The Man Who Loved Books Too Much

Rare book theft is even more widespread that fine art theft. Most thieves, of course, steal for profit - but John Charles Gilkey stole purely for the love of books. In an attempt to understand him better, journalist Allison Hoover Bartlett plunged herself into the world of book lust and discovered just how dangerous it can be. Immersing the reader in the rich, wide world of literary obsession, Bartlett looks at the history of book passion, collection and theft through the ages to...
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Rare book theft is even more widespread that fine art theft. Most thieves, of course, steal for profit - but John Charles Gilkey stole purely for the love of books. In an attempt to understand him better, journalist Allison Hoover Bartlett plunged herself into the world of book lust and discovered just how dangerous it can be. Immersing the reader in the rich, wide world of literary obsession, Bartlett looks at the history of book passion, collection and theft through the ages to examine the craving that makes some people stop at nothing to possess the books they love.