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.

How did you get started in bookselling?
I took a course offered through the Smithsonian as part of an Antiquarian Book Fair in Washington, D.C.

Bookselling is not the easiest way to make a living. What keeps you doing it?
I have a niche (Civil War/Military) - and great customers - have never gotten a bad check in over 10 years.

What is your specialty? How did you choose it?
Civil War/Military - That was the largest collection I had when I started and I stayed with it.

Do you collect anything besides books?
Collect some other civil war memorabilia.

Lots of people have "shop pets". Do you have one? Several?
Have two cats (Stevie Nicks) and (Matilda) - they provide support and Matilda rubs her face on every book before it goes out the door.

What is the most unusual book you ever bought?
Bought a collection from South Africa that had a bold signature/inscription by General Dan Sickles as well as a letter from Mrs. Longstreet.

Do you have any legendary stories you tell about incidents in your store or as a bookseller?
Primarily sell on the web - hours by appointment - folks are really surprised when they come visit and see all the rare first edition Civil War books we have on the shelves. Our house was built in 1881 by a Confederate Officer who served in the 58th NC Infantry.

What are your favourite books, or your recommendations? What books have you read more than once?

Why do you like this or these book(s) so much?
It is a Civil War classic that has been reprinted numerous times - always try to keep at least one nice first edition in stock.

~Clayton

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