blogis librorum. A blog about books. Rare books.

What do you give the father who has everything? Many of us are pondering that question; in many countries, Father’s Day is June 17. While ties and power tools may be practical, they probably don’t speak to Dad’s real interests, hobbies, and passions.This year, consider introducing him to the world of rare books or expanding his personal library with a thoughtful addition.

Choosing the Perfect Rare Book

When most people think of rare books, they imagine age-old tomes preserved under glass in a special collections library. Certainly this is true sometimes, but the reality is that rare books are beautiful, fascinating objects that we can enjoy daily.  Before choosing a rare book as a Father’s Day gift, consider your father’s interests:

• Outdoor hobbies and sports, such as fishing and golf
  
  
• Pop culture favorites—think James Bond or classic rock ‘n roll bands

• Academic subject areas of interest like astronomy, history, or medicine
  
  
• Favorite authors and illustrators

• Role models or famous people who have provided inspiration

You can also look to Dad’s bookshelf for ideas. First editions or fine press editions of favorite books are always excellent choices.

• Dads who prefer literary classics will enjoy limited editions of perennial favorites, such as the Centipede Press edition of Frankenstein.

• The Limited Deluxe Edition of Harold Pinter’s The Disappeared and Other Poems is a lovely work for someone interested in Pinter, poetry, or the book as art form.

• Sci-fi aficionados gravitate toward books like this review copy of Isaac Asimov’s I, Robot.

• History and Americana buffs will treasure the firelogs of Engine Company 45 from January 5, 1889 to April 1, 1889.

• Armchair adventurers often appreciate tales of polar expeditions like a signed first edition of Sir Edmund Hillary’s No Latitude for Error.

• Father's Day celebrates generations of fatherhood. Honor your grandfather with a signed first edition of Buying a Fishing Rod for My Grandfather.  

If you’d like help selecting a rare book for Father’s Day, please contact us! We’re happy to help you find the ideal item for the dad on your list.