Summer 2023

Summer reins until September 21; tomatoes fill the garden along with the zucchini and cucumbers. The bounty of the garden is always a good thing.  There are memories of so many previous harvests, so many BLT sandwiches, corn on the cob feasts, strawberry shortcakes, and eating raspberries by the handful. Life goes on for sure and we all need to take stock on where we are and in what direction we want to go. Our family vacation at the Race Point lighthouse on Cape Cod was an adventure that the children will surely remember; sunrises, fishing, eagles, Smores, and sunsets. A little reading time but not as much fun as the outdoor shower.

       In the last issue we showcased several different editions from the typical schoolhouse copy to the very rare and expensive. Caroline Brandt provided me with some additional publications that can be added to the list of “The Rubayit.” Additionally, as a miniature book wizard of data, Caroline provided several additional titles (that were not included in the list of miniatures) that include postage stamps as “tipped-in” features.

       Plum Park Press (Tony Firman) has published Sketches and Cartoons.  Next on the review list is a book about book collectors, from Booksby Press (Todd Sommerfeld), Book Culture VIII. Also included is a brief review of a micro-miniature from Booksby. There are three books by Rebecca Press in the review section. Nina Mazzo flips back the pages of time with some interesting reflections from the MBN as well as a new feature, “The Book Collector.” Rebecca Bingham has also contributed her silver pen to the issue with a Bradbury 100 review. Once again Gail Curry has provided an excellent article, based on her contribution, a selection about miniature book reference books. The world of miniature books is as broad as all the oceans and the list of informational topics is almost endless.

    The next three books on the “Bradbury 100” that are included in this issue should certainly be of interest to you as they are all rare gems of the miniature book world, each special to me.

     I am “all eyes and ears” as the expression goes. I would love to have some more subscribers write articles; they are the best. Your ideas are always welcome.

     In closing, my message is simple. Your support and interest are what keeps the ink flowing. 

A Microbibliophile is a publication of all things “miniature bookish” something new, something old, friends and book friends, and always, I hope, something of interest for you. Thank you again for providing a place, in your home, for the journal. It is my joy and a privilege to produce it for you.

Winter 2022/2023

All of the brilliant color of the fall as given way to the gray of winter and the first snowflakes and the cold winds that blow from the north. Sometimes people say that “winter has not even started, and I am ready for the spring.” I love the change of seasons; I guess it is something that you sort of grow up with and love it or can do without. The bountiful garden and the food that it supplies us is but a memory except for the jars of canned tomatoes, fruits, and jellies. The smell of the split pile of oak firewood has replaced the sweetness of the garden raspberries. Onward we go, past the day with the shortest amount of daylight and the longest nighttime, through the holiday season with all the traditions, memories of years past, and aspirations for a great new year, Happy New Year 2023.  

Plum Park Press has published three new books that we have reviewed in this issue. The midnight oil has certainly been burning at Booksby Press, another book about “Mabel Wood” and a special holiday book by Pat Sweet and Bo Press. There is a new book reviewed Caroline Brandt’s Cyclone Press. Lastly, a new publication from the Piccolo Press, Winter’s Tale. There is a special article by Gail Curry concerning The Borrower’s Press and Nina Mazzo’s reporting from the MBN. All great reading.

We continue with another special review/synopsis of two books from the “Bradbury 100” list for your enjoyment, Number 36 The Lullaby Book, Number 37 A Traveling Exhibit of ex libris etchings, and Number 97 Colored Buttons—all great examples of Bradbury’s Favorites. The “100 List” is an ongoing feature that began in 2021 with the goal of enticing readers to submit their own review of a book of their choice from the list.  The entire list was included in the January 2021 issue of The Microbibliophile.

The next issue is Number 1 for the year 2023 the start of another MB year, I cannot believe where time goes these days. It seems like everyone is busy doing everything, I often think “where did I ever have time to go to my regular job” for all those years; building a family, building a career, building a home let us move forward and enjoy the next year as well as all the previous ones. The Microbibliophile.

What would you like to read about in 2023? What special features should we pursue for your enjoyment and to satisfy your questions and interests?

With the new year comes time for or annual MB subscription renewal. Unfortunately, the prices we have to pay for most things keep rising. However, our conversion to a digital distribution format has allowed us to hold the line on subscription charges.

In closing, my message is simple, your support and interest is what keeps the ink flowing. The Microbibliophile is a publication of all things “miniature bookish,” something new, something old, but always, we hope, something interesting, since 1977. Thank you again, for providing a place, in your home for The Microbibliophile. It is a joy and a privilege to produce the journal for you.

March / April 2022

Spring is in the air, the clocks have been reset and it is still light enough after dinner for the children to play outside. It is a joy to be able to walk to the mailbox without being all bundled up like we are getting ready for the Iditarod. I am sure we will have some cold nights and maybe even a snowstorm or two but for the most part, we are on the way to the warm weather. Time to look for the daffodils, and get the garden ready for the first “cool weather” plantings—peas and kale are always a good choice.

Plum Park Press has published two new books that we have reviewed in this issue. The Final Score has created an outstanding miniature about miniature music books and we have another book from Booksby Press as well. Nina Mazzo gleans more tidbits from within the MBN. There are three books from Dawson’s as well as a set of Dickens’ work from Black Cat and yet another set of three “books about books.” Gail Curry provides us with a fresh look at the work of Doris Varner Welsh and Kathryn Ricard. It is always fun to turn the pages of time back a bit and revisit things as they were. Plenty to read and plenty to keep you interested, a lot more fun than the doing spring cleanup.

We continue with another special review/synopsis of two books from the “Bradbury 100’”list for your enjoyment, Number 51 and 64. The “100 List” is an ongoing feature that began in 2021 with the goal of enticing readers to submit their own review of a book of their choice from the list. The entire list was included in the January 2021 issue of The Microbibliophile. 

If you have not sent your subscription renewal (and there are more than a few who are still looking for their postage stamps), check the back cover of this issue for the specific details. Within this issue are instructions about how you may, print your digital copy of The Microbibliophile, if you so choose, as a straight list or a double-sided booklet.

In closing, my message is simple, your support and interest is what helps keep The Microbibliophile an active publication of all things “miniature bookish,” something new, something old, but always something interesting, since 1977. Thank you again, for providing a place in your home for The Microbibliophile, it is a joy and a privilege to produce each issue for you and with your help.  

September / October 2021

The hours of the daylight are already shrinking from those longest days of late June. The chatter through the house now is about the start of the school year and what supplies are needed, new headphones, special drawing pencils, new backpacks, and who knows ‘what else’.  I hope that this school year will be easier for the children than the last year.

My thanks in advance to children, to their teachers and all of the parents, grandparents, and helpers for all they do to help all of the children everywhere with the learning lessons.

Plum Park Press has published two new books that we have reviewed in this issue. Bo Press has also published a new book to share the joys of the recently published press bibliography. Nina Mazzo gleans more tidbits from within the MBN. This month we revisited the Tamazunchale Press, reprinting an early review from Volume VII of The Microbibliophile, as well as some additional information for you. Press names and the origins are always interesting minutia for the bibliophile. Plenty to read and keep you interested when it is time to take a break from the summer heat, grab a cup of ‘tea’ and park yourself in your favorite chair.

We continue with another special review/synopsis of three books from the ‘Bradbury 100’ list for your enjoyment, Number 38, 43, and 80.  The ‘100 List’ is an ongoing feature beginning in 2021 with the goal of enticing readers to submit their own review of a book of their choice. We will gladly accept your input and help, ‘our pencils are getting shorter all the time’.  Remember that the whole list was included in the January 2021 issue of The Microbibliophile. 

Let me again mention to you that we are moving to a digital publication distribution of The Microbibliophile beginning in 2022, which means no more printed copies. The annual subscription rate will be $25 for six issues, utilizing the same publication dates as we have today.  very subscriber with an email address should have received a digital copy of the last issue of The Microbibliophile. If you did not, please contact me. Sometimes when an email, bounces, that notice may be lost in the vapor. I have included some notes within this issue about how you may, ‘print’ your digital copy of The Microbibliophile, if you so choose.

As I close, my message is simple, your support and interest is what helps keep

The Microbibliophile an active publication of all things “miniature bookish,” something new, something old, but always something interesting, since 1977. Thank you again, for letting us bring The Microbibliophile into your home, for you and your family, and your lives.                                                                                                                                                          

July / August 2021

The longest school year has finally ended.  My congratulations to the children, to their teachers and all of the parents, grandparents, and helpers for making it happen. Now it is a time to watch the waves arrive to kiss the shore, to watch the clouds float across the bright sky, and to peer into the night sky at the stars which give us all hope for a happy and healthy year to come. Between the clouds and the stars is a time for the s’more’s campfire at the beach house on the Maine coast. What better way to spend some summer days and nights than with the children, the light beams of our lives. 

As we move from spring into the summer, I hope that you have your garden planted and the tomatoes are well on their way to bringing that bounty to the table along with everything else in the vegetable patch. I am sure that after the craziness of the last eighteen months there are a host of chores and activities that you want to get to and bring some sense of normalcy back to your life and home. 

Plum Park Press has published two new books that we have reviewed in this issue. Booksby Press has three new books ready for the miniature book world and Bo Press has completed a two- volume bibliography of the full run of their titles. Nina Mazzo gleans more tidbits from within the MBN and we visit some previously published miniature books. ‘Meet the Publisher’ returns highlighting the Booksby Press, operated by Todd Sommerfeld. We are also able to bring you the first of a three-part short story by Hallie Bradley and a ‘mystery book’ question. Plenty to read and keep you interested when it is time to take a break from the summer heat, grab a cup of ‘tea’ and park yourself in your favorite chair.

We continue with another special review/synopsis of three books from the ‘Bradbury 100’ list for your enjoyment, Number 32, 56 and 83.  The ‘100 List’ is a new feature for 2021 with the goal of enticing readers to submit their own review of a listed book. We will gladly accept your input and help, ‘our pencils are getting shorter all the time’.

Let me again mention to you that we are moving to a digital publication distribution of The Microbibliophile beginning in 2022, ‘no more printed copies’. The annual subscription rate will be $25 for six issues, utilizing the same publication dates as we have today.    

As I close, my message is simple: Your support and interest is what helps keep The Microbibliophile an active publication of all things “miniature bookish”, something new, something old, but always something interesting. Thank you again, for letting us bring The Microbibliophile into your home, for your family, and your life.  

May/June 2021

The longest school year has finally ended.  My congratulations to the children, to their teachers and all of the parents, grandparents, and helpers for making it happen. Now it is a time to watch the waves arrive to kiss the shore, to watch the clouds float across the bright sky, and to peer into the night sky at the stars which give us all hope for a happy and healthy year to come. Between the clouds and the stars is a time for the s’mores campfire at the beach house on the Maine coast.  What better way to spend some summer days and nights than with the children, the light beams of our lives. 

As we move from spring into the beginning of summer, I hope that you have your garden planted and the tomatoes are well on their way to bringing that bounty to the table along with everything else in the vegetable patch. I am sure that after the craziness of the last eighteen months, there are a host of chores and activities that you want to get to and bring some sense of normalcy back to your life and home. 

Plum Park Press has published two new books that we have reviewed in this issue.  BooksBy Press has three new books ready for the miniature book world and BoPress has completed a two-volume bibliography of the full run of their titles. Nina Mazzo gleans more tidbits from within the MBN and we visit some previously published miniature books. “Meet the Publisher’”returns highlighting the Booksby Press, operated by Todd Sommerfeld.  We are also able to bring you the first of a three-part short story by Hallie Bradley and a “mystery book” question. Plenty to read and keep you interested when it is time to take a break from the summer heat, grab a cup of tea and park yourself in your favorite chair.

We continue with another special review/synopsis of three books from the “Bradbury 100” list for your enjoyment, Number 32, 56 and 83.  The list is a new feature for 2021 with the goal of enticing readers to submit their own review of a listed book.  We will gladly accept your input and help—our pencils are getting shorter all the time.

Let me again mention to you that we are moving to a digital publication distribution of The Microbibliophile beginning in 2022, which means no more printed copies. The annual subscription rate will be $25 for six issues, with the same publication dates as we have today.    

As I close, my message is simple: Your support and interest is what helps keep The Microbibliophile an active publication of all things “miniature bookish,” something new, something old, but always something interesting.  Thank you again, for letting us bring The Microbibliophile into your home, for your family, and your life.                                                                                                                                                          

Wishing you the best,

Jim

January / February 2021

Happy New Year to everyone.  The holidays of the Fall and Winter beginning with Thanksgiving, then move to Christmas and Hanukah, New Years, and Valentine’s Day. They are a lot of events for everyone. Certainly, a lot of fun and joy, a lot of cookies and smiles, and a lot of work as well.    

The year 2020 was certainly like no other in my lifetime. On March 15 we were enjoying a family birthday pizza party at Pepe’s, in New Haven and on March 23 it was the Pledge of Allegiance and home-schooling with four grandchildren, in the “Bow Wow School room.”  Some switch-up for sure, laptops, flash cards, and whiteboards but the “opportunity of a lifetime” for an old grandpa. One of the most important lessons to teach was to re-enforce the skill of listening with your eyes and to understand what people are talking about. (Two ears + one mouth) an important equation for life…)

We have four new miniature books reviewed in this issue; Plum Park Press, Wild Onion Press, and Cider Press. All are great additions to the bookshelf. The Cider Press is a relatively new press, in particular their micro-miniature book about the Lincoln penny. Also, Jan Becker concludes her series about her “Cabinet of Curiosities.” Tom Knechtel tells the backstory about the creation of the English Toy Theater. Plenty of information with the Bradbury 100 and the REM Keepsakes, both of these items ask for your feedback and additions. Nina Mazzo gleans more tidbits from within the MBN and we visit some interesting miniature book research books/bibliographies.

As a new monthly feature, we will do a special review/synopsis of a different book from the Bradbury 100 list for your enjoyment. This monthly feature is designed so you can submit your review of a listed book and we will gladly accept your input and help - “our pencils are getting shorter all the time.”

Enclosed with our last issue was a subscription renewal form for your convenience. Please renew now and possibly even giving a gift subscription to a friend or library. Please return your renewal form with payment, if you have not already done so, via the USPS to the address on the rear cover, or if you want to save a stamp, you can use PayPal, email: hello@themicrobibliophile.com.

In closing, feedback is like oxygen for this editor. Your support and interest is what helps keep The Microbibliophile an active publication of all things “miniature bookish”—something new, something old, but always interesting. Patiently waiting to hear from you. Thank you for letting us bring The Microbibliophile into your home, your family, and your life.  

November / December 2020

We are certainly ready for the rush of the seasons for sure; moving from turkey day, to holiday lights galore, to some snow storms, and maybe some seed catalogues. The current issue completes ten years since I contacted Sherry Mayo about “restarting” the The Microbibliophile after Jon’s illness preventing him from continuing the publication. Those ten years have passed quickly and encompass 61 issues, some 2600 pages of miniature book reviews and assorted information. When it was originally started by Bob Hanson in 1977, The Microbibliophile was just four pages, banged out on a manual typewriter.

What a journey, with so many new day horizons, so many miles, and so many smiles. Ten years… Well Sherry and I offer our thanks for your continued support, and we are looking forward to another ten years of fun at the squeaky old oak roll top desk. 

Five new miniature books are reviewed in this issue; Plum Park Press, Wild Onion Press, Bo Press, and Booksby Press.  All are great additions to the bookshelf. The Booksby Press review includes yet another new book by Msgr. Weber.  Also, Jan Becker shares her “Cabinet of Curiosities” andGail Curry and Stephen Byrne provide more interesting details on miniature music books. Nina Mazzo gleans more tidbits from within the MBN.

We visit some of the holiday books previously published by the Poole Press as well as the bibliographies of REM Rounding out this edition, Todd Sommerfeld talks one of his favorite miniature book people, Wilbur Macy Stone. Looks like our current font used for printing The Microbibliophile is acceptable for the readership. I am thinking of revisiting the Bradbury Catalogue #12, April 2002, which was titled “One Hundred Favorite Twentieth Century U.S. Miniature Books.” Please let me know if this is of interest and worth reviewing again?  Possibly some of our new readers/collectors have not seen this catalogue and maybe even our seasoned reader/collectors would enjoy a revisit and could provide input/comments on Bradbury’s choices.

The book term for the next issue is “errata slip/”  Who has some good examples that you may want to share via an image to include with the definition?

Enclosed with this issue is a subscription renewal form for your convenience. Please consider renewing now and possibly even giving a gift subscription to a friend or library. Please return your renewal form with payment via the USPS to the address on the rear cover. 

Finally, I am asking for feedback on our website - www.themicrobibliophile.com.  Your support and interest is what helps keep The Microbibliophile an active publication of all things “miniature bookish,” sometimes new, sometimes old, but always interesting.  Thank you.  

September / October 2020

Fall is in full swing for sure. The trees are all aglow with their colors, the pumpkins and witches are displayed, mums decorate every house, and children have had their fun with apple pick’n. Schools are making their way through the Covid crisis and hopefully the teachers, children, and parents are becoming adjusted to our new normal. Let us look forward to our upcoming Thanksgiving holiday in whatever way we can best celebrate it in a healthy and safe way this year.

“Bibliophiles Onward,” a bookish quote from the first issue of the Miniature Book News, 1965. Nina Mazzo begins a new series of informative tidbits and interesting insights into the world of miniature books using the MBN as her source of information. We send our most hearty words of encouragement to Nina, a true bibliophile’s bibliophile.

Two new miniature books are reviewed in this issue; one from Plum Park Press and one from the Wild Onion Press. Also, Jan Becker shares her “Cabinet of Curiosities” and Cathie Abney explains her answer to the “Collecting Quandary/”  Have you ever read vintage book journals? Nina Mazzo can help you plan an armchair round-trip. There is also a special thought-provoking poem by Maya Stein, something special for these cool fall days or nights. Todd Sommerfeld talks about his favorite holiday miniature. Which brings us to a good point—what is your favorite holiday miniature? How about a little “show and tell” for everyone.  Lastly, there is a selection of various fonts and type sizes that might be used in future issues. I ask for your feedback on style, size, and overall aesthetics when compared to the current font and size. 

In the meantime, I ask that you share a copy of The Microbibliophile with a non-subscribing friend or even the staff at your local library or favorite bookstore. Then, just drop me an email message with their contact information and I will snail-mail a sample copy for his/her perusal and possibly gain a new subscriber.

Finally, as always, I ask that you please consider joining other contributors to our little journal by sharing your own creations, possibly your book search adventures and finds, or simply your passion for anything “bookish.”  Every question is a good question and every door opened may lead to a new adventure. Road trip or armchairs can always bring out the flair for excitement and satisfaction of learning something new.  Let me know of any ideas for articles of interest to you that might be explored in a future issue. I, as well as our many contributors, always enjoy the research, the discovery, and most importantly the opportunity to share information.

I am also looking for feedback on the website - www.themicrobibliophile.com.  Feedback is the oxygen that makes things come alive and provide value to everyone. Your support and interest is what helps keep The Microbibliophile an active publication of all things “miniature bookish,” something neq, something old but always interesting.  

July / August 2020

Where oh where does the time go? Seems like just yesterday we were putting the Memorial Day picnic hotdogs on the grill. Now all of a sudden you need to grab a sweatshirt to walk the children to the school bus in the morning.

It has been a busy summer with the rapidly changing weather and all of the different variants we have had to make to our lives and the lives of the children because of the Covid virus.

 I certainly look forward to a solution to this insanity.  Personally, I have already sharpened my pencils to be the homeschool teacher again as the local schools here are following a ‘hybrid schedule’ two days in the little red schoolhouse and three days ‘virtual’ at home. Together we will make it happen.

When you have some spare moments from your busy schedule, take a look at our website; www.themicrobibliophile.com. It has been recently updated with a book shelf of interesting information. If someone says to you ‘’What is a miniature book?’ point them to the site and you may just be amazed by their next questions for you. If there is something that you think should be added to the MB site let me know.

Six new miniature books are reviewed in this issue. Tome number 144 from Msgr. Weber, outstanding!  Gail Curry continues to charm us with Part II of her article on music and miniature books. Meet Jan Becker, and certainly read more about the MBC by Nina Mazzo.     

Virtual meetings for both work and family gatherings are becoming the “New Normal” for safe-distancing interactions. That means that many popular book shows have become virtual, “on-line” events. I am sure someone among our readers has found a treasure or two with the click of the mouse or keyboard. Please consider sharing the details as it might encourage someone else to try the virtual venue and help out a book seller during these difficult times.

In the meantime, I ask that you share a copy of The Microbibliophile with a non-subscribing friend or even the staff at your local library or favorite bookstore. Then, just drop me an email message with their contact information and I will snail-mail a sample copy for his/her perusal and possibly gain a new subscriber.

Finally, as always, I ask that you please consider joining other contributors to our little journal by sharing your own creations, possibly your book search adventures and finds, or simply your passion for anything “bookish.”  Every question is a good question and every door opened may lead to a new adventure. Road trip or armchairs can always bring out the flair for excitement and satisfaction of learning something new.  Let me know of any ideas for articles of interest to you that might be explored in a future issue; I always enjoy the research and the discovery.  

Your support and interest is what helps keep The Microbibliophile an active publication of all things “bookish”, something new something old but always interesting.  

. . . . . . . . . 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Volume XXXIX, Number 4, Issue Number 226            
July-August, 2020

Book Reviews and Criticism:

George Washington, by Msgr. Francis J. Weber, published by El Camino Real Press
Constable, by C. Lewis Hind, published by Plum Park Press
With The Night Mail, by Rudyard Kipling, published by Plum Park Press
Motor Transports In World War I,  Horace Wyatt, published by The Wild Onion Press
Expeditions to the Source of the Mississippi River, by Henry Rowe Schoolcraft, published by The Wild Onion Press
The English Toy Theater,  published by Bo Press Miniature Books 

Special Features:

Frontispiece, The Bibliobar, by Sherry Mayo
Nowhere Island, a short story by Gail Faulkner
Not In Adomeit, Revisited, by Todd Sommerfeld
Evergreen Ramblings, Meet the Collector, by Jan Becker
Miniature Music Books, Part II, by Gail Curry
Letters to the Editor and Sunshine Club
Musings of a Bibliophile, Ruth Adomeit, (a reprint from the TBA)
Something To Think About
The Miniature Book Collector, by Nina Mazzo
Purrings, Revisited, by Todd Sommerfeld
Embroidered Bible, reported by Nina Mazzo
Chats About Miniature Books

Departments:

Get the Ink Ready, Start the Presses
Catalogues Received
Terms and Definitions, Dos-à-dos and Tête-bêche
The Microbibliophile  Frontispiece for the September/October 2020 issue
Classifieds 

June 2020

What a year it has been, things change each day, some for the good and some not exactly so. Too hot, too much rain, not enough rain, life somehow goes on. I am sure that I am not the only one making plans for working with the children to do their ‘distance learning’ school lessons come September.

I certainly have to be thankful for the resources that we have here but I only wish we could help more children as there are scores that have to try to figure things out for themselves because their parents work or they may not have the technology structure to make it all happen each day.  I have to take a deep breath each day and say a prayer for everyone to ‘carry on as best you can’.   

Seven new miniature books are reviewed in this issue. One of the books ‘Stu’ is by a new author and book artist.  Gail Curry continues to charm us with her article on music and miniature books. Stephen Byrne reflects on some of his music related MBS keepsakes. Nina continues the exploration with her series on the MBC. Cathie Abney relates the story of her first miniature book purchase and Todd Sommerfeld talks about Black Cat Press’s  ‘Purrings.’ There is also a special article on an ‘edition of one’ only book.

In the meantime, please share a copy of The Microbibliophile with a non-subscribing friend or even the staff at your local library or favorite bookstore.  Then, just drop me an email message with the contact information and I will mail out a sample copy to keep on their desk for sharing.

Finally, as always, I ask that you please consider joining other contributors to our little journal by sharing your own creations, possibly your book search adventures and finds, or simply your passion for all things “bookish.” If you have an idea, but need composing help, Sherry and I are available to lend a thought or two to get your idea onto paper. Let me know of any ideas for articles of interest to you that might be explored in a future issue; I always enjoy the research .

The production and mailing costs to keep The Microbibliophile humming along continue to increase. I hesitate to just say ‘the new subscription price is’ without asking the readership for your input and suggestions. I can put together a ‘survey’ but would like to hear from you first. We could shrink the physical size of the publication (not much savings) or we could go to an ‘all digital format’ with electronic distribution (a big savings and price reduction) but a significant ‘format change). Maybe a tiered subscription offering both paper and or electronic publications?

If you have not mailed in your 2020 subscription payment, please do so, we like the USPS cannot run without your support.  I hope to have the next issue in the mail by the first week of October.

Your support and interest is what helps keep The Microbibliophile an active publication of all things ‘bookish.’

March 2020

The world is somewhat of a blur as we moved  from early March to July in a flash. The world has certainly been upset by the effects of the Covid-19 virus.  Being drafted to facilitate a ‘home schooling’ program spanning ‘Pre-K thru 5th grade’ was certainly not on my radar but sometimes in life you do what has to be done. Especially when it comes to children and family. In retrospect, it was the opportunity of a lifetime. In early March, the daffodils were pointing their bright yellow heads toward the sky just as they do each year but they were dancing in a strong breeze filled with swirling snowflakes. The weather is one thing but Covid-19 is just something that the world should not have to endure. However, I am sure that we are a strong and resilient world population and we will overcome and defeat this. I hope everyone remains heathy and our road to economic and medical recovery is short. Somehow, we will get back on our regular publication schedule and provide you, the readership the issues that you have subscribed for. Thank you for your patience.

Eight new miniature books are reviewed in this issue.  There is also a special review by Nina Mazzo and another by Darleen Cordova as well as a special insight in the world of ‘Sleepy Hollow’ by Gail Curry. Gail Faulkner introduces us to the Chicken Bone Man and Edie Eisenstein provides her insight to the world of ‘book people’. I have also included the beginning of a multi-issue reprint of an article that the founding editor Robert Hanson, wrote in 1981 for he Wilson Library Bulletin, an interesting ‘look-back’ into the world of miniature books.

In the meantime, please share a copy of The Microbibliophile with a non-subscribing friend or even the staff at your local library or favorite bookstore.  Then, just drop me an email message with the contact information and I will mail out a sample copy to keep on their desk for sharing.

Finally, as always, I ask that you please consider joining other contributors to our little journal by sharing your own creations, possibly your book search adventures and finds, or simply your passion for all things “bookish.”  If you have an idea, but need composing help, Sherry and I are available to lend a thought or two to get your idea onto paper. Let me know of any ideas for articles of interest to you that might be explored in a future issue; I always enjoy the research and the discovery. There are still a few subscribers who have failed to renew their subscription for 2020. Perhaps  they have misplaced their checkbook or pen. This is the last issue for those few subscribers who have failed to renew their subscription for 2020.  If you are one of those folks, and you enjoy this little publication, please take a moment to send your overdue renewal check to P. O. Box 5453. To all of you who have renewed, we wish to extend a grateful Thank you.  Your support and interest is what helps keep The Microbibliophile an active publication of all things “bookish.”

January 2020

The winter weather here in NJ has been just crazy mild this year, yet I know that if I did not tune up the snow blower in the fall the white stuff would have been up to the middle of the door for sure. The snow is certainly pretty to look at out the window and the children will always enjoy the day off from school for sledding and snowman building. However, I can certainly do without the cold and arduous snow shoveling. Still, Spring will be popping out of the ground sooner than we can imagine and with that the Ides Of March. It will be time to plant the peas and then rake away the debris of winter leaves, start the lawnmower, and the race is on until snow flies once again.

This issue contains reviews for six new miniature books. There is also a special review by Nina Mazzo to accompany her Miniature Book Collector series. This is topped off with a short visit with some words about Robert Massmann and his almost-magical work in the world of miniature books.

Additionally, I have included an updated ‘research resource list’ - always a good thing to keep at hand for any collector for miniature book questions and research. Thinking of research materials, Opuscula Press certainly published a few ‘books about books’. Bob Hansen was a great research person and always looking for the story behind each book.

We have taken another look at the works of Jane Conneen, who was a great book person with and excellent eye for painting views of the world through miniature books.

 Life has interrupted the flow of time here but we are trying our best to get the publishing schedule back on track. We thank you for being patient. In the meantime, please share a copy of The Microbibliophile with a non-subscribing friend or even the curator at your local library or favorite bookstore.  Then, just drop me an email message with his/her contact information and I will mail out a sample copy to keep on their desk and share with their customers.

Finally, as always, I ask that you please consider joining other contributors to our little journal by sharing your own creations, possibly your book search adventures and finds, or simply your passion for all things “bookish.” If you have an idea, but need composing help, Sherry and I are available to lend a thought or two to get your idea onto paper. Let me know of any ideas for articles of interest to you that might be explored in a future issue; I always enjoy the research and the discoveries! 

There are still a few subscribers who have failed to renew their subscription for 2020. Perhaps they have misplaced their checkbook or pen. If you are one of those folks, please take a moment to look around the house to find it and then get your check in the mail to P. O. Box 5453.  Otherwise, unfortunately, this will be your last issue. To all of you who have renewed, we wish to extend a grateful Thank you for being a subscriber and being part of the great big world of miniature books.  Your support and interest is what helps keeps this little journal alive. 

The Old Desk Stuff

January, that special quiet time after the holidays, when we begin to see the length of days in North America grow by just a few ticks of the clock each day, when the mailbox seems to be overflowing with seed catalogs, and we watch the weather reports for the chances of white flakes falling from the sky.  Some of us enjoy the white stuff while others it is something painful to be dealt with.  However, many of us may remember the anticipation of building a snowman on a cold January day, running through the house looking for extra mittens, and then to the pantry for a carrot.

I hope you enjoyed the opening pages of Ian Macdonald’s 1985 road trip across America. Some readers may know the story however, I think many may be enjoying his adventure for the first time or as a reflection, the journey continues with the current issue.  Additionally,  there are eight miniature book  reviews for your enjoyment. Included are selections from El Camino Real Press, Bo Press, Plum Park Press, and Wild Onion Press.

Each year, with the January issue, I always you, our readers, what they would like to explore in the upcoming year.  What type of miniature book information would you like researched or what topics would you like to share. The palate is wide open as the year begins and I invite you to send me your ideas and questions, with six issues and 50 plus pages per issue there is a lot of real estate for our reading enjoyment.  Remember, I love your input and savor the challenge of providing you, the readership with a journal that will be of will value and enjoyment.

As a reminder, if you have not renewed your subscription please do so at your earliest convenience.  The 2019 subscription fee is the same as it was for 2018. Check the back cover for details, USPS, or save a stamp with PayPal. Additionally, as always, this humble editor asks that you please consider joining the list of contributors to the ‘MB’ journal by sharing your new book creations, your adventures, your finds, and your passions for all of the book arts. 

Diversity is the spice of life and let us all gather around the table for a feast of thoughts and ideas to help satiate our hunger as we elope on our on our ‘bookish’ journey together.  If you have not renewed your subscription, please do so, see the back cover for details on payments and remember that the price for 2019 is the same as 2018.

Lastly, thank you for the opportunity to bring The Microbibliophile into your life and home and wishing you and your family a healthy and Happy New Year!

November 2018

A Time For Reflection

Fall just seemed to  jump off of the calendar and we go from warm days, to pumpkins and turkeys, and then Christmas is here with its the frosty nights and wonderful decorations.  Fall always reminds me of all of the things we have done and all of those things that we still want to do before year’s end, a time for reflection.  Swimming turns to soccer and soccer to snowmen, how time flies.

As I speak of reflection, this issue of The Microbibliophile will mark eight years, 49 issues, countless book reviews, and pages and pages of information and sharing. I thought that it would be a good opportunity to share some items and articles from previous times in the world of miniature books. I selected an old letter to the editor, a 1980 prospectus for a new miniature book, a few older miniature holiday books, and a few surprises.

Elaine and I had a very enjoyable trip to the Wigtown Book Festival, which included the cordial hosting by Stephen and Marian Byrne and Ian and Helen Macdonald. The land and the scenery provided moments to remember but the time spent with our hosts was priceless. Stephen Byrne has prepared an article about the Wigtown Book Festival and the MBS exhibit of his miniature books that will be published in the forthcoming MBS Newsletter.  Please take a few minutes to search it out on the MBS website: www.mbs.org. 

One of the interesting things that I was given by Ian was a copy of his printed journal detailing his 1985 trip to America. The journal documents all of the miniature book people that he visited along his way across the country, from Boston to Burbank and back again. 

The last issue of the year would not be complete without our reminder to renew your subscription; the 2019 price is the same as it was for 2018.

Additionally, as always, this humble editor asks that you please consider joining the list of contributors to the ‘MB’ journal by sharing your books, your adventures, and your passion for all book arts.  Diversity is the spice of life and let us all gather around the table for a feast of thoughts and ideas to help satiate our hunger and move us forward on our ‘bookish’ journeys. 

Lastly, thank you for the opportunity to bring The Microbibliophile into your life and wishing you and yours the best for your Holidays and a Healthy, Happy New Year!  

September 2018

The Beauty of the Change of the Seasons Is About To Appear Before Our Eyes

Summer is the business of hot weather, ice cream, family and friends, thunderstorms, and thinking  about what we have to look forward to as the calendar pages flip with the next seasonal change. Sometimes we read about the relationship of the seasons to the phases of one’s life, I like to think of the transition from summer into the fall and winter as a time to ‘stock-up’, build the fires that will warm us for the next months, and move us along into the next year. Memories and history are fun to think about but the adventure of the future is that what drives life.

The MBS Conclave was held in Charlottesville, Virginia a few weeks ago. Certainly, a grand time for all of those that attended.  The exhibit displaying portions of the collection of Caroline Brandt was just outstanding, a thing to behold, each book a treasure unto itself and to be remembered for years to come. The MBS Newsletter will provide a full recap of the Conclave with its next publication.

Reviews for five new tomes are included within this issue as well as short reviews of two older miniatures both with red covers, which should catch your eye.  While at the MBS Conclave I had an interesting conversation, with a fellow attendee, about the FDR miniatures, more to follow as plans are explored.  Also included are two articles about some items that are bookish but not exactly miniature - just bookish that I hope provide an interesting diversion. Lastly, I was disappointed that the article about Jane Coneen did not generate some email feedback or ‘Letters to the Editor’ but the little brass box remained empty.

I will be attending the Wigtown Book Fair in Scotland that will be held in late September and on my itinerary is a visit with Ian Macdonald, retired book publisher and owner of  Gleniffer Press. I am sure this year’s festival will be as exciting and book filled as previous year reviews have indicated. Possibly I will find a few tomes to share with you in the next issue of The Microbibliophile. Unless one ventures down the “path less traveled,” one will never know what might be found beyond the next bend in the road.

Please consider joining the list of contributors to The Microbibliophile journal by sharing your books, your adventures, and your passion for the book arts.  Diversity is the gift of life and let us all gather around the table for a feast of thoughts and ideas.

Lastly, thank you for the opportunity to bring The Microbibliophile into your life.

After The Summer Solstice

Summer is a good time to sit and reflect on what one has accomplished during the first half of the year and maybe evaluate what one hopes to do in the remaining months. As the summer solstice, the day with the most daylight in the Northern Hemisphere, slips away, there is still ample time to get outdoors and enjoy our natural surroundings. Take time to listen to the birds sing, maybe hear a distant clap of thunder, or catch a fragrance as it passes while you move through the heat of the day. Nature is a universal gift, teeming with life, and one should savor and respected it throughout the seasons.

We all know the saying ‘tempus fugit’ and soon enough the days of extended daylight will become visibly shorter and it will be time to think about that necessary invention known as the "snow shovel." However, before we leap ahead into thoughts of firewood and snow shovels, why not simply enjoy the long days by partaking of your outdoor passions, whether it is a vegetable garden, biking, or tubing down a lazy river. Still, don’t forget to check your bookshelf now to make certain that you will have plenty of books for your reading pleasure though those wintery days when the snows blows against the window panes and a fire is crackling below the mantel. To help one prepare, the editor, who sits at the squeaky roll top, has a full complement of book reviews and reader submitted articles for one to peruse in this issue.  The June issue is packed with reviews on seven new miniatures; there is another FDR miniature, and a very special article about Jane Conneen.

Summertime weather provides an excellent opportunity for travel around the local countryside. Maybe for a bit of antiquing or book sleuthing. One could visit a book fair, a library sale, or discover a “new” old bookstore hidden along the way. Unless one ventures down that “less traveled path,” one will never know what might be found outside the customary points of travel. 

Please consider joining the written part of the “The Microbibliophile” journal by sharing your books, your adventures, and your passion. We are not all Steinbecks or Twains, but we can each tell our story. What matters is the shared experience with readers who share similar passions.

Lastly, thank you for the opportunity to bring The Microbibliophile into your life. 

The May Issue

May is the fifth month of the new year and that time where for the most part we are done with the snow and ice, looking at the spring perennials poking up around the yard, and really getting ready for the summer ahead of us.  Maybe a cookout, some iced tea, watermelon, and certainly some fireworks for the 4th of July.  Nothing like the good old summertime. 

My compliments go out to all of the contributors to The Microbibliophile - well done to everyone!  Remember, The Microbibliophile is like a vegetable garden - plant the seeds, add some water and warm sun then enjoy the fruits of our bounty.  

The May issue, like the garden, is sprouting with new things. We have six miniature book reviews for you to consider, as well as a special centerfold. There does not seem to be any limit for the number of subjects or finer points of the miniature book world that we cannot share.  I say "we" because I consider our many contributors to be part of the storehouse of information we share. As of this writing, I do not have any additional information about FDR’s little books, but one never knows when those tidbits and clues will present themselves. However, two additional pieces of information did find their way to P.O. Box 5453 for this issue concerning the 1928 Kingsport Lincoln book. Check it out!

The variety of articles presented once again reflect the depth of diversity and knowledge across our readership. How fortunate we are to have so many people as contributors. Todd continues with thoughts on a unique genre of collecting, Nina keeps us posted with her series on the LXIVMOS, Gail Curry talks more about Sherlock Holmes. Additionally, Joan shares her collection of "flip books," Msgr. Weber talks about Galileo, and Bob Hansen again dips to his bottomless inkwell for his insight into the world of miniature books. I hope you enjoy these wonderful selections. 

What would you like to read, learn, and/or possibly contribute?  I personally invite you to take a turn with the pen or keyboard. The horizon marks your journey of opportunity, good will, and adventure. Share your thoughts and knowledge via either of two formats; the printed journal and our website, www.themicrobibliophile.com.  

Lastly, thank you for the opportunity to bring The Microbibliophile into your life!

March 16, 2018

 Spring is in the air...well almost! If you look at the trees and plants you can see the buds of new leaves and flowers beginning to swell with the increased hours of daylight. It makes no difference if they are still covered in ice and snow; the presence of more daylight is the alarm clock for their annual schedule.

Let me first say that I received more compliments on the last issue than I think I have received in total previously.  The readers' compliments were about the quality and diversity of the contributed articles. My compliments, as well, go to all of the contributors to The Microbibliophile. Well done to everyone!  Remember, The Microbibliophile is a palette for your ideas, contributions, and suggestions.  

The March issue contains three new miniature book reviews. I received several comments and pieces of information concerning the article and information presented about the FDR collection. Caroline Brandt stated that she also has a copy of an FDR miniature initialed by FDR with an FDR bookplate. The folks at Campobello Island are very interested in the effort we are undertaking to document the FDR collection, along with an invitation to visit the site and examine the books on hand.  WOW, a road trip for the editor of The Microbibliophile!  

The articles in this issue again reflect the depth of our reader/contributor diversity.  Todd continues with a unique genre of collecting, Nina keeps us posted with her series on the LXIVMOS, miniature newspapers by Stephen Byrne, Cathie Abney helps us with "book terms," there is special review by Bob Hanson, and a 1966 reprint by REM.  Browse the Table of Contents for yourself and enjoy the journey, I certainly enjoy putting it all together for you.

What would you like to read, learn, and/or possibly contribute?  I personally invite you to take a turn at the Frontispiece story; you can even pick the picture to match your story.  The horizon is your border of opportunity, good will, and adventure. Share your thoughts and journeys. Please visit our updated website at www.themicrobibliophile.com.  Lastly, thank you for the opportunity to bring The Microbibliophile into your life.  

GET THE INK READY, START THE PRESSES:

Another year of The Microbibliophile, next issue, Volume XXXVII, Number 3, Issue 213 (expected publish date 05/10/2018).  Reading is a great experience, sharing what we have read is a blessing. Some of the joys of the new season:

• The Importance of Being Ernest, by Oscar Wilde, published by Tony Firman

• Meet the Publisher, Purgatory Press, Esther Smith and Dikko Faust

• Youth, by Isaac Asimov, published by Plum Park Press

• It’s Convoluted, published by Patricia Caernarven-Smith

• Theodore Hesburgh, by Msgr. Francis J. Weber, El Camino Real Press

• The Young Bibliophile, maybe a simple new book format to make

• ‘An Antiquarian Delight’, Poetry For Children, by Charles Lamb, a reprint

• ‘Out of the Box’, something old for sure, maybe an REM scroll keepsake

• Some more information of the specific books in the FDR collection

• Nina Mazzo, LXIVMOS Number 16

• And most important of all, something from you…..
  
  Keep me posted on what is going on at your press or with your collection. Anticipation and searching is half of the fun. We all love the details.

November 21, 2017

Today we have certainly made the transition of seasons here in New Jersey.  The brilliant fall tree colors have taken over the landscape and provided us with one more reason to say, "I always like the change of seasons." Certainly, the shortened number of hours between sunrise and sunset is another reminder; please keep a sharp eye for those wee people who ride the great yellow land cruisers each morning and afternoon. Life does go on and even though we frequently say "Where does our time go so quickly," we have moved over a lot of ground with The Microbibliophile during 2017.

There have been 30 new miniature book reviews, many articles about miniature books authored and submitted by readers, some interesting subjects about the history of miniature books, and so much more. I thank you for all of your contributions, support, and suggestions - the more people who sit at the dinner table the more interesting the meal! 

I ask each reader to take a moment and reflect on what is important to you when reading about miniature books and then consider what The Microbibliophile might do to promote that interest. Perhaps it would be an article(s) on a particular genre or possibly one concerning how new collectors gain a better understanding of miniature books.  

We are especially interested in providing information and content that will expand the world of books into a young audience. We would like to share with them the joys of books as well as understand what they would like to share about books.

The forum is open and waiting. The Frontispiece for the next issue speaks of "Father Time" and the linear direction of time. Yet, we, as bibliophiles, are truly ‘time travelers by nature. We can look into the past, stand in the present, and gaze into the future through the magic of our books. Please share The Microbibliophile with a friend or use it as a key to open a new literary friendship. We can be reached via email at hello@themicrobibliophile.com. Thank you for the opportunity to bring The Microbibliophile into your life.