La Maison des histoires - Chantelivre

La Maison des Histoires, attached to the Chantelivre bookshop on Rue de Sèvres, is a dedicated children's storytelling and book space in the heart of Paris's 6th arrondissement. Part bookshop, part cultural venue, it hosts regular story hours, author readings, and creative workshops aimed at young children.

The space is warm and inviting, with shelves full of beautifully illustrated children's books in French (and some bilingual editions). During story sessions, a reader brings tales to life with expressive narration, props, and audience participation — even non-French-speaking kids often get drawn in by the theatrical delivery and illustrations.

Browsing the bookshop is free, and it's a wonderful place to find uniquely French children's books that you won't find back home. Staff are knowledgeable and happy to help find age-appropriate titles. Workshops and special events may carry a small fee, typically around 5-10 EUR per child.

The location is ideal for families exploring the Left Bank. You're steps from Le Bon Marché (Paris's oldest department store, with an incredible food hall), and the Jardin du Luxembourg is just a few blocks south — making it easy to combine a bookshop visit with a picnic and playground time in one of Paris's most beloved parks. The Sèvres-Babylone metro station is right nearby for easy access from anywhere in the city.