Bodhi Tree Bookstore

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Bodhi Tree Bookstore

File:Bodhi Tree Bookstore - 1970s front of old bldg.jpg Entrance to the Bodhi Tree Bookstore (1970s).
Company type	Independent bookstore
Founded	1970
Founder	Stan and Fran Madson; Dan and Marj Morris; and Phil and Elsa Thompson
Headquarters	8585 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood, California , United States

The Bodhi Tree Bookstore, initially known as the Bodhi Tree Book and Tea Shop, was an independent bookstore that specialized in subjects such as world religions, spiritual traditions, metaphysics, psychology, philosophy, and wellness. It began operations in 1970 in Los Angeles, California (present-day West Hollywood, California). The name references the Buddhist tradition where the Bodhi Tree is the fig tree beneath which Siddhārtha Gautama meditated until achieving enlightenment and becoming a Buddha. The store's guiding phrase was: "Books to Illuminate the Heart and Mind".

The bookstore gained notable recognition through the 1983 publication Out On A Limb by Shirley MacLaine and the related television series aired in 1987. In her memoir, MacLaine states that her choice to explore this distinctive bookstore [the Bodhi Tree Bookstore] was among the most pivotal decisions of her life. Situated on Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood, California, near the Pacific Design Center, the bookstore ceased its physical operations on December 31, 2011 but continued functioning as an online retailer under new ownership.

In May 1994, both the bookstore and its co–owners received several accolades: it was honored as Business of the Year by the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce; co–owners Stan Madson and Phil Thompson were awarded Certificates of Recognition by the California State Senate—endorsed by Senator Tom Hayden—acknowledging their "extraordinary contribution of knowledge in art and spirituality and excellence in service to the city of West Hollywood and its citizens"; furthermore, they were distinguished as the City of West Hollywood’s Business Persons of the Year for 1994. The bookstore functioned as a hub for community resources related to events, instructors, practitioners, and spiritual venues. It earned a reputation as "the spiritual heart" of Los Angeles—described as "the spiritual superstore" and considered "the grand central station for New Agers," as well as being recognized as "L.A.'s premier New Age shop".

Founding and Early Period (1970s)

the exterior of the Bodhi Tree Bookstore as seen from Westbourne Avenue in the early 1970s.

View of the Bodhi Tree Bookstore from Westbourne Avenue during the early 1970s.

The Bodhi Tree Bookstore was established on July 10, 1970, by Dan and Marj Morris, Stan and Fran Madson, along with Phil and Elsa Thompson. Initially named the Bodhi Tree Book and Tea Shop, the business adopted the name Bodhi Tree Bookstore upon incorporation in 1972.

interior shot of the Bodhi Tree Bookstore.

Inside view of the Bodhi Tree Bookstore around the 1970s.

During the 1970s, spiritual literature was largely absent from mainstream bookstores across America. The Bodhi Tree Bookstore filled this gap by collecting and providing access to such materials. Situated at 8585 Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood, California, the store occupied a stucco building with a flat roof that was once a two-bedroom home converted for commercial use. The area was primarily residential; however, Melrose Avenue itself hosted modest commercial activity with mostly one- or two-story structures housing various enterprises, predominantly antique shops.

Beginning in 1971, the Bodhi Tree Bookstore organized public events on Tuesdays and Sundays featuring authors, educators, spiritual guides, and musicians presenting their work. One such event included Nan Fuchs, known as the Herb Lady, who spoke on Herbs and the Body. Another notable gathering featured D. W. Harding, author of On Having No Head, who offered an informal talk exploring the concept of losing one's ego. Herb Soloman conducted an introduction and demonstration of the Arica Work that attracted considerable attention. Vimala Thakar delivered a lecture titled Towards Total Transformation. Chӧgyam Trungpa gave two public talks—The Battle of the Ego and The Open Way—at Los Angeles's Embassy Auditorium and also spoke at the bookstore itself. Maezumi Roshi, leader of the Los Angeles Zen Center, presented on Zen Buddhism in America: What is Zen in America Today and How Is It Practiced. Additionally, Yasutani Roshi (1885–1973) offered a dharma talk.

Dan and Marj Morris eventually stepped away from involvement for personal reasons. Subsequently, Stan and Fran Madson together with Phil and Elsa Thompson formed "Bodhi Tree Bookstore, Inc." as a corporation on November 30, 1972.

One of the earliest media features was John Fleischman's article titled "Spellbinders for the Ancient Mystic Arts," which discussed growing interest in mysticism, esoterica, and occult subjects within Los Angeles. The piece identified "The Bodhi Tree Book and Tea Shop" as a leading occult specialty bookstore in the city. In February 1975, Los Angeles Magazine published Devra Hill Zucker’s article on "Romantic Places" in Los Angeles that included The Bodhi Tree Bookstore: "Three aerospace engineers transformed this Spanish-style Melrose Avenue residence into a bookstore emphasizing Eastern spirituality. The Bodhi Tree welcomes all paths to spiritual awakening and offers visitors a chance to read among plants while enjoying complimentary herbal tea." A profile appeared in The Movement magazine in 1976—published by the Movement of Spiritual Inner Awareness—highlighting those who created this sanctuary-like book oasis amid Los Angeles. The article described the Bodhi Tree as potentially the premier source for literature related to consciousness studies encompassing occult sciences, mysticism (both Eastern and Western), psychology, self-healing practices, tai chi, and more.

Bodhi Tree Used Bookstore (1975)

File:Stan Madson and Phil Thompson in Bodhi Tree.jpg

Owners Stan Madson (left) and Phil Thompson, 1981

In 1975, Areta Ferrell, who operated a clothing shop adjacent to the Bodhi Tree Bookstore, decided to close her store, allowing the bookstore to assume the lease for that property. On September 18 of the same year, the Bodhi Tree Bookstore inaugurated its used book section.

Over time, the bookstore evolved into a prominent establishment deeply connected with the spiritual community. The premises consisted of four buildings: the New Books building facing Melrose Avenue, the Used Books building on Westbourne Drive, and two additional structures used for storage. In 1979, ownership of both the land and buildings of the Bodhi Tree Bookstore was acquired.

That year, the Bodhi Tree Bookstore was recognized as a favored bookstore in Brady & Lawless's Favorite Bookstores.

Expansion and increased notoriety (1980s and 1990s)

Serving as an information hub for spiritual seekers, the Bodhi Tree Bookstore published the Bodhi Tree Directory: a Guide to Community Resources in 1980, which was updated annually. This directory eventually covered more than 51 topics and had a circulation of 2,000 copies per edition.

In 1981, John Dart featured the bookstore in an article for the Los Angeles Times, describing it as "a sensuous experience" where visitors could enjoy complimentary herbal tea, listen to gentle 'un-elevator' music, browse comfortably while seated, and take in the fragrance of incense. He portrayed it as a well-stocked New Age waypoint offering a psychic rest stop between gurus or a refueling station for those pursuing eclectic wisdom. Dart further characterized it as an unofficial hub that captures mystical-metaphysical currents distinct from mainstream religion.

A significant renovation commenced in 1982 under architect Barry Gittelson’s direction. This enhancement expanded the floor area with a second-story addition and upgraded the Used Books building. The removal of two storage buildings created space at the rear for parking. The redesign resulted in a modernist structure featuring rounded edges, a large circular window facing Melrose Avenue near the entrance, and a pyramid-shaped skylight on the west side.

Behind the bookstore, a Ficus religiosa—known as a Bodhi Tree—had been planted in the early 1970s by a neighbor who nurtured it from seed. By 2008, this tree had grown to nearly three stories tall.

Shirley MacLaine’s book Out On A Limb recounted her experiences at the bookstore. A mini-series based on her story was partly filmed on location there. Following this exposure, the bookstore gained recognition locally, nationally, and internationally, leading to a significant increase in visitors eager to explore topics that inspired MacLaine.

Bodhi Tree Book Review periodical (1991–2002)

The bookstore launched a book review periodical, with its inaugural edition released in late 1991. Dana LaFontaine and Mark Kenaston, both employees of Bodhi Tree Bookstore, served as the founders and initial editors, supported by editorial assistant Mariam Angel. The publication featured in-depth articles by prominent writers, bestseller rankings, and concise critiques of newly released books, CDs, and videotapes. Initially issued quarterly, the magazine later shifted to a biannual schedule, appearing each spring and autumn. At its height, print runs reached 40,000 copies per issue. Approximately half of these were distributed via mail to customers, while the remaining copies were handed out in-store. Early editions included interviews conducted by editors Mark Kenaston and Dana LaFontaine. A full collection of the magazine is accessible online without charge.

• Issue 1 (Fall 1991) showcased an interview with the guitar duo Strunz & Farah, highlighting the distinctive elements that shape their world music sound.
• Issue 2 (Spring 1992) featured an in-depth conversation with Marianne Williamson.
• Issue 3 (Summer 1993) presented an interview with Huston Smith conducted by Mark Kenaston.

In 1993, Dana LaFontaine departed from the bookstore, leading Mark Kenaston to take over as chief editor. The following year saw Kenaston's exit as well, after which Stan Madson became the lead editor, assisted by co-editors James Culnan and Camilla Denton. Subsequent reviews were contributed by both current and former staff members. The publication of Bodhi Tree Book Review concluded with its 28th issue in Fall 2002.

File:Bodhi Tree Bookstore.jpg

View of the bookstore’s front exterior from Melrose Avenue following renovations (circa 2000s), showing the meeting room on the right and the retail area on the left.

Bodhi Tree Bookstore meeting room

In 1994, the bookstore expanded by purchasing the neighboring storefront located at 8383 Melrose Avenue. This space was transformed into a venue for author readings, book signings, and a diverse range of workshops.

The Annex building hosted nearly daily events and workshops organized by the Bodhi Tree Bookstore. Among these was "The Artist’s Way Workshop," a twelve-week lecture series led by Kelly Morgan, based on the foundational work of Julia Cameron. This program catered to creative individuals from all backgrounds, incorporating spiritual practices into everyday life through exercises and group support to overcome barriers such as harsh self-judgment, perfectionism, envy, limiting beliefs, addictions, and other obstacles that hinder creativity. Educator Roger Weir facilitated multiple iterations of his "Yoga of Civilization," a comprehensive two-year weekly course known for its dynamic lectures that bridged esoteric spiritual wisdom with contemporary scientific discoveries, fostering personal transformation and encouraging self-directed learning. Beginning in 2002, the Krishnamurti Foundation of America held monthly workshops centered on the teachings of Jiddu Krishnamurti, a prominent and independent spiritual thinker of the twentieth century; these sessions featured archived talks followed by group discussions. Yudhishtara, recognized as the spiritual son of Poonjaji, an enlightened Indian master, regularly conducted monthly Satsang gatherings for groups typically ranging from 30 to 50 attendees in the bookstore’s meeting space. Sacred Poetry, curated by poet Doraine Poretz, delivered performances featuring sacred poetry drawn from various spiritual traditions and historical periods.

The bookstore hosted presentations by numerous distinguished authors, including Margot Anand, Ted Andrews, Stephen Batchelor, Harold Bloomfield, Julia Cameron, Mantak Chia, Paulo Coelho, Phyllis Curott, Nancy Cooke de Herrera, Guy Finley, Thom Hartmann, Andrew Harvey, Jamake Highwater, James Hillman, Lex Hixon, Jean Houston, Jon Kabat-Zinn, Rodger Kamenetz, Jonathan Kirsch, Thomas Laird, Terence McKenna, Michael Meade, Dan Millman, Robert Moss, Michael Murphy, Caroline Myss, Robin Norwood, Judith Orloff, Daniel Quinn, James Redfield, Layne Redmond, Malidoma Patrice Somé, Hyemeyohsts Storm, Frank Tipler, Kriyananda (J. Donald Walters), Andrew Weil, Roger Weir, and Marianne Williamson among many others.

In recognition of its 34 years serving the community, the Bodhi Tree Bookstore was honored as Business of the Year by the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce during Small Business Week in May 1994. Additionally, the City of West Hollywood named Stan Madson and Phil Thompson as Business Persons of the Year. The California State Senate awarded the bookstore a Certificate of Recognition signed by Tom Hayden.

Book fairs in the Los Angeles region

When the Los Angeles Times Book Fair commenced in 1996, the Bodhi Tree Bookstore was among its founding and active participants, maintaining involvement until 2008.

In 2002, West Hollywood initiated its own regional event, the West Hollywood Book Fair, inspired by the success of the Los Angeles Times Book Fair. The Bodhi Tree Bookstore maintained a presence with a booth at this fair until the closure of its physical store at the end of 2011.

Program for psychic readings

Beginning in 1998, the Bodhi Tree Bookstore introduced a psychic reading service conducted in a sheltered space situated between the Annex and New Book sections. The offerings encompassed tarot card readings, dream analysis, animal divination, astrology consultations, aura cleansing, numerology assessments, and psychic channeling or mediumship sessions.

Resident bookstore cats

For several years, the Bodhi Tree Bookstore was home to a notable feline mascot. The inaugural cat was "Chubby," a large orange male who joined the team in the 1970s. Following him was "Little Girl," a sociable long-haired cat with multicolored fur, who earned considerable admiration. In 1998, LA Weekly ranked "Little Girl" as runner-up for Best Bookstore Cat, bestowing upon her the title of "the cat with the most karma."

Growth and evolution (2000s onward)

In 2000, the Bodhi Tree Bookstore became the designated book supplier for Jim Strohecker's Health World Online. During this period, it handled online orders by receiving, packaging, shipping items, and processing payments for Health World Online.

In 2002, an artistic initiative titled A Community of Angels showcased larger-than-life angel statues across Los Angeles. Each statue was uniquely hand-painted by different artists. Diane A. Curran, a local resident near the Bodhi Tree and bookstore patron, contributed one such statue named "Planetary Angel," which featured cosmic symbols on blue wings and was displayed on the Used Book Building’s front porch for several months.

By 2005, West Hollywood formally acknowledged the Bodhi Tree Bookstore as one of its oldest landmarks and a valued cultural asset.

By 2009, however, the bookstore was operating at a financial loss with sales having declined approximately 40% from their peak in the late 1980s. Increasingly, book purchases shifted to other retailers and online platforms like Amazon. Facing these challenges, the owners opted to retire.

News of the bookstore property’s sale quickly gained traction in local media outlets. The Los Angeles Times reported that this Melrose Avenue store—a spiritual hub since 1970—had been sold with hopes that its inventory would be purchased and that it might reopen elsewhere. An article in LA Weekly reflected on the Bodhi Tree’s history as intertwined with Los Angeles itself: from modest storefronts evolving into expansive showrooms; Melrose Avenue becoming a destination for both residents and visitors; rising neighborhood costs; and inevitable change marking each phase—growth, maintenance, decline, and transition. Despite these developments, the bookstore continued operations until late 2011.

Numerous tributes followed. In July 2011, Los Angeles Magazine featured Dave Gadetta’s article titled "Bodhi Tree, the Bookstore that Enlightened New Age L.A., Readies For Its Final Exit," highlighting how the store pioneered New Age retail browsing since its opening in the 1970s and inspired many similar shops locally and nationally.

Subsequently, The Whole Person Calendar of Events in Southern California (July/August 2011) published an overview of the bookstore’s extensive influence and legacy. Sharon Hall noted that bookstores served as gathering places for like-minded individuals and spiritual communities to flourish. After four decades as proprietors of what might be considered America’s most renowned metaphysical bookstore, retirement marked a new chapter for the beloved Bodhi Tree. Stan Madson was quoted emphasizing change as inevitable yet potentially positive: evolving energies might guide the bookstore’s future directions amid shifts brought by digital communication and cultural transformation.

Early in 2011 saw closure of the Used Book building. By December 31 of that year, the physical store closed permanently. On closing day, Teresa Watanabe authored a front-page Los Angeles Times article describing how this intimate Melrose Avenue venue—with its incense aromas, herbal teas, and sage portraits—had served as a spiritual sanctuary attracting seekers including Jerry Brown, Ringo Starr, and Shirley MacLaine. The owners expressed hope for its revival at a new location.

Following this transition, Jasmine Fayad acquired ownership of the Bodhi Tree Bookstore business with intentions to recreate its distinctive ambiance at a new site. Ultimately, plans for reopening a physical store were set aside in favor of expanding an online presence. The Bodhi Tree evolved into an e-commerce platform offering digital products alongside educational courses focused on personal growth and learning.

Publications issued by the bookstore

• Bodhi Tree Community Resource Directory
• Essential Book List
• Bodhi Tree Book Reviews (issued biannually from 1991 to 2002, totaling 28 editions)
• Astrological Charts
• Guide to Operating a Bookstore
• Hsin Hsin Ming Sengstan pamphlet
• A Guide to Channeling and Mediumship
• Reference List of Crystals, Minerals, and Stones
• Using the I Ching
• Gemstones, Minerals, and Crystals
• Instructions for Ear Conning
• Incense: Description and Fragrance Guide with Usage Instructions
• Mala Beads and Stones
• Prayer, Meditation, Rosary, or Mala Beads