Bookseller Profile

Abebooks' uniqueness is our network of independent booksellers who work with us to provide the most diverse selection of rare, used and out-of-print books on the Internet. Take a moment and meet our member booksellers from around the globe. It is these sellers, with their experience, commitment and love of the used and out-of-print book business who help all our buyers find that treasure they've been looking for.

Michael Steinbach Rare Books

I have sold books for almost 30 years. It is not easy, but it is a new exciting experience every day; every day you learn something new, meet new interesting people, are able to travel around in search of books etc.

Nowadays it is becoming harder and harder to be a specialist in only one field, since good material is becoming more difficult to find. Therefore, I have choosen various specialties like children's books, books on cooking, travel, fine illustrated books, literature etc.

I personally collect books on the Canary Islands. Several unusual books I have bought during the years include books in the shape of a piece of bread, a beer-glass, a house, 'non books' etc.

Since my business is by appointment only, no legendary stories in my store, but once at a book fair in Los Angeles, I had a set of German children's books on my stand and one gentleman came into my booth, fell on his knees, bounced three times towards Mekka and said: 'I have been looking for those books for 15 years, and you have them, god bless you'. He bought them and was very happy and me too. If you are patient, you find for each book the client who is waiting for it.

- Michael Steinbach, Michael Steinbach Rare Books

The views of the author, expressed above, are not necessarily those of the Advanced Book Exchange