One Tree Books

Spring Bookshop of the Quarter 2026 | One Tree Books

One Tree Books is an award-winning independent bookshop in the market town of Petersfield, the heart of the South Downs. After a devastating fire in July, One Tree reopened in their original location last November, much to the delight of devoted customers. We very much look forward to browsing their shelves soon with a coffee from One Tree’s own Ginger’s cafe, and would recommend that you do the same.

Read on to learn more about Tim’s favourite reads and picks for the coming spring.

Our aim is to curate the stock to reflect our customers and to have booksellers who know and love books.

One Tree Books

Please tell us about your bookshop. What makes it special?

We set up in 1994 so we’ve been going quite a while! Our aim is to curate the stock to reflect our customers and to have booksellers who know and love books.

What first inspired you to become a bookseller?

My local shop here in Petersfield closed down and I thought – Why not?

What are your all-time favourite reads and why?

This is an impossible question! I love books from a range of genres but my favourite of last year was Clear by Carys Davies – it has a wonderful economy with words.

Who would be your dream bookshop party guests?

Bob Mortimer, Elizabeth Strout, Lissa Evans, and Percival Everett – a fun crew.

Who has been your favourite customer/what is your favourite bookshop anecdote?

We have really enjoyed Angela Harding’s visits especially when she drew a brilliant window for us –  our most celebrated visitor was David Attenborough and we were always rather daunted when local author Alec Guinness dropped by. Favourite bookshop anecdote? Nothing printable . . .

What are your top picks for Spring/Summer 2026 (new publications/old favourites/reissues)?

A tip for April is Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke and for May Five by Ilona Bannister.

What is your favourite Slightly Foxed publication and why?

Blood Knots by Luke Jennings. This is ostensibly a book about fishing (of which I know next to nothing) but is really a book about much more, especially friendship.

Instagram: One Tree Books (@onetreebooks)

Website: One Tree Books


Comments & Reviews

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published.


Sign up to our e-newsletter

Sign up for dispatches about new issues, books and podcast episodes, highlights from the archive, events, special offers and giveaways.