In the expansive world of Stardew Valley, the 1.6 update introduced a plethora of new features, including a unique NPC known as the Bookseller. This guide will provide comprehensive details on how to locate the Bookseller, what he offers, and how to maximize the benefits of his inventory.
So, Who's the Bookseller?
The Bookseller, named Marcello, is a special merchant who appears in Pelican Town twice each season. His shop offers a variety of books that provide players with different perks and benefits. Unlike other vendors, Marcello's inventory includes items that can enhance your gameplay significantly, from boosting your skills to providing unique abilities.
How to Track Down the Bookseller
Where to Find HimThe Bookseller is located in the northeastern part of Pelican Town, above Joja Mart or the Movie Theater, depending on the stage of your game. To reach him:
- Start at Pierre’s General Store: Head east, cross the bridge near Joja Mart.
- Behind Joja Mart: Go up the stairs often blocked by wood and stone. Clear the path to access a new area where Marcello sets up his stall next to his balloon.
When Does He Appear?
Marcello does not appear on specific fixed dates each season. Instead, his appearances are randomly selected and marked on the town calendar with a balloon icon. This calendar is located outside Pierre’s General Store. Additionally, players receive a notification in the bottom left corner of the screen on the day the Bookseller is in town.
What Does He Sell?
The Bookseller offers a wide range of books, each with unique effects that can greatly benefit your gameplay. Here’s a detailed list of some of the key items you can purchase:
Book Title | Price | Effect |
---|
Way Of The Wind pt. 1 | 15,000g | Increases running speed |
Way Of The Wind pt. 2 | 35,000g | Further increases running speed |
Horse: The Book | 25,000g | Increases horse speed |
Ol’ Slitherlegs | 25,000g | Increases speed through grass and crops |
Bait And Bobber | 5,000g | Gain 250 fishing XP |
Combat Quarterly | 5,000g | Gain 250 combat XP |
Mining Monthly | 8,000g | Gain 250 mining XP |
Stardew Valley Almanac | 10,000g | Gain 250 farming XP |
Woodcutter’s Weekly | 8,000g | Gain 250 foraging XP |
Book Of Stars | 15,000g | Gain 250 XP across all skills |
Jewels Of The Sea | 20,000g | Treasure chests while fishing may contain roe |
Friendship 101 | 20,000g | Friendships form faster with villagers |
Queen Of Sauce Cookbook | 50,000g | Learn any Queen Of Sauce recipes not known |
Jack Be Nimble, Jack Be Thick | 20,000g | +1 defense |
Treasure Appraisal Guide | 20,000g | Artifacts sell for more money |
Price Catalogue | 3,000g | Shows the selling price of items |
How to Get the Most Out of the Bookseller
Prioritize What to BuyGiven the high prices of some books, it's important to prioritize which books will benefit your gameplay the most. For instance, if you focus heavily on farming, the Stardew Valley Almanac can provide a significant XP boost. Similarly, the Way Of The Wind books are excellent for players who need to move quickly around the farm.
Trade and CollectSome books can be found in the wild or dropped randomly while you engage in various activities like fishing, mining, or foraging. If you acquire multiple copies, you can trade them with the Bookseller for other items or sell them for a profit.
Plan Around His VisitsSince Marcello appears only twice a season, plan your in-game activities to ensure you have enough gold and resources to make the most of his visits. Check the town calendar regularly to avoid missing his appearances.
Other Books You Can FindAside from the Bookseller, players can find other books through various methods:
Book Title | How to Obtain | Effect |
---|
Animal Catalogue | Buy from Marnie’s shop in year two | Access to Marnie’s store even when she’s out |
Book of Mysteries | Found in Mystery Boxes | Increases chance to get Mystery Boxes |
Dwarvish Safety Manual | Buy from the Dwarf in the Mines | Reduces damage from bomb blasts |
Mapping Cave Systems | In Marlon’s room in the Adventurer’s Guild (requires slaying 1,000 monsters) | 50% discount on Marlon’s item retrieval service |
Monster Compendium | Rare drop from monsters | Monsters can drop double loot |
The Alleyway Buffet | Found in the golden trash can behind the Blacksmith | Better chance to find items in trash cans |
The Art O’ Crabbing | Iridium tier reward at SquidFest | Crab pots have a 25% chance of double drops |
The Diamond Hunter | Exchange for ten diamonds at the Dwarf in the Volcano Dungeon | All stones drop a diamond when using a pickaxe |
Raccoon Journal | Reward for completing the raccoon family’s second quest | Weeds have a better chance of dropping mixed seeds |
Woody’s Secret | Drops from chopped trees | Trees have a 5% chance to yield double wood |
Wrapping It Up
The Bookseller in Stardew Valley adds an exciting dimension to the game with his unique inventory and the benefits his books provide. By understanding where to find him, planning your purchases, and maximizing the use of the books you obtain, you can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. Happy reading and farming!