What We're Reading: Abby

The Man Who Loved Books Too Much: The True Story of a Thief, a Detective, and a World of Literary Obsession by Allison Hoover Bartlett

This book takes us into the world of rare books. On the one side the author introduces us to Ken Sanders, a rare book dealer and book detective who has spent many years in pursuit of John Gilkey. John Gilkey on the other hand has made a career out of stealing rare books. He has spent time in prison for his crimes but is never reformed and never stops. Gilkey's crimes were nationwide but he was very successful in northern California. Between 1999-2003 he stole books valued at over $100,000. Through Sanders we learn about the close knit community of rare book dealers and sellers. We are shown the methods used in stealing the books as well as the impact these thefts have on the people involved. Gilkey is obsessed with obtaining as many books as he can. He believes people will think more highly of him if they know he has an enviable rare book collection. His entire identity is wrapped around this one opinion. Sanders is also obsessed but obsessed with protecting the rare book dealers and trying to put Gilkey behind bars. The author tries to bring them together in her story but sometimes ends up putting herself in the middle and making the story about her. Besides that, I found this true-crime drama at times, very engaging.