfection sprays priced from $3.50 for practical everyday use.
Image adapted from: Stacy Chew
Other unique finds include plain masks that go for $3.90, ranging from masquerade styles to fox masks – great for DIY customisation. With a bit of paint and glitter, they can easily double up as a base for your next Halloween costume.
Grassland Book Store continues to offer a straightforward, no-frills shopping experience – something we don’t get to see much of in Singapore these days. If you’re in the area, it’s worth dropping by for a look and showing some support, so this old-school bookstore can hopefully keep going strong for many more decades.
Read about other bookstores in Singapore:
Cover image adapted from: Stacy Chew
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