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Bookish Holiday Gift Guide

By Kristin Masters. Nov 22, 2012. 3:01 AM.

Topics: Rare Books, Rare Book Gift Ideas

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones! While today means turkey and stuffing, tomorrow means the biggest shopping day of the year. If you'd rather skip the Black Friday mayhem, find the perfect literary gift for everyone on your list--without even leaving the house. Here's a look at some favorite books that make exceptional holiday gifts.

     
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Happy Birthday, Hilary!

On November 1, 1926, author and illustrator Hilary Knight was born. Best known for illustrating the beloved protagonist of Kay Thompson's Eloise (1955), Knight has worked in a wide variety of genres over the course of his career. He has illustrated over 50 books and authored nine.

     
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A True Horror of Fine Press

Halloween can be traced back to the 2,000-year-old Celtic festival of Samhain.The Celts believed that the line between the spiritual and physical worlds was blurred on Samhain, and they celebrated the holiday by dressing up in costumes, telling fortunes, and building bonfires. Today we associate Halloween with monsters, ghosts, and other horrors. But at Charnel House, the horrific and strange aren't reserved for one day a year. This fine press specializes in horror and weird fiction.

     
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Happy Birthday, Anne Rice!

October 4th marks the birthday of prolific American author Anne Rice. It seems fitting that this queen of gothic fiction should be born in the same month as Halloween, but Rice has written much more than merely horror. Her oeuvres range from Christian literature to erotica. She often addresses the metaphysical, weaving stories that both challenge and entertain.

     
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The Many Illustrations of JRR Tolkien's Works

When he first published The Lord of the Rings, JRR Tolkien could not have predicted that his tales would not only revolutionize the genres of sci-fi and fantasy, but also transform the world of literature. Indeed, his works have transfixed generations and inspired a series of visually stunning motion pictures.

     
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Collecting Books as Objects of Art

Many collectors build their libraries around a specific genre, author, or even titles. But in the world of rare books, books are often collectible for more than merely their content; they are beautiful objects of art in their own right. From decorative bindings and illuminated manuscripts, to intricate etchings and hand painted illustrations, the art and craft of books can be truly breathtaking.

     
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Celebrating Culinary Legend Julia Child

By Kristin Masters. Aug 15, 2012. 5:43 AM.

Topics: Rare Books, Rare Book Gift Ideas

Basketball player, copywriter, spy, legendary chef: Julia Child would be 100 years old today, and we’re still indebted to her legacy of greatness. Child was a pioneer in the culinary world, making high cuisine accessible to a wide audience. Child’s cookbooks continue to be popular among both cooking enthusiasts and rare book collectors alike.

     
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A Father's Day Gift Guide

By Kristin Masters. May 24, 2012. 1:16 AM.

Topics: American History, Rare Books, Rare Book Gift Ideas

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.

     
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Gift Ideas for New Graduates

By Kristin Masters. May 17, 2012. 5:06 AM.

Topics: Rare Books, Book Collecting, Rare Book Gift Ideas

May is a month for new beginnings, as countless graduates begin a new journey in life. This important milestone requires special recognition. The best graduation gifts are those that the graduate can appreciate for years to come—items whose value increases over time and that the graduate can come to appreciate in new ways. Rare books often make ideal gifts for high-school and university graduates. A few tips for choosing exactly the right title:

     
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New Arrivals: Fine Press from Heavenly Monkey

By Kristin Masters. Apr 5, 2012. 5:40 AM.

Topics: Fine Press, Book Collecting, Rare Book Gift Ideas

We’re proud to present Occupied by Colour, the third in Heavenly Monkey’s color series. This fine press book goes beyond the two-dimensional page, truly engaging the reader with constructions, movements, and models.
The  color project  began in 2007, when Heavenly Monkey’s Barbara Hodgson (author, artist, and book designer) and Claudia Cohen (professional bookbinder) decided to explore their shared passion for color.
     
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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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