The Art of Libromancy: On Selling Books and Reading Books in the Twenty-first Century

The growing power of Amazon in the bookselling and publishing industry has made it more important to consider where and how we get our books. Josh Cook, a veteran bookseller and writer, explores the moral, financial, and political pressures all indie bookstores face, offering tips and techniques for becoming a better reader and recommending great books.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2024
Publisher: Biblioasis

One of the most anticipated books of 2023, according to ESQUIRE's August 2023 Book Club Pick, is a thought-provoking exploration of the importance of bookselling and publishing in the modern world. Whether you are a reader or a writer, the way books are sold and distributed should hold significant importance to you. If you care about the organic nature of your vegetables, the absence of child labor in your clothing, and the absence of misogyny in your beer, it is only natural that you should also be concerned about the production and distribution of books.

With Amazon's growing dominance in both bookselling and publishing, the need to consider where and how we acquire our books has become more pressing than ever. The act of handselling, which booksellers refer to as the simple act of putting a book in a reader's hands, becomes a catalyst for an exploration of the moral, financial, and political pressures faced by indie bookstores. Veteran bookseller and writer Josh Cook takes a generous yet critical approach to examining the industry at the heart of American culture, offering valuable tips and techniques for becoming a better reader while also recommending great books along the way.

In this book, Cook delves into a range of topics, including the relationship between bookselling and white supremacy, censorship, and the spread of misinformation. He also explores the consolidation of the publishing industry and its impact on independent authors and publishers. Cook's insights are based on his extensive experience in the bookselling industry and his deep knowledge of literature. He offers practical advice for readers looking to support indie bookstores and promote diversity in literature, while also advocating for the importance of reading and the power of books to inspire and educate.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of community in bookselling. Cook argues that indie bookstores are vital to the survival of independent literature and to the cultural life of communities. He shares stories of successful indie bookstores that have built strong relationships with their readers and communities, and offers tips for readers and booksellers alike on how to create and sustain these relationships.

Another important aspect of the book is Cook's emphasis on the importance of reading critically. He encourages readers to approach books with a questioning mind and to be aware of the biases and assumptions that can influence their reading experiences. Cook offers practical tips for readers on how to read more critically, including how to identify and challenge assumptions, how to evaluate the credibility of sources, and how to engage with literature on a deeper level.

In addition to his insights and advice, Cook also includes a comprehensive list of recommended books for readers of all ages and interests. The list includes classic works of literature as well as contemporary titles that have been critically acclaimed and celebrated. Cook's recommendations are based on his extensive reading experience and his knowledge of the literary landscape, and they are sure to inspire and delight readers of all backgrounds.

Overall, "Handselling: The Art and Science of Selling Books to Readers" is a must-read for anyone who cares about the bookselling and publishing industry, as well as for readers who are passionate about literature and the power of books to enrich our lives. Whether you are a seasoned bookseller or a newcomer to the world of books, this book offers valuable insights and practical advice that will help you become a better reader and advocate for the importance of independent literature.

One of the most anticipated books of 2023, according to ESQUIRE's August 2023 Book Club Pick, is a thought-provoking exploration of the importance of bookselling and publishing in the modern world. Whether you are a reader or a writer, the way books are sold and distributed should hold significant importance to you. If you care about the organic nature of your vegetables, the absence of child labor in your clothing, and the absence of misogyny in your beer, it is only natural that you should also be concerned about the production and distribution of books.

With Amazon's growing dominance in both bookselling and publishing, the need to consider where and how we acquire our books has become more pressing than ever. The act of handselling, which booksellers refer to as the simple act of putting a book in a reader's hands, becomes a catalyst for an exploration of the moral, financial, and political pressures faced by indie bookstores. Veteran bookseller and writer Josh Cook takes a generous yet critical approach to examining the industry at the heart of American culture, offering valuable tips and techniques for becoming a better reader while also recommending great books along the way.

In this book, Cook delves into a range of topics, including the relationship between bookselling and white supremacy, censorship, and the spread of misinformation. He also explores the consolidation of the publishing industry and its impact on independent authors and publishers. Cook's insights are based on his extensive experience in the bookselling industry and his deep knowledge of literature. He offers practical advice for readers looking to support indie bookstores and promote diversity in literature, while also advocating for the importance of reading and the power of books to inspire and educate.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of community in bookselling. Cook argues that indie bookstores are vital to the survival of independent literature and to the cultural life of communities. He shares stories of successful indie bookstores that have built strong relationships with their readers and communities, and offers tips for readers and booksellers alike on how to create and sustain these relationships.

Another important aspect of the book is Cook's emphasis on the importance of reading critically. He encourages readers to approach books with a questioning mind and to be aware of the biases and assumptions that can influence their reading experiences. Cook offers practical tips for readers on how to read more critically, including how to identify and challenge assumptions, how to evaluate the credibility of sources, and how to engage with literature on a deeper level.

In addition to his insights and advice, Cook also includes a comprehensive list of recommended books for readers of all ages and interests. The list includes classic works of literature as well as contemporary titles that have been critically acclaimed and celebrated. Cook's recommendations are based on his extensive reading experience and his knowledge of the literary landscape, and they are sure to inspire and delight readers of all backgrounds.

Overall, "Handselling: The Art and Science of Selling Books to Readers" is a must-read for anyone who cares about the bookselling and publishing industry, as well as for readers who are passionate about literature and the power of books to enrich our lives. Whether you are a seasoned bookseller or a newcomer to the world of books, this book offers valuable insights and practical advice that will help you become a better reader and advocate for the importance of independent literature.

Weight: 310g
Dimension: 135 x 210 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781771965415