ABC for Book Collectors

I finally took the opportunity to read John Carter's ABC for Book Collectors all the way through - I've dipped into it for various reasons for years, but never actually sat and read the whole thing. It's a classic, and justifiably so. Carter's witty erudition and excellent ability to put the most complex bibliophilic terms into easily understandable language make this a must-have reference book for all bibliophiles. And beyond the usefulness, it's endlessly amusing (his entry on "misprints" is an absolute delight). If you don't have a copy on your shelf, order one today. Or, collect all the different editions ...

Not only is this a terrific glossary for those interested in book collecting and those who just love books, it's like a mini-history of book-collecting. Interspersed with short anecdotes and occasionally tart commentary, it's the perfect book to flip through while waiting to fall asleep. The only drawback to that plan is that, like a bowl of peanuts, there is no such thing as, "just one". You'll end up staying awake longer than you intended and finishing the whole thing.

An ABC collated by a perfectionist must, almost by definition, be a five star. I simply refuse to give this the full five stars because Carter must have missed something. seriously, this is the best synopsis of a Bookman's language I've run across. please note the entry for "misprint" as you breeze throiugh it.

Not only a joy to read, but a marvellous compendium of both elementary and arcane knowledge of the book and its history. How many, for instance, would know the difference between a fly-leaf and a free front endpaper? But it exists, and Carter tells you.

Extraordinary helpful mass of info for any lover of books, collector or not.

An absolute must have for book collectors. Carter's is the "bible" of the rare book trade. Or one of them....

This is a straightforward glossary of book terms, and extremely useful for those who are buying or selling books.