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 EffectWay 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 EffectAnimal 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!