A Collector's Curious Discoveries
For years, the musty scent of aged paper and the comforting weight of a well-worn book have been my companions. As a collector and bookseller, countless volumes have passed through my hands, each with its own story waiting to be unearthed. But these stories aren't always confined to the printed words. Tucked away within the pages, I often stumble upon unexpected treasures – some delightful, some downright bizarre.
Inspired by a captivating Instagram account, I'm launching a new series here on the blog: Found in the Pages. In each post, I'll share photos and tales of the curious objects I unearth from the books that grace my shelves (and sometimes, my selling table!).
Prepare to be surprised! We might find pressed flowers whispering secrets of forgotten gardens, playbills hinting at nights of laughter and drama, or even love letters penned in faded ink. Perhaps we'll encounter shopping lists meticulously scrawled in a bygone era, or train tickets holding the dreams of journeys long past. Who knows, we might even uncover a hidden stash of… well, let's just say the possibilities are endless!
So, buckle up, bookworms and lovers of the curious! Join me as we delve into the unexpected treasures hidden within the world of books. You never know what forgotten memory or fascinating artifact might be waiting to be rediscovered on the next page.
Household Saints (1981)
Household Saints by Francine Prose dives into the lives of the Santangelo family, set against the backdrop of New York's Little Italy in the 1950s. The story hinges on three generations of women:
- Joseph, the butcher: A man of tradition who isn't above bending the rules, like cheating at cards.
- Mrs. Santangelo, Joseph's mother: Deeply religious and superstitious, she relies heavily on saints for guidance in everyday life.
- Catherine, Joseph's wife: A modern woman who clashes with Mrs. Santangelo's old-world ways. She strives to raise their daughter differently.
Their daughter, Theresa, becomes the heart of the story. Unlike her parents who are assimilating into American culture, Theresa gravitates towards the religious fervor of her grandmother. She becomes fixated on becoming a saint herself, leading to a series of unusual acts as she tries to emulate the life of her namesake, Saint Theresa.
The novel explores the clash between tradition and modernity within a family, alongside the struggles of raising a child who seems more connected to the past than the present. It delves into themes of faith, family dynamics, and the immigrant experience in America.
Unearthing the Treasure
The reverse offers a fascinating contrast. One side boasts the artistry of "Tattoos by Tony" at P.A. Stephen's, a local tattoo parlor. The other half unveils a glimpse into a more practical world, showcasing a bucket, white towels, and what appear to be cleaning products. One wonders about the connection between these seemingly disparate elements.
- Carolina Dean
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