BOOK REVIEW: THE MILLIONAIRE AND THE BARD

I have recently read an outstanding book that I think NBS members will appreciate, in spite of its non-numismatic content.

The Millionaire and the Bard, Henry Folger’s Obsessive Hunt for Shakespeare’s First Folio, by Andrea Mays, is the true account of Standard Oil executive Henry Folger and his maniacal pursuit of the Shakespeare First Folio, and all things Shakespeare (Shakespeariana).

The book begins with a biographical look at William Shakespeare’s life, and how, after his death, two of his colleagues decided his plays should be preserved – culminating in the publishing of the First Folio. The First Folio (published 1623) is the very birth of the writings of Shakespeare as we know them today.

Mays’ book is detailed in all the things bibliophiles cherish; early book manufacturing, early book publishing, reprints, addenda, counterfeits; it describes years of lull and public indifference toward the publication, then the catch-fire excitement it ultimately ignited.

Cut to almost 300 years later and one rich man who deeply desires to own all extent copies of the First Folio. Again, what is chronicled are all things prized by bibliophiles; research, cataloging, pursuit, negotiating, auctions, triumphs and failures, secrecy and intrigue. There is also the unsavory rivalries, back-biting, and jealousy.

Did Henry Folger manage to collect all copies of the First Folio? I recommend you read the book to find out.

For more information, or to order, see:
The Millionaire and the Bard: Henry Folger’s Obsessive Hunt for Shakespeare’s First Folio (http://books.simonandschuster.com/The-Millionaire-and-the-Bard/Andrea-Mays/9781439118252)

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