Books have a habit of leading us into unexpected places. . . .

 

In Bibliomancy and Other Essays, Russell explores the rich and curious world of books, book collecting and literary history, uncovering forgotten lives, neglected libraries and collectable bookplates, as well as unwritten biographies and imaginary autobiographies, and the peculiar possibilities of bibliomancy.

 

Erudite and entertaining, the subjects considered range from Arthur Machen to Charlotte Brontë, and from Barry Humphries to the almost forgotten Richard Rumbold.

 

Russell’s essays also consider odd pathways in book collecting, upgrading paperback editions, and the perfume of decaying books.

 

In an appendix to this volume, there are a series of essays considering different subjects close to the heart of the author Robert Aickman, and which may be considered supplements to Russell’s well-received biography of the author.

 

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