Book blogs for bibliophiles to pore over

In the last several months, I’ve taken to exploring the blogosphere again, discovering new-to-me and uncharted book sites that are enjoyable, entertaining, and informative. The owners and authors of these sites enjoy books, and that joy is reflected in their writings. These sketches are simultaneously humorous, opinionated, biting, and articulate, and they encompass a wide range of subjects. The energy—just barely contained—fairly leaps from their words. What’s not to like? As a matter of disclosure, I have corresponded with one such author in this list, and have found the experience as delightful as reading the blog musings.

Here are some of my recent discoveries in the book-blogosphere, in no particular order:

• Hugh’s Blog: Hugh Hollowell has recently started his blog and it is a momentous resource to book buyers and sellers. The information he provides in his site is lucid, comprehensive, and extensive. The content is worth reading and remembering, and the advice is practical. I always look forward to reading what he has posted because the information is useful.
• Lux Mentis, Lux Orbis: Short and witty, these writings provide hints of information about the book world and links to exotic locations elsewhere in the Web world. Ian J. Kahn, the author and bookman, has an opinion for all seasons and the trip is enjoyable. It’s always a pleasure to see what he has found of interest.
• PhiloBiblos: This blog covers “reviews of books old and new; news and commentary on book history, library culture, archives, and related subjects,” according to Jeremy Dibbell, who concisely and distinctively presents all aspects of books. He also tosses in the occasional literary review for added flavor.
• Foggygates: Forrest Proper brings his distinctive writing sense to nearly everything, whether it is essays about trees or explaining a new book catalog.
• Rare Book News: From around the world, book current events are presented with a brief quote from a linked newspaper article. Lee Jay Stoltzfus hosts this site and, in his own words and in large letters, describes himself as “Bookseller. Antiquarian. Occasional Geek.” The site is appealing and the information comprehensive. This one is for those who like reading news from newspapers.
• Book Patrol: The information here is lively, interesting, and concisely presented. Paragraph bites and the occasional full commentary make for enticing reading. From art to booksellers, the topics are presented with refreshing candor and substance to ground opinions on various aspects of the book business.

I encourage you to check these blogs. The writing is among edgiest and sharpest I have encountered, and not entirely unexpected as these are individuals with book interests and book skills. Their wry musings and keen observations are a dynamic delight. Clean and crisp, they are a breath of bibliographic fresh air.