A Gentle Madness

"A Gentle Madness: Bibliophiles, Bibliomanes, and the Eternal Passion for Books" by Nicholas A. Basbanes is a nonfiction book published in 1995 that delves into the world of book collecting. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Bibliomania: The book explores the concept of bibliomania, which is an intense and often obsessive passion for collecting books. Basbanes examines how this passion has driven collectors throughout history, from ancient times to the modern era.
2. Collectors and Their Stories: The book features case studies of various famous and lesser-known book collectors, including historical figures like Alexander the Great, Petrarch, and Catherine the Great, as well as contemporary collectors like Aaron Lansky and Charles L. Blockson.
3. The Pursuit of Rare Books: Basbanes describes the lengths to which collectors will go to acquire rare books, including visits to dusty bookshops, street stalls, high-stakes auctions, and even subterfuge worthy of a true bibliomaniac.
4. Research and Investigation: The author's investigative reporting background is evident in his thorough research, which includes interviews with collectors and attendance at auctions in various metropolitan cities like London and Paris.

Plot Summary

The book is divided into sections that highlight different aspects of book collecting. The first section focuses on historical collectors, showcasing their dedication and the lengths they went to acquire rare books. The second section shifts to modern collectors, providing insights into contemporary practices and the challenges faced by modern-day bibliophiles.

One notable case study is that of Stephen Blumberg, a book thief who stole over $10 million worth of books from libraries. This chapter adds a layer of intrigue to the book, highlighting the darker side of bibliomania.

Critical Reception

"A Gentle Madness" received positive reviews for its engaging narrative and thorough research. Here are some key points from the critical reception:

• National Book Critics Circle Award Finalist: The book was a finalist for the 1995 National Book Critics Circle Award, indicating its critical acclaim.
• Boston University's Bostonia Magazine: Basbanes' initial article on notable Boston book collections for the Boston University's Bostonia magazine inspired him to write "A Gentle Madness."
• Harvard University's Widener Library: Much of the research was conducted at Harvard University's Widener Library, demonstrating the depth of Basbanes' research.
• Updated for the 21st Century Reader: Although written before the emergence of the Internet, the book has been updated to include insights relevant to modern readers.

Additional Insights

• Author's Motivation: The book was dedicated to Basbanes' wife, Constance, who encouraged him to delve deeper into book collecting after his initial article.
• Author's Background: Basbanes worked as an editor for the book section of the Telegram & Gazette until he was fired in 1991 due to cost-cutting measures. This experience likely influenced his writing style and dedication to the project.

Overall, "A Gentle Madness" is a timeless classic that offers an entertaining journey through the history and contemporary world of book collecting, making it a must-read for any lover of books.