Ascendant Books first opened its doors in 1983. The metaphysical bookstore was started by two women, Alice Powell and Yvonne Kemp. Both women had suffered tragedies in their lives and were looking for answers as to the meanings behind them. Their love of reading and the discovery of astrology was how the two women had met.
At that time in Alberta, the community of metaphysical seekers was still very small, so they started small, too! In fact, the first location was tiny, no bigger than a kitchen, with fewer than fifty books! Thanks to word of mouth, metaphysical seekers and astrology enthusiasts became aware of Ascendant Books.
At that time in Alberta, the community of metaphysical seekers was still very small, so they started small, too! In fact, the first location was tiny, no bigger than a kitchen, with fewer than fifty books! Thanks to word of mouth, metaphysical seekers and astrology enthusiasts became aware of Ascendant Books.
Reviews (29)
Matthew Mac Donald
Jan 23, 2022
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I look forward to visiting this place, everytime. Their selection is, varied, high quality, and just plain interesting. Teas, incense, decorations, items for prayer, meditation, alters, ceremonies, and traditions from all sorts of religions or spiritual beliefs. And the staff is always such a blessing. Helpful, knowledgeable, and always joyful.
Easily one of my favorite stores. EVER
Easily one of my favorite stores. EVER
Cory Sinclair
Jan 22, 2022
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I just left with a book that I tried to return, that I bought on Saturday and today is the next Saturday...apparently it is now OVER the 1 week return policy that I didn't know about. I WAS NOT EVEN ALLOWED TO EXCHANGE IT!!! It was a gift for my granddaughter, but her mom already bought it which I didn't know. I have my own crystal books, so now I have no use for it. Thanks a lot...great attitude to have at this time of year when people have been stretched for funds and yet still try to make the best Christmas happen for their loved ones. ONE DAY LATE...WHICH IT REALLY WASN'T! Sat-Sun=1, Sun-Mon
Kelley Lewis
Jan 19, 2022
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Replying to your response:
Would you like me post my Medical exemption on here publically for all to see? Because I can do that. Because I have a valid one from my family physician. 2 in fact. I was not asked by your staff to see it. And I was not offered curbside pickup. I was asked to leave your store upon arrival. As stated previously I will not support any business that medically discriminates against ANYONE. Period. But thanks so much for your THOUGHTFUL reply:
Response from the owner 24 minutes ago
Exemption letter is required, as per below - copied and pasted from govt of Alberta website
Would you like me post my Medical exemption on here publically for all to see? Because I can do that. Because I have a valid one from my family physician. 2 in fact. I was not asked by your staff to see it. And I was not offered curbside pickup. I was asked to leave your store upon arrival. As stated previously I will not support any business that medically discriminates against ANYONE. Period. But thanks so much for your THOUGHTFUL reply:
Response from the owner 24 minutes ago
Exemption letter is required, as per below - copied and pasted from govt of Alberta website
Robyn Ollenberg
Jan 02, 2022
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I came in to the store last month, with my one year old, my five year old, and a friend, my one year old son immediately wanted out of the stroller, and stopped at nothing to get out and run. He screamed at the whole store, and I still feel terrible! The staff however, were so caring and understanding, they encouraged him to run around, and for me to keep shopping.
Needless to say, I didn't spend the time I would have liked, browsing your absolutely incredible collection of books, crystals, and cards. I won't forget the acts of kindness I recieved from so many of you, I can't wait to get the chance
Needless to say, I didn't spend the time I would have liked, browsing your absolutely incredible collection of books, crystals, and cards. I won't forget the acts of kindness I recieved from so many of you, I can't wait to get the chance
K. Lewis
Dec 24, 2021
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I have been given a medical exemption due to a condition that prevents me from wearing a face covering/ breathing barrier.
This is one of the only places in Edmonton that I have been refused service. My experience was disheartening to say the least, expecting much more open-mindedness in regards to a store advertising spiritual enlightenment.
Although it appears we are not walking the same path, I am grateful to see the true colors of the owners at this establishment who are promoting division and discrimination; as these are not the type of businesses we wish to continue to support moving into
This is one of the only places in Edmonton that I have been refused service. My experience was disheartening to say the least, expecting much more open-mindedness in regards to a store advertising spiritual enlightenment.
Although it appears we are not walking the same path, I am grateful to see the true colors of the owners at this establishment who are promoting division and discrimination; as these are not the type of businesses we wish to continue to support moving into
David Sherjan
Dec 11, 2021
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***SOVEREIGN BEINGS CAUTION***
As per the ‘rules’ of the owner, this store does NOT honour any mask exceptions. Odd given the title of the store.
Shame, we were looking to spend a few hundred dollars on gifts for spiritually minded friends. We will happily take our money to where sovereignty is more closely upheld and will be sharing this information with the community.
In the frequency of love/light, we wish the owner an ‘awakening’. Medical discrimination will not be tolerated on Gaia.
Towards the Light We Go
As per the ‘rules’ of the owner, this store does NOT honour any mask exceptions. Odd given the title of the store.
Shame, we were looking to spend a few hundred dollars on gifts for spiritually minded friends. We will happily take our money to where sovereignty is more closely upheld and will be sharing this information with the community.
In the frequency of love/light, we wish the owner an ‘awakening’. Medical discrimination will not be tolerated on Gaia.
Towards the Light We Go
H. R.
Dec 02, 2021
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Do not recommend the readers at all, Charming with evasive answers and no respect given to the highest interests of the customer. It victimises. She was on a lower frequency herself, pulled in lower energies, allowed them (without checking or asking for permission) to have a selfish run and request for forgiveness. This is no way to find vindication and souls/people who run on chatty charm show their weaknesses. I said it was not a money issue, although she charged for inaccurate information, shallow knowledge about diet (I could teach her about a healthy diet) and chatting, socializing with herself
Anna Lachman
Sep 18, 2021
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I frequent this business often. I slipped in yesterday to look for a ring, and some Tarot cards. The young lady in the jewellry/crystals section, which is located at the very back of the store was very personable, patient, and knowledgeable in crystals. She did not rush me, even though she was busy, and helped me pick out the perfect ring/crystal. The lady at the front of the store was equally as personable, friendly/helpful with picking out Tarot cards. As usual, a great place to go! Indulge in the experience of this amazing shop!!!
Renee L.
Apr 02, 2021
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Rude and disrespectful staff. I walked in just as another man was complaining to the manager that he has been a long time customer and has never been treated so badly; the women were rude to him and made sexist jokes about being a man and complaining. My eyes widened for a minute. I saw a shelf that had some crystals on it that my friend loves so took a quick pic to entice him to go there. All of a sudden the ladies started yelling at me about how I can't take pics. I apologized and tried to explain. She said "call head office if you have a problem". I said, "no problem, I
Trevor Reichert
Nov 08, 2020
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Katherine W.
Jul 21, 2020
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They are doing a good job managing the restrictions: their crystal section is only big enough for one person/party at a time. If you want to browse leisurely, try to shop at off hours. Otherwise, they tend to try to give people about 10 minutes when there is a waiting list. It's nice to see a few rocks come out to where anyone can buy them. They have a good selection. The staff are receptive and engaging.
Vica E.
Jun 11, 2019
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Makenna M.
May 02, 2019
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Cassandra M.
Sep 29, 2018
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We frequent this store a lot for many things like insense, sage, candles, Knick knacks, books, mostly crystals and rocks. Even cool magnets, wall signs, cards, etc.
They have so much unique stuff that you won't find anywhere else and everything is priced decently. The girls that work there are very knowledgeable about every crystal and rock.
BUT, don't buy the glass balls there, some call them 'witch balls' every one has a different meaning and there's a huge display in the front window. Those exact same glass balls are a fraction of the cost everywhere else than the ones
They have so much unique stuff that you won't find anywhere else and everything is priced decently. The girls that work there are very knowledgeable about every crystal and rock.
BUT, don't buy the glass balls there, some call them 'witch balls' every one has a different meaning and there's a huge display in the front window. Those exact same glass balls are a fraction of the cost everywhere else than the ones
Stephanie D.
Sep 24, 2018
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This is our must stop every time we are on 124st or grab a coffee at Remedy next door. My girlfriend and I are really into rocks and gems and love that there's a circulation so we ALWAYS leave with an addition to our collection. Their display cases are loaded and so full of all kinds of crystals, rocks and gems. Coolest part is that there's a huge range of prices so if you just want the little stuff ($1-10/piece) or if you're looking for a bigger buy they have that too - like massive hundreds or even thousand dollar pieces. The staff are all really helpful and know their stuff about
Kat W.
Jul 18, 2018
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This store is pretty cool! I've been in here a couple of times and I find it's really a unique place. The various displays are quite attractive. There are a lot of things to see and be tempted to buy.
In general there are a lot delicate and breakable items in this store. If you bring young kids in here, or even accident prone adults, I would advise being extra careful. I find there is enough space to maneuver around items.
At the front of the store they've got some pretty cute items for fairy gardens. They have quite a selection of miniature figurines such as fairies or miniature
In general there are a lot delicate and breakable items in this store. If you bring young kids in here, or even accident prone adults, I would advise being extra careful. I find there is enough space to maneuver around items.
At the front of the store they've got some pretty cute items for fairy gardens. They have quite a selection of miniature figurines such as fairies or miniature
Michael L.
Feb 22, 2017
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Always a fun spot to stop into and see what they have. There is usually an assortment of art, and other craft goodies. I find there to also be quite a few specialty items such as perfume, oils, rock infused oil, and wide assortment of reading materials.
I usually go towards the back to check out rocks and gems, there price points are quite high for some items.
I enjoy the people, everyone who works in the store are very kind and pleasant.
Cheers.
I usually go towards the back to check out rocks and gems, there price points are quite high for some items.
I enjoy the people, everyone who works in the store are very kind and pleasant.
Cheers.
Christina K.
Jan 30, 2017
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Pamela D.
Sep 21, 2016
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I pop in here every time I'm walking along 124 Street. It's a great place to kill some time as they have so much to look at! If you have wandered in from one of the neighbouring cafe's they kindly ask that you leave your drink on the tray by the register. Fair enough!
The store is split into three sections, the front displays mystical, funny and religious sculptures, artwork, ornaments, candles and more. Lots of giant Buddhas surrounded by incense sticks. This section is closely followed by rows and rows of book shelves filled with a fantastic book selection, from self help to fairies
The store is split into three sections, the front displays mystical, funny and religious sculptures, artwork, ornaments, candles and more. Lots of giant Buddhas surrounded by incense sticks. This section is closely followed by rows and rows of book shelves filled with a fantastic book selection, from self help to fairies
Holly M.
Apr 01, 2016
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Jenni R.
Mar 15, 2016
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5 stars for the huge selection of books and stones, 1 star for inconsistent staff service.
I've been shopping at this store occasionally for about 10 years. They always have what I want and more so I usually drop $50-150, but I don't go in often enough that staff would necessarily recognize me.
I have to be honest, there is one person on staff that I've seen there for a while and she is super friendly and helpful. Beyond that, I find the staff - especially newer staff - straight up snobby and unhelpful. They hover, watching me close enough that they make me uncomfortable, yet
I've been shopping at this store occasionally for about 10 years. They always have what I want and more so I usually drop $50-150, but I don't go in often enough that staff would necessarily recognize me.
I have to be honest, there is one person on staff that I've seen there for a while and she is super friendly and helpful. Beyond that, I find the staff - especially newer staff - straight up snobby and unhelpful. They hover, watching me close enough that they make me uncomfortable, yet
Bill K.
Mar 08, 2016
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Bernice G.
Nov 08, 2015
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Whenever I need to slow down and get my zen back on, I pop into this lovely book store. The music immediately puts me at ease and the staff are always helpful and pleasant. There are tons of books on self-help, spirituality and nutrition as well as a great selection of crystals, jewelry and other trinkets. If you like the music that is playing, you can usually find it in the CD isle.
A great place to go and get some take home inspiration.
A great place to go and get some take home inspiration.
Kristin K.
Sep 26, 2015
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Tineke D.
Jun 09, 2015
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Ascendant Books is a great place to pop into when you're looking to kill some time or looking or some great gift ideas. Ascendant is in a great location, right next to the newest Remedy Café on 124 Street, and it made for a great place to pop in while I was waiting to meet a friend at the café.
There are so many things to see in the store from a huge book selection, jewellery, angels and fairies, décor and more. My favourite was in the incredible selection of rocks and gemstones with everything from small pieces for making jewellery to large and dynamic pieces that would look stunning
There are so many things to see in the store from a huge book selection, jewellery, angels and fairies, décor and more. My favourite was in the incredible selection of rocks and gemstones with everything from small pieces for making jewellery to large and dynamic pieces that would look stunning
Alouise D.
Apr 28, 2015
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Ascendant Books isn't for everyone, but I love it. It's a new age/metaphysical bookstore, but they also have other products, like crystals, Tibetan singing bowls, dream catchers, meditation CDs, incense, etc. They also often, but not always have psychic and other intuitive readers. Usually you need to book these services in advance, but they'll have a schedule on their website. The store is big, but not huge, and the staff are friendly in helping answer any questions you have.
One thing I love about Ascendant Books is that they have a wide variety of tarot and oracle decks, and
One thing I love about Ascendant Books is that they have a wide variety of tarot and oracle decks, and
Hailey N.
Jan 12, 2015
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It is impossible for me to walk down 124th Street without popping into Ascendant Books. For hours.
There's so much to see inside, there is truly something for everyone including gifts, windchimes and similar instruments, a fantastic selection of alternative new and used books, aromatherapy, incense and candles, music, and my personal favourite, crystals and gemstones!
The back of the shop has gallery quality crystals. The more impressive pieces are priced higher than other shops, but the quality is amazing. The owners clearly take pride in their collection, purchasing special, unique pieces
There's so much to see inside, there is truly something for everyone including gifts, windchimes and similar instruments, a fantastic selection of alternative new and used books, aromatherapy, incense and candles, music, and my personal favourite, crystals and gemstones!
The back of the shop has gallery quality crystals. The more impressive pieces are priced higher than other shops, but the quality is amazing. The owners clearly take pride in their collection, purchasing special, unique pieces
Donna M.
Sep 02, 2014
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I haven't been here in ages, and every time I come back to it, I wonder why I waited so long. Not much has changed in the many years this book story has been around, but it's absolutely beautiful as always. So much to see!
Whether you are into the metaphysical or not, you can probably find something you like. Perhaps some artwork or jewelry? I just bought a friend a lovely red hanging crystal for her birthday (Oh, those cold Canadian winters that lead to all those September/October birthdays!)
I'll be back for Christmas.
Whether you are into the metaphysical or not, you can probably find something you like. Perhaps some artwork or jewelry? I just bought a friend a lovely red hanging crystal for her birthday (Oh, those cold Canadian winters that lead to all those September/October birthdays!)
I'll be back for Christmas.
Lyndsey P.
Apr 08, 2014
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I came across this place during my wanderings in and around the Glenora area today and decided to stop in and browse even though im not big into new age or paganism. I like the layout of the store most of all as there is lots of room to browse without worrying about bumping into other shoppers. One of the biggest turn offs for me when it comes to stores that carry breakable merchandise is when they have their shelves packed in tightly together making it hard to move around.
They have a wide variety of merchandise including wall scrolls,figurines,books.music,stones,and jewelry. I was interested
They have a wide variety of merchandise including wall scrolls,figurines,books.music,stones,and jewelry. I was interested
