Sydney's oddest shops - nerdwares

King's Comics

From humble beginnings as a mail-order business, Kings Comics now flourishes as the largest comic-book retailer in Australia. And while the popularity of traditional superheroes still prevails here, there’s a lot more on offer than mint-condition first editions. “There’s more unique titles and merchandise than ever before,” confirms manager Jim Papagrigoriou. “The usual perception of a comics shop is somewhere dark and dingy populated only by dedicated collectors. We wanted a bright, spacious shop that doesn’t just stock comics. We aim for variety to attract as many people as possible.” So while the latest issue of The Amazing Spider-Girl is $5, you might select the historical/ literary parodies of Kate Beaton in Hark! A Vagrant ($31.95). Then again, perhaps a plastic figurine of Matt Smith as Doctor Who is your thing ($23.95), or some Living Dead Dolls ($44.95), or anime-based Art of Shunya busts ($169.95). Says Papagrigoriou: “It’s not all about capes and tights.” 310 Pitt St, Sydney 2000. (02 9267 5615). Mon-Wed 9am–6.30pm; Thu-Fri 9am-8pm; Sat 9am-6pm; Sun 9.30am-6pm.

Galaxy Bookshop

Science fiction and fantasy novels, DVDs and collectables. Lvl 1, 131 York St, Sydney 2000. (02 9267 7222).

The Art of Dr Seuss

Limited edition prints of cartoons, illustrations and even sculptures by the popular Cat in the Hat author. 8 Oxford St, Woollahra 2025. (02 8964 9702).

Blue Dog Posters & Prints

“Keeping students weird” with movie, rock, art, nature and political posters. 9 Wilson St, Newtown 2042. (1300 781 002).

Title

Dating back to 1881, this factory store sells ballet shoes, Russian boots, flamenco boots, tap shoes and more. 34 St Paul St, Randwick 2031. (02 9398 3502).