Alfred Nobel's Gift to the World

On this day in 1895, Alfred Nobel signed his last will and testament. The four-page document contained less than a page explaining the prize that would bear his name. A scientist, writer, and political activist, Nobel sought to encourage exceptional work in several fields: physics, medicine, chemistry, peace, and literature.

     
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Philip Pullman in Pictures

By Kristin Masters. Oct 19, 2012. 4:12 AM.

Topics: Legendary Authors, Rare Books, Book Collecting

Today we celebrate the birthday of Philip Pullman, whose children's stories and fantasy novels have enchanted readers of all ages. Born on this day in 1946, Pullman has distinguished himself as one of Britain's leading modern authors and illustrator. What better way to commemorate the anniversary of his birth than with a look at his pictures?

     
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Celebrating 50 Years of James Bond in the Cinema

By Kristin Masters. Oct 5, 2012. 5:00 AM.

Topics: Legendary Authors, James Bond, Movie Tie-Ins

It's James Bond Day, marking 50 years of Bond movies in the cinema. Since the debut of Dr. No on this day in 1962, Special Agent 007 has become an icon of popular culture. The latest James Bond movie, Skyfall, premiers on October 26 in the UK and on November 9 in the United States.

     
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The Life and Legacy of John Steinbeck

Few authors have captured the zeitgeist of twentieth-century America as John Steinbeck did. This legendary author built a name for himself with his depictions of rural California, the Dust Bowl, and the Great Depression. But his wide interests--from marine biology to history--resulted in an incredibly rich literary legacy.

     
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Celebrating a Legend in Sci-Fi and Adventure

By Kristin Masters. Aug 31, 2012. 1:37 AM.

Topics: Legendary Authors, Book Collecting, Science Fiction

Tomorrow marks the birthday of Edgar Rice Burroughs .The creator of such famous characters as Tarzan and John Carter, Burroughs iconic novels revolutionized science fiction and adventure writing.

     
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A Tribute to Gore Vidal

By Kristin Masters. Aug 2, 2012. 10:37 AM.

Topics: Legendary Authors, American Literature

On Tuesday we lost a legendary novelist, essayist, and polemicist. Gore Vidal passed away at the age of 86. Vidal was renowned as a leading author and political thinker of the modern era.

     
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Happy Birthday, Cormac McCarthy!

By Kristin Masters. Jul 20, 2012. 2:48 AM.

Topics: Legendary Authors, Rare Books, Book Collecting

He refuses to use semicolons and loves movies by the Coen brothers. Award winning novelist and playwright Cormac McCarthy turns 79 today.      
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Surprise! These Legendary "Adult" Authors Have Written Children's Books

By Kristin Masters. Jun 21, 2012. 4:34 AM.

Topics: Legendary Authors, Children's Books, James Bond

Many of our favorite legendary authors built their reputation around writing “serious literature for adults.” But that doesn’t mean that these authors don’t have a more playful side—you’d be surprised at which of your favorite authors have also written books for children.

     
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The Genius of JRR Tolkien

Among our latest acquisitions are several exceptional works by JRR Tolkien. The author has been lionized (and rightfully so) among readers around the world. Though Tolkien was a member of academia himself, his works are often snubbed by experts in the field. His contributions to literature have set him apart as a legendary author and made him a favorite among rare book collectors.
     
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Legendary Authors: Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens has inspired generations of writers, readers, and book lovers. Born in 1812, Dickens earned the reputation of preeminent novelist of the Victorian era. His contributions to literature mean that Charles Dickens’ books remain incredibly appealing to rare book collectors. Bet you didn’t know these tidbits about Charles Dickens:

     
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How can I identify a first edition? Where do I learn about caring for books? How should I start collecting? Hear from librarians about amazing collections, learn about historic bindings or printing techniques, get to know other collectors. Whether you are just starting or looking for expert advice, chances are, you'll find something of interest on blogis librorum.

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