Beyond the realms of fiction

Well this is an odd one, we're branching out here and adding a whole new genre to the shelves.

A set of classics from some well known names in the realms of science fiction and speculative science, including the early work of Arthur C. Clarke and some honest space pulp nonsense by Heinlein.

These works were clearly someone's private collection given the pristine state they've been kept in.

A perfect gift, a long time ago

Tis that season, cards need to be sent, birds need to be stuffed and gifts need to be given.
And what better place to go purchase some nice, family friendly entertainment then your local Boots department store.

Yes that's right, if you wanted good quality books and toys you would go to your local Boots store. for those unfamiliar boots is a big pharmaceutical chain here in the UK, known for their drugs, their cosmetics and that's about it.

But in the golden age of illustration they would have a whole lending library section for the paying public, and when that festive time rolled round they would put out illustrated collections of their most popular titles. For the modest price of 15 shillings you would have a large, colourful collection of stories that would no doubt entertain various family members, before they started scribbling in the margins and using it to prop up the wonky set of cupboards.

Wow, here's an odd one.

Some new lots just came in today and we found this little number bundled in at the bottom of the box.

This book is just a collection of illustrations in a ring binder, but once upon a time it came with a gramophone record to play to alongside.

This may be the original form of Children's Audio book.

Here's a sample from an old Curtis's botanical magazine.
This magazine was a monthly subscription in 1827 costing 3 shillings and 6 pence.