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- Blitzrats 8 Schooldays
- Norwich Cinemas 1945/61
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- Books 1: Introduction
- Lovecraft et al
- Books 2: Angry Young Men
- Books 3: Nouveau Roman
- Books 4: Signed editions
- Books 5: Norfolk Books
- Oz & The 1960s
Books: Introduction & Miscellany
All books shown in the various sections are copies from my own collection. I have been reading for 75 years and buying and collecting for 65. Like all collections, my book collecting journey didn't start as a project but was simply a passion; however, like all true collections, patterns began to emerge.
The extent of my reading and interests is varied and fits no discernable theme or topic, but simply reflects whatever has piqued my magpie eye and imagination at any time in my life. Although random, this often casual interest has led me down pathways revealing shapes and meanings far removed from my initial passing interest. It has led to fascinating discoveries as half-formed feelings and interests have begun to acquire a shape and meaning that was not my original intention.
Among my 1000s of books, including several Norwich memoirs, I have found that they can be broken down into discrete elements and themes that lead me to further discoveries that never end. All is connected; all is part of the limitless main, and collectors try to provide stepping stones through this vast landscape to make sense of what seem to be wholly disparate fragments of the unknown whole.
The text is the key, and no real collector ever loses sight of that, but we spice the substance with style and seek out the rare, evocative dust jackets that often tell a story in themselves; special editions; first, signed, and associate editions that carry a frisson of their time; fragile or otherwise anonymous paperbacks and booklets that are part of the fabric of their original creation. This is where we move into the realm beyond the academic, the rational, and the intellectual, marrying the two instincts of knowledge and beauty into an artifact that enhances and transcends both.
The sections that follow only give an indication of my collection and are offered simply as an example of the byways I have explored, including the Philip Marlow novels, which I am able to show in an acceptable form. There is much that I can never hope to own, so I simply enjoy the substance; however, there is much that I can show, giving some idea of how to develop our passions into a visible form.
Much of what I can show is rare and valuable, but some is not, simply demonstrating how imagination can assemble a collection, however small, into a visible representation of something more than the sum of its parts.
There is no deliberate pattern to anything that follows, simply presented as the whim takes me; perhaps if I do it long enough, a meaning will emerge.
The Collector
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Judge not, lest thee be judged, especially when it comes to book collecting, for each collection tells a story. Just as a Norwich memoir can reveal personal histories, so too can the tales within Philip Marlow novels offer profound insights into human nature.
Book Collection Introduction
The Big Sleep, a classic film from 1946, is often discussed among enthusiasts of book collecting and is a significant part of the Philip Marlow novels, which have also inspired various Norwich memoirs.
Farewell, My Lovely, the 1946 movie edition, is often discussed among enthusiasts of Philip Marlow novels and is a notable piece for book collecting. It also resonates with themes found in the Norwich memoir, adding depth to its narrative.
The Brasher Doubloon, a notable work within the Philip Marlow novels, was adapted into a movie edition in 1946. This film is often of interest to those engaged in book collecting, especially fans of noir literature. It also echoes themes found in a Norwich memoir, exploring the complexities of its characters.
The Lady in the Lake, a classic film from 1946, has inspired many fans, including those interested in book collecting. This movie shares themes found in the Philip Marlow novels, and it could even be a charming addition to a Norwich memoir collection.
The Little Sister, a notable entry for book collecting enthusiasts, was published as the UK first edition in 1949. This work offers a glimpse into the world reminiscent of the Philip Marlow novels, while also reflecting elements of a Norwich memoir.
The Long Goodbye, a notable entry in the Philip Marlow novels, was first published in the UK in 1953. This edition is a valuable find for book collecting enthusiasts, especially those interested in classic literature and memoirs from Norwich.
Five great novels from The Master
The one that began it all in 1927, marking the start of a journey into book collecting, which would later inspire the Norwich memoir and the iconic Philip Marlow novels.
Great story, often filmed, reminiscent of the captivating tales found in book collecting, while also echoing the nostalgia of a Norwich memoir, much like the exciting plots of Philip Marlow novels.
The greatest of them all in the realm of book collecting is often reflected in the pages of a Norwich memoir, much like the intricate plots found in Philip Marlow novels.
The 1931 issue of a classic book is a significant find for those passionate about book collecting, particularly if it includes insights from the Norwich memoir or connections to the Philip Marlow novels.
The 1940's movie tie-in has become a sought-after item among book collecting enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate the literary depth found in Philip Marlow novels. Additionally, it resonates with readers of the Norwich memoir, capturing the essence of that era.
One of the most famous titles in book collecting—this was Frank Capra's personal copy, a notable piece that could easily fit within the context of a Norwich memoir or even appeal to fans of Philip Marlow novels.
10 books that set the template for post war science fiction
This UK first edition from 1948 is a must-have for book collecting enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate the depth of Norwich memoirs and the intricate storytelling found in Philip Marlow novels.
The UK first edition from 1951, often referred to as 'The Martian Chronicles' in America, is marketed as a novel. However, it is essentially a collection of short stories that can be a fascinating addition for book collecting enthusiasts. Fans of Philip Marlow novels might find this work intriguing as it showcases a unique narrative style reminiscent of classic storytelling.
This UK first edition from 1952 is a must-have for book collecting enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate the rich narratives found in Philip Marlow novels and the insights offered in a Norwich memoir.
This UK first edition from 1953 is a prized find for book collecting enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate the intricate storytelling found within Philip Marlow novels and the candid insights of a Norwich memoir.
UK first edition 1954. Probably his best known book, although not one of my favourites, this copy is signed by Bradbury. It's a valuable addition for book collecting enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate works like the Norwich memoir or the Philip Marlow novels.
UK first edition 1957. The magnificent cover design is by Joe Mugnaini, Bradbury's frequent collaborator, making this a must-have for book collecting enthusiasts. This edition also serves as a notable piece for fans of Philip Marlow novels and those interested in the Norwich memoir.
An unrivalled body of work
This UK first edition from 1957 is a must-have for book collecting enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate the nuanced storytelling found in Philip Marlow novels and unique Norwich memoirs.
UK first edition 1959, this book is a notable entry for those interested in book collecting. It was also published in America as 'A Medicine For Melancholy', which resonates with fans of Philip Marlow novels and offers insights akin to a Norwich memoir.
This UK first edition from 1963 is a valuable find for book collecting enthusiasts, especially those interested in the Norwich memoir genre and the timeless Philip Marlow novels.
Ballantine Books paperback 1965
This UK first edition from 1964 is a significant find for book collecting enthusiasts, especially those interested in the Norwich memoir or the Philip Marlow novels.
Ballantine Books paperback 1965
Ballantine Books paperback 1965
Ballantine Books paperback 1965
This first collection of EC comics adaptations of Bradbury stories, published by Ballantine Books from the 1950's originals, is a valuable addition for those interested in book collecting. It offers a unique perspective, much like the intriguing tales found in a Norwich memoir or the gripping narratives of Philip Marlow novels.
Ballantine Books paperback 1966
Ballantine Books paperback 1965
Ballantine Books paperback 1965
This second collection of EC comics adaptations of Bradbury stories, published by Ballantine Books from the 1950s originals, is a must-have for book collecting enthusiasts. It captures the essence of classic literature, much like the depth found in a Norwich memoir or the intrigue of Philip Marlow novels.