Brattlecast: A Firsthand Look at Secondhand Books

In this episode, were responding to a question from a listener: What exactly is a bookplate? Basically, theyre little labels that indicate ownership, usually pasted onto a front endpaper. A holdover from a time when books were expensive luxury items, today bookplates are most commonly found in library books, although they can be a fun way to personalize a private collection as well. Well talk about instances when bookplates can add to the value of a book, and about collectors who focus on the bookplates themselves. Remember, no question is too bigor smallfor the #brattlecast; if theres something youre wondering about, reach out to us at [email protected].

In this episode we’re talking about a signed copy of Robert Frost’s New Hampshire. This collection contains some of Frost’s best-known poems, including “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening,” and won the Pulitzer Prize for poetry in 1924. Our volume is part of a special limited edition run of 350 copies, each of which was signed by the author. We’ll use it as a jumping off point into a discussion of what makes a signed book more—or less—valuable: rarity, condition, and the length and complexity of the inscription, among other factors. Plus, we’ll reveal Ken’s unexpected personal connection with Robert Frost in this lyrical new #brattlecast.

Usually on this podcast we talk about the books in our shop, but on today’s episode we’re talking about our shop… in a book. 150 Bookstores You Need to Visit Before You Die, by author Elizabeth Stamp,  is a collection of unique bookstores from all around the world. We’re honored to be included—and a little surprised: Ken found out when a customer brought in a copy for him to sign. Featuring inspiring photographs, the book makes a great guide for bibliophile travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations. Pick up a copy online, or at the shop when you visit (before or after you die—the Brattle does not discriminate against ghosts).

In this episode we’re talking about a recent appraisal at the Massachusetts Historical Society. Founded in 1791, this institution is the oldest historical society in the United States, a treasure trove of documents, artifacts, and rare books that bring the past to life. Ken got to experience a few of these items: letters from Jane Austin and John Winthrop, plus a speech by Thomas Jefferson. We’ll discuss the difficulties of appraising such rare materials—and encourage you to visit the Historical Society and see their extraordinary collections for yourself—on this invaluable new #brattlecast.

In this episode, we’re digging into an unusual collection of recipes: The Woman’s Suffrage Cook Book from 1886. The first of a handful of cookbooks published by American suffragette associations, this volume was designed to raise funds—and to subtly rebuke the idea that involvement in politics would cause women to neglect their domestic duties. We’ll discuss some of its illustrious contributors and the renewed interest in often under-collected feminist history materials on this deliciously democratic new #brattlecast.