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Hello fromm North Wales

PostPosted: Tue Apr 01, 2008 5:24 am
by markfaith
Like many others, I registered some time ago and have not had time to post. I've been a WS book fan since 1996 (Shows my age) starting with my now all time favorite; Shout at the Devil. (Also the only decent film made of his books). I can honestly say reading his books inspired me in my life's endeavors, which so far have been a success. One of these has been dealing in his first edition books, signed and unsigned which I have done more seriously as self-financing collecting hobby more than a business for profit the last two years. I started collecting soon after I first read his books in 1996. I believe I'm now the largest specialist dealer of his first edition books world-wide, (not the same as selling second hand/used). I have had the honor of meeting WS several times to sign books for me, including privately. Note however, my interest on the forum is about his life's work, not promoting his celebrity or infringing on his privacy as an individual.

I have a true passion for reading and collecting his first edition books. Book collecting is also fun. I've joined this forum to share this passion with others and help answer any questions about collecting his books for those starting off, especially the earlier and more scarce titles. There is surprisingly little official publishing history as record were not kept. Even Mr. Smith can't recall some of the early details. Much I have learned simply through handling hundreds of first edition copies. I'm compiling a archive of collector information, before I forget! I'd be grateful to exchange information with other collectors to ensure to further facts are lost in the mists of time.

Re: Hello fromm North Wales

PostPosted: Tue Apr 01, 2008 2:54 pm
by Matbow
Hi Mark,

I actually thought you'd already posted on the forum - I've seen you username "around" a lot!

It's quite a claim to be the largest specialist Wilbur Smith dealer in the world! It must be quite a fulfilling hobby/job!

Matt

Re: Hello fromm North Wales

PostPosted: Tue Apr 01, 2008 3:50 pm
by markfaith
Hi Matt,

Most likely seen my name it in the book trade, Abe, Alibris or Ebay (Bwlchcoediog Books & dogfark) No, first posting. I've no direct way to prove the size of my dealing in comparison to others. Some 200 odd first edition books sales the last 12 months, with about the same in stock at the moment, mostly the first 15 titles. Folks can find the later titles themselves fairly easily still, except signed. Very fulfilling and rewarding to be able to spend time on a hobby. I didn't know what I could post or say with respect to my WS book business? Whether commercial information was allowed? However, I suspect there's a few collectors out that looking for books or have questions?