How to Buy Rare Books: A Practical Guide to the Antiquarian Book Market

The author of this useful guide is former editor of the Times of London, a longtime book collector and, since 1961, proprietor of the London antiquarian bookselling firm of Pickering & Chatto. His guide, designed for the new collector, provides the sound advice and knowledge of the experienced bookperson on the techniques of book collecting, on how books are constructed and on their care and preservation. Rees-Mogg's focus with regard to collecting tastes and trends is on traditional raritiesincunabula, fine printing, English literature, science and medicine, Americana, natural history, fine bindings. A handsomely designed book, it has 149 illustrations, 16 in color, a glossary, addresses of auction houses and book dealers worldwide, and recommendations for further reading. In all, an engrossing work that captures the spirit and excitement of book collecting, and should not only serve the beginner but also engage the interest of the seasoned collector. (March 10)