Fine Books' Fab 5 Reads of 2018

What were some of the biggest stories in 2018? According to our stats, Fine Books readers love Lovecraft--no kidding--and Robin Williams. You're also interested in cookbooks, illuminated manuscripts, and rare book theft. Missed out on these hot topics? Read on: 

#1 H.P. Lovecraft's Bible is For Sale 
Lovecraft's legions of fans bid his family's 1881 bible up to (spoiler alert) $4,750.

#2 Robin Williams' Rare Books at Auction
Fifteen rare books that once belonged to the late, great actor went to auction, among them a first edition of Walden (pictured at left) and an Arion Press edition of Moby-Dick

#3 New Culinary Bookshop to Open in Brooklyn
A.N. Devers broke the big news that Lizz Young was opening a new bookshop in Brooklyn devoted to "cooking, cocktails, and culture." 

#4 Where to See Illuminated Manuscripts
A round-up of major exhibitions of illuminated manuscripts last year. 

#5 New Rare Books Heist Film
The book world was buzzing about American Animals, a film based on a real-life special collections robbery in 2004. (I liked it.) 

Looking for more fine Fine Books stories? Check out 2017's top ten