The Glass Books of the Dream Eaters

Buying Books

What makes a person to buy a book? I often have reviews thrust under my nose and requests/orders placed. There's a fair amount of 'my friend recommends...... Have you got it?' Occasionally it's something heard on the radio or tv. Sometimes it's a visual request, like 'I saw it in here last week. Can't remember the title or the author but it had a yellow cover!' Big names sell big books. Can't think why but they do. Something to do with the human condition? Browsing happens, but tends to occur more frequently in the vicinity of the half price and 3 for 2 offers. Some just can't resist a bargain (but can resist a better choice of books?). Getting people out of their comfort zones among the bargain bins and into the shelves beyond is a challenge.

So is podcasting and downloading samples the way forward in the marketing jungle? It's a damned good idea. If you want a bit of satire and the dulcet tones of Radio 4's Peter Donaldson, then listen to this free download courtesy of John Morrison's Anthony Blair Captain of School.

Orwell reviews

Finlay Publisher has managed a great set of reviews. Last Saturday's Guardian and now in the TLS (22 February 2007). Check both of these out as they are well worth the read.

Orwell - 50 years on

It's interesting to see that George Orwell (Eric Blair) can still ruffle feathers (or in this case a young girl's skirt). It's worth checking out the review in the Sunday Times last week (February 4). Dione Venables, author of the Postscript, questions the reviewers interpretation. George's hormones were definitely playing a part, however. The slim little book in question can be found on our shelves and at Finaly publisher