In Other Words
In Other Words was a radical bookshop in Plymouth, with an extensive selection of feminist, LGBT+, health, and political literature books.
It was established on October 25, 1982, at 38 Mannamead Road by Prudence de Villiers and Gay Jones, both connected to the Grass Roots Bookshop in Manchester.
The bookshop emerged as a hub for the local peace group during the turbulent times of the Falklands War. At that time, it was heavily reliant on volunteers and was underfunded. In 1986, it moved to 72 Mutley Plain, where it began paying minimal wages to its staff for the first time.
It also offered a diverse range of political accessories and memorabilia, including badges, postcards, posters, feminist jewellery, and greeting cards.
The bookshop also provided hot drinks in its first and third premises and hosted numerous events with celebrities and authors.
In 1997, the shop moved to a larger space at 64 Mutley Plain, where it continued its operations until 2007.
However, from 2004 onwards, financial difficulties became insurmountable. When the lease ran out in 2007 and the landlord demanded a 50% rent increase, In Other Words closed its doors.
Despite this closure and the passing of Prudence de Villiers in 2011, Gay Jones continues to honour their legacies by keeping the bookshop's spirit alive by selling books online.
Sources:
Eve Watson, 'Couple's Radical Bookshop in Mutley Plain was a safe haven for gay people' Plymouth Live 06.02.2021 [https://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/news/history/couples-radical-bookshop-mutley-plain-4969763, accessed 20.05.2025]
Radical Bookshops Listing, Radical Bookshop History Project (November 2023) [Available online here, accessed 20.05.2025]
The Radical Bookseller, No. 67, 1990; No. 75, 1991
